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Treatment and prophylaxis of mania, bipolar disorder and recurrent depression.

Anti-manic drugs

Although lithium has been used for over 50 years in treatment of bipolar disorder, the mechanism of action is still unknown.  Lithium's therapeutic action may be due to a number of effects, ranging from inhibition of enzymes such as glycogen synthase kinase 3, inositol phosphatases, or modulation of glutamate receptors. Lithium Carbonate alters intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines and sodium transport in neurons and muscle cells.

Adult and child over 12 years: initially 1 gm to 1.5 gm daily; prophylaxis, initially 300-400 mg daily. Should be taken with food.

Tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, hands shaking, memory problems, increased thirst and consequently passing urine more often by day, and perhaps also by night.

Renal insufficiency, cardiovascular insufficiency, Addison's disease and untreated hypothyroidism are all contraindications to lithium therapy.

Decreased tolerance to lithium has been reported to ensue from protracted sweating or diarrhoea and, if such occur, supplemental fluid and salt should be administered under careful medical supervision and lithium intake reduced or suspended until the condition is resolved.

Reduced serum levels with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, chlorpromazine, sodium-containing preparations, theophylline, urea. Enhanced hypothyroid effects with iodine salts. Enhanced effects of neuromuscular-blocking agents. Reduced pressor response to sympathomimetics.

Pregnancy Category D. An increased incidence of cardiovascular abnormality has been noted in infants of women given lithium during the first 3 months of pregnancy, such use should be avoided unless essential. Breast feeding is not advised unless the benefits of lithium use outweigh the advantages.

Renal Impairment: CrCl 10-50: 50-75% of normal dose.

In the event of accumulation, lithium should be stopped and serum estimations should be carried out every six hours.Under no circumstances should a diuretic be used. Osmotic diuresis (mannitol or urea infusion) or alkalinisation of the urine (sodium lactate or sodium bicarbonate infusion) should be initiated. If the serum lithium level is over 4.0 mmol/L, or if there is a deterioration in the patient's condition, or if the serum lithium concentration is not falling at a rate corresponding to a half-life of under 30 hours, peritoneal or haemodialysis should be instituted promptly. This should be continued until there is no lithium in the serum or dialysis fluid. Serum lithium levels should be monitored for at least a further week to take account of any possible rebound in serum lithium levels as a result of delayed diffusion from body tissues.

Store at 25° C

Treatment and prophylaxis of mania, bipolar disorder and recurrent depression.

Anti-manic drugs

Although lithium has been used for over 50 years in treatment of bipolar disorder, the mechanism of action is still unknown.  Lithium's therapeutic action may be due to a number of effects, ranging from inhibition of enzymes such as glycogen synthase kinase 3, inositol phosphatases, or modulation of glutamate receptors. Lithium Carbonate alters intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines and sodium transport in neurons and muscle cells.

Adult and child over 12 years: initially 1 gm to 1.5 gm daily; prophylaxis, initially 300-400 mg daily. Should be taken with food.

Tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, hands shaking, memory problems, increased thirst and consequently passing urine more often by day, and perhaps also by night.

Renal insufficiency, cardiovascular insufficiency, Addison's disease and untreated hypothyroidism are all contraindications to lithium therapy.

Decreased tolerance to lithium has been reported to ensue from protracted sweating or diarrhoea and, if such occur, supplemental fluid and salt should be administered under careful medical supervision and lithium intake reduced or suspended until the condition is resolved.

Reduced serum levels with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, chlorpromazine, sodium-containing preparations, theophylline, urea. Enhanced hypothyroid effects with iodine salts. Enhanced effects of neuromuscular-blocking agents. Reduced pressor response to sympathomimetics.

Pregnancy Category D. An increased incidence of cardiovascular abnormality has been noted in infants of women given lithium during the first 3 months of pregnancy, such use should be avoided unless essential. Breast feeding is not advised unless the benefits of lithium use outweigh the advantages.

Renal Impairment: CrCl 10-50: 50-75% of normal dose.

In the event of accumulation, lithium should be stopped and serum estimations should be carried out every six hours.Under no circumstances should a diuretic be used. Osmotic diuresis (mannitol or urea infusion) or alkalinisation of the urine (sodium lactate or sodium bicarbonate infusion) should be initiated. If the serum lithium level is over 4.0 mmol/L, or if there is a deterioration in the patient's condition, or if the serum lithium concentration is not falling at a rate corresponding to a half-life of under 30 hours, peritoneal or haemodialysis should be instituted promptly. This should be continued until there is no lithium in the serum or dialysis fluid. Serum lithium levels should be monitored for at least a further week to take account of any possible rebound in serum lithium levels as a result of delayed diffusion from body tissues.

Store at 25° C

Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is used for the prophylaxis and treatment of chronic stable (classical) and vasopastic angina pectoris and has also been used alone or in combination in the management of hypertension, also, Diltiazem is effective in myocardial infarction, coronary artery spasm, arrhythmias, Raynaud's phenomenon, oesophageal motility disorder and migraine.

Calcium-channel blockers

Diltiazem is a calcium-channel blocker with peripheral and coronary vasodilator properties. It lowers blood pressure and has some effect on cardiac conduction. Diltiazem interferes with the influx of calcium ions through the channels of active cell membranes.

Adult: The usual dose of Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is 60 mg thrice daily. However patient's response may vary and dosage requirements can differ significantly between individual patients. If necessary, the divided dose may be increased to 180-300 mg/day. Dosage may be started as 30 mg four times daily and increasing at 1 to 2 days intervals until the optimum response is achieved. Higher doses upto 480 mg/day have been used with benefit in some patients especially in unstable angina. Elderly and patients with impaired hepatic or renal function: The recommended starting dose is 60 mg twice daily. The heart rate should be measured regularly and the dose should not be increased if the heart rate falls below 50 beats per minute.

Children: Not recommended.

With Diltiazem headache, ankle oedema, hypertension, dizziness, flushing, rashes (toxic erythema), nausea and Gl disturbances may occur. Transient elevation in liver enzyme values and occasionally hepatitis have been reported. Diltiazem may depress cardiac conduction and has occasionally led to AV block, bradycardia and rarely asystoleor sinus arrest.

Diltiazem is contraindicated to the patients of severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, pregnancy, second or third degree AV block.

Diltiazem should be used with care in patients with lesser degrees of AV block or bradycardia; also in patients with impaired left ventricular function. Caution should be required in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.

Digoxin, Propranolol, Cyclosporin, Theophylline, Cimetidine, Lithium & Carbamazepine.

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

Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is used for the prophylaxis and treatment of chronic stable (classical) and vasopastic angina pectoris and has also been used alone or in combination in the management of hypertension, also, Diltiazem is effective in myocardial infarction, coronary artery spasm, arrhythmias, Raynaud's phenomenon, oesophageal motility disorder and migraine.

Calcium-channel blockers

Diltiazem is a calcium-channel blocker with peripheral and coronary vasodilator properties. It lowers blood pressure and has some effect on cardiac conduction. Diltiazem interferes with the influx of calcium ions through the channels of active cell membranes.

Adult: The usual dose of Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is 60 mg thrice daily. However patient's response may vary and dosage requirements can differ significantly between individual patients. If necessary, the divided dose may be increased to 180-300 mg/day. Dosage may be started as 30 mg four times daily and increasing at 1 to 2 days intervals until the optimum response is achieved. Higher doses upto 480 mg/day have been used with benefit in some patients especially in unstable angina. Elderly and patients with impaired hepatic or renal function: The recommended starting dose is 60 mg twice daily. The heart rate should be measured regularly and the dose should not be increased if the heart rate falls below 50 beats per minute.

Children: Not recommended.

With Diltiazem headache, ankle oedema, hypertension, dizziness, flushing, rashes (toxic erythema), nausea and Gl disturbances may occur. Transient elevation in liver enzyme values and occasionally hepatitis have been reported. Diltiazem may depress cardiac conduction and has occasionally led to AV block, bradycardia and rarely asystoleor sinus arrest.

Diltiazem is contraindicated to the patients of severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, pregnancy, second or third degree AV block.

Diltiazem should be used with care in patients with lesser degrees of AV block or bradycardia; also in patients with impaired left ventricular function. Caution should be required in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.

Digoxin, Propranolol, Cyclosporin, Theophylline, Cimetidine, Lithium & Carbamazepine.

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

Anti-diarrhoeal Antimicrobial drugs, Sulphonamides & Trimethoprim

Cotrimoxazole having broad spectrum bactericidal activity against a wide range of gram-positive & gram-negative bacteria and some protozoa. Co-trimoxazole containing Trimethoprim and Sulphamethoxazole in a 1:5 combination exerts its bactericidal action by the sequential blockade of two bacterial enzyme systems in the biosynthesis of folinic acid in the microorganism.

Cotrimoxazole double strength tablet: Over 12 years

• For mild to moderate infections: 1 tablet twice daily.
• For severe infections: 1.5 tablets twice daily.
• Long term therapy (>14 days): 0.5 tablet twice daily.
• Gonorrhoea: 2 tablets every 12 hours for two days or 2.5 tablets followed by a further dose of 2.5 tablets after 8 hours.

Cotrimoxazole tablet: over 12 years

• For mild to moderate infections: 2 tablets twice daily.
• For severe infections: 2 tablets thrice daily.
• Long term therapy: (>14 days): 1 tablet twice daily.

Cotrimoxazole suspension: Under 12 years

• 6-12 years: 2 teaspoonful twice daily.
• 6 month-5 years: 1 teaspoonful twice daily.
• 6 weeks-6 months: 0.5 teaspoonful twice daily.

The side effects like crystalluria, allergic reactions, haemolysis, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis etc. have been reported rarely with Sulphamethoxazole-Trimethoprim combination. Other side effects are less serious in nature such as malaise, headache, nausea and vomiting. These are normally transient and do not require withdrawal of treatment.

Prolonged full dose treatment with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim combination is associated with the risk of macrocytic anaemia due to the drug’s interference in the conversion of Folic acid into Folinic acid. If this occurs, it can be reversed by giving Folinic acid. Care should be taken when giving this combination to diabetic patients receiving sulphonylurea drug for possible potentiation of action of sulphonylurea.

Pregnancy and during the nursing period, because sulphonamides pass the placenta and are excreted in the breast milk and may cause kernicterus.

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

Anti-diarrhoeal Antimicrobial drugs, Sulphonamides & Trimethoprim

Cotrimoxazole having broad spectrum bactericidal activity against a wide range of gram-positive & gram-negative bacteria and some protozoa. Co-trimoxazole containing Trimethoprim and Sulphamethoxazole in a 1:5 combination exerts its bactericidal action by the sequential blockade of two bacterial enzyme systems in the biosynthesis of folinic acid in the microorganism.

Cotrimoxazole double strength tablet: Over 12 years

• For mild to moderate infections: 1 tablet twice daily.
• For severe infections: 1.5 tablets twice daily.
• Long term therapy (>14 days): 0.5 tablet twice daily.
• Gonorrhoea: 2 tablets every 12 hours for two days or 2.5 tablets followed by a further dose of 2.5 tablets after 8 hours.

Cotrimoxazole tablet: over 12 years

• For mild to moderate infections: 2 tablets twice daily.
• For severe infections: 2 tablets thrice daily.
• Long term therapy: (>14 days): 1 tablet twice daily.

Cotrimoxazole suspension: Under 12 years

• 6-12 years: 2 teaspoonful twice daily.
• 6 month-5 years: 1 teaspoonful twice daily.
• 6 weeks-6 months: 0.5 teaspoonful twice daily.

The side effects like crystalluria, allergic reactions, haemolysis, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis etc. have been reported rarely with Sulphamethoxazole-Trimethoprim combination. Other side effects are less serious in nature such as malaise, headache, nausea and vomiting. These are normally transient and do not require withdrawal of treatment.

Prolonged full dose treatment with sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim combination is associated with the risk of macrocytic anaemia due to the drug’s interference in the conversion of Folic acid into Folinic acid. If this occurs, it can be reversed by giving Folinic acid. Care should be taken when giving this combination to diabetic patients receiving sulphonylurea drug for possible potentiation of action of sulphonylurea.

Pregnancy and during the nursing period, because sulphonamides pass the placenta and are excreted in the breast milk and may cause kernicterus.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. 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.

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.

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of

• Cholestasis (Jaundice)
• Viral Hepatitis
• Alcoholic Fatty Liver
• Primary Billiary Cirrhosis (PBC)
• Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
• Dissolution of Gallstones and Non-Alcoholic Steato Hepatitis (NASH).

Anti-gallstones drugs: Bile Acids

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is a naturally occurring bile acid used to treat different hepatobilliary disorders. The activity of Ursodeoxycholic Acid is achieved through a decrease in secretion of cholesterol in bile. Ursodeoxycholic Acid achieves this through a few mechanisms: it reduces cholesterol absorption, suppresses liver cholesterol synthesis and it does not inhibit bile acid synthesis.

Therefore, alters bile composition from supersaturated to unsaturated. Ursodeoxycholic Acid also promotes the formation of liquid cholesterol crystal complexes which enhance removal of the cholesterol from the gallbladder into the intestine to be expelled. Ursodeoxycholic Acid improves cholestatic liver diseases by-

• Protecting cholangiocytes against cytotoxicity of hydrophobic bile acids
• Stimulating hepatobilliary secretion
• Protecting hepatocytes against bile acid-induced apoptosis

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is completely absorbed in the upper intestine. Time to peak serum concentration varies from 30 to 150 minutes. The rate of absorption ranges from 60-80%. After absorption Ursodeoxycholic Acid enters the portal vein and undergoes extraction from portal blood by liver where it is conjugated with amino acid & that may be either glycine or taurine and then secreted into the hepatic bile ducts. Small quantities of Ursodeoxycholic Acid appear in the circulation and very small amounts are excreted into urine. The biologic half life of Ursodeoxycholic Acid ranges from 3.5-5.8 days.

Dissolution of Gall stones: 8-12 mg/kg/day either as single night time dose or in divided doses.

Primary Billiary Cirrhosis: 10-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses.

Acute Viral Hepatitis: 600 mg/day.

Alcoholic Fatty Liver: 300 mg/day.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: 25-30 mg/kg/day.

Dissolution of Gallstones and Non-Alcoholic Steato Hepatitis: 13-15 mg/kg/day.

Commonly reported side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, gallstone opacilication, pruritus.

Non-functioning gall-bladder calcified and pigmented gallstones, inflammatory bowel disease.

It should be used cautiously in those with liver disease.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid should not be used with drugs, such as oestrogenic hormones, that increase bile cholesterol. Concomitant administration with bile-acid binding drugs including antacids, charcoal and cholestyramine should be avoided, since this may reduce the effectiveness of therapy with Ursodeoxycholic acid.

Pregnancy category B. No evidence of harm has been reported in pregnancy. It has been effectively used for the treatment of cholestasis of pregnancy during the last trimester without any side effects. Problems have not been documented in humans regarding breast feeding.

Store below 25° C. Protected from light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of

• Cholestasis (Jaundice)
• Viral Hepatitis
• Alcoholic Fatty Liver
• Primary Billiary Cirrhosis (PBC)
• Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)
• Dissolution of Gallstones and Non-Alcoholic Steato Hepatitis (NASH).

Anti-gallstones drugs: Bile Acids

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is a naturally occurring bile acid used to treat different hepatobilliary disorders. The activity of Ursodeoxycholic Acid is achieved through a decrease in secretion of cholesterol in bile. Ursodeoxycholic Acid achieves this through a few mechanisms: it reduces cholesterol absorption, suppresses liver cholesterol synthesis and it does not inhibit bile acid synthesis.

Therefore, alters bile composition from supersaturated to unsaturated. Ursodeoxycholic Acid also promotes the formation of liquid cholesterol crystal complexes which enhance removal of the cholesterol from the gallbladder into the intestine to be expelled. Ursodeoxycholic Acid improves cholestatic liver diseases by-

• Protecting cholangiocytes against cytotoxicity of hydrophobic bile acids
• Stimulating hepatobilliary secretion
• Protecting hepatocytes against bile acid-induced apoptosis

Ursodeoxycholic Acid is completely absorbed in the upper intestine. Time to peak serum concentration varies from 30 to 150 minutes. The rate of absorption ranges from 60-80%. After absorption Ursodeoxycholic Acid enters the portal vein and undergoes extraction from portal blood by liver where it is conjugated with amino acid & that may be either glycine or taurine and then secreted into the hepatic bile ducts. Small quantities of Ursodeoxycholic Acid appear in the circulation and very small amounts are excreted into urine. The biologic half life of Ursodeoxycholic Acid ranges from 3.5-5.8 days.

Dissolution of Gall stones: 8-12 mg/kg/day either as single night time dose or in divided doses.

Primary Billiary Cirrhosis: 10-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses.

Acute Viral Hepatitis: 600 mg/day.

Alcoholic Fatty Liver: 300 mg/day.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: 25-30 mg/kg/day.

Dissolution of Gallstones and Non-Alcoholic Steato Hepatitis: 13-15 mg/kg/day.

Commonly reported side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, gallstone opacilication, pruritus.

Non-functioning gall-bladder calcified and pigmented gallstones, inflammatory bowel disease.

It should be used cautiously in those with liver disease.

Ursodeoxycholic Acid should not be used with drugs, such as oestrogenic hormones, that increase bile cholesterol. Concomitant administration with bile-acid binding drugs including antacids, charcoal and cholestyramine should be avoided, since this may reduce the effectiveness of therapy with Ursodeoxycholic acid.

Pregnancy category B. No evidence of harm has been reported in pregnancy. It has been effectively used for the treatment of cholestasis of pregnancy during the last trimester without any side effects. Problems have not been documented in humans regarding breast feeding.

Store below 25° C. Protected from light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children

Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs, Statins

Atorvastatin is a selective inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Atorvastatin lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increases the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface for enhanced uptake and catabolism of LDL.

Primary hypercholesterolaemia and combined hyperlipidaemia-

• Adults: Usually 10 mg once daily; if necessary, may be increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to max. 80 mg once daily.
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 20 mg once daily.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg daily, increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to 40 mg once daily; if necessary, further increased to max. 80 mg once daily (or 40 mg once daily combined with anion-exchange resin in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia).
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 80 mg once daily.

Prevention of cardiovascular events-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg once daily adjusted according to response.

Atorvastatin is generally well-tolerated. The most frequent side effects related to Atorvastatin are constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, abdominal pain. Other side effects includes infection, headache, back pain, rash, asthenia, arthralgia, myalgia.

Atorvastatin should not be used in patient with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Atorvastatin is contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It is also contraindicated in patient with history of serious adverse reaction to prior administration of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Liver effects: Liver function tests should be performed before the initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter. Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol or have a history of liver disease. Atorvastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

The risk of myopathy during treatment with Atorvastatin is increased with concurrent administration of cyclosporin, fibric acid derivatives, erythromycin, azole antifungals and niacin. No clinically significant interactions were seen when Atorvastatin was administered with antihypertensives or hypoglycemic agents. Patients should be closely monitored if Atorvastatin is added to digoxin, erythromycin, oral contraceptives, colestipol, antacid and warfarin.

Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy. Safety in pregnant women has not been established. No controlled clinical trials with atorvastatin have been conducted in pregnant women. Rare reports of congenital anomalies following intrauterine exposure to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors have been received. Animal studies have shown toxicity to reproduction. Maternal treatment with atorvastatin may reduce the fetal levels of mevalonate which is a precursor of cholesterol biosynthesis. Atorvastatin should not be used in women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant. Treatment with atorvastatin should be suspended for the duration of pregnancy or until it has been determined that the woman is not pregnant

Lactation: It is not known whether atorvastatin or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. In rats, plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its active metabolites are similar to those in milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, women taking atorvastatin should not breastfeed their infants. Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Hepatic impairment: Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Pediatric use: For patients aged 10 years and above, the recommended starting dose of atorvastatin is 10 mg per day with titration up to 20 mg per day. Atorvastatin is not indicated in the treatment of patients below the age of 10 years.

Specific treatment is not available for atorvastatin overdose. The patient should be treated symptomatically and supportive measures instituted, as required. Liver function tests should be performed and serum CK levels should be monitored. Due to extensive atorvastatin binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.

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

Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs, Statins

Atorvastatin is a selective inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme is the rate-limiting enzyme responsible for the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of sterols, including cholesterol. Atorvastatin lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increases the number of hepatic LDL receptors on the cell surface for enhanced uptake and catabolism of LDL.

Primary hypercholesterolaemia and combined hyperlipidaemia-

• Adults: Usually 10 mg once daily; if necessary, may be increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to max. 80 mg once daily.
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 20 mg once daily.

Familial hypercholesterolaemia-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg daily, increased at intervals of at least 4 weeks to 40 mg once daily; if necessary, further increased to max. 80 mg once daily (or 40 mg once daily combined with anion-exchange resin in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia).
• Child (10-18 years): Initially 10 mg once daily, increased if necessary at intervals of at least 4 weeks to usual max. 80 mg once daily.

Prevention of cardiovascular events-

• Adults: Initially 10 mg once daily adjusted according to response.

Atorvastatin is generally well-tolerated. The most frequent side effects related to Atorvastatin are constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia, abdominal pain. Other side effects includes infection, headache, back pain, rash, asthenia, arthralgia, myalgia.

Atorvastatin should not be used in patient with hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Atorvastatin is contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. It is also contraindicated in patient with history of serious adverse reaction to prior administration of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Liver effects: Liver function tests should be performed before the initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter. Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol or have a history of liver disease. Atorvastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

The risk of myopathy during treatment with Atorvastatin is increased with concurrent administration of cyclosporin, fibric acid derivatives, erythromycin, azole antifungals and niacin. No clinically significant interactions were seen when Atorvastatin was administered with antihypertensives or hypoglycemic agents. Patients should be closely monitored if Atorvastatin is added to digoxin, erythromycin, oral contraceptives, colestipol, antacid and warfarin.

Pregnancy: Atorvastatin is contraindicated during pregnancy. Safety in pregnant women has not been established. No controlled clinical trials with atorvastatin have been conducted in pregnant women. Rare reports of congenital anomalies following intrauterine exposure to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors have been received. Animal studies have shown toxicity to reproduction. Maternal treatment with atorvastatin may reduce the fetal levels of mevalonate which is a precursor of cholesterol biosynthesis. Atorvastatin should not be used in women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant. Treatment with atorvastatin should be suspended for the duration of pregnancy or until it has been determined that the woman is not pregnant

Lactation: It is not known whether atorvastatin or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. In rats, plasma concentrations of atorvastatin and its active metabolites are similar to those in milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, women taking atorvastatin should not breastfeed their infants. Atorvastatin is contraindicated during breastfeeding.

Hepatic impairment: Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.

Pediatric use: For patients aged 10 years and above, the recommended starting dose of atorvastatin is 10 mg per day with titration up to 20 mg per day. Atorvastatin is not indicated in the treatment of patients below the age of 10 years.

Specific treatment is not available for atorvastatin overdose. The patient should be treated symptomatically and supportive measures instituted, as required. Liver function tests should be performed and serum CK levels should be monitored. Due to extensive atorvastatin binding to plasma proteins, hemodialysis is not expected to significantly enhance atorvastatin clearance.

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

Silymarin (Milk thistle) is indicated for the treatment and prevention of-

• Liver disease, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
• Liver cirrhosis, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
• Infectious hepatitis
• Drug-induced hepatitis
• Liver disease secondary to diabetes mellitus
• Toxicity of narcotics
• Fatty liver
• Jaundice

Cholagogues, Cholelitholytics & Hepatic Protectors, Herbal and Nutraceuticals

Silymarin, a flavonoid complex of Silybum marianum or Milk thistle, is the biologically active component. It provides hepatocellular protection through toxin blockade at the membrane level, enhances protein synthesis, antioxidant activity, anti-fibrotic activity and possible anti-inflammatory or immunomodulating effects.

1 capsule 2 to 3 times daily or as directed by a physician.

Well tolerated in the recommended dose. Occasionally a mild laxative effect may observe.

Contraindicated in patient with a known hypersensitivity to silymarin.

Concomitant use of silymarin and butyrophenones or phenothiazines has resulted in the reduction of lipid peroxidation.

No experience is available about the use of Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, if needed Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg should be taken with caution according to the physician’s advice.

Store in a cool & dry place, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Silymarin (Milk thistle) is indicated for the treatment and prevention of-

• Liver disease, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
• Liver cirrhosis, (non-alcoholic & alcoholic)
• Infectious hepatitis
• Drug-induced hepatitis
• Liver disease secondary to diabetes mellitus
• Toxicity of narcotics
• Fatty liver
• Jaundice

Cholagogues, Cholelitholytics & Hepatic Protectors, Herbal and Nutraceuticals

Silymarin, a flavonoid complex of Silybum marianum or Milk thistle, is the biologically active component. It provides hepatocellular protection through toxin blockade at the membrane level, enhances protein synthesis, antioxidant activity, anti-fibrotic activity and possible anti-inflammatory or immunomodulating effects.

1 capsule 2 to 3 times daily or as directed by a physician.

Well tolerated in the recommended dose. Occasionally a mild laxative effect may observe.

Contraindicated in patient with a known hypersensitivity to silymarin.

Concomitant use of silymarin and butyrophenones or phenothiazines has resulted in the reduction of lipid peroxidation.

No experience is available about the use of Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, if needed Silymarin 70 mg or 140 mg should be taken with caution according to the physician’s advice.

Store in a cool & dry place, away 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.

Obeticholic Acid is indicated for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA, or as monotherapy in adults unable to tolerate UDCA, cholestatic liver disease & non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Farnesoid X Receptor Agonists

Obeticholic Acid is an agonist for FXR, a nuclear receptor expressed in the liver and intestine. FXR is a key regulator of bile acid, inflammatory, fibrotic, and metabolic pathways. FXR activation decreases the intracellular hepatocyte concentrations of bile acids by suppressing de novo synthesis from cholesterol as well as by increased transport of bile acids out of the hepatocytes. These mechanisms limit the overall size of the circulating bile acid pool while promoting choleresis, thus reducing hepatic exposure to bile acids.

Starting Dosage: The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 5 mg orally once daily in adult patients who have not achieved an adequate biochemical response to an appropriate dosage of Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) for at least 1 year or are intolerant to UDCA.

Dosage Titration: If an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once daily, and the patient is tolerating Obeticholic Acid, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily.

Maximum Dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of Obeticholic Acid is 10 mg once daily.

Management of Patients with Intolerable Pruritus on Obeticholic Acid: For patients with intolerable pruritus on Obeticholic Acid, consider one or more of the following:

Add an antihistamine or bile acid binding resin. Reduce the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to:

• 5 mg every other day, for patients intolerant to 5 mg once daily
• 5 mg once daily, for patients intolerant to 10 mg once daily

Temporarily interrupt Obeticholic Acid dosing for up to 2 weeks followed by restarting at a reduced dosage

Increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 10 mg once daily, as tolerated, to achieve optimal response. Consider discontinuing Obeticholic Acid treatment in patients who continue to experience persistent, intolerable pruritus.

The most common side effects of Obeticholic Acid include: Pruritus, Fatigue & Stomach pain and discomfort. Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).

Contraindicated in patients known to have hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components & in patients with complete biliary obstruction.

The following clinically significant reactions are described:

• Liver-Related Adverse Reactions
• Severe Pruritus
• Reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C)

Special monitoring is essential for the patient with such type of problems

Bile Acid Binding Resins: Bile acid binding resins such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam adsorb and reduce bile acid absorption and may reduce the absorption, systemic exposure, and efficacy of Obeticholic Acid. If taking a bile acid binding resin, take Obeticholic Acid at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.

Warfarin: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) decreased following co-administration of warfarin and Obeticholic Acid. Monitor INR and adjust the dosage of warfarin, as needed, to maintain the target INR range when co-administering Obeticholic Acid and warfarin.

CYP1A2 Substrates with Narrow Therapeutic Index: Obeticholic Acid may increase the exposure to concomitant drugs that are CYP1A2 substrates. Therapeutic monitoring of CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index.

The limited available human data on the use of Obeticholic Acid during pregnancy are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk.There is no information on the presence of Obeticholic Acid in human milk, the effects on the breast-fed infant or the effects on milk production.

Geriatric Use: No dosage adjustment is recommended in elderly patientless than 65 years of age.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Use in Patients with Impaired Renal Function: Obeticholic Acid has not been studied in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the population pharmacokinetic analysis, an eGFR greater than 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 did not have a meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of Obeticholic Acid and its conjugated metabolites.

Use in Patients with Impaired Hepatic Function: Obeticholic Acid is metabolized in the liver. Plasma exposure to Obeticholic Acid and its active conjugates, increases significantly in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Classes B and C).The recommended starting dosage of Obeticholic Acid for moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment is 5 mg once weekly. If an adequate reduction in ALP and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved after 3 months of Obeticholic Acid 5 mg once weekly, and the patient is tolerating the drug, increase the dosage of Obeticholic Acid to 5 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) and subsequently to 10 mg twice weekly (at least three days apart) depending on response and tolerability.

In PBC patients who received Obeticholic Acid 25 mg once daily (2.5 times the highestrecommended dosage) or 50 mg once daily (5 times the highest recommended dosage), a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of liver-related adverse reactions, including elevations in liver biochemical tests, ascites, jaundice, portal hypertension, and primary biliary cholangitis flare, was reported. In the case of over dosage, patients should be carefully observed and supportive care administered, as appropriate.

Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children