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Doxophylline is used to treat in following indications:

• Bronchial asthma
• Bronchospasm
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary disease with spastic bronchial component.

Bronchodilator, Methyl xanthine derivatives

Doxophylline is a novel bronchodilator. It structurally differs from Theophylline due to the presence of a dioxolane group in position 7. Doxophylline selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase 4 thereby relaxes bronchial smooth muscle. However, differently from Theophylline, Doxophylline appears to have decreased affinities toward adenosine A1 and A2 receptors, which may account for the better safety profile of the drug. Doxophylline is reported to inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF) and generation of leukotriene production.

Elderly: 200 mg tablet two or three times daily.

Adults: 400 mg tablet two or three times daily or as prescribed by the physician.

Children:

• >12 years of age: 10 ml syrup or 200 mg tablet two or three times daily.
• 6-12 years of age: 6-9 mg/kg body weight two times daily, i.e. if body weight is 10 kg, 3 ml (60 mg) two times daily or as prescribed by the physician.

If required daily dose of Doxophylline is 400 mg then Doxophylline SR tablet to be taken once daily or as prescribed by the physician

Doxophylline rarely causes serious side effects, however possible side effects are similar for taking excess amount of caffeine. These include: nausea, vomiting, headache, upset stomach and heartburn.

Doxophylline is contraindicated in acute myocardial infarction. It is also contraindicated in patients with hypotension, in lactating women & patients who have shown hypersensitivity to its components.

The half-life of xanthine derivatives is influenced by a number of known variables. It may be prolonged in patients with liver disease, in patients with congestive heart failure and in those patients taking certain other drugs like erythromycin, troleandomycin, lincomycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, propanolol and anti-flu vaccine. In these cases, a lower dose of Doxophylline may be needed. Phenytoin, other anticonvulsants and smoking may cause an increase in clearance with a shorter mean half-life. In these cases higher doses of Doxophylline may be needed.

Doxophylline should not be administered together with other xanthine derivatives. Toxic synergism with ephedrine has been documented for xanthines. Like other xanthines, concomitant therapy with troleandomycin, lincomycin, clindamycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, ranitidine, propranolol and anti-flu vaccine may decrease the hepatic clearance of xanthines causing an increase in blood levels. No evidence of a relationship between Doxophylline serum concentrations and toxic events have been reported.

Animal reproduction studies indicate that, Doxophylline does not cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant animals or can not affect reproduction capacity. However, since there is limited experience in human during pregnancy, xanthines should be given to pregnant women only if clearly needed. Doxophylline is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

In case of overdose severe cardiac arrhythmias and tonic-clonic seizure may occur. These effects may represent the first signs of intoxication. The appearance of side effects may require discontinuation of the treatment which, if necessary, at the physician’s discretion, may be resumed at lower doses after all signs and symptoms of toxicity have subsided.

As there is no specific antidote, in case of overdose a symptomatic treatment of cardiovascular collapse should be instituted.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children. Doxophylline should be used only on prescription of specialist physician.

Doxophylline is used to treat in following indications:

• Bronchial asthma
• Bronchospasm
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary disease with spastic bronchial component.

Bronchodilator, Methyl xanthine derivatives

Doxophylline is a novel bronchodilator. It structurally differs from Theophylline due to the presence of a dioxolane group in position 7. Doxophylline selectively inhibits phosphodiesterase 4 thereby relaxes bronchial smooth muscle. However, differently from Theophylline, Doxophylline appears to have decreased affinities toward adenosine A1 and A2 receptors, which may account for the better safety profile of the drug. Doxophylline is reported to inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF) and generation of leukotriene production.

Elderly: 200 mg tablet two or three times daily.

Adults: 400 mg tablet two or three times daily or as prescribed by the physician.

Children:

• >12 years of age: 10 ml syrup or 200 mg tablet two or three times daily.
• 6-12 years of age: 6-9 mg/kg body weight two times daily, i.e. if body weight is 10 kg, 3 ml (60 mg) two times daily or as prescribed by the physician.

If required daily dose of Doxophylline is 400 mg then Doxophylline SR tablet to be taken once daily or as prescribed by the physician

Doxophylline rarely causes serious side effects, however possible side effects are similar for taking excess amount of caffeine. These include: nausea, vomiting, headache, upset stomach and heartburn.

Doxophylline is contraindicated in acute myocardial infarction. It is also contraindicated in patients with hypotension, in lactating women & patients who have shown hypersensitivity to its components.

The half-life of xanthine derivatives is influenced by a number of known variables. It may be prolonged in patients with liver disease, in patients with congestive heart failure and in those patients taking certain other drugs like erythromycin, troleandomycin, lincomycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, propanolol and anti-flu vaccine. In these cases, a lower dose of Doxophylline may be needed. Phenytoin, other anticonvulsants and smoking may cause an increase in clearance with a shorter mean half-life. In these cases higher doses of Doxophylline may be needed.

Doxophylline should not be administered together with other xanthine derivatives. Toxic synergism with ephedrine has been documented for xanthines. Like other xanthines, concomitant therapy with troleandomycin, lincomycin, clindamycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, ranitidine, propranolol and anti-flu vaccine may decrease the hepatic clearance of xanthines causing an increase in blood levels. No evidence of a relationship between Doxophylline serum concentrations and toxic events have been reported.

Animal reproduction studies indicate that, Doxophylline does not cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant animals or can not affect reproduction capacity. However, since there is limited experience in human during pregnancy, xanthines should be given to pregnant women only if clearly needed. Doxophylline is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

In case of overdose severe cardiac arrhythmias and tonic-clonic seizure may occur. These effects may represent the first signs of intoxication. The appearance of side effects may require discontinuation of the treatment which, if necessary, at the physician’s discretion, may be resumed at lower doses after all signs and symptoms of toxicity have subsided.

As there is no specific antidote, in case of overdose a symptomatic treatment of cardiovascular collapse should be instituted.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children. Doxophylline should be used only on prescription of specialist physician.

Antihistamines anti-allergies & hypo-sensitisation

Asthma and Nasal Polyps: Omalizumab inhibits the binding of IgE to the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) on the surface of mast cells, basophils, and dendritic cells, resulting in FcεRI down-regulation on these cells. In allergic asthmatics, treatment with omalizumab inhibits IgE-mediated inflammation, as evidenced by reduced blood and tissue eosinophils and reduced inflammatory mediators, including IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13.

Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU): Omalizumab binds to IgE and lowers free IgE levels. Subsequently, IgE receptors (FcεRI) on cells down-regulate. The mechanism by which these effects of omalizumab result in an improvement of CSU symptoms is unknown.

For subcutaneous (SC) administration only. Divide doses of more than 150 mg among more than one injection site to limit injections to not more than 150 mg per site.

Asthma: omalizumab 75 to 375 mg SC every 2 or 4 weeks. Determine dose (mg) and dosing frequency by serum total IgE level (IU/mL), measured before the start of treatment, and body weight (kg). See the dose determination charts.

Nasal Polyps: omalizumab 75 to 600 mg SC every 2 or 4 weeks. Determine dose (mg) and dosing frequency by serum total IgE level (IU/mL), measured before the start of treatment, and body weight (kg). See the dose determination charts.

Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: omalizumab 150 or 300 mg SC every 4 weeks. Dosing in CSU is not dependent on serum IgE level or body weight.

Asthma: The most common adverse reactions (≥1% of patients) in clinical studies with adult and adolescent patients ≥12 years of age were arthralgia, pain (general), leg pain, fatigue, dizziness, fracture, arm pain, pruritus, dermatitis, and earache. In clinical studies with pediatric patients 6 to <12 years of age, the most common adverse reactions were nasopharyngitis, headache, pyrexia, upper abdominal pain, pharyngitis streptococcal, otitis media, viral gastroenteritis, arthropod bites, and epistaxis.

Nasal Polyps: The most common adverse reactions (≥3% of patients) in clinical studies with adult patients included the following: headache, injection site reaction, arthralgia, upper abdominal pain, and dizziness.

Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: The most common adverse reactions (≥2% of patients) included the following: nausea, nasopharyngitis, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infection, viral upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, headache, and cough.

Omalizumab is contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity reaction to Omalizumab or any ingredient of Omalizumab.

There are risks associated with poorly or moderately controlled asthma in pregnancy. There is no information regarding the presence of omalizumab in human milk or the effects on milk production. However, omalizumab is a human monoclonal antibody (IgG1 kappa), and immunoglobulin (IgG) is present in human milk in small amounts.

Omalizumab prefilled syringe should be shipped and stored under refrigerated conditions 2°C to 8°C in the original carton. Protect from direct sunlight. Omalizumab prefilled syringe can be removed from and placed back in the refrigerator if needed. The total combined time out of the refrigerator may not exceed 2 days. Do not use if the prefilled syringe is exposed to temperatures above 25°C. Do not freeze. Do not use if the syringe has been frozen.

Alprazolam is indicated in-

• Anxiety disorder
• Short term relief of anxiety
• Anxiety associated with depression
• Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia.

Benzodiazepine sedatives

Alprazolam is a triazole analog of the 1,4-benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is an anxiolytic with hypnotic and anticonvulsive properties. Alprazolam is presumed to produce its effects via interacting with the Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)- benzodiazepine receptor complex. Like all benzodiazepines, it causes a dose-related CNS depressant activity varying from mild impairment of task performance to hypnosis.

Treatment should be initiated with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily. Depending on the response, dose may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg/day. The maximum dose should not exceed 4 mg/day. Occasional patients with panic disorder may need as much as 10 mg a day to achieve a successful response and in these cases periodic reassessment and consideration of dosage adjustment is required.

Dosage should be individualized for maximum beneficial effect with the lowest possible dose. If side-effects occur at starting dose, dose may be lowered. When discontinuing therapy, dosage should be reduced gradually by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.

In elderly patients or in patients with advanced liver disease, the usual starting dose is 0.25 mg, two or three times daily and may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated.

Alprazolam 1 mg should be administered once daily, preferably in the morning by patients who are on multiple dosage regimens of Alprazolam 0.25/0.5 mg. The tablets should be taken intact, they should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.

Side effects, if occur, are generally observed at the beginning of therapy and usually disappear upon continued medication. The most frequent side effects are drowsiness and light-headedness. The other side effects, that may occur include depression, headache, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, etc.

Because Alprazolam may produce psychological and physical dependence, the increment of dose or abrupt discontinuation of Alprazolam therapy should not be done without the physician's advice. The duration of therapy must be determined by the physicians. Alprazolam should be administered with caution to patients with hepatic or renal disease, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, or sleep apnea.

The CNS-depressant action of Alprazolam may be aggravated by concomitant use of other psychotropic drugs, anticonvulsants, antihistaminics, alcohol and oral ontraceptives.

Alprazolam has been categorized in pregnancy category D; that means, it should be avoided in pregnancy. Like other benzodiazepines, Alprazolam is assumed to be excreted in breast milk. Therefore, nursing should not be undertaken by mothers who must use Alprazolam.

The safety and effectiveness of Alprazolam in individuals below 18 years of age have not been established.

Manifestations of Alprazolam overdosage include somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma. In such cases of overdosage general supportive measures should be employed along with immediate gastric lavage.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Alprazolam is indicated in-

• Anxiety disorder
• Short term relief of anxiety
• Anxiety associated with depression
• Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia.

Benzodiazepine sedatives

Alprazolam is a triazole analog of the 1,4-benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is an anxiolytic with hypnotic and anticonvulsive properties. Alprazolam is presumed to produce its effects via interacting with the Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)- benzodiazepine receptor complex. Like all benzodiazepines, it causes a dose-related CNS depressant activity varying from mild impairment of task performance to hypnosis.

Treatment should be initiated with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily. Depending on the response, dose may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg/day. The maximum dose should not exceed 4 mg/day. Occasional patients with panic disorder may need as much as 10 mg a day to achieve a successful response and in these cases periodic reassessment and consideration of dosage adjustment is required.

Dosage should be individualized for maximum beneficial effect with the lowest possible dose. If side-effects occur at starting dose, dose may be lowered. When discontinuing therapy, dosage should be reduced gradually by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.

In elderly patients or in patients with advanced liver disease, the usual starting dose is 0.25 mg, two or three times daily and may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated.

Alprazolam 1 mg should be administered once daily, preferably in the morning by patients who are on multiple dosage regimens of Alprazolam 0.25/0.5 mg. The tablets should be taken intact, they should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.

Side effects, if occur, are generally observed at the beginning of therapy and usually disappear upon continued medication. The most frequent side effects are drowsiness and light-headedness. The other side effects, that may occur include depression, headache, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, etc.

Because Alprazolam may produce psychological and physical dependence, the increment of dose or abrupt discontinuation of Alprazolam therapy should not be done without the physician's advice. The duration of therapy must be determined by the physicians. Alprazolam should be administered with caution to patients with hepatic or renal disease, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, or sleep apnea.

The CNS-depressant action of Alprazolam may be aggravated by concomitant use of other psychotropic drugs, anticonvulsants, antihistaminics, alcohol and oral ontraceptives.

Alprazolam has been categorized in pregnancy category D; that means, it should be avoided in pregnancy. Like other benzodiazepines, Alprazolam is assumed to be excreted in breast milk. Therefore, nursing should not be undertaken by mothers who must use Alprazolam.

The safety and effectiveness of Alprazolam in individuals below 18 years of age have not been established.

Manifestations of Alprazolam overdosage include somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma. In such cases of overdosage general supportive measures should be employed along with immediate gastric lavage.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Brinzolamide Ophthalmic Suspension is indicated as monotherapy, or as adjunctive therapy to beta-blockers in the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in ocular hypertension, or open-angle glaucoma.

Drugs for miotics and glaucoma

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme found in many tissues of the body including the eye. It catalyses the reversible reaction involving the hydration of carbon dioxide and the dehydration of carbonic acid. It exists as a number of isoenzymes, the most active being carbonic anhydrase II (CA-II), found primarily in red blood cells, but also in other tissues. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary processes of the eye decreases aqueous humor secretion, presumably by slowing the formation of bicarbonate ions with subsequent reduction in sodium and fuid transport.

Following topical ocular administration, brinzolamide inhibits aqueous humor formation and reduces elevated intraocular pressure. Elevated intraocular pressure is a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of optic nerve damage and glaucomatous visual feld loss.

The recommended dose is one drops of this eye drop in the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) twice daily. Some patients may have a better response with one drop three times a day. Shake well before use.

Reported side effects are blurred vision and bitter, sour or unusual taste. Other side effects are blepharitis, dermatitis, dry eye, foreign body sensation, headache, hyperemia, ocular discharge, ocular discomfort, ocular keratitis, ocular pain, ocular pruritus and rhinitis.

It is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product.

In patients treated with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, rare instances to drug interactions have occurred with high-dose salicylate therapy. Therefore, the potential for such drug interactions should be considered in patients receiving Brinzolamide.

Pregnancy category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Brinzolamide 1% ophthalmic suspension should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Use in lactation: It is not known whether Brinzolamide 1% ophthalmic suspension is excreted in human milk. So, lactating mother should discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, depending upon the importance of the drug to the mother.

Although no human data are available, electrolyte imbalance, development of an acidosis state, and possible nervous system effects may occur following oral administration of an overdose. Serum electrolyte levels (particularly potassium) and blood pH levels should be monitored.

Store at room temperature & protect from light. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. It is desirable that the contents should not be used more than four weeks after first opening of the bottle. Protect from freezing.

This is indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Drugs for miotics and glaucoma

Brinzolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor which reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by decreasing aqueous humor secretion in the ciliary processes of the eye.

Brimonidine Tartrate is an alpha 2 adrenergic receptor agonist which reduces IOP by decreasing aqueous humor production and increasing uveoscleral outflow.

Instill one drop in the affected eye(s) three times daily. If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, the drugs should be administered at least five minutes apart. Shake well before use.

The most commonly reported side effects include blurred vision, eye irritation, bad taste and dry mouth.

It is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitivity to Brinzolamide, Brimonidine Tartrate, or to any ingredient in the formulation and Neonates and Infants (under the age of 2 years).

Shake well before use. For ophthalmic use only. Contact lenses should be removed during instillation of Brinzolamide and Brimonidine Tartrate ophthalmic suspension, but may be reinserted 15 minutes after instillation.

In patients treated with this drop rare instances to drug interactions have occurred with high-dose salicylate therapy, CNS Depressants, Antihypertensives/ Cardiac Glycosides, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors. Therefore, the potential for such drug interactions should be considered in patients receiving Brinzolamide + Brimonidine Tartrate .

Pregnancy category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Brinzolamide and Brimonidine Tartrate ophthalmic suspension should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

It is not known whether Brinzolamide or Brimonidine Tartrate are excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised while giving this ophthalmic suspension to a nursing mother.

Use in children: Safety & effectiveness in children below the age of 2 years have not been established.

Use in elderly patients: No overall differences in safety and effectiveness have been observed between elderly and other adult patients.

Although no human data are available, electrolyte imbalance, development of an acidotic state, and possible nervous system effects may occur following an oral overdose of Brinzolamide. Serum electrolyte levels (particularly potassium) and blood pH levels should be monitored. Very limited information exists on accidental ingestion of Brimonidine Tartrate in adults; the only adverse event reported to date has been hypotension. Symptoms of Brimonidine Tartrate overdose have been reported in neonates, infants, and children receiving Brimonidine Tartrate as part of medical treatment of congenital glaucoma or by accidental oral ingestion. Treatment of an oral overdose includes supportive and symptomatic therapy; a patent airway should be maintained.

Store at room temperature & protect from light. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. It is desirable that the contents should not be used more than one month after first opening of the bottle. Shake well before use & do not freeze.

Treatment of elevated IOP in adult patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular HTN for whom monotherapy provides insufficient IOP reduction.

Drugs for miotics and glaucoma

Brinzolamide is a highly specific inhibitor of CA-II, which is the main CA isoenzyme involved in the secretion of aqueous humor. Inhibition of CA in the ciliary process of the eye slows the formation of bicarbonate, and reduces sodium and fluid transport. This results in a reduction in the rate of aqueous humor secretion and the intraocular pressure. Brinzolamide is absorbed systemically following topical ocular administration. Since it has a high affinity for CA-II, brinzolamide binds extensively to red blood cells, where CA-II is primarily found. As sufficient CA-II activity remains, adverse effects resulting from the systemic inhibition of CA by brinzolamide are not observed. The metabolite N-desethyl brinzolamide is also formed. This metabolite binds to CA and accumulates in red blood cells as well. In the presence of brinzolamide, the metabolite binds mainly to carbonic anhydrase I (CA-I).

Like propranolol and nadolol, timolol competes with adrenergic neurotransmitters such as catecholamines for binding at beta(1)-adrenergic receptors in the heart and vascular smooth muscle and beta(2)-receptors in the bronchial and vascular smooth muscle. Beta(1)-receptor blockade results in a decrease in resting and exercise heart rate and cardiac output, a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and, possibly, a reduction in reflex orthostatic hypotension. Beta(2)-blockade results in an increase in peripheral vascular resistance. The exact mechanism whereby timolol reduces ocular pressure is still not known. The most likely action is by decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor.

1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

Dysgeusia, blurred vision, eye pain & irritation, foreign body sensation.

Bronchial asthma, severe COPD, sinus bradycardia, 2nd or 3rd degree AV block, overt cardiac failure, cardiogenic shock, severe allergic rhinitis, bronchial hyperreactivity, hyperchloraemic acidosis, severe renal impairment.

Control cardiac failure prior to therapy. History of severe cardiac & resp disease. Patients subject to hypoglycemia or labile insulin-dependent diabetes. May mask hyperthyroidism or worsen Prinzmetal's angina, severe peripheral & central circulatory disorders & hypotension. History of atopy or severe anaphylactic reaction to a variety of allergens. Avoid concomitant use of 2 local β-adrenergic blockers or 2 local carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Close monitoring of IOP in patients with pseudoexfoliative or pigmentary glaucoma. Narrow-angle glaucoma. Monitor patients with compromised corneas eg, patients with DM or corneal dystrophies. Remove contact lenses prior to application; reinsert after 15 min. May impair ability to drive or operate machinery. Pregnancy. Childn <18 yr.

Ketoconazole, itraconazole, clotrimazole, ritonavir, troleandromycin; oral Ca-channel blockers, guanethidine, β-blockers, antiarrhythmics, digitalis glycosides, parasympathomimetics; quinidine, cimetidine.

No data available

Store in cool and dry place

Zoledronic Acid is indicated in:

• Hypercalcaemia of malignancy, 
• Bone metastases associated with solid tumours, Osteolytic lesions associated with multiple myeloma, 
• Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis, Increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis, Osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
• Paget's disease of bone
• Prophylaxis of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Bisphosphonate preparations

Zoledronic acid belongs to the class of nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates and acts primarily on bone. It is an inhibitor of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. The action of bisphosphonates on bone is based on their high affinity for mineralized bone. Intravenously administered Zoledronic acid is rapidly distributed to bone. The main molecular target of Zoledronic acid in the osteoclast is the enzyme farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase, but this does not exclude other mechanisms. Clinical studies in tumour-induced hypercalcemia demonstrated that the effect of Zoledronic acid is characterized by decreases in serum calcium and urinary calcium excretion. In addition to its inhibitory activity against bone resorption, Zoledronic acid also possesses anti-tumour activity, anti-angiogenic activity, anti-pain activity, cytostatic and pro-apoptotic activity on tumour cells and synergistic cytostatic effect with other anti-cancer drugs. There was no accumulation of the active substance in plasma after multiple doses given every 28 days. Zoledronic acid is not metabolized and is excreted unchanged via the kidney.

Hypercalcemia of malignancy: The maximum recommended dose of Zoledronic Acid in hypercalcemia of malignancy (serum calcium 12 mg/dl or 3.0 mmol/l) is 4 mg. The 4 mg dose must be given as a single-dose intravenous infusion. Dose adjustment of Zoledronic Acid is not necessary in treating patients for hypercalcemia of malignancy presenting with mild-to-moderate renal impairment. Re-treatment with Zoledronic Acid may be considered if serum calcium does not return to normal after initial treatment. It is recommended that a minimum of 7 days elapse before re-treatment, to allow for full response to the initial dose. 

Multiple myeloma and bone metastases of solid tumors: The recommended dose of Zoledronic Acid in patients with multiple myeloma and metastatic bone lesions from solid tumors is 4 mg infused every 3-4 weeks. Patients should also be administered an oral calcium supplement of 500 mg and 400 IU of Vitamin-D daily.

Prior to administration, the required amount of concentrate from one vial must be further diluted with 100 ml of calcium-free infusion solution (0.9% w/v sodium chloride solution or 5% w/v glucose solution). The duration of infusion must not be less than 15 minutes. After addition of the solution to the infusion media, the infusion solution should be used as soon as possible. If storage of the infusion solution is necessary, hold at 2-8º C for not more than 24 hours. If refrigerated, the solution must be allowed to reach room temperature before administration.

Zoledronic Acid must not be mixed with calcium or other divalent cation-containing infusion solutions, such as Lactated Ringer's solution, and should be administered as a single intravenous solution in a line separate from all other drugs.

The post-dose side-effects are headache, nausea, anorexia, fatigue, osteonecrosis of jaw, anemia, bone pain, constipation, fever, vomiting, flu-like syndrome, hypocalcemia, myalgia, arthralgia and hypophosphataemia.

The drug is contraindicated if patients have hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients or to any bisphosphonates; severe renal impairment (Creatinine clearance <30 ml/min); pregnancy and lactation.

Patients must be appropriately hydrated prior to administration of Zoledronic Acid. This is especially important in the elderly and for patients receiving diuretic therapy. Adequate hydration can be achieved by the patient drinking two glasses of fluid (such as water) before and after the infusion. Serum levels of calcium, phosphate, magnesium and potassium, as well as serum creatinine should be carefully monitored after initiating Zoledronic Acid therapy. If hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia or hypomagnesemia occurs, short-term supplemental therapy may be necessary. Moreover, careful renal function monitoring should be considered.

In clinical studies, Zoledronic acid has been administered concomitantly with commonly used anticancer agents, diuretics, antibiotics and analgesics without interactions. Caution is advised when Zoledronic acid are administered with aminoglycosides, since these agents may have an additive effect to lower serum calcium level for prolonged periods. In multiple myeloma patients, the risk of renal dysfunction may be increased when Zoledronic acid is used in combination with thalidomide. Concomitant use of loop diuretics with Zoledronic acid increases the risk of hypocalcemia. Caution is indicated when Zoledronic acid is used with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs.

Zoledronic acid is contraindicated during pregnancy and in breast-feeding women. It is also not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years of age.

Patients with renal impairment: The use of Zoledronic Acid is not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment (Creatinine clearance <30 ml/min). No dose adjustment is necessary in patients with creatinine clearance >60 ml/min. Based on creatinine clearance the following dose should be used in patient with impaired renal function:

• CrCl > 60 ml/min: 4 mg (5 ml)
• CrCl 50-60 ml/min: 3.5 mg (4.4 ml)
• CrCl 40-49 ml/min: 3.3 mg (4.1 ml)
• CrCl 30-39 ml/min: 3 mg (3.8 ml)

Clinical experience with acute over dosage is limited. Over dosage may cause hypocalcemia, hypophosphatemia, and hypomagnesemia. In such case, reduction in serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium should be corrected by intravenous administration of calcium gluconate, potassium or sodium phosphate and magnesium sulfate respectively.

Dilute the required amount in 100 mL of NaCl 0.9% or dextrose 5%.

Store below 30° C prior to opening. Protect from moisture and light. Zoledronic Acid must be kept out of the reach and sight of children.

Flupentixol and Melitracen tablet is indicated in-

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Apathy
• Psychogenic depression.
• Depressive neurosses.
• Masked depression.
• Psychosomatic affections accompanied by anxiety and apathy.
• Menopausal depressions.
• Dysphoria and depression in alcoholics and drug addicts.

Combined anxiolytics & anti-depressant drugs

This consists of two well known and well proven compounds: flupentixol-a neuroleptic with anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of its own when given in small doses, and melitracen-a bipolar thymoleptic with activating properties in low doses. In combination the compounds render a preparation with antidepressant, anxiolytic and activating properties. Maximal serum concentration is reached in about 4 hours after oral administration of flupentixol and in about 4 hours after oral administration of melitracen. The biological half-life of flupentixol is about 35 hours and that of melitracen is about 19 hours. The combination of flupentixol and melitracen does not seem to influence the pharmacokinetic properties of the individual compounds.

Adults: Usually 2 tablets orally daily in the morning and noon. In severe cases, the morning dose may be increased to 2 tablets.

Elderly patients: 1 tablet in the morning.

Maintenance dose: Usually 1 tablet orally in the morning. In cases of insomnia or severe restlessness, additional treatment with a sedative in the acute phase is recommended.

In the recommended doses side effects are rare. These could be transient restlessness and insomnia.

If previously the patient has been treated with tranquillizers with sedative effect these should be withdrawn gradually.

This tablet may enhance the response to alcohol, barbiturates and other CNS depressants. Simultaneous administration of MAO-inhibitors may cause hypertensive crises. Neuroleptics and thymoleptics reduce the antihypertensive effect of guanethidine and similar acting compounds and thymoleptics enhance the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline.

This tablet should preferably not be given during pregnancy and lactation.

In cases of overdosage the symptoms of intoxications by melitracen, especially of anticholinergic nature, dominate. More rarely extrapyramidal symptoms due to flupentixol occur. Symptomatic and Supportive. Gastric lavage should be carried out as soon as possible and activated charcoal may be administered. Measures aimed at supporting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems should be instituted. Epinephrine (adrenaline) must not be used for such patients. Convulsions may be treated with diazepam and extrapyramidal symptoms with biperiden.

Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C in a dry place. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children. It is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Non-sedating antihistamines

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and peak plasma concentration is reached in 2-3 hours. It does not appear to cross the blood brain barrier.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml once daily

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily 
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 6 months to less than 2 years:

• Suspension: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years:

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) once daily

Common side effects are headache, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.

Caution should be exercised in elderly patient and patient with decreased renal function.

Plasma concentration of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride have been increased when given with erythromycin or ketoconazole. Aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacid reduces the absorption of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride.

US FDA pregnancy category of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is C. So, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

In case of an overdose, standard measures to remove any unabsorbed drug should be employed. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. There has been no reported case of an acute overdose of Fexofenadine hydrochloride.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children. It is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Non-sedating antihistamines

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and peak plasma concentration is reached in 2-3 hours. It does not appear to cross the blood brain barrier.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml once daily

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily 
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 6 months to less than 2 years:

• Suspension: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years:

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) once daily

Common side effects are headache, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.

Caution should be exercised in elderly patient and patient with decreased renal function.

Plasma concentration of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride have been increased when given with erythromycin or ketoconazole. Aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacid reduces the absorption of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride.

US FDA pregnancy category of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is C. So, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

In case of an overdose, standard measures to remove any unabsorbed drug should be employed. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. There has been no reported case of an acute overdose of Fexofenadine hydrochloride.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children. It is also indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated skin manifestations of chronic idiopathic urticaria.

Non-sedating antihistamines

Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine with selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist activity. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and peak plasma concentration is reached in 2-3 hours. It does not appear to cross the blood brain barrier.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml once daily

Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria-

Adults and children 12 years and older:

• Tablet: 60 mg twice daily or 120 mg once daily or 180 mg once daily 
• In case of impaired renal function: 60 mg once daily

Children from 6 to 11 years:

• Tablet: 30 mg twice daily or 60 mg once daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg once daily

Children from 6 months to less than 2 years:

• Suspension: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 15 mg or 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) once daily

Children from 2 to 11 years:

• Suspension: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) twice daily
• In case of impaired renal function: 30 mg or 5 ml (1 tsp) once daily

Common side effects are headache, fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Fexofenadine Hydrochloride or any of its ingredients.

Caution should be exercised in elderly patient and patient with decreased renal function.

Plasma concentration of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride have been increased when given with erythromycin or ketoconazole. Aluminium and magnesium hydroxide containing antacid reduces the absorption of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride.

US FDA pregnancy category of Fexofenadine Hydrochloride is C. So, Fexofenadine Hydrochloride should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

In case of an overdose, standard measures to remove any unabsorbed drug should be employed. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. There has been no reported case of an acute overdose of Fexofenadine hydrochloride.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Third generation Cephalosporins

Ceftriaxone is a 3rd generation broad-spectrum parenteral cephalosporin antibiotic. It has potent bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Like other cephalosporins and penicillins, Ceftriaxone kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Ceftriaxone has a high degree of stability in the presence of beta lactamases. A remarkable feature of Ceftriaxone is its relatively long plasma elimination half-life of about 6 to 9 hours, which makes single or once-daily dosage of the drug appropriate for most patients. Ceftriaxone is not metabolized in the body. About 40-65% of a dose of Ceftriaxone is excreted unchanged in the urine; the remainder is excreted in the bile and ultimately found in the feces as unchanged drug and microbiologically inactive compound. The drug is highly protein bound (95%).

Adult: The usual dose is 1 to 2 gm by intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Acute bacterial otitis media, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections, Meningitis: 1 to 2 g IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day
• Uncomplicated gonococcal infections: 250 mg IM as a single dose
• Surgical prophylaxis: 1 g IV as a single dose 30 to 120 minutes before surgery

Infants and Children (01 month or older): The usual dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections: 50 to 75 mg/kg IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 2 gm/day
• Acute bacterial otitis media: 50 mg/kg IM in single dose; Maximum dose: 1 gm/day
• Meningitis: 100 mg/kg IV or IM in single daily dose or (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day

Duration of therapy: Continue for more than 2 days after signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared. Usual duration is 4 to 14 days; in complicated infections, longer therapy may be required.

Preparation of Solutions for Intramuscular / Intravenous Injections:

• For Intramuscular Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 2 ml Lidocaine HCI 1% injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 3.5 ml of Lidocaine HCI 1% injection.
• For Intravenous Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 5 ml of Water for injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 10 ml of Water for injection USP or 2 g Ceftriaxone in 20 ml of Water for injection.

The injection should be administered over 2-4 minutes, by Intramuscular or Intravenous injection or by tubing infusion over a period of 30 minutes at concentration between 10 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL. Before starting treatment through Ceftriaxone injection, patient tolerance test should be checked by administration of a test dose. (The use of freshly reconstituted solution is recommended. However, it maintains potency for at least 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours at 5°C).

Ceftriaxone is generally well tolerated. A few side effects such as gastro-intestinal effects including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, stomatitis and glossitis; cutaneous reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, edema and erythema multiforme; hematologic reactions including eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, anemia and neutropenia; hepatic reactions including elevations of SGOT or SGPT, bilirubinemia; CNS reactions including nervousness, confusion, sleep disturbances, headache, hyperactivity, convulsion, hypertonia and dizziness were reported. Local phlebitis occurs rarely following intravenous administration but can be minimized by slow injections over 2-4 minutes.

Ceftriaxone should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

As with other cephalosporins, anaphylactic shock cannot be ruled out even if a thorough patient history is taken. Anaphylactic shock requires immediate countermeasures such as intravenous epinephrine followed by a glucocorticoid. In rare cases, shadows suggesting sludge have been detected by sonograms of the gallbladder. This condition was reversible on discontinuation or completion of Ceftriaxone therapy. Even if such findings are associated with pain, conservative, nonsurgical management is recommended. During prolonged treatment the blood picture should be checked at regular intervals.

No drug interactions have been reported.

Its safety in human pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used in pregnancy unless absolutely indicated. Low concentrations of Ceftriaxone are excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Ceftriaxone is administered to a lactating mother.

Ceftriaxone must not be given to neonates if the neonates is premature and newborn (up to 28 days of age).

There is no specific antidote. Treatment of overdosage should be symptomatic.

Vial store in a cool, dry place (below 30° C), away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Third generation Cephalosporins

Ceftriaxone is a 3rd generation broad-spectrum parenteral cephalosporin antibiotic. It has potent bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Like other cephalosporins and penicillins, Ceftriaxone kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Ceftriaxone has a high degree of stability in the presence of beta lactamases. A remarkable feature of Ceftriaxone is its relatively long plasma elimination half-life of about 6 to 9 hours, which makes single or once-daily dosage of the drug appropriate for most patients. Ceftriaxone is not metabolized in the body. About 40-65% of a dose of Ceftriaxone is excreted unchanged in the urine; the remainder is excreted in the bile and ultimately found in the feces as unchanged drug and microbiologically inactive compound. The drug is highly protein bound (95%).

Adult: The usual dose is 1 to 2 gm by intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Acute bacterial otitis media, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections, Meningitis: 1 to 2 g IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day
• Uncomplicated gonococcal infections: 250 mg IM as a single dose
• Surgical prophylaxis: 1 g IV as a single dose 30 to 120 minutes before surgery

Infants and Children (01 month or older): The usual dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections: 50 to 75 mg/kg IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 2 gm/day
• Acute bacterial otitis media: 50 mg/kg IM in single dose; Maximum dose: 1 gm/day
• Meningitis: 100 mg/kg IV or IM in single daily dose or (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day

Duration of therapy: Continue for more than 2 days after signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared. Usual duration is 4 to 14 days; in complicated infections, longer therapy may be required.

Preparation of Solutions for Intramuscular / Intravenous Injections:

• For Intramuscular Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 2 ml Lidocaine HCI 1% injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 3.5 ml of Lidocaine HCI 1% injection.
• For Intravenous Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 5 ml of Water for injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 10 ml of Water for injection USP or 2 g Ceftriaxone in 20 ml of Water for injection.

The injection should be administered over 2-4 minutes, by Intramuscular or Intravenous injection or by tubing infusion over a period of 30 minutes at concentration between 10 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL. Before starting treatment through Ceftriaxone injection, patient tolerance test should be checked by administration of a test dose. (The use of freshly reconstituted solution is recommended. However, it maintains potency for at least 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours at 5°C).

Ceftriaxone is generally well tolerated. A few side effects such as gastro-intestinal effects including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, stomatitis and glossitis; cutaneous reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, edema and erythema multiforme; hematologic reactions including eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, anemia and neutropenia; hepatic reactions including elevations of SGOT or SGPT, bilirubinemia; CNS reactions including nervousness, confusion, sleep disturbances, headache, hyperactivity, convulsion, hypertonia and dizziness were reported. Local phlebitis occurs rarely following intravenous administration but can be minimized by slow injections over 2-4 minutes.

Ceftriaxone should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

As with other cephalosporins, anaphylactic shock cannot be ruled out even if a thorough patient history is taken. Anaphylactic shock requires immediate countermeasures such as intravenous epinephrine followed by a glucocorticoid. In rare cases, shadows suggesting sludge have been detected by sonograms of the gallbladder. This condition was reversible on discontinuation or completion of Ceftriaxone therapy. Even if such findings are associated with pain, conservative, nonsurgical management is recommended. During prolonged treatment the blood picture should be checked at regular intervals.

No drug interactions have been reported.

Its safety in human pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used in pregnancy unless absolutely indicated. Low concentrations of Ceftriaxone are excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Ceftriaxone is administered to a lactating mother.

Ceftriaxone must not be given to neonates if the neonates is premature and newborn (up to 28 days of age).

There is no specific antidote. Treatment of overdosage should be symptomatic.

Vial store in a cool, dry place (below 30° C), away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Third generation Cephalosporins

Ceftriaxone is a 3rd generation broad-spectrum parenteral cephalosporin antibiotic. It has potent bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Like other cephalosporins and penicillins, Ceftriaxone kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Ceftriaxone has a high degree of stability in the presence of beta lactamases. A remarkable feature of Ceftriaxone is its relatively long plasma elimination half-life of about 6 to 9 hours, which makes single or once-daily dosage of the drug appropriate for most patients. Ceftriaxone is not metabolized in the body. About 40-65% of a dose of Ceftriaxone is excreted unchanged in the urine; the remainder is excreted in the bile and ultimately found in the feces as unchanged drug and microbiologically inactive compound. The drug is highly protein bound (95%).

Adult: The usual dose is 1 to 2 gm by intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Acute bacterial otitis media, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections, Meningitis: 1 to 2 g IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day
• Uncomplicated gonococcal infections: 250 mg IM as a single dose
• Surgical prophylaxis: 1 g IV as a single dose 30 to 120 minutes before surgery

Infants and Children (01 month or older): The usual dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections: 50 to 75 mg/kg IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 2 gm/day
• Acute bacterial otitis media: 50 mg/kg IM in single dose; Maximum dose: 1 gm/day
• Meningitis: 100 mg/kg IV or IM in single daily dose or (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day

Duration of therapy: Continue for more than 2 days after signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared. Usual duration is 4 to 14 days; in complicated infections, longer therapy may be required.

Preparation of Solutions for Intramuscular / Intravenous Injections:

• For Intramuscular Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 2 ml Lidocaine HCI 1% injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 3.5 ml of Lidocaine HCI 1% injection.
• For Intravenous Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 5 ml of Water for injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 10 ml of Water for injection USP or 2 g Ceftriaxone in 20 ml of Water for injection.

The injection should be administered over 2-4 minutes, by Intramuscular or Intravenous injection or by tubing infusion over a period of 30 minutes at concentration between 10 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL. Before starting treatment through Ceftriaxone injection, patient tolerance test should be checked by administration of a test dose. (The use of freshly reconstituted solution is recommended. However, it maintains potency for at least 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours at 5°C).

Ceftriaxone is generally well tolerated. A few side effects such as gastro-intestinal effects including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, stomatitis and glossitis; cutaneous reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, edema and erythema multiforme; hematologic reactions including eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, anemia and neutropenia; hepatic reactions including elevations of SGOT or SGPT, bilirubinemia; CNS reactions including nervousness, confusion, sleep disturbances, headache, hyperactivity, convulsion, hypertonia and dizziness were reported. Local phlebitis occurs rarely following intravenous administration but can be minimized by slow injections over 2-4 minutes.

Ceftriaxone should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

As with other cephalosporins, anaphylactic shock cannot be ruled out even if a thorough patient history is taken. Anaphylactic shock requires immediate countermeasures such as intravenous epinephrine followed by a glucocorticoid. In rare cases, shadows suggesting sludge have been detected by sonograms of the gallbladder. This condition was reversible on discontinuation or completion of Ceftriaxone therapy. Even if such findings are associated with pain, conservative, nonsurgical management is recommended. During prolonged treatment the blood picture should be checked at regular intervals.

No drug interactions have been reported.

Its safety in human pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used in pregnancy unless absolutely indicated. Low concentrations of Ceftriaxone are excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Ceftriaxone is administered to a lactating mother.

Ceftriaxone must not be given to neonates if the neonates is premature and newborn (up to 28 days of age).

There is no specific antidote. Treatment of overdosage should be symptomatic.

Vial store in a cool, dry place (below 30° C), away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Third generation Cephalosporins

Ceftriaxone is a 3rd generation broad-spectrum parenteral cephalosporin antibiotic. It has potent bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Like other cephalosporins and penicillins, Ceftriaxone kills bacteria by interfering with the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. Ceftriaxone has a high degree of stability in the presence of beta lactamases. A remarkable feature of Ceftriaxone is its relatively long plasma elimination half-life of about 6 to 9 hours, which makes single or once-daily dosage of the drug appropriate for most patients. Ceftriaxone is not metabolized in the body. About 40-65% of a dose of Ceftriaxone is excreted unchanged in the urine; the remainder is excreted in the bile and ultimately found in the feces as unchanged drug and microbiologically inactive compound. The drug is highly protein bound (95%).

Adult: The usual dose is 1 to 2 gm by intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Acute bacterial otitis media, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections, Meningitis: 1 to 2 g IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day
• Uncomplicated gonococcal infections: 250 mg IM as a single dose
• Surgical prophylaxis: 1 g IV as a single dose 30 to 120 minutes before surgery

Infants and Children (01 month or older): The usual dose is 50 to 75 mg/kg intravenous or intramuscular administration once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day).

• Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Skin and skin structure infection, Urinary tract infections, Bacterial Septicemia, Bone and joint infections: 50 to 75 mg/kg IV or IM once a day (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 2 gm/day
• Acute bacterial otitis media: 50 mg/kg IM in single dose; Maximum dose: 1 gm/day
• Meningitis: 100 mg/kg IV or IM in single daily dose or (or in equally divided doses twice a day); Maximum dose: 4 gm/day

Duration of therapy: Continue for more than 2 days after signs and symptoms of infection have disappeared. Usual duration is 4 to 14 days; in complicated infections, longer therapy may be required.

Preparation of Solutions for Intramuscular / Intravenous Injections:

• For Intramuscular Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 2 ml Lidocaine HCI 1% injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 3.5 ml of Lidocaine HCI 1% injection.
• For Intravenous Injection: 250 mg or 500 mg Ceftriaxone should be dissolved in 5 ml of Water for injection or 1 g Ceftriaxone in 10 ml of Water for injection USP or 2 g Ceftriaxone in 20 ml of Water for injection.

The injection should be administered over 2-4 minutes, by Intramuscular or Intravenous injection or by tubing infusion over a period of 30 minutes at concentration between 10 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL. Before starting treatment through Ceftriaxone injection, patient tolerance test should be checked by administration of a test dose. (The use of freshly reconstituted solution is recommended. However, it maintains potency for at least 6 hours at room temperature or 24 hours at 5°C).

Ceftriaxone is generally well tolerated. A few side effects such as gastro-intestinal effects including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, stomatitis and glossitis; cutaneous reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, edema and erythema multiforme; hematologic reactions including eosinophilia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, anemia and neutropenia; hepatic reactions including elevations of SGOT or SGPT, bilirubinemia; CNS reactions including nervousness, confusion, sleep disturbances, headache, hyperactivity, convulsion, hypertonia and dizziness were reported. Local phlebitis occurs rarely following intravenous administration but can be minimized by slow injections over 2-4 minutes.

Ceftriaxone should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cephalosporin antibiotics.

As with other cephalosporins, anaphylactic shock cannot be ruled out even if a thorough patient history is taken. Anaphylactic shock requires immediate countermeasures such as intravenous epinephrine followed by a glucocorticoid. In rare cases, shadows suggesting sludge have been detected by sonograms of the gallbladder. This condition was reversible on discontinuation or completion of Ceftriaxone therapy. Even if such findings are associated with pain, conservative, nonsurgical management is recommended. During prolonged treatment the blood picture should be checked at regular intervals.

No drug interactions have been reported.

Its safety in human pregnancy has not been established. Therefore, it should not be used in pregnancy unless absolutely indicated. Low concentrations of Ceftriaxone are excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Ceftriaxone is administered to a lactating mother.

Ceftriaxone must not be given to neonates if the neonates is premature and newborn (up to 28 days of age).

There is no specific antidote. Treatment of overdosage should be symptomatic.

Vial store in a cool, dry place (below 30° C), away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Zonisamide is indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in adults with epilepsy.

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

The precise mechanism(s) by which zonisamide exerts its antiseizure effect is unknown. Zonisamide demonstrated anticonvulsant activity in several experimental models. In animals, zonisamide was effective against tonic extension seizures induced by maximal electroshock but ineffective against clonic seizures induced by subcutaneous pentylenetetrazol. Zonisamide raised the threshold for generalized seizures in the kindled rat model and reduced the duration of cortical focal seizures induced by electrical stimulation of the visual cortex in cats. Furthermore, zonisamide suppressed both interictal spikes and the secondarily generalized seizures produced by cortical application of tungstic acid gel in rats or by cortical freezing in cats. The relevance of these models to human epilepsy is unknown.

Zonisamide may produce these effects through action at sodium and calcium channels. In vitro pharmacological studies suggest that zonisamide blocks sodium channels and reduces voltagedependent, transient inward currents (T-type Ca2+ currents), consequently stabilizing neuronal membranes and suppressing neuronal hypersynchronization. In vitro binding studies have demonstrated that zonisamide binds to the GABA/benzodiazepine receptor ionophore complex in an allosteric fashion which does not produce changes in chloride flux. Other in vitro studies have demonstrated that zonisamide (10–30 μg/mL) suppresses synaptically-driven electrical activity without affecting postsynaptic GABA or glutamate responses (cultured mouse spinal cord neurons) or neuronal or glial uptake of [3H]-GABA (rat hippocampal slices). Thus, zonisamide does not appear to potentiate the synaptic activity of GABA. In vivo microdialysis studies demonstrated that zonisamide facilitates both dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission.

Zonisamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. The contribution of this pharmacological action to the therapeutic effects of zonisamide is unknown. However, as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, zonisamide may cause metabolic acidosis

Zonisamide is recommended as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of partial seizures in adults. Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients below the age of 16 have not been established. Zonisamide should be administered once or twice daily, using 25 mg or 100 mg capsules. Zonisamide is given orally and can be taken with or without food. Capsules should be swallowed whole.

Adults Over Age 16: The prescriber should be aware that, because of the long half-life of zonisamide, up to two weeks may be required to achieve steady state levels upon reaching a stable dose or following dosage adjustment. Although the regimen described below is one that has been shown to be tolerated, the prescriber may wish to prolong the duration of treatment at the lower doses in order to fully assess the effects of zonisamide at steady state, noting that many of the side effects of zonisamide are more frequent at doses of 300 mg per day and above. Although there is some evidence of greater response at doses above 100-200 mg/day, the increase appears small and formal dose-response studies have not been conducted.

The initial dose of Zonisamide should be 100 mg daily. After two weeks, the dose may be increased to 200 mg/day for at least two weeks. It can be increased to 300 mg/day and 400 mg/day, with the dose stable for at least two weeks to achieve steady state at each level. Evidence from controlled trials suggests that Zonisamide doses of 100-600 mg/day are effective, but there is no suggestion of increasing response above 400 mg/day. There is little experience with doses greater than 600 mg/day.

The most common adverse reactions with Zonisamide (an incidence at least 4% greater than placebo) in controlled clinical trials and shown in descending order of frequency were somnolence, anorexia, dizziness, ataxia, agitation/irritability, and difficulty with memory and/or concentration.

In controlled clinical trials, 12% of patients receiving Zonisamide as adjunctive therapy discontinued due to an adverse reaction compared to 6% receiving placebo. Approximately 21% of the 1,336 patients with epilepsy who received Zonisamide in clinical studies discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were somnolence, fatigue and/or ataxia (6%), anorexia (3%), difficulty concentrating (2%), difficulty with memory, mental slowing, nausea/vomiting (2%), and weight loss (1%). Many of these adverse reactions were doserelated

Zonisamide is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to sulfonamides or zonisamide.

Somnolence is commonly reported, especially at higher doses of Zonisamide. Zonisamide is metabolized by the liver and eliminated by the kidneys; caution should therefore be exercised when administering Zonisamide to patients with hepatic and renal dysfunction

Zonisamide may cause serious adverse fetal effects, based on clinical and nonclinical data. Zonisamide was teratogenic in multiple animal species.

Zonisamide treatment causes metabolic acidosis in humans. The effect of zonisamide-induced metabolic acidosis has not been studied in pregnancy; however, metabolic acidosis in pregnancy (due to other causes) may be associated with decreased fetal growth, decreased fetal oxygenation, and fetal death, and may affect the fetus's ability to tolerate labor. Pregnant patients should be monitored for metabolic acidosis and treated as in the non-pregnant state. 

Newborns of mothers treated with zonisamide should be monitored for metabolic acidosis because of transfer of zonisamide to the fetus and possible occurrence of transient metabolic acidosis following birth. Transient metabolic acidosis has been reported in neonates born to mothers treated during pregnancy with a different carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.

Patients With Renal Or Hepatic Disease: Because zonisamide is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, patients with renal or hepatic disease should be treated with caution, and might require slower titration and more frequent monitoring

Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Zonisamide in children under age 16 have not been established. Cases of oligohidrosis and hyperpyrexia have been reported. Zonisamide commonly causes metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients. Chronic untreated metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients may cause nephrolithiasis and/or nephrocalcinosis, osteoporosis and/or osteomalacia (potentially resulting in rickets), and may reduce growth rates. A reduction in growth rate may eventually decrease the maximal height achieved. The effect of zonisamide on growth and bonerelated sequelae has not been systematically investigated.

Geriatric Use: Single dose pharmacokinetic parameters are similar in elderly and young healthy volunteers. Clinical studies of zonisamide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Human Experience: Experience with Zonisamide daily doses over 800 mg/day is limited. During Zonisamide clinical development, three patients ingested unknown amounts of Zonisamide as suicide attempts, and all three were hospitalized with CNS symptoms. One patient became comatose and developed bradycardia, hypotension, and respiratory depression; the zonisamide plasma level was 100.1 μg/mL measured 31 hours post-ingestion. Zonisamide plasma levels fell with a half-life of 57 hours, and the patient became alert five days later.

Management: No specific antidotes for Zonisamide overdosage are available. Following a suspected recent overdose, emesis should be induced or gastriclavage performed with the usual precautions to protect the airway. General supportive care is indicated, including frequent monitoring of vital signs and close observation.

Zonisamide has a long half-life. Due to the low protein binding of zonisamide (40%), renal dialysis may be effective. The effectiveness of renal dialysis as a treatment of overdose has not been formally studied. A poison control center should be contacted for information on the management of Zonisamide overdosage.

Zonisamide is indicated as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in adults with epilepsy.

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

The precise mechanism(s) by which zonisamide exerts its antiseizure effect is unknown. Zonisamide demonstrated anticonvulsant activity in several experimental models. In animals, zonisamide was effective against tonic extension seizures induced by maximal electroshock but ineffective against clonic seizures induced by subcutaneous pentylenetetrazol. Zonisamide raised the threshold for generalized seizures in the kindled rat model and reduced the duration of cortical focal seizures induced by electrical stimulation of the visual cortex in cats. Furthermore, zonisamide suppressed both interictal spikes and the secondarily generalized seizures produced by cortical application of tungstic acid gel in rats or by cortical freezing in cats. The relevance of these models to human epilepsy is unknown.

Zonisamide may produce these effects through action at sodium and calcium channels. In vitro pharmacological studies suggest that zonisamide blocks sodium channels and reduces voltagedependent, transient inward currents (T-type Ca2+ currents), consequently stabilizing neuronal membranes and suppressing neuronal hypersynchronization. In vitro binding studies have demonstrated that zonisamide binds to the GABA/benzodiazepine receptor ionophore complex in an allosteric fashion which does not produce changes in chloride flux. Other in vitro studies have demonstrated that zonisamide (10–30 μg/mL) suppresses synaptically-driven electrical activity without affecting postsynaptic GABA or glutamate responses (cultured mouse spinal cord neurons) or neuronal or glial uptake of [3H]-GABA (rat hippocampal slices). Thus, zonisamide does not appear to potentiate the synaptic activity of GABA. In vivo microdialysis studies demonstrated that zonisamide facilitates both dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmission.

Zonisamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. The contribution of this pharmacological action to the therapeutic effects of zonisamide is unknown. However, as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, zonisamide may cause metabolic acidosis

Zonisamide is recommended as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of partial seizures in adults. Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients below the age of 16 have not been established. Zonisamide should be administered once or twice daily, using 25 mg or 100 mg capsules. Zonisamide is given orally and can be taken with or without food. Capsules should be swallowed whole.

Adults Over Age 16: The prescriber should be aware that, because of the long half-life of zonisamide, up to two weeks may be required to achieve steady state levels upon reaching a stable dose or following dosage adjustment. Although the regimen described below is one that has been shown to be tolerated, the prescriber may wish to prolong the duration of treatment at the lower doses in order to fully assess the effects of zonisamide at steady state, noting that many of the side effects of zonisamide are more frequent at doses of 300 mg per day and above. Although there is some evidence of greater response at doses above 100-200 mg/day, the increase appears small and formal dose-response studies have not been conducted.

The initial dose of Zonisamide should be 100 mg daily. After two weeks, the dose may be increased to 200 mg/day for at least two weeks. It can be increased to 300 mg/day and 400 mg/day, with the dose stable for at least two weeks to achieve steady state at each level. Evidence from controlled trials suggests that Zonisamide doses of 100-600 mg/day are effective, but there is no suggestion of increasing response above 400 mg/day. There is little experience with doses greater than 600 mg/day.

The most common adverse reactions with Zonisamide (an incidence at least 4% greater than placebo) in controlled clinical trials and shown in descending order of frequency were somnolence, anorexia, dizziness, ataxia, agitation/irritability, and difficulty with memory and/or concentration.

In controlled clinical trials, 12% of patients receiving Zonisamide as adjunctive therapy discontinued due to an adverse reaction compared to 6% receiving placebo. Approximately 21% of the 1,336 patients with epilepsy who received Zonisamide in clinical studies discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were somnolence, fatigue and/or ataxia (6%), anorexia (3%), difficulty concentrating (2%), difficulty with memory, mental slowing, nausea/vomiting (2%), and weight loss (1%). Many of these adverse reactions were doserelated

Zonisamide is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to sulfonamides or zonisamide.

Somnolence is commonly reported, especially at higher doses of Zonisamide. Zonisamide is metabolized by the liver and eliminated by the kidneys; caution should therefore be exercised when administering Zonisamide to patients with hepatic and renal dysfunction

Zonisamide may cause serious adverse fetal effects, based on clinical and nonclinical data. Zonisamide was teratogenic in multiple animal species.

Zonisamide treatment causes metabolic acidosis in humans. The effect of zonisamide-induced metabolic acidosis has not been studied in pregnancy; however, metabolic acidosis in pregnancy (due to other causes) may be associated with decreased fetal growth, decreased fetal oxygenation, and fetal death, and may affect the fetus's ability to tolerate labor. Pregnant patients should be monitored for metabolic acidosis and treated as in the non-pregnant state. 

Newborns of mothers treated with zonisamide should be monitored for metabolic acidosis because of transfer of zonisamide to the fetus and possible occurrence of transient metabolic acidosis following birth. Transient metabolic acidosis has been reported in neonates born to mothers treated during pregnancy with a different carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.

Patients With Renal Or Hepatic Disease: Because zonisamide is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, patients with renal or hepatic disease should be treated with caution, and might require slower titration and more frequent monitoring

Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Zonisamide in children under age 16 have not been established. Cases of oligohidrosis and hyperpyrexia have been reported. Zonisamide commonly causes metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients. Chronic untreated metabolic acidosis in pediatric patients may cause nephrolithiasis and/or nephrocalcinosis, osteoporosis and/or osteomalacia (potentially resulting in rickets), and may reduce growth rates. A reduction in growth rate may eventually decrease the maximal height achieved. The effect of zonisamide on growth and bonerelated sequelae has not been systematically investigated.

Geriatric Use: Single dose pharmacokinetic parameters are similar in elderly and young healthy volunteers. Clinical studies of zonisamide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Human Experience: Experience with Zonisamide daily doses over 800 mg/day is limited. During Zonisamide clinical development, three patients ingested unknown amounts of Zonisamide as suicide attempts, and all three were hospitalized with CNS symptoms. One patient became comatose and developed bradycardia, hypotension, and respiratory depression; the zonisamide plasma level was 100.1 μg/mL measured 31 hours post-ingestion. Zonisamide plasma levels fell with a half-life of 57 hours, and the patient became alert five days later.

Management: No specific antidotes for Zonisamide overdosage are available. Following a suspected recent overdose, emesis should be induced or gastriclavage performed with the usual precautions to protect the airway. General supportive care is indicated, including frequent monitoring of vital signs and close observation.

Zonisamide has a long half-life. Due to the low protein binding of zonisamide (40%), renal dialysis may be effective. The effectiveness of renal dialysis as a treatment of overdose has not been formally studied. A poison control center should be contacted for information on the management of Zonisamide overdosage.

Proton Pump Inhibitor

Rabeprazole suppresses gastric acid secretion by inhibiting the gastric H⁺/K⁺-ATPase at the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cell. Because this enzyme is regarded as the acid (proton) pump within the parietal cell, Rabeprazole has been characterized as a gastric proton-pump inhibitor.

Active Duodenal Ulcer and Active Benign Gastric Ulcer: The recommended oral dose for both bioactive duodenal ulcer and active benign gastric ulcer is 20 mg to be taken once daily in the morning. Most patients with active duodenal ulcer heal within four weeks. However, a few patients may require an additional four weeks of therapy to achieve healing. Most patients with active benign gastric ulcer heal within six weeks. However, again a few patients may require an additional six weeks of therapy to achieve healing.

Erosive or Ulcerative Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): The recommended oral dose for this condition is 20 mg to be taken once daily for four to eight weeks.

Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease Long-term Management (GERD Maintenance): For long-term management, a maintenance dose of rabeprazole sodium 20 mg or 10 mg once daily can be used depending upon patient response.

Symptomatic treatment of moderate to very severe Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (symptomatic GERD): 10 mg once daily in patients without oesophagitis. If symptom control has not been achieved during four weeks, the patient should be further investigated. Once symptoms have resolved, subsequent symptom control can be achieved using an on-demand regimen taking 10 mg once daily when needed.

Treatment of GERD in pediatric patients 1 to 11 years of age (Less than 15 kg): 5 mg once daily for 12 weeks with the option to increase to 10 mg if inadequate response.

Treatment of GERD in pediatric patients 1 to 11 years of age (15 kg or more): 10 mg once daily for 12 weeks. 

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: The recommended adult starting dose is 60 mg once a day. The dose may be titrated upwards to 120 mg/day based on individual patient needs. Single daily doses up to 100 mg/day may be given. 120 mg dose may require divided doses, 60 mg twice daily. Treatment should continue for as long as clinically indicated.

Eradication of H. pylori: Patients with H. pylori infection should be treated with eradication therapy. The following combination given for 7 days is recommended. Rabeprazole sodium 20 mg twice daily, clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 1g twice daily.

For indications requiring once-daily treatment Rabeprazole tablets should be taken in the morning, before eating; and although neither the time of day nor food intake was shown to have any effect on rabeprazole sodium activity, this regimen will facilitate treatment compliance. Patients should be cautioned that the Rabeprazole tablets should not be chewed or crushed, but should be swallowed whole.

In general, Rabeprazole is well-tolerated in both short-term and long-term studies. Rabeprazole may sometimes cause headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, increased or decreased appetite, muscle pain, drowsiness, dizziness.

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Rabeprazole is contra-indicated in pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

• Symptomatic response to therapy with Rabeprazole does not preclude the presence of gastric or oesophageal malignancy, therefore the possibility of malignancy should be excluded prior to commencing treatment with Rabeprazole 20 mg Gastro-resistant Tablets.
• Patients on long-term treatment (particularly those treated for more than a year) should be kept under regular surveillance.
• Proton pump inhibitors, especially if used in high doses and over long durations (>1 year), may modestly increase the risk of hip, wrist and spine fracture, predominantly in the elderly or in presence of other recognised risk factors. Observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitors may increase the overall risk of fracture by 10–40%. Some of this increase may be due to other risk factors. Patients at risk of osteoporosis should receive care and they should have an adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium.
• A risk of cross-hypersensitivity reactions with other proton pump inhibitor or substituted benzimidazoles cannot be excluded.
• Patients should be cautioned that Rabeprazole gastro-resistant tablets should not be chewed or crushed, but should be swallowed whole.
• There have been post marketing reports of blood dyscrasias (thrombocytopenia and neutropenia). In the majority of cases where an alternative aetiology cannot be identified, the events were uncomplicated and resolved on discontinuation of rabeprazole.
• Hepatic enzyme abnormalities have been seen in clinical trials and have also been reported since market authorisation. In the majority of cases where an alternative aetiology cannot be identified, the events were uncomplicated and resolved on discontinuation of rabeprazole.
• No evidence of significant drug related safety problems was seen in a study of patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment versus normal age and sex matched controls. However because there are no clinical data on the use of rabeprazole in the treatment of patients with severe hepatic dysfunction the prescriber is advised to exercise caution when treatment with Rabeprazole 20mg Gastro-resistant. Tablets is first initiated in such patients.
• Co-administration of atazanavir with Rabeprazole is not recommended.
• Treatment with proton pump inhibitors, including rabeprazole, may possibly increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and Clostridium difficile.

Hypomagnesaemia: Severe hypomagnesaemia has been reported in patients treated with PPIs like rabeprazole for at least three months, and in most cases for a year. Serious manifestations of hypomagnesaemia such as fatigue, tetany, delirium, convulsions, dizziness and ventricular arrhythmia can occur but they may begin insidiously and be overlooked. In most affected patients, hypomagnesaemia improved after magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI. For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesaemia (e.g., diuretics), health care professionals should consider measuring magnesium levels before starting PPI treatment and periodically during treatment.

Influence on vitamin B12 absorption: Rabeprazole sodium, as all acid-blocking medicines, may reduce the absorption of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) due to hypo- or a- chlorhydria. This should be considered in patients with reduced body stores or risk factors for reduced vitamin B12 absorption on long-term therapy or if respective clinical symptoms are observed.

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE): Proton pump inhibitors are associated with very infrequent cases of SCLE. If lesions occur, especially in sun-exposed areas of the skin, and if accompanied by arthralgia, the patient should seek medical help promptly and the health care professional should consider stopping Rabeprazole. SCLE after previous treatment with a proton pump inhibitor may increase the risk of SCLE with other proton pump inhibitors.

Interference with laboratory tests: Increased Chromogranin A (CgA) level may interfere with investigations for neuroendocrine tumours. To avoid this interference, Rabeprazole 20mg Gastro-resistant Tablets treatment should be stopped for at least 5 days before CgA measurements. If CgA and gastrin levels have not returned to reference range after initial measurement, measurements should be repeated 14 days after cessation of proton pump inhibitor treatment.

Respite produces a profound and long-lasting inhibition of gastric acid secretion. An interaction with a compound whose absorption is pH dependent may occur. Co-administration of rabeprazole sodium with ketoconazole or itraconazole may result in a significant decrease in antifungal plasma levels. Therefore individual patients may need to be monitored to determine if a dosage adjustment is necessary when ketoconazole or itraconazole are taken concomitantly with Respite. No interaction with liquid antacids was observed. The absorption of atazanavir is pH-dependent. Therefore PPIs, including rabeprazole, should not be co-administered with atazanavir.

US FDA pregnancy category 'C'. Studies have been performed in animals and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Rabeprazole. There are however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Rabeprazole is likely to be excreted in human milk, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Renal and hepatic impairment: No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

Pediatric populations: Rabeprazole is not recommended for use in children due to a lack of data on safety and efficacy.

The maximum established exposure has not exceeded 60 mg twice daily, or 160 mg once daily. Effects are  generally minimal, representative of the known adverse event profile and reversible without further medical intervention. No specific antidote is known. Rabeprazole is extensively protein bound and is, therefore, not dialysable. As in any case of overdose, treatment should be symptomatic and general supportive measures should be utilised.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.