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4-Quinolone preparations

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.

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.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, quinolone antimicrobial agents, or any other components of this product.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.

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.

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

4-Quinolone preparations

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.

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.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, quinolone antimicrobial agents, or any other components of this product.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.

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.

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

Ondansetron is a serotonin subtype 3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist indicated:

• Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer chemotherapy.
• Prevention and treatment of post-operative nausea and vomiting.
• Prevention of radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Anti-emetic drugs

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults, Pediatric patients (6 months to 18 years):

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• Injection: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose, infused intravenously over 15 minutes.

Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults:

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: Initial Dose: 8 mg orally 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy. Post Radiotherapy: 8 mg orally every 8 hours for up to 5 days after a course of treatment.
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• Injection: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose, infused intravenously over 15 minutes.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults:

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: 16 mg given as two 8 mg tablets
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: 16 mg
• Injection: 4 mg

Pediatrics (>40 kg): Injection: 4 mg
Pediatrics (40 kg): Injection: 0.1 mg/kg

Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over:

• Highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy: 30 ml (24 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution administered 30 minutes before start of emetogenic chemotherapy.
• Moderate emetogenic cancer chemotherapy: 10 ml (8 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution administered 30 minutes before start of emetogenic chemotherapy. A further 10 ml dose should be administered after 8 hours of the first dose. One 10 ml dose should be administered twice a day (every 12 hours) for 1-2 days after completion of chemotherapy.

Pediatric (4-11 years): 5 ml (4 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be taken 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. The other 2 doses should be taken 4 and 8 hours after the first dose. Then 5 ml oral solution should be administered 3 times a day (every 8 hours) for 1-2 days after completion of chemotherapy.

Oral solution:

Radiotherapy induced Nausea and Vomiting (Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over):

• The recommended oral dosage: 10 ml (8 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution 3 times daily.
• For total body irradiation: 10 ml (8-mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before each fraction of radiotherapy administered each day.
• For single high-dose fraction radiotherapy to the abdomen: one 10 ml Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy, with subsequent doses every 8 hours after the first dose for 1 to 2 days after completion of radiotherapy.
• For daily fractionated radiotherapy to the abdomen: 10 ml (8-mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy, with subsequent doses every 8 hours after the first dose for each day radiotherapy is given.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over):

• 20 ml (16 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution 1 hour before induction of anesthesia

Oral Soluble Film:

Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy:

• Adult oral dose: 24 mg given successively as three 8 mg films 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy.

Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy:

• Adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older: One 8 mg film 30 minutes before chemotherapy followed by an 8 mg dose 8 hours later. Administer one 8 mg film twice a day (every 12 hours) for 1 to 2 days after completion of chemotherapy.
• Pediatric patients 4 through 11 years of age: One 4 mg film three times a day. Administer the first dose 30 minutes before chemotherapy, with subsequent doses 4 and 8 hours later. Administer one 4 mg film three times a day (every 8 hours) for 1 to 2 days after completion of chemotherapy.
• Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with radiotherapy: The adult dosage is one 8 mg film three times a day.
• Postoperative nausea and vomiting: The adult dose is 16 mg given successively as two 8 mg films 1 hour before anesthesia.

Administration of Oral Soluble Film:

• Step 1: Tear the pouch carefully along with the edge tear mark.
• Step 2: Put the Ondansetron film on top of your tongue. It will dissolve within 20 seconds
• Step 3: Do not chew or swallow the film whole.
• Step 4: Swallow after the Onsaf oral soluble film dissolves. You may swallow the dissolved film with or without liquid.
• Step 5: Wash your hands after taking Onsaf oral soluble film

Frequently reported adverse events were headache, constipation and diarrhea, but the majority have been mild or moderate in nature. In chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, rash has occurred in approximately 1% of patients receiving Ondansetron. There also have been reports to a sensation of flushing or warmth, hiccups and liver enzyme abnormalities. Rare cases of anaphylaxis, brochospasm, tachycardia, angina (chest pain), hypokalemia, shortness of breath have also been reported, except for bronchospasm and anaphylaxis, the relationship to Ondansetron is unclear. There have been no evidence to extrapyramidal reactions, in rare case oculogyric crisis appearing alone, as well as with other dystonic reactions without definitive clinical evidence. In case of PONV, with the exception of headache, rates of these events were not significantly different in the Ondansetron and placebo groups.

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. Concomitant use of apomorphine.

Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported in patients who have exhibited hypersensitivity to other selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Ondansetron is not a drug that stimulates gastric or intestinal peristalsis. It should not be used instead of nasogastric suction. The use of Ondansetron in patients following abdominal surgery or in patients with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting may mask a progressive ileus and/or gastric distension.

Ondansetron does not itself appear to induce or inhibit the cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzyme system of the liver. Because Ondansetron is metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzymes, inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes may change the clearance and hence, the half-life of Ondansetron. On the basis of available data, no dosage adjustment of Ondasetron is recommended for patients on these drugs.

Carcinogenic effects were not seen in 2-year studies in rats and mice with oral Ondansetron doses up to 10 and 30 mg/kg per day, respectively. Ondansetron was not mutagenic in standard tests for mutagenicity. Oral administration of Ondansetron up to 15 mg/kg per day did not affect fertility or general reproduction performance of male and female rats.

Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats and rabbits at daily oral doses up to 15 and 30 mg/kg per day, respectively, and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Ondansetron. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Ondansetron is excreted in the breast milk of rats. So caution should be exercised when Ondansetron is administered to a nursing women.

Dosage Adjustment for Patients With Impaired Renal Function: The dosage recommendation is the same as for the general population.

Dosage Adjustment for Patients With Impaired Hepatic Function: In patients with severe hepatic impairment, a single maximal daily dose of 8 mg to be infused over 15 minutes beginning 30 minutes before the start of the emetogenic chemotherapy is recommended.

4 years of age or younger: Little information is available about dosage in pediatric patients 4 years of age or younger.

Over the age of 65: Dosage adjustment is not needed in patients over the age of 65.

Store at temperature not exceeding 30ºC in a dry place. Protect from light and moisture.

Ondansetron is a serotonin subtype 3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist indicated:

• Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer chemotherapy.
• Prevention and treatment of post-operative nausea and vomiting.
• Prevention of radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Anti-emetic drugs

Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults, Pediatric patients (6 months to 18 years):

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• Injection: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose, infused intravenously over 15 minutes.

Radiotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults:

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: Initial Dose: 8 mg orally 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy. Post Radiotherapy: 8 mg orally every 8 hours for up to 5 days after a course of treatment.
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose.
• Injection: Three 0.15 mg/kg doses, up to a maximum of 16 mg per dose, infused intravenously over 15 minutes.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults:

• 8 mg tablet/orodispersible tablet: 16 mg given as two 8 mg tablets
• 4 mg orodispersible tablet: 16 mg
• Injection: 4 mg

Pediatrics (>40 kg): Injection: 4 mg
Pediatrics (40 kg): Injection: 0.1 mg/kg

Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting-
Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over:

• Highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy: 30 ml (24 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution administered 30 minutes before start of emetogenic chemotherapy.
• Moderate emetogenic cancer chemotherapy: 10 ml (8 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution administered 30 minutes before start of emetogenic chemotherapy. A further 10 ml dose should be administered after 8 hours of the first dose. One 10 ml dose should be administered twice a day (every 12 hours) for 1-2 days after completion of chemotherapy.

Pediatric (4-11 years): 5 ml (4 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be taken 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. The other 2 doses should be taken 4 and 8 hours after the first dose. Then 5 ml oral solution should be administered 3 times a day (every 8 hours) for 1-2 days after completion of chemotherapy.

Oral solution:

Radiotherapy induced Nausea and Vomiting (Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over):

• The recommended oral dosage: 10 ml (8 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution 3 times daily.
• For total body irradiation: 10 ml (8-mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before each fraction of radiotherapy administered each day.
• For single high-dose fraction radiotherapy to the abdomen: one 10 ml Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy, with subsequent doses every 8 hours after the first dose for 1 to 2 days after completion of radiotherapy.
• For daily fractionated radiotherapy to the abdomen: 10 ml (8-mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution should be administered 1 to 2 hours before radiotherapy, with subsequent doses every 8 hours after the first dose for each day radiotherapy is given.

Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (Adults/Geriatric/Child of 12 years or over):

• 20 ml (16 mg) Ondansetron Oral Solution 1 hour before induction of anesthesia

Oral Soluble Film:

Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy:

• Adult oral dose: 24 mg given successively as three 8 mg films 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy.

Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy:

• Adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older: One 8 mg film 30 minutes before chemotherapy followed by an 8 mg dose 8 hours later. Administer one 8 mg film twice a day (every 12 hours) for 1 to 2 days after completion of chemotherapy.
• Pediatric patients 4 through 11 years of age: One 4 mg film three times a day. Administer the first dose 30 minutes before chemotherapy, with subsequent doses 4 and 8 hours later. Administer one 4 mg film three times a day (every 8 hours) for 1 to 2 days after completion of chemotherapy.
• Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with radiotherapy: The adult dosage is one 8 mg film three times a day.
• Postoperative nausea and vomiting: The adult dose is 16 mg given successively as two 8 mg films 1 hour before anesthesia.

Administration of Oral Soluble Film:

• Step 1: Tear the pouch carefully along with the edge tear mark.
• Step 2: Put the Ondansetron film on top of your tongue. It will dissolve within 20 seconds
• Step 3: Do not chew or swallow the film whole.
• Step 4: Swallow after the Onsaf oral soluble film dissolves. You may swallow the dissolved film with or without liquid.
• Step 5: Wash your hands after taking Onsaf oral soluble film

Frequently reported adverse events were headache, constipation and diarrhea, but the majority have been mild or moderate in nature. In chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, rash has occurred in approximately 1% of patients receiving Ondansetron. There also have been reports to a sensation of flushing or warmth, hiccups and liver enzyme abnormalities. Rare cases of anaphylaxis, brochospasm, tachycardia, angina (chest pain), hypokalemia, shortness of breath have also been reported, except for bronchospasm and anaphylaxis, the relationship to Ondansetron is unclear. There have been no evidence to extrapyramidal reactions, in rare case oculogyric crisis appearing alone, as well as with other dystonic reactions without definitive clinical evidence. In case of PONV, with the exception of headache, rates of these events were not significantly different in the Ondansetron and placebo groups.

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. Concomitant use of apomorphine.

Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported in patients who have exhibited hypersensitivity to other selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Ondansetron is not a drug that stimulates gastric or intestinal peristalsis. It should not be used instead of nasogastric suction. The use of Ondansetron in patients following abdominal surgery or in patients with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting may mask a progressive ileus and/or gastric distension.

Ondansetron does not itself appear to induce or inhibit the cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzyme system of the liver. Because Ondansetron is metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzymes, inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes may change the clearance and hence, the half-life of Ondansetron. On the basis of available data, no dosage adjustment of Ondasetron is recommended for patients on these drugs.

Carcinogenic effects were not seen in 2-year studies in rats and mice with oral Ondansetron doses up to 10 and 30 mg/kg per day, respectively. Ondansetron was not mutagenic in standard tests for mutagenicity. Oral administration of Ondansetron up to 15 mg/kg per day did not affect fertility or general reproduction performance of male and female rats.

Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats and rabbits at daily oral doses up to 15 and 30 mg/kg per day, respectively, and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Ondansetron. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Ondansetron is excreted in the breast milk of rats. So caution should be exercised when Ondansetron is administered to a nursing women.

Dosage Adjustment for Patients With Impaired Renal Function: The dosage recommendation is the same as for the general population.

Dosage Adjustment for Patients With Impaired Hepatic Function: In patients with severe hepatic impairment, a single maximal daily dose of 8 mg to be infused over 15 minutes beginning 30 minutes before the start of the emetogenic chemotherapy is recommended.

4 years of age or younger: Little information is available about dosage in pediatric patients 4 years of age or younger.

Over the age of 65: Dosage adjustment is not needed in patients over the age of 65.

Store at temperature not exceeding 30ºC in a dry place. Protect from light and moisture.

4-Quinolone preparations

Gemifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It is bactericidal with minimum bactericidal concentrations. Gemifloxacin acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis through inhibition of the bacterial type II topoisomerases, DNA gyrase, and/or topoisomerase IV (TOPO IV) which are both essential for bacterial growth.

Gemifloxacin is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. It is widely distributed throughout the body. Studies in healthy subjects showed that gemifloxacin is distributed rapidly into target tissues and body fluids such as the lung (epithelial lining fluid, alveolar macrophages, bronchial tissue) and nasal secretions.

Following oral administration of gemifloxacin, approximately 36% and 61% of the dose is excreted in the urine and feces, respectively, as unchanged drug and metabolites. AUC values were generally only slightly higher (approx. 10%) in women than in men. No dose adjustment is required based on gender

Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 320 mg once daily for 5 days.

Community-acquired pneumonia (Mild to moderate severity):

• Due to known or suspected S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, M. pneumoniae, or C. pneumoniae infection: One 320 mg tablet daily for 5 days.
• Due to known or suspected multi-drug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae, K.pneumoniae, or M. catarrhalis infection: One 320 mg tablet daily for 7 days.

The general adverse events include abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, nausea, rash and vomiting. Some side effects have been infrequently reported such as fungal overgrowth in body, dizziness and insomnia, urticaria, pruritis and a maculopapular erythmatous skin rash.

Known hypersensitivity to Gemifloxacin and other quinolones, Patients who have previously suffered tendon damage with fluoroquinolones. Gemifloxacin should not be used in children under 18 years of age.

For patients with severe impairment of renal function, alteration of the dosage regimen to 160 mg once daily is necessary. Adequate hydration of patients receiving Gemifloxacin should be maintained to prevent the formation of a highly concentrated urine and crystalluria. Gemifloxacin may cause dizziness; if this occurs, patients should not operate an automobile or machinery or engage in activities requiring mental alertness or co-ordination.

Tendinitis and tendon ruptures may occur in any age group during treatment with quinolones, including Gemifloxacin, but particularly in elderly patients or when corticosteroids are being co-administered. Gemifloxacin should be discontinued if tendinitis is suspected or at the first sign of pain or inflammation and the affected limb should be rested. In clinical studies with Gemifloxacin a small mean increase in QTc interval was observed. Gemifloxacin should be used with caution in patients predisposed to QTc interval prolongation or in patients taking other medications that are known to prolong the QTc interval. Gemifloxacin should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy.

Gemifloxacin absorption is significantly reduced when aluminium or magnesium containing antacids and iron salts are concomitantly administered. Gemifloxacin should be taken at least 2 hours before or 3 hours after these agents. Gemifloxacin should be taken at least 2 hours before sucralfate administration. No clinically significant interactions have been observed when Gemifloxacin was co-administered with omeprazole theophylline, digoxin, warfarin and oral contraceptives.

Gemifloxacin should not be used in pregnant or lactating women. The safety and efficacy of Gemifloxacin in pregnant or lactating women have not been established.

Renal impairment: Dose adjustment in patients with mild/moderate renal impairment is not required. Some modification of dosage is recommended for patients with severe renal dysfunction. The following table provides dosage guidelines for use in patients with renal impairment:

• Creatinine Clearance (>40 ml/min):  See usual dosage
• Creatinine Clearance (<40 ml/min): 160 mg once daily
• Patients on haemodialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis therapy should receive 160 mg once daily.

Hepatic impairment:  Gemifloxacin may be given to patients with hepatic impairment, with no requirement for dose adjustment.

Elderly patients: Dose adjustment is not required.

No specific antidote is known. Dialysis does not remove Gemifloxacin sufficiently to be useful in overdose. In the event of acute oral overdosage, the stomach should be emptied by inducing vomiting or by gastric lavage; the patient should be carefully observed, treated symptomatically and adequate hydration should be maintained.

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

Montelukast Sodium is indicated for:

• Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma
• Acute prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)
• Relief of symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis (AR): Seasonal & Perennial Allergic Rhinitis

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Montelukast is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CysLT₁). The cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC₄, LTD₄, LTE₄) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism and are released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. Cysteinyl leukotrienes and leukotriene receptor occupation have been correlated with the pathophysiology of asthma & allergic rhinitis, including airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and altered cellular activity associated with the inflammatory process, which contribute to the signs and symptoms of asthma.

Adults & adolescents (15 years & older)-

• Asthma & Allergic Rhinitis: 10 mg/day 
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: 10 mg/day

Pediatric patients (6 to 14 years)-

• Asthma & Allergic Rhinitis: 5 mg/day 
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: 5 mg/day

Pediatric patients (6 months to 5 years)-

• Asthma & Allergic Rhinitis: 4 mg/day 
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: Not recommended

Patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take only one dose daily in the evening. For prevention of Acute prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction, a single dose should be taken at least 2 hours before exercise.

Route of administration: Oral. Montelukast may be taken with or without food or as directed by the physician.

Common: Diarrhoea, fever, gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, nausea, vomiting, skin reactions, upper respiratory tract infection.

Uncommon: Akathisia, anxiety, arthralgia, asthenia, abnormal behavior, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, haemorrhage, irritability, malaise, muscle complaints, oedema, seizure, abnormal sensation, sleep disorders.

Rare: Angioedema, concentration impaired, disorientation, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, erythema nodosum, hallucination, hepatic disorders, memory loss, palpitations, pulmonary eosinophilia, suicidal tendencies, tremor.

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

Montelukast is not indicated for use in the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks, including status asthmatic. Neuropsychiatric events including agitation, hostility, anxiousness, depression, disorientation, disturbance in attention, dream abnormalities, hallucinations, insomnia, irritability, memory impairment, restlessness, somnambulism, suicidal thinking and behavior (including suicide) and tremor.

With medicine: No dose adjustment is needed when montelukast is co-administered with theophylline, prednisone, prednisolone, terfenadine, digoxin, warfarin, gemfibrozil, itraconazole, thyroid hormones, sedative-hypnotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, benzodiazepines, decongestants, oral contraceptives, and Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme inducers.

With food and others: Bioavailability and other conditions were not significantly observed with food & other conditions.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Montelukast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Montelukast is excreted in breast milk. So caution should be exercised when Montelukast is given to a nursing mother.

There were no adverse experiences in the majority of overdosage reports. The most frequently occurring adverse experiences were consistent with the safety profile of Montelukast and included abdominal pain, somnolence, thirst, headache, vomiting and psychomotor hyperactivity. In the event of overdose, it is reasonable to employ the usual supportive measures; e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, employ clinical monitoring, and institute supportive therapy, if required.

Store in cool & dry place below 30°C, protect from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Osmotic purgatives

Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide. Lactulose is metabolized in the colon by the saccharolytic bacteria, producing low molecular weight organic acids (mainly lactic acid), which lowers the pH of the colon contents, promote the retention of water by an osmotic effect; thus increasing peristaltic activity. Lactulose is minimally absorbed; therefore, the pharmacokinetics of the absorbed material are not relevant to the principal therapeutic action.

In constipation ( chronic constipation):

• Adults: Initially 3-6 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1½-6 tea-spoons daily
• Children up to 14 years: Initially 3 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1-2 tea-spoons daily
• Infants and toddlers: Initially 1-2 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1 tea-spoon daily

In damaged intestinal flora:

• Adults: 1-2 tea-spoons daily
• Children: 1 tea-spoon daily

For reduction of blood ammonia level:

• Hyper-ammoniemia in hepatopathy: a maximum of 18-30 tea-spoons daily.
• In portal systemic encephalopathy: hourly doses of 6-9 tea-spoons of Lactulose solution may be used to induce the rapid laxation. When the laxative effect has been achieved, the dose may then be reduced.

Occasionally flatulence, cramp and abdominal discomfort can occur at the beginning of treatment; this is rapidly eliminated by reducing the dose. Overdose can result in diarrhoea. In abuse, loss of electrolytes (primarily potassium).

Hypersensitivity to either galactose and or lactose; galactose-free diet, gastro-cardial symptom complex, suspected intestinal obstruction.

Lactulose should be administered with care to patients who are intolerant to lactulose. The dose used in the treatment of (pre) coma hepaticum is usually much higher and may need to be taken into consideration for diabetics.

There is no significant drug interactions with lactulose. The glycosidic effect of cardiac glycosides can be intensified by potassium deficiency in abuse.

US FDA Pregnancy Category of Lactulose is B. Studies show that Lactulose has no adverse effects. Decisions regarding use during pregnancy and lactation must be made by registered physician.

There have been no reports of accidental overdosage. In the event of acute overdosage it is expected that diarrhoea and abdominal cramps would be the major symptoms.

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

4-Quinolone preparations

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.

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.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to levofloxacin, quinolone antimicrobial agents, or any other components of this product.

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.

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.

Levofloxacin is not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing, as the effects on the unborn child or nursing infant are unknown.

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.

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

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

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

Specific mineral preparations

Zinc sulphate monohydrate is an essential trace element and is involved in a number of body enzyme systems. The body needs zinc for normal growth and health. Zinc is also vital for sexual maturation and reproduction, dark vision adaptation, olfactory and gustatory activity, insulin storage & release and for a variety of host immune defenses. Zinc deficiency may lead to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, a decrease in sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, poor night vision, increased risk of abortion, alopecia, mental lethargy, skin changes and poor development of reproductive organs.

Child under 10 kg: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 2 times daily after food.
Child between 10-30 kg: 10 ml (2 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.
Adults and child over 30 kg: 20 ml (4 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.

This drug is most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hour after meals. However, if causes stomach upset, this may be taken with a meal.

For dispersible tablet-

• Place the tablet in a teaspoon
• Add adequate amount of water
• Let the tablet dissolve completely
• Give the entire spoonful solution

Zinc may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach upset, heartburn and gastritis.

It is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to any component of the ingredient of this preparation.

In acute renal failure, zinc accumulation may occur in body; so dose adjustment is needed.

Concomitant intake of a tetracycline and zinc may decrease the absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc. Similarly concomitant administration of zinc and quinolone drug may also decrease the absorption of both. Concomitant intake of penicillamine and zinc may decrese absorption of zinc.

The safety of this product in human pregnancy has not been established. Zinc crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk.

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

Specific mineral preparations

Zinc sulphate monohydrate is an essential trace element and is involved in a number of body enzyme systems. The body needs zinc for normal growth and health. Zinc is also vital for sexual maturation and reproduction, dark vision adaptation, olfactory and gustatory activity, insulin storage & release and for a variety of host immune defenses. Zinc deficiency may lead to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, a decrease in sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, poor night vision, increased risk of abortion, alopecia, mental lethargy, skin changes and poor development of reproductive organs.

Child under 10 kg: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 2 times daily after food.
Child between 10-30 kg: 10 ml (2 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.
Adults and child over 30 kg: 20 ml (4 teaspoonfuls) 1-3 times daily after food.

This drug is most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hour after meals. However, if causes stomach upset, this may be taken with a meal.

For dispersible tablet-

• Place the tablet in a teaspoon
• Add adequate amount of water
• Let the tablet dissolve completely
• Give the entire spoonful solution

Zinc may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach upset, heartburn and gastritis.

It is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to any component of the ingredient of this preparation.

In acute renal failure, zinc accumulation may occur in body; so dose adjustment is needed.

Concomitant intake of a tetracycline and zinc may decrease the absorption of both the tetracycline and zinc. Similarly concomitant administration of zinc and quinolone drug may also decrease the absorption of both. Concomitant intake of penicillamine and zinc may decrese absorption of zinc.

The safety of this product in human pregnancy has not been established. Zinc crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk.

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

This is indicated for the treatment and prevention of zinc and vitamin B deficiencies.

Specific mineral & vitamin combined preparations

Zinc is vital for many biological functions such as immunity enhancement, wound healing, digestion, reproduction, physical growth and mental development. Zinc supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc also has some antioxidant properties. Zinc is used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyper-activity Disorder) in children. In adult, due to zinc deficiency loss of appetite, poor sense of taste and smell, tendency towards depression, white marks on fingernails, frequent infections, low fertility, prostate problems, mental problems, poor wound healing, a poor immune system, diarrhoea, mental lethargy, rough skin and weight loss may occur.

B-Vitamins are needed to release energy from food. They play an important role in ensuring healthy brain and nerve function, healthy red blood cells formation in children & adults. They are specially needed for healthy growth and development of children. B-Vitamin deficiencies in adult cause profound fatigue and various types of neurologic manifestations, which may include weakness, poor balance, confusion, irritability, memory loss, nervousness, tingling of the limbs and loss of coordination. Additional symptoms of vitamin B deficiency are sleep disturbances, nausea, poor appetite, frequent infections, and skin lesions.

Syrup-

• Adults: 10 ml (2 teaspoonful) 2 to 3 times daily or as recommended by the physician.
• Children: 10 ml (2 teaspoonful) 1 to 3 times daily or as recommended by the physician.
• Infants: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 1 to 2 times daily or as recommended by the physician.

Tablet-

• Adults & Children over 30 kg: 1 to 2 tablets 2 to 3 times daily or as recommended by the physician.

This is generally well tolerated. However, a few side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea & stomach upset may occur. Side effects have been reported with specific vitamins but generally at levels substantially higher than recommended doses.

Vitamin B Complex & Zinc is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of this product.

In acute renal failure, zinc accumulation may occur, so dosage adjustment is needed. This is not intended for the treatment of severe specific deficiencies.

Concomitant intake of tetracyclines and zinc may decrease the Gl absorption and serum levels of tetracyclines. Similarly concomitant administration of zinc and fluroquinolones may decrease the Gl absorption and serum  levels of some fluroquinolones. Coadministration of Niacin and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (eg. lovastatin) may result mayopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Pyridoxine reduces levodopa's effectiveness by increasing its peripheral metabolism. Co-administration of pyridoxine with phenytoin may decrease serum levels of phenytoin.

This is recommended in pregnancy and lactation.

In case of overdosage, initially epigastric pain, diarrhoea and vomiting can occur. In that case, one should seek emergency medical attention. Initially, an emetic should be given and then gastric lavage and general supportive measures should be employed.

Store in a cool & dry place, protected from light. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Second generation Cephalosporins

Cefuroxime is a well-characterized and effective antibacterial agent, which has broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against a wide range of common pathogens, including β-lactamase producing strains. Cefuroxime has good stability to bacterial β-lactamase and consequently, is active against many ampicillin-resistant and amoxycillin-resistant strains.

Tablet or Suspension-

Adolescents and adults (13 years and older)-

• Pharyngitis/tonsillitis: 250 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
• Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis: 250 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
• Acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
• Secondary bacterial infections of acute bronchitis: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
• Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 10 days
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections: 250 mg b.i.d. for 7-10 days
• Uncomplicated Gonorrhoea: 1000 mg Single dose
• Community acquired pneumonia: 250-500 mg b.i.d. for 5-10 days
• MDR Typhoid Fever: 500 mg b.i.d. for 10-14 days
• Early Lyme disease: 500 mg b.i.d. for 20 days

Paediatric Patients (3 months to 12 years)-

• Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis: 20 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 5-10 days
• Acute otitis media: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days
• Acute bacterial maxillary sinusitis: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days
• Impetigo: 30 mg/kg/day b.i.d for 10 days

Parenteral-

• Adult: 750 mg three times daily by IM or IV injection. In severe infections, dose can be increased upto 1.5 gm three times daily by IV injection. The frequency may be increased to four times daily, if necessary, giving total daily doses of 3 to 6 gms.
• Children (above 3 months of age): 30 - 100 mg/kg/day given in 3 or 4 equally divided doses. A dose of 60 mg/kg/day is appropriate for most infections.
• Neonate: 30 - 100 mg/kg/day given in 2 or 3 equally divided doses.
• Surgical prophylaxis: 1.5 gm by IV injection at induction of anaesthesia; up to 3 further doses of 750 mg may be given by IV/IM injection every 8 hours for high risk procedures.
• Pneumonia: 1.5 gm IV injection twice daily for 2-3 days, followed by 500 mg twice daily (oral) for 7-10 days.
• 
  Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: 750 mg twice daily (IM or IV injection) for 2-3 days, followed by 500 mg twice daily (oral) for 5-10 days. (Duration of both parenteral and oral therapy is determined by the severity of the infection and the clinical status of the patient.)
• In Gonorrhoea: Adult: 1.5 gm as a single dose (as 2 x 750mg injections intramuscularly with different sites, e.g. each buttock).

In Meningitis:

• Adult: 3 gm IV injection three times daily.
• Children (above 3 months of age): 200-240 mg/kg/day by IV injection in 3 or 4 divided doses reduced to 100 mg/kg/day after 3 days or on clinical improvement.
• Neonate: 100 mg/kg/day by IV injection at initial dose, reduced to 50 mg/kg/day, When clinically indicated.

In bone and joint infections:

• Adult: 1.5 gm IV injection four times daily.
• Children (above 3 months of age): 150 mg/kg/day (not to exceed the maximum adult dose) in equally divided doses every 8 hours.

The use of freshly reconstituted solution is recommended. However, it maintains potency for at least 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours at 5^o C

Adverse effects to Cefuroxime have occurred infrequently and have been generally mild and transient in nature. Effects reported include rashes and gastrointestinal disturbances. As with other antibiotics, prolonged use may result in the overgrowth of non susceptible organisms e.g. Candida.

Cefuroxime is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to Cephalosporins.

Cefuroxime should be given with care to patients receiving concurrent treatment with potent diuretics & who has history of colitis. Cephalosporin antibiotics may in general be given safely to patients who are hypersensitive to penicillin although cross reactions have reported. Cefuroxime has shown, that is not likely to be a problem at the recommended to dose levels.

No potentially hazardous interactions have been reported.

US FDA pregnancy category of Cefuroxime is B. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Cefuroxime have been shown to be excreted in human milk. So, caution should be exercised when Cefuroxime is administered to a nursing woman.

For 750 mg intramuscular injection: Add 3 ml water for injection to vial and then shake gently for dispersion.

For 750 mg intravenous injection: Add 8 ml water for injection to vial and then shake gently for dispersion. The solution should be slowly injected directly into a vein over a 3 to 5 minutes period.

For 1.5 g intravenous injection: Add 16 ml Water for injection to vial and then shake gently for dispersion. The solution should be slowly injected directly into a vein over a 3 to 5 minutes period.

Store in a cool, dry place (below 30^o C), away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Oxcarbazepine is indicated for:

Adults: Monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures

Pediatrics:

• Monotherapy in the treatment of partial seizures in children 4-16 years
• Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in children 2–16 years

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

The pharmacological activity of Oxcarbazepine is primarily exerted through the metabolite derivative (the monohydroxy derivative, MHD) of Oxcarbazepine. The mechanism of action of Oxcarbazepine and MHD is thought to be mainly based on blockade of voltage-sensitive sodium channels, thus resulting in stabilization of hyper excited neural membranes, inhibition of repetitive neuronal firing and diminishment of propagation of synaptic impulses.

Adults: initiate with a dose of 600 mg/day, given twice-a-day

• Adjunctive Therapy: Maximum increment of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals. The recommended daily dose is 1200 mg/day
• Conversion to Monotherapy: withdrawal concomitant over 3 to 6 weeks;reach maximum dose of Oxcarbazepine in 2 to 4 weeks with increments of 600 mg/day at weekly intervals to a recommended daily dose of 2400 mg/day
• Initiation of Monotherapy: Increments of 300 mg/day every third day to a dose of 1200 mg/day.
• Creatinine Clearance <30 mL/min: Initiate at one half the usual starting dose and increase slowly

Pediatrics: initiation with 8 to 10 mg/kg/day, given twice-a-day. For patients aged 2 to <4 years and under 20 kg, a starting dose of 16 to 20 mg/kg/day may be considered. Recommended daily dose is dependent upon patient weight.

• Adjunctive Patients (Aged 2–16 Years): For patients aged 4 to 16 years, target maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 weeks. For patients aged 2 to <4 years, maximum maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 to 4 weeks and should not to exceed 60 mg/kg/day
• Conversion to Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4-16 Years): Maximum increment of 10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals, concomitant antiepileptic drugs can be completely withdrawn over 3 to 6 weeks
• Initiation of Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4–16 Years): Increments of 5 mg/kg/day every third day

The most commonly reported adverse reactions are somnolence, headache, dizziness, diplopia, nausea; vomiting and fatigue. Very rarely clinically significant hyponatraemia can develop during Oxazep use. Class I (immediate) hypersensitivity reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema and reports of anaphylaxis have been received.

It is contraindicated to patients with hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.

Alcohol: Caution should be exercised if alcohol is taken in combination with Oxazep therapy, due to a possible additive sedative effect.

Withdrawal: As with all antiepileptic medicinal products, Oxazep should be withdrawn gradually to minimise the potential of increased seizure frequency.

Oxcarbazepine and its metabolite inhibit the enzyme CYP2C19 and therefore, interactions could arise when co-administering high doses of Oxazep with medicinal products that are metabolised by CYP2C19 (e.g. phenobarbital, phenytoin). Concurrent use of Oxazep with hormonal contraceptives may render few contraceptives ineffective (e.g. Ethinylestradiol and Levonorgestrel preparations). Co-administration of Oxazep lowers AUC of felodipine and Verapamil decreases bioavailability of MHD.

Pregnancy: Data on a limited number of pregnancies indicate that Oxcarbazepine may cause serious birth defects (e.g. cleft palate) when administered during pregnancy. In the newborn child. Bleeding disorders in the newborn caused by antiepileptic agents have been reported. As a precaution, vitamin K1 should be administered as a preventive measure in the last few weeks of pregnancy and to the newborn. Oxcarbazepine and its active metabolite (MHD) cross the placenta. Neonatal and maternal plasma MHD concentrations were similar in one case.

Lactation: Oxcarbazepine and its active metabolite (MHD) are excreted in human breast milk. Therefore, Oxazep should not be used during breast-feeding.

Oxcarbazepine is indicated for:

Adults: Monotherapy or adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures

Pediatrics:

• Monotherapy in the treatment of partial seizures in children 4-16 years
• Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in children 2–16 years

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs

The pharmacological activity of Oxcarbazepine is primarily exerted through the metabolite derivative (the monohydroxy derivative, MHD) of Oxcarbazepine. The mechanism of action of Oxcarbazepine and MHD is thought to be mainly based on blockade of voltage-sensitive sodium channels, thus resulting in stabilization of hyper excited neural membranes, inhibition of repetitive neuronal firing and diminishment of propagation of synaptic impulses.

Adults: initiate with a dose of 600 mg/day, given twice-a-day

• Adjunctive Therapy: Maximum increment of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals. The recommended daily dose is 1200 mg/day
• Conversion to Monotherapy: withdrawal concomitant over 3 to 6 weeks;reach maximum dose of Oxcarbazepine in 2 to 4 weeks with increments of 600 mg/day at weekly intervals to a recommended daily dose of 2400 mg/day
• Initiation of Monotherapy: Increments of 300 mg/day every third day to a dose of 1200 mg/day.
• Creatinine Clearance <30 mL/min: Initiate at one half the usual starting dose and increase slowly

Pediatrics: initiation with 8 to 10 mg/kg/day, given twice-a-day. For patients aged 2 to <4 years and under 20 kg, a starting dose of 16 to 20 mg/kg/day may be considered. Recommended daily dose is dependent upon patient weight.

• Adjunctive Patients (Aged 2–16 Years): For patients aged 4 to 16 years, target maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 weeks. For patients aged 2 to <4 years, maximum maintenance dose should be achieved over 2 to 4 weeks and should not to exceed 60 mg/kg/day
• Conversion to Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4-16 Years): Maximum increment of 10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals, concomitant antiepileptic drugs can be completely withdrawn over 3 to 6 weeks
• Initiation of Monotherapy for Patients (Aged 4–16 Years): Increments of 5 mg/kg/day every third day

The most commonly reported adverse reactions are somnolence, headache, dizziness, diplopia, nausea; vomiting and fatigue. Very rarely clinically significant hyponatraemia can develop during Oxazep use. Class I (immediate) hypersensitivity reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema and reports of anaphylaxis have been received.

It is contraindicated to patients with hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.

Alcohol: Caution should be exercised if alcohol is taken in combination with Oxazep therapy, due to a possible additive sedative effect.

Withdrawal: As with all antiepileptic medicinal products, Oxazep should be withdrawn gradually to minimise the potential of increased seizure frequency.

Oxcarbazepine and its metabolite inhibit the enzyme CYP2C19 and therefore, interactions could arise when co-administering high doses of Oxazep with medicinal products that are metabolised by CYP2C19 (e.g. phenobarbital, phenytoin). Concurrent use of Oxazep with hormonal contraceptives may render few contraceptives ineffective (e.g. Ethinylestradiol and Levonorgestrel preparations). Co-administration of Oxazep lowers AUC of felodipine and Verapamil decreases bioavailability of MHD.

Pregnancy: Data on a limited number of pregnancies indicate that Oxcarbazepine may cause serious birth defects (e.g. cleft palate) when administered during pregnancy. In the newborn child. Bleeding disorders in the newborn caused by antiepileptic agents have been reported. As a precaution, vitamin K1 should be administered as a preventive measure in the last few weeks of pregnancy and to the newborn. Oxcarbazepine and its active metabolite (MHD) cross the placenta. Neonatal and maternal plasma MHD concentrations were similar in one case.

Lactation: Oxcarbazepine and its active metabolite (MHD) are excreted in human breast milk. Therefore, Oxazep should not be used during breast-feeding.

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs, Benzodiazepine hypnotics

Clonazepam exhibits pharmacological properties which are common to benzodiazepines and include anticonvulsive, sedative, muscle relaxing and anxiolytic effects. The central actions of benzodiazepines are mediated through an enhancement of the GABAergic neurotransmission at inhibitory synapses. In the presence of benzodiazepines the affinity of the GABA receptor for the neurotransmitter is enhanced through positive allosteric modulation resulting in an increased action of released GABA on the postsynaptic transmembrane chloride ion flux.

There are also animal data showing an effect of clonazepam on serotonin. Animal data and electroencephalographic investigations in man have shown that clonazepam rapidly suppresses many types of paroxysmal activity including the spike and wave discharge in absences seizures (petit mal), slow spike wave, generalized spike wave, spikes with temporal or other locations as well as irregular spikes and waves. Generalized EEG abnormalities are more regularly suppressed than focal abnormalities. According to these findings clonazepam has beneficial effects in generalized and focal epilepsies.

Oral:

• Adults: The initial dose for adults with seizure disorders should not exceed 1.5 mg/day divided into three doses. Dosage may be increased in increments of 0.5 to 1 mg every 3 days until seizures are adequately controlled or until side effects preclude any further increase. Maintenance dosage must be individualized for each patient depending upon response. Maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg.

• The initial dose for adults with panic disorder is 0.25 mg given in two divided dose. An increase to the target dose for most patients of 1 mg/day may be made after 3 days.
• Pediatric Patients: In order to minimize drowsiness, the initial dose for infants and children (up to 10 years of age or 30 kg of body weight) should be between 0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg/day but not to exceed 0.05 mg/kg/day given in two or three divided doses.

Injection:

• Infants and children: half of a vial (0.5 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion.

• Adults: 1 vial (1 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion. This dose can be repeated as required (1-4 mg are usually sufficient to reverse the status). In adults, the rate of injection must not exceed 0.25 - 0.5 mg per minute (0.5-1.0 ml of the prepared solution) and a total dose of 10 mg should not be exceeded.

The most frequently occurring side effects of Clonazepam are referable to CNS depression. Experience in treatment of seizures has shown that drowsiness has occurred in approximately 50% of patients and ataxia in approximately 30%. In some cases, these may diminish with time; behavior problems have been noted in approximately 25% of patients. Abnormal eye movements, aphonia, coma, tremor, vertigo, confusion, depression, amnesia, hallucinations, hysteria, increased libido, insomnia, psychosis & palpitations may also occur.

It should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, nor in patients with clinical or biochemical evidence of significant liver disease. It may be used in patients with open angle glaucoma who are receiving appropriate therapy but is contraindicated in acute narrow angle glaucoma.

When used in patients in whom several different types of seizure disorders coexist, Clonazepam may increase the incidence or precipitate the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. This may require the addition of appropriate anticonvulsants or an increase in their dosages. The concomitant use of valproic acid and Clonazepam may produce absence status.

Clonazepam does not appear to alter the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin, carbamazepine or phenobarbital. The effect of Clonazepam on the metabolism of other drugs has not been investigated.

Pregnancy: From preclinical studies it cannot be excluded that clonazepam possesses the possibility of producing congenital malformations. From epidemiological evaluations there is evidence that anticonvulsant drugs act as teratogens. However, it is difficult to determine from published epidemiological reports which drug or combination of drugs is responsible for defects in the newborn. The possibility also exists that other factors e.g. genetic factors or the epileptic condition itself may be more important than drug therapy in leading to birth defects. Under these circumstances, the drug should only be administered to pregnant women if the potential benefits outweigh the risk to the foetus. During pregnancy, Clonazepam may be administered only if there is a compelling indication. Administration of high doses in the last trimester of pregnancy or during labour can cause irregularities in the heartbeat of the unborn child and hypothermia, hypotonia, mild respiratory depression and poor feeding in the neonate. It should be borne in mind that both pregnancy itself and abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause exacerbation of epilepsy. Withdrawal symptoms in newborn infants have occasionally been reported with benzodiazepines.

Nursing Mothers: Although the active ingredient of Clonazepam has been found to pass into the maternal milk in small amounts only, mothers undergoing treatment with this drug should not breastfeed. If there is a compelling indication for Clonazepam, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Pediatric Use: In infants and small children Rivotril may cause increased production of saliva and bronchial secretion. Therefore special attention must be paid to maintaining patency of the airways. 

Geriatric Use: Benzodiazepine pharmacologic effects appear to be greater in elderly patients than in younger patients even at similar plasma benzodiazepine concentrations, possibly because of age-related changes in drug–receptor interactions, post-receptor mechanisms and organ function.

Renal Impairment: Renal impairment does not affect the pharmacokinetics of clonazepam. Based on pharmacokinetic criteria, no dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: Plasma protein binding of clonazepam in cirrhotic patients is significantly different from that in healthy subjects (free fraction 17.1±1.0% vs 13.9±0.2%). Although the influence of hepatic impairment on clonazepam pharmacokinetics has not been further investigated, experience with another closely related nitrobenzodiazepine (nitrazepam) indicates that clearance of unbound clonazepam might be reduced in liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms: Benzodiazepines commonly cause drowsiness, ataxia, dysarthria and nystagmus. Overdose of Clonazepam is seldom life-threatening if the drug is taken alone, but may lead to areflexia, apnoea, hypotension, cardiorespiratory depression and coma. Coma, if it occurs, usually lasts a few hours but it may be more protracted and cyclical, particularly in elderly patients. Increased frequency of seizures may occur in patients at supratherapeutic plasma concentrations. Benzodiazepine respiratory depressant effects are more serious in patients with respiratory disease. Benzodiazepines increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants, including alcohol.

Treatment: Monitor the patient’s vital signs and institute supportive measures as indicated by the patient’s clinical state. In particular, patients may require symptomatic treatment for cardiorespiratory effects or central nervous system effects. Further absorption should be prevented using an appropriate method e.g. treatment within 1-2 hours with activated charcoal. If activated charcoal is used airway protection is imperative for drowsy patients. In case of mixed ingestion gastric lavage may be considered, however not as a routine measure. If CNS depression is severe consider the use of flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist. This should only be administered under closely monitored conditions. It has a short half-life (about an hour), therefore patients administered flumazenil will require monitoring after its effects have worn off. Flumazenil is to be used with extreme caution in the presence of drugs that reduce seizure threshold (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants). Refer to the prescribing information for flumazenil, for further information on the correct use of this drug.

Slow intravenous injection: The contents of the vial must be diluted with 1 ml of water for injection prior to administration so as to avoid local irritation of the veins. The injection solution should be prepared immediately before use. IV injection should be administered slowly with continuous monitoring of EEG, respiration and blood pressure.

Intravenous infusion: Clonazepam (the vial) can be diluted for infusion in a ratio of 1 vial (1 mg) to at least 85 ml diluting media. The diluting media can be any of the following: sodium chloride 0.9%; sodium chloride 0.45% + glucose 2.5%; glucose 5% or glucose 10%. These mixtures are stable for 24 hours at room temperature. Infusion bags other than PVC should be used for infusing Clonazepam. If PVC infusion bags are used then the mixture should be infused immediately or within 4 hours. The infusion time should not exceed 8 hours. Do not prepare Clonazepam infusions using sodium bicarbonate solution, as precipitation of the solution may occur.

Intramuscular injection: The IM route should be used only in exceptional cases or if IV administration is not feasible.

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

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs, Benzodiazepine hypnotics

Clonazepam exhibits pharmacological properties which are common to benzodiazepines and include anticonvulsive, sedative, muscle relaxing and anxiolytic effects. The central actions of benzodiazepines are mediated through an enhancement of the GABAergic neurotransmission at inhibitory synapses. In the presence of benzodiazepines the affinity of the GABA receptor for the neurotransmitter is enhanced through positive allosteric modulation resulting in an increased action of released GABA on the postsynaptic transmembrane chloride ion flux.

There are also animal data showing an effect of clonazepam on serotonin. Animal data and electroencephalographic investigations in man have shown that clonazepam rapidly suppresses many types of paroxysmal activity including the spike and wave discharge in absences seizures (petit mal), slow spike wave, generalized spike wave, spikes with temporal or other locations as well as irregular spikes and waves. Generalized EEG abnormalities are more regularly suppressed than focal abnormalities. According to these findings clonazepam has beneficial effects in generalized and focal epilepsies.

Oral:

• Adults: The initial dose for adults with seizure disorders should not exceed 1.5 mg/day divided into three doses. Dosage may be increased in increments of 0.5 to 1 mg every 3 days until seizures are adequately controlled or until side effects preclude any further increase. Maintenance dosage must be individualized for each patient depending upon response. Maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg.

• The initial dose for adults with panic disorder is 0.25 mg given in two divided dose. An increase to the target dose for most patients of 1 mg/day may be made after 3 days.
• Pediatric Patients: In order to minimize drowsiness, the initial dose for infants and children (up to 10 years of age or 30 kg of body weight) should be between 0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg/day but not to exceed 0.05 mg/kg/day given in two or three divided doses.

Injection:

• Infants and children: half of a vial (0.5 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion.

• Adults: 1 vial (1 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion. This dose can be repeated as required (1-4 mg are usually sufficient to reverse the status). In adults, the rate of injection must not exceed 0.25 - 0.5 mg per minute (0.5-1.0 ml of the prepared solution) and a total dose of 10 mg should not be exceeded.

The most frequently occurring side effects of Clonazepam are referable to CNS depression. Experience in treatment of seizures has shown that drowsiness has occurred in approximately 50% of patients and ataxia in approximately 30%. In some cases, these may diminish with time; behavior problems have been noted in approximately 25% of patients. Abnormal eye movements, aphonia, coma, tremor, vertigo, confusion, depression, amnesia, hallucinations, hysteria, increased libido, insomnia, psychosis & palpitations may also occur.

It should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, nor in patients with clinical or biochemical evidence of significant liver disease. It may be used in patients with open angle glaucoma who are receiving appropriate therapy but is contraindicated in acute narrow angle glaucoma.

When used in patients in whom several different types of seizure disorders coexist, Clonazepam may increase the incidence or precipitate the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. This may require the addition of appropriate anticonvulsants or an increase in their dosages. The concomitant use of valproic acid and Clonazepam may produce absence status.

Clonazepam does not appear to alter the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin, carbamazepine or phenobarbital. The effect of Clonazepam on the metabolism of other drugs has not been investigated.

Pregnancy: From preclinical studies it cannot be excluded that clonazepam possesses the possibility of producing congenital malformations. From epidemiological evaluations there is evidence that anticonvulsant drugs act as teratogens. However, it is difficult to determine from published epidemiological reports which drug or combination of drugs is responsible for defects in the newborn. The possibility also exists that other factors e.g. genetic factors or the epileptic condition itself may be more important than drug therapy in leading to birth defects. Under these circumstances, the drug should only be administered to pregnant women if the potential benefits outweigh the risk to the foetus. During pregnancy, Clonazepam may be administered only if there is a compelling indication. Administration of high doses in the last trimester of pregnancy or during labour can cause irregularities in the heartbeat of the unborn child and hypothermia, hypotonia, mild respiratory depression and poor feeding in the neonate. It should be borne in mind that both pregnancy itself and abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause exacerbation of epilepsy. Withdrawal symptoms in newborn infants have occasionally been reported with benzodiazepines.

Nursing Mothers: Although the active ingredient of Clonazepam has been found to pass into the maternal milk in small amounts only, mothers undergoing treatment with this drug should not breastfeed. If there is a compelling indication for Clonazepam, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Pediatric Use: In infants and small children Rivotril may cause increased production of saliva and bronchial secretion. Therefore special attention must be paid to maintaining patency of the airways. 

Geriatric Use: Benzodiazepine pharmacologic effects appear to be greater in elderly patients than in younger patients even at similar plasma benzodiazepine concentrations, possibly because of age-related changes in drug–receptor interactions, post-receptor mechanisms and organ function.

Renal Impairment: Renal impairment does not affect the pharmacokinetics of clonazepam. Based on pharmacokinetic criteria, no dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: Plasma protein binding of clonazepam in cirrhotic patients is significantly different from that in healthy subjects (free fraction 17.1±1.0% vs 13.9±0.2%). Although the influence of hepatic impairment on clonazepam pharmacokinetics has not been further investigated, experience with another closely related nitrobenzodiazepine (nitrazepam) indicates that clearance of unbound clonazepam might be reduced in liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms: Benzodiazepines commonly cause drowsiness, ataxia, dysarthria and nystagmus. Overdose of Clonazepam is seldom life-threatening if the drug is taken alone, but may lead to areflexia, apnoea, hypotension, cardiorespiratory depression and coma. Coma, if it occurs, usually lasts a few hours but it may be more protracted and cyclical, particularly in elderly patients. Increased frequency of seizures may occur in patients at supratherapeutic plasma concentrations. Benzodiazepine respiratory depressant effects are more serious in patients with respiratory disease. Benzodiazepines increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants, including alcohol.

Treatment: Monitor the patient’s vital signs and institute supportive measures as indicated by the patient’s clinical state. In particular, patients may require symptomatic treatment for cardiorespiratory effects or central nervous system effects. Further absorption should be prevented using an appropriate method e.g. treatment within 1-2 hours with activated charcoal. If activated charcoal is used airway protection is imperative for drowsy patients. In case of mixed ingestion gastric lavage may be considered, however not as a routine measure. If CNS depression is severe consider the use of flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist. This should only be administered under closely monitored conditions. It has a short half-life (about an hour), therefore patients administered flumazenil will require monitoring after its effects have worn off. Flumazenil is to be used with extreme caution in the presence of drugs that reduce seizure threshold (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants). Refer to the prescribing information for flumazenil, for further information on the correct use of this drug.

Slow intravenous injection: The contents of the vial must be diluted with 1 ml of water for injection prior to administration so as to avoid local irritation of the veins. The injection solution should be prepared immediately before use. IV injection should be administered slowly with continuous monitoring of EEG, respiration and blood pressure.

Intravenous infusion: Clonazepam (the vial) can be diluted for infusion in a ratio of 1 vial (1 mg) to at least 85 ml diluting media. The diluting media can be any of the following: sodium chloride 0.9%; sodium chloride 0.45% + glucose 2.5%; glucose 5% or glucose 10%. These mixtures are stable for 24 hours at room temperature. Infusion bags other than PVC should be used for infusing Clonazepam. If PVC infusion bags are used then the mixture should be infused immediately or within 4 hours. The infusion time should not exceed 8 hours. Do not prepare Clonazepam infusions using sodium bicarbonate solution, as precipitation of the solution may occur.

Intramuscular injection: The IM route should be used only in exceptional cases or if IV administration is not feasible.

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

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs, Benzodiazepine hypnotics

Clonazepam exhibits pharmacological properties which are common to benzodiazepines and include anticonvulsive, sedative, muscle relaxing and anxiolytic effects. The central actions of benzodiazepines are mediated through an enhancement of the GABAergic neurotransmission at inhibitory synapses. In the presence of benzodiazepines the affinity of the GABA receptor for the neurotransmitter is enhanced through positive allosteric modulation resulting in an increased action of released GABA on the postsynaptic transmembrane chloride ion flux.

There are also animal data showing an effect of clonazepam on serotonin. Animal data and electroencephalographic investigations in man have shown that clonazepam rapidly suppresses many types of paroxysmal activity including the spike and wave discharge in absences seizures (petit mal), slow spike wave, generalized spike wave, spikes with temporal or other locations as well as irregular spikes and waves. Generalized EEG abnormalities are more regularly suppressed than focal abnormalities. According to these findings clonazepam has beneficial effects in generalized and focal epilepsies.

Oral:

• Adults: The initial dose for adults with seizure disorders should not exceed 1.5 mg/day divided into three doses. Dosage may be increased in increments of 0.5 to 1 mg every 3 days until seizures are adequately controlled or until side effects preclude any further increase. Maintenance dosage must be individualized for each patient depending upon response. Maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg.

• The initial dose for adults with panic disorder is 0.25 mg given in two divided dose. An increase to the target dose for most patients of 1 mg/day may be made after 3 days.
• Pediatric Patients: In order to minimize drowsiness, the initial dose for infants and children (up to 10 years of age or 30 kg of body weight) should be between 0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg/day but not to exceed 0.05 mg/kg/day given in two or three divided doses.

Injection:

• Infants and children: half of a vial (0.5 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion.

• Adults: 1 vial (1 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion. This dose can be repeated as required (1-4 mg are usually sufficient to reverse the status). In adults, the rate of injection must not exceed 0.25 - 0.5 mg per minute (0.5-1.0 ml of the prepared solution) and a total dose of 10 mg should not be exceeded.

The most frequently occurring side effects of Clonazepam are referable to CNS depression. Experience in treatment of seizures has shown that drowsiness has occurred in approximately 50% of patients and ataxia in approximately 30%. In some cases, these may diminish with time; behavior problems have been noted in approximately 25% of patients. Abnormal eye movements, aphonia, coma, tremor, vertigo, confusion, depression, amnesia, hallucinations, hysteria, increased libido, insomnia, psychosis & palpitations may also occur.

It should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, nor in patients with clinical or biochemical evidence of significant liver disease. It may be used in patients with open angle glaucoma who are receiving appropriate therapy but is contraindicated in acute narrow angle glaucoma.

When used in patients in whom several different types of seizure disorders coexist, Clonazepam may increase the incidence or precipitate the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. This may require the addition of appropriate anticonvulsants or an increase in their dosages. The concomitant use of valproic acid and Clonazepam may produce absence status.

Clonazepam does not appear to alter the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin, carbamazepine or phenobarbital. The effect of Clonazepam on the metabolism of other drugs has not been investigated.

Pregnancy: From preclinical studies it cannot be excluded that clonazepam possesses the possibility of producing congenital malformations. From epidemiological evaluations there is evidence that anticonvulsant drugs act as teratogens. However, it is difficult to determine from published epidemiological reports which drug or combination of drugs is responsible for defects in the newborn. The possibility also exists that other factors e.g. genetic factors or the epileptic condition itself may be more important than drug therapy in leading to birth defects. Under these circumstances, the drug should only be administered to pregnant women if the potential benefits outweigh the risk to the foetus. During pregnancy, Clonazepam may be administered only if there is a compelling indication. Administration of high doses in the last trimester of pregnancy or during labour can cause irregularities in the heartbeat of the unborn child and hypothermia, hypotonia, mild respiratory depression and poor feeding in the neonate. It should be borne in mind that both pregnancy itself and abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause exacerbation of epilepsy. Withdrawal symptoms in newborn infants have occasionally been reported with benzodiazepines.

Nursing Mothers: Although the active ingredient of Clonazepam has been found to pass into the maternal milk in small amounts only, mothers undergoing treatment with this drug should not breastfeed. If there is a compelling indication for Clonazepam, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Pediatric Use: In infants and small children Rivotril may cause increased production of saliva and bronchial secretion. Therefore special attention must be paid to maintaining patency of the airways. 

Geriatric Use: Benzodiazepine pharmacologic effects appear to be greater in elderly patients than in younger patients even at similar plasma benzodiazepine concentrations, possibly because of age-related changes in drug–receptor interactions, post-receptor mechanisms and organ function.

Renal Impairment: Renal impairment does not affect the pharmacokinetics of clonazepam. Based on pharmacokinetic criteria, no dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: Plasma protein binding of clonazepam in cirrhotic patients is significantly different from that in healthy subjects (free fraction 17.1±1.0% vs 13.9±0.2%). Although the influence of hepatic impairment on clonazepam pharmacokinetics has not been further investigated, experience with another closely related nitrobenzodiazepine (nitrazepam) indicates that clearance of unbound clonazepam might be reduced in liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms: Benzodiazepines commonly cause drowsiness, ataxia, dysarthria and nystagmus. Overdose of Clonazepam is seldom life-threatening if the drug is taken alone, but may lead to areflexia, apnoea, hypotension, cardiorespiratory depression and coma. Coma, if it occurs, usually lasts a few hours but it may be more protracted and cyclical, particularly in elderly patients. Increased frequency of seizures may occur in patients at supratherapeutic plasma concentrations. Benzodiazepine respiratory depressant effects are more serious in patients with respiratory disease. Benzodiazepines increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants, including alcohol.

Treatment: Monitor the patient’s vital signs and institute supportive measures as indicated by the patient’s clinical state. In particular, patients may require symptomatic treatment for cardiorespiratory effects or central nervous system effects. Further absorption should be prevented using an appropriate method e.g. treatment within 1-2 hours with activated charcoal. If activated charcoal is used airway protection is imperative for drowsy patients. In case of mixed ingestion gastric lavage may be considered, however not as a routine measure. If CNS depression is severe consider the use of flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist. This should only be administered under closely monitored conditions. It has a short half-life (about an hour), therefore patients administered flumazenil will require monitoring after its effects have worn off. Flumazenil is to be used with extreme caution in the presence of drugs that reduce seizure threshold (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants). Refer to the prescribing information for flumazenil, for further information on the correct use of this drug.

Slow intravenous injection: The contents of the vial must be diluted with 1 ml of water for injection prior to administration so as to avoid local irritation of the veins. The injection solution should be prepared immediately before use. IV injection should be administered slowly with continuous monitoring of EEG, respiration and blood pressure.

Intravenous infusion: Clonazepam (the vial) can be diluted for infusion in a ratio of 1 vial (1 mg) to at least 85 ml diluting media. The diluting media can be any of the following: sodium chloride 0.9%; sodium chloride 0.45% + glucose 2.5%; glucose 5% or glucose 10%. These mixtures are stable for 24 hours at room temperature. Infusion bags other than PVC should be used for infusing Clonazepam. If PVC infusion bags are used then the mixture should be infused immediately or within 4 hours. The infusion time should not exceed 8 hours. Do not prepare Clonazepam infusions using sodium bicarbonate solution, as precipitation of the solution may occur.

Intramuscular injection: The IM route should be used only in exceptional cases or if IV administration is not feasible.

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

Adjunct anti-epileptic drugs, Benzodiazepine hypnotics

Clonazepam exhibits pharmacological properties which are common to benzodiazepines and include anticonvulsive, sedative, muscle relaxing and anxiolytic effects. The central actions of benzodiazepines are mediated through an enhancement of the GABAergic neurotransmission at inhibitory synapses. In the presence of benzodiazepines the affinity of the GABA receptor for the neurotransmitter is enhanced through positive allosteric modulation resulting in an increased action of released GABA on the postsynaptic transmembrane chloride ion flux.

There are also animal data showing an effect of clonazepam on serotonin. Animal data and electroencephalographic investigations in man have shown that clonazepam rapidly suppresses many types of paroxysmal activity including the spike and wave discharge in absences seizures (petit mal), slow spike wave, generalized spike wave, spikes with temporal or other locations as well as irregular spikes and waves. Generalized EEG abnormalities are more regularly suppressed than focal abnormalities. According to these findings clonazepam has beneficial effects in generalized and focal epilepsies.

Oral:

• Adults: The initial dose for adults with seizure disorders should not exceed 1.5 mg/day divided into three doses. Dosage may be increased in increments of 0.5 to 1 mg every 3 days until seizures are adequately controlled or until side effects preclude any further increase. Maintenance dosage must be individualized for each patient depending upon response. Maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg.

• The initial dose for adults with panic disorder is 0.25 mg given in two divided dose. An increase to the target dose for most patients of 1 mg/day may be made after 3 days.
• Pediatric Patients: In order to minimize drowsiness, the initial dose for infants and children (up to 10 years of age or 30 kg of body weight) should be between 0.01 and 0.03 mg/kg/day but not to exceed 0.05 mg/kg/day given in two or three divided doses.

Injection:

• Infants and children: half of a vial (0.5 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion.

• Adults: 1 vial (1 mg) by slow IV injection or by IV infusion. This dose can be repeated as required (1-4 mg are usually sufficient to reverse the status). In adults, the rate of injection must not exceed 0.25 - 0.5 mg per minute (0.5-1.0 ml of the prepared solution) and a total dose of 10 mg should not be exceeded.

The most frequently occurring side effects of Clonazepam are referable to CNS depression. Experience in treatment of seizures has shown that drowsiness has occurred in approximately 50% of patients and ataxia in approximately 30%. In some cases, these may diminish with time; behavior problems have been noted in approximately 25% of patients. Abnormal eye movements, aphonia, coma, tremor, vertigo, confusion, depression, amnesia, hallucinations, hysteria, increased libido, insomnia, psychosis & palpitations may also occur.

It should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, nor in patients with clinical or biochemical evidence of significant liver disease. It may be used in patients with open angle glaucoma who are receiving appropriate therapy but is contraindicated in acute narrow angle glaucoma.

When used in patients in whom several different types of seizure disorders coexist, Clonazepam may increase the incidence or precipitate the onset of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. This may require the addition of appropriate anticonvulsants or an increase in their dosages. The concomitant use of valproic acid and Clonazepam may produce absence status.

Clonazepam does not appear to alter the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin, carbamazepine or phenobarbital. The effect of Clonazepam on the metabolism of other drugs has not been investigated.

Pregnancy: From preclinical studies it cannot be excluded that clonazepam possesses the possibility of producing congenital malformations. From epidemiological evaluations there is evidence that anticonvulsant drugs act as teratogens. However, it is difficult to determine from published epidemiological reports which drug or combination of drugs is responsible for defects in the newborn. The possibility also exists that other factors e.g. genetic factors or the epileptic condition itself may be more important than drug therapy in leading to birth defects. Under these circumstances, the drug should only be administered to pregnant women if the potential benefits outweigh the risk to the foetus. During pregnancy, Clonazepam may be administered only if there is a compelling indication. Administration of high doses in the last trimester of pregnancy or during labour can cause irregularities in the heartbeat of the unborn child and hypothermia, hypotonia, mild respiratory depression and poor feeding in the neonate. It should be borne in mind that both pregnancy itself and abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause exacerbation of epilepsy. Withdrawal symptoms in newborn infants have occasionally been reported with benzodiazepines.

Nursing Mothers: Although the active ingredient of Clonazepam has been found to pass into the maternal milk in small amounts only, mothers undergoing treatment with this drug should not breastfeed. If there is a compelling indication for Clonazepam, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Pediatric Use: In infants and small children Rivotril may cause increased production of saliva and bronchial secretion. Therefore special attention must be paid to maintaining patency of the airways. 

Geriatric Use: Benzodiazepine pharmacologic effects appear to be greater in elderly patients than in younger patients even at similar plasma benzodiazepine concentrations, possibly because of age-related changes in drug–receptor interactions, post-receptor mechanisms and organ function.

Renal Impairment: Renal impairment does not affect the pharmacokinetics of clonazepam. Based on pharmacokinetic criteria, no dose adjustment is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: Plasma protein binding of clonazepam in cirrhotic patients is significantly different from that in healthy subjects (free fraction 17.1±1.0% vs 13.9±0.2%). Although the influence of hepatic impairment on clonazepam pharmacokinetics has not been further investigated, experience with another closely related nitrobenzodiazepine (nitrazepam) indicates that clearance of unbound clonazepam might be reduced in liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms: Benzodiazepines commonly cause drowsiness, ataxia, dysarthria and nystagmus. Overdose of Clonazepam is seldom life-threatening if the drug is taken alone, but may lead to areflexia, apnoea, hypotension, cardiorespiratory depression and coma. Coma, if it occurs, usually lasts a few hours but it may be more protracted and cyclical, particularly in elderly patients. Increased frequency of seizures may occur in patients at supratherapeutic plasma concentrations. Benzodiazepine respiratory depressant effects are more serious in patients with respiratory disease. Benzodiazepines increase the effects of other central nervous system depressants, including alcohol.

Treatment: Monitor the patient’s vital signs and institute supportive measures as indicated by the patient’s clinical state. In particular, patients may require symptomatic treatment for cardiorespiratory effects or central nervous system effects. Further absorption should be prevented using an appropriate method e.g. treatment within 1-2 hours with activated charcoal. If activated charcoal is used airway protection is imperative for drowsy patients. In case of mixed ingestion gastric lavage may be considered, however not as a routine measure. If CNS depression is severe consider the use of flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist. This should only be administered under closely monitored conditions. It has a short half-life (about an hour), therefore patients administered flumazenil will require monitoring after its effects have worn off. Flumazenil is to be used with extreme caution in the presence of drugs that reduce seizure threshold (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants). Refer to the prescribing information for flumazenil, for further information on the correct use of this drug.

Slow intravenous injection: The contents of the vial must be diluted with 1 ml of water for injection prior to administration so as to avoid local irritation of the veins. The injection solution should be prepared immediately before use. IV injection should be administered slowly with continuous monitoring of EEG, respiration and blood pressure.

Intravenous infusion: Clonazepam (the vial) can be diluted for infusion in a ratio of 1 vial (1 mg) to at least 85 ml diluting media. The diluting media can be any of the following: sodium chloride 0.9%; sodium chloride 0.45% + glucose 2.5%; glucose 5% or glucose 10%. These mixtures are stable for 24 hours at room temperature. Infusion bags other than PVC should be used for infusing Clonazepam. If PVC infusion bags are used then the mixture should be infused immediately or within 4 hours. The infusion time should not exceed 8 hours. Do not prepare Clonazepam infusions using sodium bicarbonate solution, as precipitation of the solution may occur.

Intramuscular injection: The IM route should be used only in exceptional cases or if IV administration is not feasible.

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

4-Quinolone preparations

Levofloxacin eye drops is a sterile topical ophthalmic solution. It is a synthetic, broad spectrum, third generation fluoroquinolone bactericidal antibiotic, which active against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive & Gram-negative ocular pathogens. It functions by inhibiting bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, repair and recombination.

0.5% eye drop: Adults and children 1 year of age and older:

• Days 1 and 2: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake, up to 8 times per day.
• Days 3 through 7: Instill 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4 hours while awake, up to 4 times per day.

1.5% eye drop: Adults and children 6 years of age and older:

• Days 1 through 3: Instill one to two drops in the affected eye(s) every 30 minutes to 2 hours while awake and approximately 4 and 6 hours after retiring.
• Day 4 through treatment completion: Instill one to two drops in the affected eye(s) every 1 to 4 hours while awake.

Children <1 year: Safety and effectiveness of Levofloxacin below 1 year of age have not been established.

Side effects occurred only approximately 1-3% of patients that may include transient blurred vision, fever, foreign body sensation, headache, transient ocular burning, ocular pain or discomfort, pharyngitis and photophobia. In less than 1% of patients included allergic reactions, lid edema, ocular dryness and ocular itching.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Levofloxacin, to other quinolones or to any of the components of this medication

Prolonged use may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, discontinue use and institute alternative therapy.

Specific drug interaction studies have not been conducted with levofloxacin eye drops. But the systemic administration of some quinolones has been shown to elevate plasma concentrations of theophylline, interfere with the metabolism of caffeine and enhance the effects of the oral anticoagulant warfarin and its derivatives.

Pregnancy Category C. Levofloxacin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levofloxacin has not been measured in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Levofloxacin eye drops is administered to a nursing mother.

Eye drops should be protected from light, store in a cool (15°-25° C) and dry place & keep out of reach of children.