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Benadip

Amlodipine Besilate + Benazepril Hydrochloride
Capsule 2.5 mg+10 mg Allopathic Combined antihypertensive preparations

Indications

Hypertension

Indication detailsView
This combination is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. This fixed combination drug is not indicated for the initial therapy of hypertension.
Therapeutic classView
Combined antihypertensive preparations
PharmacologyView
The combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. Benazepril and benazeprilat inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in human subjects and in animals. While the mechanism through which Benazepril lowers blood pressure is believed to be primarily suppression of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system, Benazepril has an antihypertensive effect even in patients with low-renin hypertension. Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium ion antagonist or slow channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membranes selectively, with a greater effect on vascular smooth muscle cells than on cardiac muscle cells. Amlodipine is a peripheral arterial vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure.

The rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine are not significantly different, respectively, from the rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine from individual tablet formulations. Following oral administration of this capsule, peak plasma concentrations of Benazepril are reached in 0.5-2 hours. Peak plasma concentrations of Amlodipine are reached 6-12 hours after administration of this capsule; the extent of absorption is 64%-90%. Over 700 patients received Benazepril/Amlodipine once daily in five double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Benazepril/Amlodipine lowered blood pressure within 1 hour, with peak reductions achieved 2-8 hours after dosing. The antihypertensive effect of a single dose persisted for 24 hours. Once-daily doses of Benazepril/Amlodipine using Benazepril doses of 10-20 mg and Amlodipine doses of 2.5-10 mg decreased seated pressure (systolic/diastolic) 24 hours after dosing by about 10-25/6-13 mmHg.
DosageView
Amlodipine is an effective treatment of hypertension in once-daily doses of 2.5-10 mg while Benazepril is effective in doses of 10-80 mg.

It is usually appropriate to begin therapy with this capsule only after a patient has either-
  • Failed to achieve the desired antihypertensive effect with one or the other monotherapy, or
  • Demonstrated inability to achieve adequate antihypertensive effect with Amlodipine therapy without developing edema.
Dose Titration Guided by Clinical Effect: A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Amlodipine (or another dihydropyridine) alone or with Benazepril (or another ACE inhibitor) alone may be switched to combination therapy with this capsule. All patient groups benefit from the reduction in Amlodipine-induced edema. Dosage must be guided by clinical response; steady-state levels of Benazepril an Amlodipine will be reached after approximately 2 and 7 days of dosing respectively.

In patients whose blood pressures are adequately controlled with Amlodipine but who experience unacceptable edema, combination therapy may achieve similar (or better) blood-pressure control without edema. Especially in nonblacks, it may be prudent to minimize the risk of excessive response by reducing the dose of Amlodipine as Benazepril is added to the regimen.

Replacement Therapy: For convenience, patients receiving Amlodipine and Benazepril from separate tablets may instead wish to receive this capsule containing the same component doses. In small, elderly, or hepatically impaired patients, the recommended initial dose of Amlodipine, as monotherapy or as a component of combination therapy, is 2.5 mg.
Side effectsView
Benazepril/Amlodipine has been evaluated for safety in patients with hypertension for at least 6 months and more than 1 year. The reported side effects were generally mild and transient, and there was no relationship between side effects and age, sex, race or duration of therapy. Discontinuation of therapy due to side effects was required in approximately 4% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine and in 3% of patients treated with placebo. The most common reasons for discontinuation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine in U.S. studies were cough and edema. The side effects considered possibly or probably related to study drug that occurred in U.S. placebo-controlled trials in more than 1% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine are cough, headache, dizziness and edema.

The incidence of edema was statistically greater in patients treated with Amlodipine monotherapy than in patients treated with the combination. Edema and certain other side effects are associated with Amlodipine monotherapy in a dose-dependent manner, and appear to affect women more than men. The addition of Benazepril resulted in lower incidences as shown in study; the protective effect of Benazepril was independent of race and (within the range of doses tested) of dose.

Other rare side effects are angioedema, asthenia, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremor, decreased libido, flushing, hot flashes, rash, skin nodule, dermatitis, dry mouth, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, esophagitis, hypokalemia, pharyngitis etc.
ContraindicationsView
This capsule is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to Benazepril, to any other ACE inhibitor, or to Amlodipine.
PrecautionsView
Impaired Renal Function: This capsule should be used with caution in patients with severe renal disease.

Hyperkalemia: This may occur in only a few patients but generally are reversible.

Patients With Hepatic Failure: Since Amlodipine is extensively metabolized by the liver and the plasma elimination half-life (t ½) is 56 hours in patients with impaired hepatic function, caution should be exercised when administering this capsule to patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Cough: ACE inhibitor-induced cough should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cough.

Surgery/Anesthesia: In patients undergoing surgery or during anesthesia with agents that produce hypotension, Benazepril will block the angiotensin II formation that could otherwise occur secondary to compensatory renin release. Hypotension that occurs as a result of this mechanism can be corrected by volume expansion.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: No evidence of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity or impairment of fertility was found when the Benazepril/Amlodipine combination were given orally.
InteractionsView
Diuretics: Patients on diuretics, especially those in whom diuretic therapy was recently instituted, may occasionally experience an excessive reduction of blood pressure after initiation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine.

Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Benazepril can attenuate potassium loss caused by thiazide diuretics. Potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone, Amiloride, Triamterene and others) or potassium supplements can increase the risk of hyperkalemia. If concomitant use of such agents is indicated, they should be given with caution, and the patient's serum potassium should be monitored frequently.

Others: Benazepril has been used concomitantly with oral anticoagulants, beta-adrenergic-blocking agents, calcium-blocking agents, Cimetidine, diuretics, Digoxin, Hydralazine, and Naproxen without evidence of clinically important adverse interactions.

In clinical trials, Amlodipine has been safely administered with thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, long-acting nitrates, sublingual nitroglycerin, Digoxin, Warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and oral hypoglycemic drugs.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Categories C (first trimester) and D (second and third trimesters). ACE inhibitors can cause fetal and neonatal morbidity and death when administered to pregnant women. Several dozen cases have been reported in the world literature. When pregnancy is detected, this capsule should be discontinued as soon as possible. Minimal amounts of unchanged Benazepril and of benazeprilat are excreted into the breast milk of lactating women treated with Benazepril, so that a newborn child ingesting nothing but breast milk would receive less than 0.1% of the maternal doses of Benazepril and benazeprilat. It is not known whether Amlodipine is excreted in human milk. In the absence of this information, it is recommended that nursing be discontinued while this capsule is administered.
Pediatric usageView
Geriatric Use: Clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Overdose effectsView
Human overdoses with any combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril have not been reported. In scattered reports of human overdoses with Benazepril and other ACE inhibitors, there are no reports of death.
StorageView
Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benadip

Amlodipine Besilate + Benazepril Hydrochloride
Capsule 5 mg+20 mg Allopathic Combined antihypertensive preparations

Indications

Hypertension

Indication detailsView
This combination is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. This fixed combination drug is not indicated for the initial therapy of hypertension.
Therapeutic classView
Combined antihypertensive preparations
PharmacologyView
The combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. Benazepril and benazeprilat inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in human subjects and in animals. While the mechanism through which Benazepril lowers blood pressure is believed to be primarily suppression of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system, Benazepril has an antihypertensive effect even in patients with low-renin hypertension. Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium ion antagonist or slow channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membranes selectively, with a greater effect on vascular smooth muscle cells than on cardiac muscle cells. Amlodipine is a peripheral arterial vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure.

The rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine are not significantly different, respectively, from the rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine from individual tablet formulations. Following oral administration of this capsule, peak plasma concentrations of Benazepril are reached in 0.5-2 hours. Peak plasma concentrations of Amlodipine are reached 6-12 hours after administration of this capsule; the extent of absorption is 64%-90%. Over 700 patients received Benazepril/Amlodipine once daily in five double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Benazepril/Amlodipine lowered blood pressure within 1 hour, with peak reductions achieved 2-8 hours after dosing. The antihypertensive effect of a single dose persisted for 24 hours. Once-daily doses of Benazepril/Amlodipine using Benazepril doses of 10-20 mg and Amlodipine doses of 2.5-10 mg decreased seated pressure (systolic/diastolic) 24 hours after dosing by about 10-25/6-13 mmHg.
DosageView
Amlodipine is an effective treatment of hypertension in once-daily doses of 2.5-10 mg while Benazepril is effective in doses of 10-80 mg.

It is usually appropriate to begin therapy with this capsule only after a patient has either-
  • Failed to achieve the desired antihypertensive effect with one or the other monotherapy, or
  • Demonstrated inability to achieve adequate antihypertensive effect with Amlodipine therapy without developing edema.
Dose Titration Guided by Clinical Effect: A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Amlodipine (or another dihydropyridine) alone or with Benazepril (or another ACE inhibitor) alone may be switched to combination therapy with this capsule. All patient groups benefit from the reduction in Amlodipine-induced edema. Dosage must be guided by clinical response; steady-state levels of Benazepril an Amlodipine will be reached after approximately 2 and 7 days of dosing respectively.

In patients whose blood pressures are adequately controlled with Amlodipine but who experience unacceptable edema, combination therapy may achieve similar (or better) blood-pressure control without edema. Especially in nonblacks, it may be prudent to minimize the risk of excessive response by reducing the dose of Amlodipine as Benazepril is added to the regimen.

Replacement Therapy: For convenience, patients receiving Amlodipine and Benazepril from separate tablets may instead wish to receive this capsule containing the same component doses. In small, elderly, or hepatically impaired patients, the recommended initial dose of Amlodipine, as monotherapy or as a component of combination therapy, is 2.5 mg.
Side effectsView
Benazepril/Amlodipine has been evaluated for safety in patients with hypertension for at least 6 months and more than 1 year. The reported side effects were generally mild and transient, and there was no relationship between side effects and age, sex, race or duration of therapy. Discontinuation of therapy due to side effects was required in approximately 4% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine and in 3% of patients treated with placebo. The most common reasons for discontinuation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine in U.S. studies were cough and edema. The side effects considered possibly or probably related to study drug that occurred in U.S. placebo-controlled trials in more than 1% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine are cough, headache, dizziness and edema.

The incidence of edema was statistically greater in patients treated with Amlodipine monotherapy than in patients treated with the combination. Edema and certain other side effects are associated with Amlodipine monotherapy in a dose-dependent manner, and appear to affect women more than men. The addition of Benazepril resulted in lower incidences as shown in study; the protective effect of Benazepril was independent of race and (within the range of doses tested) of dose.

Other rare side effects are angioedema, asthenia, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremor, decreased libido, flushing, hot flashes, rash, skin nodule, dermatitis, dry mouth, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, esophagitis, hypokalemia, pharyngitis etc.
ContraindicationsView
This capsule is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to Benazepril, to any other ACE inhibitor, or to Amlodipine.
PrecautionsView
Impaired Renal Function: This capsule should be used with caution in patients with severe renal disease.

Hyperkalemia: This may occur in only a few patients but generally are reversible.

Patients With Hepatic Failure: Since Amlodipine is extensively metabolized by the liver and the plasma elimination half-life (t ½) is 56 hours in patients with impaired hepatic function, caution should be exercised when administering this capsule to patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Cough: ACE inhibitor-induced cough should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cough.

Surgery/Anesthesia: In patients undergoing surgery or during anesthesia with agents that produce hypotension, Benazepril will block the angiotensin II formation that could otherwise occur secondary to compensatory renin release. Hypotension that occurs as a result of this mechanism can be corrected by volume expansion.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: No evidence of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity or impairment of fertility was found when the Benazepril/Amlodipine combination were given orally.
InteractionsView
Diuretics: Patients on diuretics, especially those in whom diuretic therapy was recently instituted, may occasionally experience an excessive reduction of blood pressure after initiation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine.

Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Benazepril can attenuate potassium loss caused by thiazide diuretics. Potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone, Amiloride, Triamterene and others) or potassium supplements can increase the risk of hyperkalemia. If concomitant use of such agents is indicated, they should be given with caution, and the patient's serum potassium should be monitored frequently.

Others: Benazepril has been used concomitantly with oral anticoagulants, beta-adrenergic-blocking agents, calcium-blocking agents, Cimetidine, diuretics, Digoxin, Hydralazine, and Naproxen without evidence of clinically important adverse interactions.

In clinical trials, Amlodipine has been safely administered with thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, long-acting nitrates, sublingual nitroglycerin, Digoxin, Warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and oral hypoglycemic drugs.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Categories C (first trimester) and D (second and third trimesters). ACE inhibitors can cause fetal and neonatal morbidity and death when administered to pregnant women. Several dozen cases have been reported in the world literature. When pregnancy is detected, this capsule should be discontinued as soon as possible. Minimal amounts of unchanged Benazepril and of benazeprilat are excreted into the breast milk of lactating women treated with Benazepril, so that a newborn child ingesting nothing but breast milk would receive less than 0.1% of the maternal doses of Benazepril and benazeprilat. It is not known whether Amlodipine is excreted in human milk. In the absence of this information, it is recommended that nursing be discontinued while this capsule is administered.
Pediatric usageView
Geriatric Use: Clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Overdose effectsView
Human overdoses with any combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril have not been reported. In scattered reports of human overdoses with Benazepril and other ACE inhibitors, there are no reports of death.
StorageView
Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benadip

Amlodipine Besilate + Benazepril Hydrochloride
Capsule 10 mg+20 mg Allopathic Combined antihypertensive preparations

Indications

Hypertension

Indication detailsView
This combination is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. This fixed combination drug is not indicated for the initial therapy of hypertension.
Therapeutic classView
Combined antihypertensive preparations
PharmacologyView
The combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. Benazepril and benazeprilat inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in human subjects and in animals. While the mechanism through which Benazepril lowers blood pressure is believed to be primarily suppression of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system, Benazepril has an antihypertensive effect even in patients with low-renin hypertension. Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium ion antagonist or slow channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membranes selectively, with a greater effect on vascular smooth muscle cells than on cardiac muscle cells. Amlodipine is a peripheral arterial vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure.

The rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine are not significantly different, respectively, from the rate and extent of absorption of Benazepril and Amlodipine from individual tablet formulations. Following oral administration of this capsule, peak plasma concentrations of Benazepril are reached in 0.5-2 hours. Peak plasma concentrations of Amlodipine are reached 6-12 hours after administration of this capsule; the extent of absorption is 64%-90%. Over 700 patients received Benazepril/Amlodipine once daily in five double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Benazepril/Amlodipine lowered blood pressure within 1 hour, with peak reductions achieved 2-8 hours after dosing. The antihypertensive effect of a single dose persisted for 24 hours. Once-daily doses of Benazepril/Amlodipine using Benazepril doses of 10-20 mg and Amlodipine doses of 2.5-10 mg decreased seated pressure (systolic/diastolic) 24 hours after dosing by about 10-25/6-13 mmHg.
DosageView
Amlodipine is an effective treatment of hypertension in once-daily doses of 2.5-10 mg while Benazepril is effective in doses of 10-80 mg.

It is usually appropriate to begin therapy with this capsule only after a patient has either-
  • Failed to achieve the desired antihypertensive effect with one or the other monotherapy, or
  • Demonstrated inability to achieve adequate antihypertensive effect with Amlodipine therapy without developing edema.
Dose Titration Guided by Clinical Effect: A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Amlodipine (or another dihydropyridine) alone or with Benazepril (or another ACE inhibitor) alone may be switched to combination therapy with this capsule. All patient groups benefit from the reduction in Amlodipine-induced edema. Dosage must be guided by clinical response; steady-state levels of Benazepril an Amlodipine will be reached after approximately 2 and 7 days of dosing respectively.

In patients whose blood pressures are adequately controlled with Amlodipine but who experience unacceptable edema, combination therapy may achieve similar (or better) blood-pressure control without edema. Especially in nonblacks, it may be prudent to minimize the risk of excessive response by reducing the dose of Amlodipine as Benazepril is added to the regimen.

Replacement Therapy: For convenience, patients receiving Amlodipine and Benazepril from separate tablets may instead wish to receive this capsule containing the same component doses. In small, elderly, or hepatically impaired patients, the recommended initial dose of Amlodipine, as monotherapy or as a component of combination therapy, is 2.5 mg.
Side effectsView
Benazepril/Amlodipine has been evaluated for safety in patients with hypertension for at least 6 months and more than 1 year. The reported side effects were generally mild and transient, and there was no relationship between side effects and age, sex, race or duration of therapy. Discontinuation of therapy due to side effects was required in approximately 4% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine and in 3% of patients treated with placebo. The most common reasons for discontinuation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine in U.S. studies were cough and edema. The side effects considered possibly or probably related to study drug that occurred in U.S. placebo-controlled trials in more than 1% of patients treated with Benazepril/Amlodipine are cough, headache, dizziness and edema.

The incidence of edema was statistically greater in patients treated with Amlodipine monotherapy than in patients treated with the combination. Edema and certain other side effects are associated with Amlodipine monotherapy in a dose-dependent manner, and appear to affect women more than men. The addition of Benazepril resulted in lower incidences as shown in study; the protective effect of Benazepril was independent of race and (within the range of doses tested) of dose.

Other rare side effects are angioedema, asthenia, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremor, decreased libido, flushing, hot flashes, rash, skin nodule, dermatitis, dry mouth, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, esophagitis, hypokalemia, pharyngitis etc.
ContraindicationsView
This capsule is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to Benazepril, to any other ACE inhibitor, or to Amlodipine.
PrecautionsView
Impaired Renal Function: This capsule should be used with caution in patients with severe renal disease.

Hyperkalemia: This may occur in only a few patients but generally are reversible.

Patients With Hepatic Failure: Since Amlodipine is extensively metabolized by the liver and the plasma elimination half-life (t ½) is 56 hours in patients with impaired hepatic function, caution should be exercised when administering this capsule to patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Cough: ACE inhibitor-induced cough should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cough.

Surgery/Anesthesia: In patients undergoing surgery or during anesthesia with agents that produce hypotension, Benazepril will block the angiotensin II formation that could otherwise occur secondary to compensatory renin release. Hypotension that occurs as a result of this mechanism can be corrected by volume expansion.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: No evidence of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity or impairment of fertility was found when the Benazepril/Amlodipine combination were given orally.
InteractionsView
Diuretics: Patients on diuretics, especially those in whom diuretic therapy was recently instituted, may occasionally experience an excessive reduction of blood pressure after initiation of therapy with Benazepril/Amlodipine.

Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Benazepril can attenuate potassium loss caused by thiazide diuretics. Potassium-sparing diuretics (Spironolactone, Amiloride, Triamterene and others) or potassium supplements can increase the risk of hyperkalemia. If concomitant use of such agents is indicated, they should be given with caution, and the patient's serum potassium should be monitored frequently.

Others: Benazepril has been used concomitantly with oral anticoagulants, beta-adrenergic-blocking agents, calcium-blocking agents, Cimetidine, diuretics, Digoxin, Hydralazine, and Naproxen without evidence of clinically important adverse interactions.

In clinical trials, Amlodipine has been safely administered with thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, long-acting nitrates, sublingual nitroglycerin, Digoxin, Warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and oral hypoglycemic drugs.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Categories C (first trimester) and D (second and third trimesters). ACE inhibitors can cause fetal and neonatal morbidity and death when administered to pregnant women. Several dozen cases have been reported in the world literature. When pregnancy is detected, this capsule should be discontinued as soon as possible. Minimal amounts of unchanged Benazepril and of benazeprilat are excreted into the breast milk of lactating women treated with Benazepril, so that a newborn child ingesting nothing but breast milk would receive less than 0.1% of the maternal doses of Benazepril and benazeprilat. It is not known whether Amlodipine is excreted in human milk. In the absence of this information, it is recommended that nursing be discontinued while this capsule is administered.
Pediatric usageView
Geriatric Use: Clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Overdose effectsView
Human overdoses with any combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril have not been reported. In scattered reports of human overdoses with Benazepril and other ACE inhibitors, there are no reports of death.
StorageView
Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benalgin

Paracetamol
Oral Suspension 120 mg/5 ml Allopathic Non opioid analgesics

Indications

Toothache

Indication detailsView
Paracetamol is indicated for fever, common cold and influenza, headache, toothache, earache, bodyache, myalgia, neuralgia, dysmenorrhoea, sprains, colic pain, back pain, post-operative pain, postpartum pain, inflammatory pain and post vaccination pain in children. It is also indicated for rheumatic & osteoarthritic pain and stiffness of joints.
Therapeutic classView
Non opioid analgesics
PharmacologyView
Paracetamol has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is thought to act primarily in the CNS, increasing the pain threshold by inhibiting both isoforms of cyclooxygenase, COX-1, COX-2, and COX-3 enzymes involved in prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Paracetamol is a para aminophenol derivative, has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol is one of the most widely used, safest and fast acting analgesic. It is well tolerated and free from various side effects of aspirin.
DosageView
Tablet:
  • Adult: 1-2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours up to a maximum of 4 gm (8 tablets) daily.
  • Children (6-12 years): ½ to 1 tablet 3 to 4 times daily. For long term treatment it is wise not to exceed the dose beyond 2.6 gm/day.
Extended Release Tablet:
  • Adults & Children over 12 years: Two tablets, swallowed whole, every 6 to 8 hours (maximum of 6 tablets in any 24 hours).The tablet must not be crushed.
Syrup/Suspension:
  • Children under 3 months: 10 mg/kg body weight (reduce to 5 mg/kg if jaundiced) 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 3 months to below 1 year: ½ to 1 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 1-5 years: 1 -2 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 6-12 years: 2-A teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • Adults: 4-8 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
Suppository:
  • Children 3-12 months: 60-120 mg,4 times daily.
  • Children 1-5 years: 125-250 mg 4 times daily.
  • Children 6-12 years: 250-500 mg 4 times daily.
  • Adults & children over 12 years: 0.5-1 gm 4 times daily.
Paediatric Drop:
  • Children Upto 3 months: 0.5 ml (40 mg)
  • 4 to 11 months: 1.0 ml (80 mg)
  • 7 to 2 years: 1.5 ml (120 mg). Do not exceed more than 5 dose daily for a maximum of 5 days.
Paracetamol tablet with actizorb technology: It dissolves up to five times faster than standard Paracetamol tablets. It is a fast acting and safe analgesic with marked antipyretic property. It is specially suitable for patients who, for any reason, can not tolerate aspirin or other analgesics.
  • Adults and children (aged 12 years and over): Take 1 to 2 Tablets every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 8 caplets in 24 hours.
  • Children (7 to 11 years): Take ½-1 Tablet every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 caplets in 24 hours. Not recommended in children under 7 years.
Side effectsView
Side effects of paracetamol are usually mild, though haematological reactions including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. Pancreatitis, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions occur occasionally.
ContraindicationsView
It is contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol.
PrecautionsView
Paracetamol should be given with caution to patients with impaired kidney or liver function. Paracetamol should be given with care to patients taking other drugs that affect the liver.
InteractionsView
Patients who have taken barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol may show diminished ability to metabolise large doses of Paracetamol. Alcohol can increase the hepatotoxicity of Paracetamol overdosage. Chronic ingestion of anticonvulsants or oral steroid contraceptives induce liver enzymes and may prevent attainment of therapeutic Paracetamol levels by increasing first-pass metabolism or clearance.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category B according to USFDA. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms of Paracetamol overdose in the first 24 hours are pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Liver damage may become apparent 12-48 hours after ingestion. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism and metabolic acidosis may occur.
StorageView
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benalgin Plus

Paracetamol + Caffeine
Tablet 500 mg+65 mg Allopathic Non opioid analgesics

Indications

Toothache

Indication detailsView
The is indicated in the following condition-
  • Headache
  • Migraine
  • Toothache
  • Neuralgia
  • Feverishness
  • Period pain
  • Sore throat
  • Backache
  • Help to reduce the temperature
  • Aches and pain of colds and flu
Therapeutic classView
Non opioid analgesics
PharmacologyView
This is a combination of Paracetamol and Caffeine. Paracetamol has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Caffeine is an alkaloid which is a theophylline-like xanthine derivative. By intermolecular association with Paracetamol, Caffeine increases the solubility and transmembrane permeation of Paracetamol. In addition, Caffeine increases the pain threshold and tolerance of pain. Caffeine has also an intrinsic power to raise vessel tone in the brain, which provides another benefit to treat migraine and headache.
DosageView
Adult dose: 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours. Maximum dose: 8 tablets daily.
Child dose: Not recommended for children below 12 years.
Side effectsView
Side effects of paracetamol are usually mild, though haematological reactions including thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. Pancreatitis, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions occur occasionally.
ContraindicationsView
Paracetamol is contraindicated in patients with severe renal function impairment and hepatic disease (Viral Hepatitis). Known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or caffeine.
PrecautionsView
Paracetamol & Caffeine should be given cautiously in the following cases: In patients with hepatic or renal failure, in patients taking other hepatotoxic medication. Prolonged use of the drug without consulting a physician should be avoided.
InteractionsView
May reduce serum levels with anticonvulsants (e.g. phenytoin, barbiturates, carbamazepine). May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarins with prolonged use. Accelerated absorption with metoclopramide and domperidone. May increase serum levels with probenecid. May increase serum levels of chloramphenicol. May reduce absorption with colestyramine within 1 hr of admin. May cause severe hypothermia with phenothiazine.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnant mothers should consult with doctors before taking Paracetamol & Caffeine. Paracetamol & Caffeine can be taken whilst breast feeding.
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms of Paracetamol overdose in the first 24 hours are pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Liver damage may become apparent 12 to 40 hours after ingestion. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism and metabolic acidosis may occur.
StorageView
Store in a cool and dry place, protect from light and moisture.Keep all medicines out of the reach of the children.

Benalgin XR

Paracetamol
Tablet (Extended Release) 665 mg Allopathic Non opioid analgesics

Indications

Toothache

Indication detailsView
Paracetamol is indicated for fever, common cold and influenza, headache, toothache, earache, bodyache, myalgia, neuralgia, dysmenorrhoea, sprains, colic pain, back pain, post-operative pain, postpartum pain, inflammatory pain and post vaccination pain in children. It is also indicated for rheumatic & osteoarthritic pain and stiffness of joints.
Therapeutic classView
Non opioid analgesics
PharmacologyView
Paracetamol has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is thought to act primarily in the CNS, increasing the pain threshold by inhibiting both isoforms of cyclooxygenase, COX-1, COX-2, and COX-3 enzymes involved in prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Paracetamol is a para aminophenol derivative, has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol is one of the most widely used, safest and fast acting analgesic. It is well tolerated and free from various side effects of aspirin.
DosageView
Tablet:
  • Adult: 1-2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours up to a maximum of 4 gm (8 tablets) daily.
  • Children (6-12 years): ½ to 1 tablet 3 to 4 times daily. For long term treatment it is wise not to exceed the dose beyond 2.6 gm/day.
Extended Release Tablet:
  • Adults & Children over 12 years: Two tablets, swallowed whole, every 6 to 8 hours (maximum of 6 tablets in any 24 hours).The tablet must not be crushed.
Syrup/Suspension:
  • Children under 3 months: 10 mg/kg body weight (reduce to 5 mg/kg if jaundiced) 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 3 months to below 1 year: ½ to 1 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 1-5 years: 1 -2 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • 6-12 years: 2-A teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
  • Adults: 4-8 teaspoonful 3 to 4 times daily.
Suppository:
  • Children 3-12 months: 60-120 mg,4 times daily.
  • Children 1-5 years: 125-250 mg 4 times daily.
  • Children 6-12 years: 250-500 mg 4 times daily.
  • Adults & children over 12 years: 0.5-1 gm 4 times daily.
Paediatric Drop:
  • Children Upto 3 months: 0.5 ml (40 mg)
  • 4 to 11 months: 1.0 ml (80 mg)
  • 7 to 2 years: 1.5 ml (120 mg). Do not exceed more than 5 dose daily for a maximum of 5 days.
Paracetamol tablet with actizorb technology: It dissolves up to five times faster than standard Paracetamol tablets. It is a fast acting and safe analgesic with marked antipyretic property. It is specially suitable for patients who, for any reason, can not tolerate aspirin or other analgesics.
  • Adults and children (aged 12 years and over): Take 1 to 2 Tablets every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 8 caplets in 24 hours.
  • Children (7 to 11 years): Take ½-1 Tablet every four to six hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 caplets in 24 hours. Not recommended in children under 7 years.
Side effectsView
Side effects of paracetamol are usually mild, though haematological reactions including thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported. Pancreatitis, skin rashes, and other allergic reactions occur occasionally.
ContraindicationsView
It is contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol.
PrecautionsView
Paracetamol should be given with caution to patients with impaired kidney or liver function. Paracetamol should be given with care to patients taking other drugs that affect the liver.
InteractionsView
Patients who have taken barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol may show diminished ability to metabolise large doses of Paracetamol. Alcohol can increase the hepatotoxicity of Paracetamol overdosage. Chronic ingestion of anticonvulsants or oral steroid contraceptives induce liver enzymes and may prevent attainment of therapeutic Paracetamol levels by increasing first-pass metabolism or clearance.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category B according to USFDA. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms of Paracetamol overdose in the first 24 hours are pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Liver damage may become apparent 12-48 hours after ingestion. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism and metabolic acidosis may occur.
StorageView
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benazin

Tetrabenazine
Tablet 25 mg Allopathic Atypical neuroleptic drugs

Indications

Moderate to severe tardive dyskinesia

Indication detailsView
Tetrabenazine is indicated for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease.
Therapeutic classView
Atypical neuroleptic drugs
PharmacologyView
Prolongation of the QTc interval has been observed at doses of 50 mg. In rats, it has been observed that tetrabenazine or its metabolites bind to melanin-containing tissues such as the eyes and skin. After a single oral dose of radiolabeled tetrabenazine, radioactivity was still detected in eye and fur at 21 days post dosing.

Tetrabenazine is a reversible human vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 inhibitor (Ki = 100 nM). It acts within the basal ganglia and promotes depletion of monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine from stores. It also decreases uptake into synaptic vesicles. Dopamine is required for fine motor movement, so the inhibition of its transmission is efficacious for hyperkinetic movement. Tetrabenazine exhibits weak in vitro binding affinity at the dopamine D2 receptor (Ki = 2100 nM).
DosageView

General Dosing Considerations:

The chronic daily dose of Tetrabenazine used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease (HD) is determined individually for each patient. When first prescribed, Tetrabenazine therapy should be titrated slowly over several weeks to identify a dose of XENAXINE that reduces chorea and is tolerated. Tetrabenazine can be administered without regard to food.

Individualization Of Dose:

Dosing Recommendations Up to 50 mg per day: The starting dose should be 12.5 mg per day given once in the morning. After one week, the dose should be increased to 25 mg per day given as 12.5 mg twice a day. Tetrabenazine should be titrated up slowly at weekly intervals by 12.5 mg daily, to allow the identification of a tolerated dose that reduces chorea. If a dose of 37.5 to 50 mg per day is needed, it should be given in a three times a day regimen. The maximum recommended single dose is 25 mg. If adverse reactions such as akathisia, restlessness, parkinsonism, depression, insomnia, anxiety or sedation occur, titration should be stopped and the dose should be reduced. If the adverse reaction does not resolve, consideration should be given to withdrawing Tetrabenazine treatment or initiating other specific treatment (e.g., antidepressants).

Dosing Recommendations Above 50 mg per day: Patients who require doses of Tetrabenazine greater than 50 mg per day should be first tested and genotyped to determine if they are poor metabolizers (PMs) or extensive metabolizers (EMs) by their ability to express the drug metabolizing enzyme, CYP2D6. The dose of Tetrabenazine should then be individualized accordingly to their status as PMs or EMs

Extensive and Intermediate CYP2D6 Metabolizers:

Genotyped patients who are identified as extensive (EMs) or intermediate metabolizers (IMs) of CYP2D6, who need doses of Tetrabenazine above 50 mg per day, should be titrated up slowly at weekly intervals by 12.5 mg daily, to allow the identification of a tolerated dose that reduces chorea. Doses above 50 mg per day should be given in a three times a day regimen. The maximum recommended daily dose is 100 mg and the maximum recommended single dose is 37.5 mg. If adverse reactions such as akathisia, parkinsonism, depression, insomnia, anxiety or sedation occur, titration should be stopped and the dose should be reduced. If the adverse reaction does not resolve, consideration should be given to withdrawing Tetrabenazine treatment or initiating other specific treatment (e.g., antidepressants)
Side effectsView
The following serious adverse reactions are Depression, Suicidality Akathisia, restlessness, and agitation, Parkinsonism, Dysphagia, Sedation and somnolence
ContraindicationsView
Tetrabenazine is contraindicated in patients:
  • Who are actively suicidal, or in patients with untreated or inadequately treated depression 
  • With hepatic impairment 
  • Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). XENAZINE should not be used in combination with an MAOI, or within a minimum of 14 days of discontinuing therapy with an MAOI 
PrecautionsView
May exacerbate symptoms of parkinsonism. Caution to be exercised when driving or performing skilled tasks. Pregnancy.
InteractionsView
Tetrabenazine should not be given with or within 14 days of discontinuation of MAOI therapy. Blocks action of reserpine. Decreases effects of levodopa and worsen parkinsonism. Increased risk of extrapyramidal side effects when given with amantadine, metoclopramide, antipsychotics.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Tetrabenazine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether Tetrabenazine or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Since many drugs are excreted into human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Tetrabenazine, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue Tetrabenazine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric usageView
Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of Tetrabenazine in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Tetrabenazine and its primary metabolites have not been formally studied in geriatric subjects.

Hepatic Impairment: Because the safety and efficacy of the increased exposure to Tetrabenazine and other circulating metabolites are unknown, it is not possible to adjust the dosage of Tetrabenazine in hepatic impairment to ensure safe use. The use of Tetrabenazine in patients with hepatic impairment is contraindicated
Overdose effectsView
Three episodes of overdose occurred in the open-label trials performed in support of registration. Eight cases of overdose with Tetrabenazine have been reported in the literature. The dose of Tetrabenazine in these patients ranged from 100 mg to 1g. Adverse reactions associated with Tetrabenazine overdose include acute dystonia, oculogyric crisis, nausea and vomiting, sweating, sedation, hypotension, confusion, diarrhea, hallucinations, rubor, and tremor.

Treatment should consist of those general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any CNS-active drug. General supportive and symptomatic measures are recommended. Cardiac rhythm and vital signs should be monitored. In managing overdosage, the possibility of multiple drug involvement should always be considered. The physician should consider contacting a poison control center on the treatment of any overdose.

Benazin

Tetrabenazine
Tablet 12.5 mg Allopathic Atypical neuroleptic drugs

Indications

Moderate to severe tardive dyskinesia

Indication detailsView
Tetrabenazine is indicated for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington's disease.
Therapeutic classView
Atypical neuroleptic drugs
PharmacologyView
Prolongation of the QTc interval has been observed at doses of 50 mg. In rats, it has been observed that tetrabenazine or its metabolites bind to melanin-containing tissues such as the eyes and skin. After a single oral dose of radiolabeled tetrabenazine, radioactivity was still detected in eye and fur at 21 days post dosing.

Tetrabenazine is a reversible human vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 inhibitor (Ki = 100 nM). It acts within the basal ganglia and promotes depletion of monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine from stores. It also decreases uptake into synaptic vesicles. Dopamine is required for fine motor movement, so the inhibition of its transmission is efficacious for hyperkinetic movement. Tetrabenazine exhibits weak in vitro binding affinity at the dopamine D2 receptor (Ki = 2100 nM).
DosageView

General Dosing Considerations:

The chronic daily dose of Tetrabenazine used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease (HD) is determined individually for each patient. When first prescribed, Tetrabenazine therapy should be titrated slowly over several weeks to identify a dose of XENAXINE that reduces chorea and is tolerated. Tetrabenazine can be administered without regard to food.

Individualization Of Dose:

Dosing Recommendations Up to 50 mg per day: The starting dose should be 12.5 mg per day given once in the morning. After one week, the dose should be increased to 25 mg per day given as 12.5 mg twice a day. Tetrabenazine should be titrated up slowly at weekly intervals by 12.5 mg daily, to allow the identification of a tolerated dose that reduces chorea. If a dose of 37.5 to 50 mg per day is needed, it should be given in a three times a day regimen. The maximum recommended single dose is 25 mg. If adverse reactions such as akathisia, restlessness, parkinsonism, depression, insomnia, anxiety or sedation occur, titration should be stopped and the dose should be reduced. If the adverse reaction does not resolve, consideration should be given to withdrawing Tetrabenazine treatment or initiating other specific treatment (e.g., antidepressants).

Dosing Recommendations Above 50 mg per day: Patients who require doses of Tetrabenazine greater than 50 mg per day should be first tested and genotyped to determine if they are poor metabolizers (PMs) or extensive metabolizers (EMs) by their ability to express the drug metabolizing enzyme, CYP2D6. The dose of Tetrabenazine should then be individualized accordingly to their status as PMs or EMs

Extensive and Intermediate CYP2D6 Metabolizers:

Genotyped patients who are identified as extensive (EMs) or intermediate metabolizers (IMs) of CYP2D6, who need doses of Tetrabenazine above 50 mg per day, should be titrated up slowly at weekly intervals by 12.5 mg daily, to allow the identification of a tolerated dose that reduces chorea. Doses above 50 mg per day should be given in a three times a day regimen. The maximum recommended daily dose is 100 mg and the maximum recommended single dose is 37.5 mg. If adverse reactions such as akathisia, parkinsonism, depression, insomnia, anxiety or sedation occur, titration should be stopped and the dose should be reduced. If the adverse reaction does not resolve, consideration should be given to withdrawing Tetrabenazine treatment or initiating other specific treatment (e.g., antidepressants)
Side effectsView
The following serious adverse reactions are Depression, Suicidality Akathisia, restlessness, and agitation, Parkinsonism, Dysphagia, Sedation and somnolence
ContraindicationsView
Tetrabenazine is contraindicated in patients:
  • Who are actively suicidal, or in patients with untreated or inadequately treated depression 
  • With hepatic impairment 
  • Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). XENAZINE should not be used in combination with an MAOI, or within a minimum of 14 days of discontinuing therapy with an MAOI 
PrecautionsView
May exacerbate symptoms of parkinsonism. Caution to be exercised when driving or performing skilled tasks. Pregnancy.
InteractionsView
Tetrabenazine should not be given with or within 14 days of discontinuation of MAOI therapy. Blocks action of reserpine. Decreases effects of levodopa and worsen parkinsonism. Increased risk of extrapyramidal side effects when given with amantadine, metoclopramide, antipsychotics.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Tetrabenazine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether Tetrabenazine or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Since many drugs are excreted into human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Tetrabenazine, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue Tetrabenazine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric usageView
Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of Tetrabenazine in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use: The pharmacokinetics of Tetrabenazine and its primary metabolites have not been formally studied in geriatric subjects.

Hepatic Impairment: Because the safety and efficacy of the increased exposure to Tetrabenazine and other circulating metabolites are unknown, it is not possible to adjust the dosage of Tetrabenazine in hepatic impairment to ensure safe use. The use of Tetrabenazine in patients with hepatic impairment is contraindicated
Overdose effectsView
Three episodes of overdose occurred in the open-label trials performed in support of registration. Eight cases of overdose with Tetrabenazine have been reported in the literature. The dose of Tetrabenazine in these patients ranged from 100 mg to 1g. Adverse reactions associated with Tetrabenazine overdose include acute dystonia, oculogyric crisis, nausea and vomiting, sweating, sedation, hypotension, confusion, diarrhea, hallucinations, rubor, and tremor.

Treatment should consist of those general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any CNS-active drug. General supportive and symptomatic measures are recommended. Cardiac rhythm and vital signs should be monitored. In managing overdosage, the possibility of multiple drug involvement should always be considered. The physician should consider contacting a poison control center on the treatment of any overdose.

Bencart

Glucosamine Sulfate + Chondroitin
Tablet 250 mg+200 mg Allopathic Stimulation of Cartilage formation

Indications

Vascular complications (e. g., atherosclerosis)

Indication detailsView
Indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis of knee, hip, spine, hand, and other locations as a dietary supplement. It is also beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis, sport injuries, migraine, different skin problems (e.g., psoriasis), vascular complications (e. g., atherosclerosis), kidney stones, and inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, leaky gut syndrome).
Therapeutic classView
Stimulation of Cartilage formation
PharmacologyView
Glucosamine is a natural amino-sugar, produced by the body and found in certain foods. It is the most fundamental building block required for biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) like Hyaluronic Acid, Keratan Sulfate, and Chondroitin Sulfate. GAGs binds with protein and form proteoglycans, the essential building block of articular cartilage. When cartilage in a joint deteriorates,Osteoarthritis develops. It also helps to form ligaments, tendon, nails, and various other connective tissues.When we take artificially synthesized Glucosamine Sulfate supplement, it increases Glucosamine level in the body, thus facilitates production and repair of cartilage. Glucosamine also activates chondrocytes in the cartilage which help produce GAGs and proteoglycans.

Chondroitin Sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan (acid muco polysaccharide) found in connective tissue, especially in the articular cartilage of all mammals. Chondroitin Sulfate supplement acts similarly as Glucosamine Sulfate, since it also provide substrate for proteoglycans. Chondroitin also protects existing healthy cartilage from premature decline by preventing the MMP (Matrix metalloproteinase) enzyme that breakdowns the proteoglycans.

Combining Glucosamine with Chondroitin Sulfate shows synergistic effect. Data supports that this combination has been shown to be very much effective in severe cases of Osteoarthritis that treats both sign and symptoms of Osteoarthritis & modifies disease progression. It prevents Osteoarthritis in case of normal adults. In Osteoarthritic pain it is as effective as NSAIDs with significantly better tolerability and clinical compliance. It is also helpful during the repair phase of musculo-skeletal soft tissue injuries such as tendon or ligament strains
DosageView
250/200 mg tablet: 1 to 2 tablets, three times daily. Dose may be adjusted according to the response of the drug and body weight. Doses can be tapered after 60 days as per requirement of the individual and for cost convenience. Typical dosage recommendation, based on body weight is as follows-
  • Under 54 Kg: 1000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 800 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day
  • 54 Kg to 91 Kg: 1500 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1200 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day
  • Over 91 Kg: 2000 mg Glucosamine Sulfate & 1600 mg Chondroitin Sulfate per day.
750/600 mg tablet: 1 tablet two times daily or as directed by the physician.
Side effectsView
Safety studies with Glucosamine Sulfate & Chondroitin Sulfate show no demonstrable side effects. Rarely occurring side effects (such as, mild & reversible intestinal flatulence) are almost like placebo.
ContraindicationsView
There are no known contraindications for Glucosamine and Chondroitin. But proven hypersensitivity (e. g. allergic to shellfish or sulfur) to Glucosamine and Chondroitin is a contraindication.
PrecautionsView
Patients with Diabetes Mellitus are advised to monitor blood glucose levels regularly when taking Glucosamine. No special studies were formed in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. The toxicological and pharmacokinetic profile of Glucosamine and Chondroitin does not indicate limitations for these patients. However, administration to patients with severe hepatic or renal insufficiency should be under appropriate medical supervision. Children should not be supplemented with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
InteractionsView
There have been no reports of significant drug interactions of Glucosamine and Chondroitin with Antibiotics/ Antidepressants/ Antihypertensives/ Nitrates/ Antiarrythmics/ Anxiolytics/ Hypoglycemic agents/ Antisecretives/ Antiasthmatics. Chondroitin may enhance the blood thinning effects of anticoagulants like Warfarin, Heparin.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should not supplement with Glucosamine Sulfate or Chondroitin Sulfate. Glucosamine and Chondroitin has not been studied enough to determine their effects on a developing fetus. No studies have evaluated the use of Glucosamine and Chondroitin during pregnancy or lactation. It should be taken with caution and medical advice during pregnancy and lactation.
StorageView
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Benda DS

Albendazole
Chewable Tablet 400 mg Allopathic Anthelmintic

Indications

Worm infections

Indication detailsView
Albendazole is indicated in single and mixed infestations of-
  • Hookworm (Ancylostoma, Necator)
  • Roundworm (Ascaris)
  • Threadworm (Enterobius)
  • Whipworm (Trichuris)
  • Strongyloides
  • Tapeworm
  • Opisthorchi
  • Hydatid.
Therapeutic classView
Anthelmintic
PharmacologyView
Albendazole is a broad spectrum anthelmintic. Albendazole exhibits vermicidal, ovicidal and larvicidal activities. The drug is thought to exert its anthelmintic effect by blocking glucose uptake in the susceptible helminths, thereby depleting the energy level until it becomes inadequate for survival. Immobilization is followed by the parasite. These events may be a consequence of the binding and subsequent inhibition of parasite tubulin polymerization by Albendazole and its metabolites, although the drug also binds to human tubulin. Albendazole is extensively metabolized, probably in the liver. Albendazole is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but rapidly undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. The principal metabolite albendazole sulphoxide has anthelmintic activity and a plasma half-life of about 8.5 hrs. It is excreted in the urine together with other metabolites.
DosageView
Adults & children over 2 years:
  • 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) as a single dose in cases of Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
  • In cases of strongyloidiasis or taeniasis, 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) daily should be given for 3 consecutive days. If the patient is not cured on follow-up after three weeks, a second course of treatment is indicated. 
Children of 1-2 years: Recommended dose is a single dose of 200 mg (5 ml suspension).

Children under 1 year: Not recommended.

In Hydatid disease (Echinococcosis):
  • Albendazole is given by mouth with meals in a dose of 400 mg twice daily for 28 days for patients weighing over 60 kg.
  • A dose of 15 mg/kg body weight daily in two divided doses (to a maximum total daily dose of 800 mg) is used for patients weighing less than 60 kg.
  • For cystic echinococcosis, the 28 days course may be repeated after 14 days without treatment, to a total of 3 treatment cycles.
  • For alveolar echinococcosis, cycles of 28 days of treatment followed by 14 days without treatment, may need to continue for months or years.
  • In giardiasis, 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) once daily for five days is used.
Side effectsView
Gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, dizziness, changes in liver enzymes, rarely reversible alopecia; rash, fever, blood disorders including leucopenia and pancytopenia reported; allergic shock if cyst leakage; convulsion and meningism in cerebral disease.
ContraindicationsView
Neonates: Albendazole is not normally used in neonates.

Children: Reduction of the dose from 400 mg to 200 mg may be indicated in children weighing less than 10 kg but there are no grounds for a general reduction in dosage to children.

Pregnant woman: Albendazole should not be given during pregnancy or women thought to be pregnant. No information is available on placental transfer.

Concurrent disease: There is no evidence to suggest that dose should be altered in renal, hepatic or cardiac failure.
PrecautionsView
Blood counts and liver function tests before treatment and twice during each cycle; breastfeeding; exclude pregnancy before starting treatment. Albendazole should only be used in the treatment of Echinococcosis if there is constant medical supervision with regular monitoring of serum-transaminase concentrations and of leucocyte and platelet counts
InteractionsView
No interaction involving Albendazole, either pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic, has been reported.
Pregnancy & lactationView
US FDA Pregnancy category of Albendazole is C. So, Albendazole should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.
StorageView
Keep in a dry place, away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Bendamax

Bendamustine
IV Infusion 25 mg/vial Allopathic Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Indications

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Indication detailsView
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Bendamustine is indicated for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Efficacy relative to first line therapies other than chlorambucil has not been established.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Bendamustineis indicated for the treatment of patients with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that has progressed during or within six months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen.

Also indicated in Multiple myeloma.
Therapeutic classView
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy
PharmacologyView
Bendamustine is a bifunctional mechlorethamine derivative capable of forming electrophilic alkyl groups that covalently bond to other molecules. Through this function as an alkylating agent, bendamustine causes intra- and inter-strand crosslinks between DNA bases resulting in cell death. It is active against both active and quiescent cells, although the exact mechanism of action is unknown.
DosageView
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: 100 mg/m2 infused over 30-60 min on days 1 and 2 of a 28-day cycle for up to 6 cycles. For severe haematological or non-haematological toxicity: Reduce dose to 50 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of each cycle. If severe haematological toxicity recurs, further reduce dose to 25 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of each cycle. May consider dose re-escalation in subsequent cycles.

Multiple myeloma: 120-150 mg/m2 infused over 30-60 min on days 1 and 2 of a 28-day cycle. IV or oral prednisone may be given at a dose of 60 mg/m2 on days 1-4 of the cycle.

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: 120 mg/m2 infused over 30-60 min on days 1 and 2 of a 21-day cycle for up to 8 cycles. For severe haematological or non-haematological toxicity: Reduced to 90 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of each cycle. If severe toxicity recurs, further reduce dose to 60 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of each cycle.
Side effectsView
Malignant and pre-malignant disease; pyrexia, nausea, vomiting, cough, headache, fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, anorexia, wt decrease, rash, stomatitis, lymphopenia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, neutropenia.
ContraindicationsView
Patient with history of hypersensitivity (e.g. anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions); jaundice, severe bone marrow suppression, low leukocyte or platelet count. Severe hepatic impairment. Major surgery <30 days prior to treatment.
PrecautionsView
Mild to moderate hepatic and renal impairment. Pregnancy and lactation.
InteractionsView
May increase plasma levels with CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g. ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine). May reduce plasma levels with CYP1A2 inducers (e.g. omeprazole and tobacco smoking).
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category D. There is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).
Pediatric usageView
Hepatic Impairment: Moderate: Reduce dose by 30%.
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms: Cardiotoxicity, thrombocytopenia.

Management: May perform bone marrow transplantation and transfusions to control haematological effects. It is dialysable to a small extent.
ReconstitutionView
Reconstitute powder for inj by adding 5 ml or 20 ml of sterile water for inj to a vial containing 25 mg or 100 mg, respectively to provide a soln containing 5 mg/ml. The lyophilised powder should be dissolved w/in 5 min, shake well to facilitate dissolution. within 30 min of reconstitution, the appropriate volume should be withdrawn from the vial to further dilute in 500 ml of either NaCl 0.9% inj or dextrose 2.5% and NaCl 0.45% inj to a final concentration of 0.2-0.6 mg/ml.
StorageView
Store below 25° C, prior to reconstitution. Protect from light.

Bendex

Mebendazole
Chewable Tablet 100 mg Allopathic Anthelmintic

Indications

Worm infections

Indication detailsView
Mebendazole is indicated for the treatment of threadworms, whipworms, roundworms and hookworms.
Therapeutic classView
Anthelmintic
PharmacologyView
Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic that is active against most nematodes and some other worms. Mebendazole is principally used in the treatment of intestinal nematode infection. Mebendazole inhibits the formation of the worms' microtubules and causes the worms' glucose depletion. After oral administration about 2-10% of oral dose is absorbed from Gl tract and peak plasma concentration occurs within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly bound to plasma protein. Elimination half-life is 2.8 to 9 hours.
DosageView
Adult and Child over 2 years-
  • Threadworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Single dose.
  • Whipworms, Roundworms, Hookworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Twice daily for 3 days.
If reinfection occurs the second dose may be needed after 2 weeks.
Side effectsView
  • Gastrointestinal: Transient symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhoea in case of massive infection and expulsion of worms.
  • Hypersensitivity: Rash, urticaria and angioedema have been observed on rare occasions.
  • Central Nervous System: Very rare cases of convulsions have been reported.
  • Haematologic: Neutropenia and agranulocytosis.
ContraindicationsView
Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Mebendazole, or to any component of the formulation.
PrecautionsView
General: Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including haematopoietic and hepatic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.

Information for Patients: Patients should be informed of the potential risk to the foetus in women taking mebendazole during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Patients should also be informed that cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection & transmission of the infection.
InteractionsView
Preliminary evidence suggests that cimetidine inhibits mebendazole metabolism and may result in an increase in plasma concentration.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Mebendazole is not recommended in pregnant women. It is not known whether mebendazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when it is administered to a nursing mother.
Pediatric usageView
Paediatric use: The drug has not been extensively studied in children under two years; therefore, in the treatment of children under two years the relative benefit/risk should be considered.
Overdose effectsView
In the event of accidental overdosage, gastrointestinal complaints lasting up to a few hours may occur. Vomiting and purging should be induced.
StorageView
Store in a cool (Below 25°C temperature) and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.

Bendex

Mebendazole
Chewable Tablet 500 mg Allopathic Anthelmintic

Indications

Worm infections

Indication detailsView
Mebendazole is indicated for the treatment of threadworms, whipworms, roundworms and hookworms.
Therapeutic classView
Anthelmintic
PharmacologyView
Mebendazole is a synthetic broad-spectrum anthelmintic that is active against most nematodes and some other worms. Mebendazole is principally used in the treatment of intestinal nematode infection. Mebendazole inhibits the formation of the worms' microtubules and causes the worms' glucose depletion. After oral administration about 2-10% of oral dose is absorbed from Gl tract and peak plasma concentration occurs within 30 minutes to 7 hours. Mebendazole is highly bound to plasma protein. Elimination half-life is 2.8 to 9 hours.
DosageView
Adult and Child over 2 years-
  • Threadworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Single dose.
  • Whipworms, Roundworms, Hookworms: 100 mg or 1 teaspoonful: Twice daily for 3 days.
If reinfection occurs the second dose may be needed after 2 weeks.
Side effectsView
  • Gastrointestinal: Transient symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhoea in case of massive infection and expulsion of worms.
  • Hypersensitivity: Rash, urticaria and angioedema have been observed on rare occasions.
  • Central Nervous System: Very rare cases of convulsions have been reported.
  • Haematologic: Neutropenia and agranulocytosis.
ContraindicationsView
Mebendazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Mebendazole, or to any component of the formulation.
PrecautionsView
General: Periodic assessment of organ system functions, including haematopoietic and hepatic, is advisable during prolonged therapy.

Information for Patients: Patients should be informed of the potential risk to the foetus in women taking mebendazole during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Patients should also be informed that cleanliness is important to prevent reinfection & transmission of the infection.
InteractionsView
Preliminary evidence suggests that cimetidine inhibits mebendazole metabolism and may result in an increase in plasma concentration.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Mebendazole is not recommended in pregnant women. It is not known whether mebendazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when it is administered to a nursing mother.
Pediatric usageView
Paediatric use: The drug has not been extensively studied in children under two years; therefore, in the treatment of children under two years the relative benefit/risk should be considered.
Overdose effectsView
In the event of accidental overdosage, gastrointestinal complaints lasting up to a few hours may occur. Vomiting and purging should be induced.
StorageView
Store in a cool (Below 25°C temperature) and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.

Bendil

Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride + Zinc Acetate
Cream 2%+0.1% Allopathic Local Antipruritic

Indications

Sunburn

Indication detailsView
This cream is used to temporarily relieve pain and itching associated with: insect bites, minor burns, sunburn, minor skin irritations, minor cuts, scrapes, rashes due to poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, dries the oozing and weeping of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
Therapeutic classView
Local Antipruritic, Topical Antihistamines
PharmacologyView
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and works as a topical anti-allergic and analgesic by blocking the releases of histamine at its sources. Zinc is used as a skin protectant.
DosageView
Adults & children above 2 years: Apply to the affected area 3 to 4 times daily. Before application of cream, the skin should be clean, cool and dry. Should not have a hot shower or bath before applying. Apply the cream lightly on the skin until the cream disappears. It is important to include all skin surfaces, such as between the fingers and toes, under the nails and on the soles of the feet.

For babies under 2 years: Initially consult with the physician, if it is recommended, apply to the face, neck, ears and scalp as well, only avoiding the area immediately around the eyes and mouth. Leave cream on for at least 8 hours, before washing off. Reapply to any area that may be washed during the 8 hours treatment time (such as after washing the hands).
Side effectsView
Contact dermatitis with mild erythematous vesicular lesions and papules has occasionally been reported.
ContraindicationsView
Use of cream is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to its components, other pyrethroids or pyrethrins.
PrecautionsView
For external use only. Flammable, keep away from fire or flame. Do not use on large areas of the body with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even should not be taken by mouth. Consult with the physician before use on chicken pox, on measles. When using this product, avoid contact of eyes.
Pregnancy & lactationView
In the absence of specific studies in pregnant women its use in pregnancy should only follow medical advice. However, teratogenic effects would not be anticipated. Although caution should be exercised in administration of diphenhydramine to nursing mothers, levels in breast milk following topical application are likely to be very low.
StorageView
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.

Bendopa

Levodopa + Benserazide
Dispersible Tablet 100 mg+25 mg Allopathic Antiparkinson drugs

Indications

Protects from Parkinson's disease

Indication detailsView
Levodopa & benserazide is indicated for the treatment of all forms of Parkinson's syndrome with the exception of medicine-induced parkinsonism. Levodopa & benserazide dispersible is a formulation which is suitable for patients with dysphagia (difficulties in swallowing) or who require a formulation with a more rapid onset of action, e.g. patients suffering from early morning and afternoon akinesia, or who exhibit "delayed on" or "wearing off" phenomena. Levodopa & benserazide HBS is indicated for patients presenting with all types of fluctuations in response, especially those related to fluctuations in plasma levels (i.e. "peak dose dyskinesia" and "end of dose deterioration") and for better control of nocturnal symptoms. Further experience is required to determine whether it is also advantageous to use Levodopa & benserazide HBS in new Parkinson patients.
Therapeutic classView
Antiparkinson drugs
PharmacologyView
Dopamine, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, is not present in sufficient quantities in the basal ganglia of parkinsonian patients. Levodopa or L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy phenylalanine) is an intermediate in dopamine biosynthesis. Levodopa (dopamine precursor) is used as a prodrug to increase dopamine levels since it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier whereas dopamine itself cannot. Once levodopa has entered the central nervous system, it is metabolised to dopamine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase After administration, levodopa is rapidly decarboxylated to dopamine in extracerebral as well as cerebral tissues. As a result, most of the levodopa administered is not available to the basal ganglia, and the dopamine produced peripherally frequently causes unwanted effects. It is therefore particularly desirable to inhibit extracerebral decarboxylation of levodopa. This can be achieved by simultaneous administration of levodopa and benserazide, a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor. This preparation is a combination of these two substances in a ratio of 4:1- this ratio having proved optimal in clinical trials and therapeutic use- and is just as effective as large doses of levodopa given alone.
DosageView
Standard dosage: Treatment with this combination should be introduced gradually; dosage should be assessed individually and titrated for optimal effect. The following dosage instructions should therefore be regarded as guidelines.

Initial therapy: In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, it is advisable to start treatment with one capsule of this combination 62.5 three to four times daily. As soon as tolerability of the initial dosing schedule is confirmed, the dosage should be increased slowly in accordance with the patient’s  response. An optimal effect is generally achieved with a daily dosage of this combination corresponding to 300-800 mg of levodopa 75-200 mg benserazide, to be divided into 3 or more doses. Between 4 and 6 weeks may be needed to achieve the optimal effect. If it proves necessary to further, increase the daily dosage, this should be done on a monthly basis.

Maintenance therapy: The average maintenance dosage is 1 capsule of this combination 125 three to six times daily. The number of individual doses (not less than 3) and their distribution throughout the day must be titrated for optimal effect. this combination HBS and this combination dispersible may substitute standard this combination to achieve an optimal effect.
AdministrationView
When taking standard this combination capsules or this combination HBS, patients must always ensure that they swallow the whole capsule without chewing it. this combination dispersible tablets are to be dispersed in a quarter of a glass of water (approx. 25-50 ml). The tablets disintegrate completely, producing a milky-white dispersion within a few minutes. Because of rapid sedimentation, it is advisable to stir the dispersion before drinking. this combination dispersible tablets should be taken within half an hour of preparing the dispersion.

Where possible, this combination should be taken at least 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals, so that the competitive effect of dietary protein on levodopa uptake can be avoided and to facilitate a more rapid onset of action. Undesirable gastrointestinal effects, which may occur mainly in the early stages of the treatment, can largely be controlled by taking this combination with a low protein snack (e.g. biscuits) or liquid or by increasing the dose slowly.
ContraindicationsView
This combination is contraindicated in:
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to levodopa or benserazide or any of the excipients.
  • Patients receiving non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. However, selective MAO-B inhibitors, such as selegiline and rasagiline, or selective MAO-A inhibitors, such as moclobemide, are not contraindicated. Combination of MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors is equivalent to non-selective MAO inhibition, and hence this combination should not be given concomitantly with this combination.
  • Patients with decompensated endocrine, renal or hepatic function, cardiac disorders, psychiatric diseases with a psychotic component or closed angle glaucoma. Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, this combination should not be used in patients with suspicious, undiagnosed lesions or a history of melanoma.
  • The management of patients with intention tremor and Huntington’s chorea.
  • Patients less than 30 years old (skeletal development must be complete).
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category B3. This combination is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential in the absence of adequate contraception. If pregnancy occurs in a woman taking this combination, the medicine must be discontinued (as advised by the prescribing physician). The safe use of this combination during lactation has not been established. Since it is not known whether benserazide passes into breast milk, mothers requiring this combination treatment should not nurse their infants, since the occurrence of skeletal malformations in the infants cannot be excluded.
Pediatric usageView
Renal impairment: Levodopa and benserazide are both extensively metabolised and less than 10% of levodopa is excreted unchanged through the kidneys. No dose reduction is therefore necessary in case of mild or moderate renal insufficiency. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in renal impaired patients are not available. This combination is well tolerated by uraemic patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Hepatic impairment
: Levodopa is mainly metabolised by the aromatic amino acid decarboxylase that is abundantly present in the intestinal tract, in the kidney and heart in addition to the liver. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in hepatic impaired patients are not available.

Paediatric use
: This combination is contraindicated in patients less than 30 years old
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Bendopa

Levodopa + Benserazide
Dispersible Tablet 50 mg+12.5 mg Allopathic Antiparkinson drugs

Indications

Protects from Parkinson's disease

Indication detailsView
Levodopa & benserazide is indicated for the treatment of all forms of Parkinson's syndrome with the exception of medicine-induced parkinsonism. Levodopa & benserazide dispersible is a formulation which is suitable for patients with dysphagia (difficulties in swallowing) or who require a formulation with a more rapid onset of action, e.g. patients suffering from early morning and afternoon akinesia, or who exhibit "delayed on" or "wearing off" phenomena. Levodopa & benserazide HBS is indicated for patients presenting with all types of fluctuations in response, especially those related to fluctuations in plasma levels (i.e. "peak dose dyskinesia" and "end of dose deterioration") and for better control of nocturnal symptoms. Further experience is required to determine whether it is also advantageous to use Levodopa & benserazide HBS in new Parkinson patients.
Therapeutic classView
Antiparkinson drugs
PharmacologyView
Dopamine, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, is not present in sufficient quantities in the basal ganglia of parkinsonian patients. Levodopa or L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy phenylalanine) is an intermediate in dopamine biosynthesis. Levodopa (dopamine precursor) is used as a prodrug to increase dopamine levels since it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier whereas dopamine itself cannot. Once levodopa has entered the central nervous system, it is metabolised to dopamine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase After administration, levodopa is rapidly decarboxylated to dopamine in extracerebral as well as cerebral tissues. As a result, most of the levodopa administered is not available to the basal ganglia, and the dopamine produced peripherally frequently causes unwanted effects. It is therefore particularly desirable to inhibit extracerebral decarboxylation of levodopa. This can be achieved by simultaneous administration of levodopa and benserazide, a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor. This preparation is a combination of these two substances in a ratio of 4:1- this ratio having proved optimal in clinical trials and therapeutic use- and is just as effective as large doses of levodopa given alone.
DosageView
Standard dosage: Treatment with this combination should be introduced gradually; dosage should be assessed individually and titrated for optimal effect. The following dosage instructions should therefore be regarded as guidelines.

Initial therapy: In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, it is advisable to start treatment with one capsule of this combination 62.5 three to four times daily. As soon as tolerability of the initial dosing schedule is confirmed, the dosage should be increased slowly in accordance with the patient’s  response. An optimal effect is generally achieved with a daily dosage of this combination corresponding to 300-800 mg of levodopa 75-200 mg benserazide, to be divided into 3 or more doses. Between 4 and 6 weeks may be needed to achieve the optimal effect. If it proves necessary to further, increase the daily dosage, this should be done on a monthly basis.

Maintenance therapy: The average maintenance dosage is 1 capsule of this combination 125 three to six times daily. The number of individual doses (not less than 3) and their distribution throughout the day must be titrated for optimal effect. this combination HBS and this combination dispersible may substitute standard this combination to achieve an optimal effect.
AdministrationView
When taking standard this combination capsules or this combination HBS, patients must always ensure that they swallow the whole capsule without chewing it. this combination dispersible tablets are to be dispersed in a quarter of a glass of water (approx. 25-50 ml). The tablets disintegrate completely, producing a milky-white dispersion within a few minutes. Because of rapid sedimentation, it is advisable to stir the dispersion before drinking. this combination dispersible tablets should be taken within half an hour of preparing the dispersion.

Where possible, this combination should be taken at least 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals, so that the competitive effect of dietary protein on levodopa uptake can be avoided and to facilitate a more rapid onset of action. Undesirable gastrointestinal effects, which may occur mainly in the early stages of the treatment, can largely be controlled by taking this combination with a low protein snack (e.g. biscuits) or liquid or by increasing the dose slowly.
ContraindicationsView
This combination is contraindicated in:
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to levodopa or benserazide or any of the excipients.
  • Patients receiving non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. However, selective MAO-B inhibitors, such as selegiline and rasagiline, or selective MAO-A inhibitors, such as moclobemide, are not contraindicated. Combination of MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors is equivalent to non-selective MAO inhibition, and hence this combination should not be given concomitantly with this combination.
  • Patients with decompensated endocrine, renal or hepatic function, cardiac disorders, psychiatric diseases with a psychotic component or closed angle glaucoma. Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, this combination should not be used in patients with suspicious, undiagnosed lesions or a history of melanoma.
  • The management of patients with intention tremor and Huntington’s chorea.
  • Patients less than 30 years old (skeletal development must be complete).
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category B3. This combination is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential in the absence of adequate contraception. If pregnancy occurs in a woman taking this combination, the medicine must be discontinued (as advised by the prescribing physician). The safe use of this combination during lactation has not been established. Since it is not known whether benserazide passes into breast milk, mothers requiring this combination treatment should not nurse their infants, since the occurrence of skeletal malformations in the infants cannot be excluded.
Pediatric usageView
Renal impairment: Levodopa and benserazide are both extensively metabolised and less than 10% of levodopa is excreted unchanged through the kidneys. No dose reduction is therefore necessary in case of mild or moderate renal insufficiency. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in renal impaired patients are not available. This combination is well tolerated by uraemic patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Hepatic impairment
: Levodopa is mainly metabolised by the aromatic amino acid decarboxylase that is abundantly present in the intestinal tract, in the kidney and heart in addition to the liver. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in hepatic impaired patients are not available.

Paediatric use
: This combination is contraindicated in patients less than 30 years old
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Bendopa

Levodopa + Benserazide
Dispersible Tablet 200 mg+50 mg Allopathic Antiparkinson drugs

Indications

Protects from Parkinson's disease

Indication detailsView
Levodopa & benserazide is indicated for the treatment of all forms of Parkinson's syndrome with the exception of medicine-induced parkinsonism. Levodopa & benserazide dispersible is a formulation which is suitable for patients with dysphagia (difficulties in swallowing) or who require a formulation with a more rapid onset of action, e.g. patients suffering from early morning and afternoon akinesia, or who exhibit "delayed on" or "wearing off" phenomena. Levodopa & benserazide HBS is indicated for patients presenting with all types of fluctuations in response, especially those related to fluctuations in plasma levels (i.e. "peak dose dyskinesia" and "end of dose deterioration") and for better control of nocturnal symptoms. Further experience is required to determine whether it is also advantageous to use Levodopa & benserazide HBS in new Parkinson patients.
Therapeutic classView
Antiparkinson drugs
PharmacologyView
Dopamine, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, is not present in sufficient quantities in the basal ganglia of parkinsonian patients. Levodopa or L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy phenylalanine) is an intermediate in dopamine biosynthesis. Levodopa (dopamine precursor) is used as a prodrug to increase dopamine levels since it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier whereas dopamine itself cannot. Once levodopa has entered the central nervous system, it is metabolised to dopamine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase After administration, levodopa is rapidly decarboxylated to dopamine in extracerebral as well as cerebral tissues. As a result, most of the levodopa administered is not available to the basal ganglia, and the dopamine produced peripherally frequently causes unwanted effects. It is therefore particularly desirable to inhibit extracerebral decarboxylation of levodopa. This can be achieved by simultaneous administration of levodopa and benserazide, a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor. This preparation is a combination of these two substances in a ratio of 4:1- this ratio having proved optimal in clinical trials and therapeutic use- and is just as effective as large doses of levodopa given alone.
DosageView
Standard dosage: Treatment with this combination should be introduced gradually; dosage should be assessed individually and titrated for optimal effect. The following dosage instructions should therefore be regarded as guidelines.

Initial therapy: In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, it is advisable to start treatment with one capsule of this combination 62.5 three to four times daily. As soon as tolerability of the initial dosing schedule is confirmed, the dosage should be increased slowly in accordance with the patient’s  response. An optimal effect is generally achieved with a daily dosage of this combination corresponding to 300-800 mg of levodopa 75-200 mg benserazide, to be divided into 3 or more doses. Between 4 and 6 weeks may be needed to achieve the optimal effect. If it proves necessary to further, increase the daily dosage, this should be done on a monthly basis.

Maintenance therapy: The average maintenance dosage is 1 capsule of this combination 125 three to six times daily. The number of individual doses (not less than 3) and their distribution throughout the day must be titrated for optimal effect. this combination HBS and this combination dispersible may substitute standard this combination to achieve an optimal effect.
AdministrationView
When taking standard this combination capsules or this combination HBS, patients must always ensure that they swallow the whole capsule without chewing it. this combination dispersible tablets are to be dispersed in a quarter of a glass of water (approx. 25-50 ml). The tablets disintegrate completely, producing a milky-white dispersion within a few minutes. Because of rapid sedimentation, it is advisable to stir the dispersion before drinking. this combination dispersible tablets should be taken within half an hour of preparing the dispersion.

Where possible, this combination should be taken at least 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals, so that the competitive effect of dietary protein on levodopa uptake can be avoided and to facilitate a more rapid onset of action. Undesirable gastrointestinal effects, which may occur mainly in the early stages of the treatment, can largely be controlled by taking this combination with a low protein snack (e.g. biscuits) or liquid or by increasing the dose slowly.
ContraindicationsView
This combination is contraindicated in:
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to levodopa or benserazide or any of the excipients.
  • Patients receiving non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. However, selective MAO-B inhibitors, such as selegiline and rasagiline, or selective MAO-A inhibitors, such as moclobemide, are not contraindicated. Combination of MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors is equivalent to non-selective MAO inhibition, and hence this combination should not be given concomitantly with this combination.
  • Patients with decompensated endocrine, renal or hepatic function, cardiac disorders, psychiatric diseases with a psychotic component or closed angle glaucoma. Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, this combination should not be used in patients with suspicious, undiagnosed lesions or a history of melanoma.
  • The management of patients with intention tremor and Huntington’s chorea.
  • Patients less than 30 years old (skeletal development must be complete).
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category B3. This combination is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential in the absence of adequate contraception. If pregnancy occurs in a woman taking this combination, the medicine must be discontinued (as advised by the prescribing physician). The safe use of this combination during lactation has not been established. Since it is not known whether benserazide passes into breast milk, mothers requiring this combination treatment should not nurse their infants, since the occurrence of skeletal malformations in the infants cannot be excluded.
Pediatric usageView
Renal impairment: Levodopa and benserazide are both extensively metabolised and less than 10% of levodopa is excreted unchanged through the kidneys. No dose reduction is therefore necessary in case of mild or moderate renal insufficiency. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in renal impaired patients are not available. This combination is well tolerated by uraemic patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Hepatic impairment
: Levodopa is mainly metabolised by the aromatic amino acid decarboxylase that is abundantly present in the intestinal tract, in the kidney and heart in addition to the liver. Pharmacokinetic data with levodopa in hepatic impaired patients are not available.

Paediatric use
: This combination is contraindicated in patients less than 30 years old
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benfast

Albendazole
Chewable Tablet 400 mg Allopathic Anthelmintic

Indications

Worm infections

Indication detailsView
Albendazole is indicated in single and mixed infestations of-
  • Hookworm (Ancylostoma, Necator)
  • Roundworm (Ascaris)
  • Threadworm (Enterobius)
  • Whipworm (Trichuris)
  • Strongyloides
  • Tapeworm
  • Opisthorchi
  • Hydatid.
Therapeutic classView
Anthelmintic
PharmacologyView
Albendazole is a broad spectrum anthelmintic. Albendazole exhibits vermicidal, ovicidal and larvicidal activities. The drug is thought to exert its anthelmintic effect by blocking glucose uptake in the susceptible helminths, thereby depleting the energy level until it becomes inadequate for survival. Immobilization is followed by the parasite. These events may be a consequence of the binding and subsequent inhibition of parasite tubulin polymerization by Albendazole and its metabolites, although the drug also binds to human tubulin. Albendazole is extensively metabolized, probably in the liver. Albendazole is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but rapidly undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. The principal metabolite albendazole sulphoxide has anthelmintic activity and a plasma half-life of about 8.5 hrs. It is excreted in the urine together with other metabolites.
DosageView
Adults & children over 2 years:
  • 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) as a single dose in cases of Enterobius vermicularis, Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
  • In cases of strongyloidiasis or taeniasis, 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) daily should be given for 3 consecutive days. If the patient is not cured on follow-up after three weeks, a second course of treatment is indicated. 
Children of 1-2 years: Recommended dose is a single dose of 200 mg (5 ml suspension).

Children under 1 year: Not recommended.

In Hydatid disease (Echinococcosis):
  • Albendazole is given by mouth with meals in a dose of 400 mg twice daily for 28 days for patients weighing over 60 kg.
  • A dose of 15 mg/kg body weight daily in two divided doses (to a maximum total daily dose of 800 mg) is used for patients weighing less than 60 kg.
  • For cystic echinococcosis, the 28 days course may be repeated after 14 days without treatment, to a total of 3 treatment cycles.
  • For alveolar echinococcosis, cycles of 28 days of treatment followed by 14 days without treatment, may need to continue for months or years.
  • In giardiasis, 400 mg (1 tablet or 10 ml suspension) once daily for five days is used.
Side effectsView
Gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, dizziness, changes in liver enzymes, rarely reversible alopecia; rash, fever, blood disorders including leucopenia and pancytopenia reported; allergic shock if cyst leakage; convulsion and meningism in cerebral disease.
ContraindicationsView
Neonates: Albendazole is not normally used in neonates.

Children: Reduction of the dose from 400 mg to 200 mg may be indicated in children weighing less than 10 kg but there are no grounds for a general reduction in dosage to children.

Pregnant woman: Albendazole should not be given during pregnancy or women thought to be pregnant. No information is available on placental transfer.

Concurrent disease: There is no evidence to suggest that dose should be altered in renal, hepatic or cardiac failure.
PrecautionsView
Blood counts and liver function tests before treatment and twice during each cycle; breastfeeding; exclude pregnancy before starting treatment. Albendazole should only be used in the treatment of Echinococcosis if there is constant medical supervision with regular monitoring of serum-transaminase concentrations and of leucocyte and platelet counts
InteractionsView
No interaction involving Albendazole, either pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic, has been reported.
Pregnancy & lactationView
US FDA Pregnancy category of Albendazole is C. So, Albendazole should be avoided in pregnancy and lactation unless the potential benefits to the other outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.
StorageView
Keep in a dry place, away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benfloxin

Levofloxacin Hemihydrate
Tablet 500 mg Allopathic 4-Quinolone preparations

Indications

Urinary tract infection

Indication detailsView
Levofloxacin is indicated for the treatment of mild, moderate and severe infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated micro-organisms in the condition listed below:
  • Acute maxillary sinusitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis.
  • Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis due to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis.
  • Community-acquired pneumonia due to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, or Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
  • Uncomplicated & complicated urinary tract infections due to Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
  • Acute pyelonephritis caused by Escherichia coli.
  • Uncomplicated & complicated skin and soft tissue infections including abscesses, cellulitis, furuncles, impetigo, pyoderma, wound infections, due to Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Proteus mirabilis or Enterococcus faecalis.
  • Enteric infections caused by Enterobacter sp., Escherichia coli, Campylobacter sp., Vibrio cholerae, Shigella sp., Salmonella sp.
Therapeutic classView
4-Quinolone preparations
PharmacologyView
Levofloxacin is a synthetic, broad-spectrum, third generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic. Chemically, Levofloxacin is a chiral fluorinated carboxyquinolone. Levofloxacin exerts antibacterial action by inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase, the enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription repair and recombination. It has in vitro activity against a wide range of gm-ve and gm+ve microorganisms.
DosageView
The usual dose of Levofloxacin Tablets is 250 mg or 500 mg or 750 mg administered orally every 24 hours. Levofloxacin tablets can be administered without regard to food. Levofloxacin oral solution should be taken 1 hour before, or  2 hours after eating.

Levofloxacin injection should only be administered by intravenous infusion. It is not for intramuscular, intrathecal, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous administration. The usual dose of Levofloxacin injection is 250 mg or 500 mg administered by slow infusion over 60 minutes every 24 hours or 750 mg administered by slow infusion over 90 minutes every 24 hours. Since the Levofloxacin injections are for single-use only, any unused portion should be discarded. Additives or other medications should not be added to Levofloxacin Injection or infused simultaneously through the same intravenous line.

Adults:
  • Acute sinusitis: 500 mg once daily for 10-14 days, or 750 mg once daily for 5 days
  • Exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 500 mg once daily for 7 days, or 750 mg once daily for 3 days (Uncomplicated), 750 mg once daily for 5 days (Complicated)
  • Community-acquired pneumonia: 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days, or 750 mg once daily for 5 days
  • Uncomplicated urinary-tract infections: 250 mg once daily for 3 days
  • Complicated urinary-tract infections and acute pyelonephritis: 250 mg once daily for 7-10 days
  • Uncomplicated skin and soft-tissue infections: 500 mg once daily for 7-10 days.
  • Complicated skin and soft-tissue infections: 750 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
  • Enteric fever: 500 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
  • Diarrhea, cholera, shigellosis & enteritis: Mild to moderate case: 500 mg (single dose). Moderate to sever case: 500 mg once daily for 3 days
Children:
  • Children 6 months to <5 years: 10 mg/kg every 12 hours.
  • Children >5 years: 10 mg/kg every 24 hours
In each case, sequential therapy (intravenous to oral) may be instituted at the discretion of the physician.
AdministrationView
Instructions for the Use of Levofloxacin Infusion-
  • Check the container for minute leaks by squeezing the inner bag firmly. If leaks are found, or if the seal is not intact, discard the solution.
  • Do not use if the solution is cloudy or a precipitate is present.
  • Do not use flexible containers in series connections.
  • Close flow control clamp of administration set.
  • Remove cover from port at bottom of container.
  • Insert piercing pin of administration set into port with a twisting motion until the pin is firmly seated.
  • Suspend container from hanger.
  • Squeeze and release drip chamber to establish proper fluid level in chamber during infusion of Levoxin Injection.
  • Open flow control clamp to expel air from set. Close clamp.
  • Regulate rate of administration with flow control clamp.
Side effectsView
Levofloxacin is generally well tolerated. However, a few side-effects can usually be seen. There is a risk of retinal detachment. Other side-effects include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence and rare occurrence of phototoxicity (0.1%). Side-effects that may be seen very rarely include tremors, depression, anxiety, confusion etc.
ContraindicationsView
Levofloxacin is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, quinolone antimicrobial agents, or any other components of this product.
PrecautionsView
The following measures should be taken during administration of Levofloxacin:
  • Levofloxacin Injection should only be administered by slow intravenous infusion over a period of 60 or 90 minutes depending on the dosage.
  • While administrating Levofloxacin, adequate amount of water should be taken to avoid concentrated form of urine.
  • Dose adjustment should be exercised during Levofloxacin administration in presence of renal insufficiency.
InteractionsView
No quinolone should be co-administered with any solution containing multivalent cations, e.g., magnesium, through the same intravenous line. Antacids, Iron and Adsorbents reduce absorption of Levofloxacin. NSAID may increase the risk of CNS stimulation. Warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Levofloxacin is not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.
Overdose effectsView
Levofloxacin exhibits a low potential for acute toxicity. However, in the events of an acute overdosage, the stomach should be emptied. The patients should be kept under observation and appropriate hydration should be maintained.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Benformin

Metformin Hydrochloride
Tablet 500 mg Allopathic Biguanides

Indications

Type 2 DM

Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
  • In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
  • In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
A reduction of diabetic complications has been shown in overweight type 2 diabetic adult patients treated with metformin as first-line therapy after diet failure.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
  • Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
  • Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
Metformin extended release tablet: Swallow Metformin XR tablet whole and never crush, cut or chew.
  • Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
  • Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
  • Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia

Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)

Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy

Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.

Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
  • Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
  • Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
  • Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
  • Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
  • Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.

Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.

Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.

Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.

Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
  • At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
  • At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Decreased renal function in elderly subjects is frequent and asymptomatic. Special caution should be exercised in situations where renal function may become impaired, for example when initiating antihypertensive therapy or diuretic therapy and when starting therapy with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). GFR should be assessed before treatment initiation and regularly thereafter. Metformin is contraindicate in patients with GFR<30 ml/min and should be temporarily discontinued in the presence of conditions that alter renal function.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.