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Tapentadol is indicated for the relief of moderate to severe acute pain in patients 18 years of age or older.

Opioid analgesics

Tapentadol is a centrally-acting synthetic analgesic. It is 18 times less potent than morphine in terms of binding to human mu-opioid receptors. It also increases norepinephrine concentrations in the brains of rats via inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake. Selective mu-opioid antagonists like naloxone can block analgesia from tapentadol. It also has not effect on the QT interval.

Tapendadol causes large increases in levels of extracellular norepinephrine (NE) due to a dual mechanism of action involving mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonism as well as noradrenaline reuptake inhibition.

As with many centrally-acting analgesic medications, the dosing regimen should be individualized according to the severity of pain being treated, the previous experience with similar drugs and the ability to monitor the patient.

The dose is 50 mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours depending upon pain intensity. On the first day of dosing, the second dose may be administered as soon as one hour after the first dose, if adequate pain relief is not attained with the first dose. Subsequent dosing is 50 mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours and should be adjusted to maintain adequate analgesia with acceptable tolerability.

Daily doses greater than 700 mg on the first day of therapy and 600 mg on subsequent days have not been studied and are not recommended.

The following treatment-emergent adverse events may happen: heart rate increased, heart rate decreased, visual disturbance, abdominal discomfort, impaired gastric emptying, irritability, edema, drug withdrawal syndrome, hypersensitivity, involuntary muscle contractions, sensation of heaviness, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, disturbance in attention, sedation, dysarthria, memory impairment, ataxia, presyncope, syncope, coordination abnormal, seizure, urticaria, blood pressure decreased etc.

This drug is contraindicated in patients with impaired Pulmonary Function, It is also contraindicated in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma or hypercapnia in unmonitored settings or the absence of resuscitative equipment. This drug is contraindicated in any patient who has or is suspected of having paralytic ileus.

Tapentadol should be administered with caution to patients with conditions accompanied by hypoxia, hypercapnia respiratory problems such as: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease etc. Besides this in case of patient with sleep apnea syndrome, myxedema, kyphoscoliosis, central nervous system (CNS) depression should have to be cautious prior administration of Tapentadol. Patients receiving other mu-opioid agonist analgesics, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, other tranquilizers, sedatives, hypnotics, or other CNS depressants (including alcohol) concomitantly with Tapentadol may exhibit additive CNS depression.

Increased risk of serotonin syndrome with other drugs that enhance monoaminergic neurotransmission (e.g. TCAs, triptans, SSRIs, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). Enhanced sedative effect with benzodiazepines, barbiturates, antipsychotics, H1-antihistamines and other opioids. Increased potential for addiction with mixed μ-opioid agonists/antagonists (e.g. nalbuphine, pentazocine) or partial μ-opioid agonists (e.g. buprenorphine). Increased systemic exposure with strong inhibitors of UGT1A6, UGT1A9 and UGT2B7 isoenzymes. Decreased efficacy with strong enzyme inducers (e.g. rifampicin, phenobarbital).

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This preparation should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Neonates whose mothers have been taking Tapentadol should be monitored for respiratory depression.

Pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of Tapentadol in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age have not been established.

Use in elderly patients: In general, recommended dosing for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function is the same as for younger adult patients with normal renal and hepatic function. consideration should be given to starting elderly patients with the lower range of recommended doses.

Use in Renal Disease: In patients with severe renal impairment, the safety and effectiveness of Tapentadol has not been established.

Use in Hepatic Disease: Tapentadol should be used with caution in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. Tapentadol has not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Symptoms: Vomiting, miosis, CV collapse, consciousness disorders up to coma, convulsions and resp depression up to resp arrest.

Management: Re-establish a patent airway and institute assisted or controlled ventilation. GI decontamination with activated charcoal or by gastric lavage may be considered within 2 hr after intake. Pure opioid receptor antagonists (e.g. naloxone) may be given as antidote.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Tapentadol is indicated for the relief of moderate to severe acute pain in patients 18 years of age or older.

Opioid analgesics

Tapentadol is a centrally-acting synthetic analgesic. It is 18 times less potent than morphine in terms of binding to human mu-opioid receptors. It also increases norepinephrine concentrations in the brains of rats via inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake. Selective mu-opioid antagonists like naloxone can block analgesia from tapentadol. It also has not effect on the QT interval.

Tapendadol causes large increases in levels of extracellular norepinephrine (NE) due to a dual mechanism of action involving mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonism as well as noradrenaline reuptake inhibition.

As with many centrally-acting analgesic medications, the dosing regimen should be individualized according to the severity of pain being treated, the previous experience with similar drugs and the ability to monitor the patient.

The dose is 50 mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours depending upon pain intensity. On the first day of dosing, the second dose may be administered as soon as one hour after the first dose, if adequate pain relief is not attained with the first dose. Subsequent dosing is 50 mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours and should be adjusted to maintain adequate analgesia with acceptable tolerability.

Daily doses greater than 700 mg on the first day of therapy and 600 mg on subsequent days have not been studied and are not recommended.

The following treatment-emergent adverse events may happen: heart rate increased, heart rate decreased, visual disturbance, abdominal discomfort, impaired gastric emptying, irritability, edema, drug withdrawal syndrome, hypersensitivity, involuntary muscle contractions, sensation of heaviness, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, disturbance in attention, sedation, dysarthria, memory impairment, ataxia, presyncope, syncope, coordination abnormal, seizure, urticaria, blood pressure decreased etc.

This drug is contraindicated in patients with impaired Pulmonary Function, It is also contraindicated in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma or hypercapnia in unmonitored settings or the absence of resuscitative equipment. This drug is contraindicated in any patient who has or is suspected of having paralytic ileus.

Tapentadol should be administered with caution to patients with conditions accompanied by hypoxia, hypercapnia respiratory problems such as: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease etc. Besides this in case of patient with sleep apnea syndrome, myxedema, kyphoscoliosis, central nervous system (CNS) depression should have to be cautious prior administration of Tapentadol. Patients receiving other mu-opioid agonist analgesics, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, other tranquilizers, sedatives, hypnotics, or other CNS depressants (including alcohol) concomitantly with Tapentadol may exhibit additive CNS depression.

Increased risk of serotonin syndrome with other drugs that enhance monoaminergic neurotransmission (e.g. TCAs, triptans, SSRIs, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). Enhanced sedative effect with benzodiazepines, barbiturates, antipsychotics, H1-antihistamines and other opioids. Increased potential for addiction with mixed μ-opioid agonists/antagonists (e.g. nalbuphine, pentazocine) or partial μ-opioid agonists (e.g. buprenorphine). Increased systemic exposure with strong inhibitors of UGT1A6, UGT1A9 and UGT2B7 isoenzymes. Decreased efficacy with strong enzyme inducers (e.g. rifampicin, phenobarbital).

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This preparation should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Neonates whose mothers have been taking Tapentadol should be monitored for respiratory depression.

Pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of Tapentadol in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age have not been established.

Use in elderly patients: In general, recommended dosing for elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function is the same as for younger adult patients with normal renal and hepatic function. consideration should be given to starting elderly patients with the lower range of recommended doses.

Use in Renal Disease: In patients with severe renal impairment, the safety and effectiveness of Tapentadol has not been established.

Use in Hepatic Disease: Tapentadol should be used with caution in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. Tapentadol has not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Symptoms: Vomiting, miosis, CV collapse, consciousness disorders up to coma, convulsions and resp depression up to resp arrest.

Management: Re-establish a patent airway and institute assisted or controlled ventilation. GI decontamination with activated charcoal or by gastric lavage may be considered within 2 hr after intake. Pure opioid receptor antagonists (e.g. naloxone) may be given as antidote.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Loperamide Hydrochloride is indicated in-

• Acute diarrhea
• Chronic diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps associated with diarrhea
• Crohn's disease
• Postgastric surgery
• Ulcerative colitis.

Anti-diarrhoeal, Anti-motility drugs

Loperamide Hydrochloride inhibits the peristaltic activity of the longitudinal and circular smooth muscle in the intestine by interacting with cholinergic and noncholinergic neuronal mechanisms responsible for producing the peristaltic reflex. Loperamide Hydrochloride binds to the opiate receptor in the gut wall, reducing propulsive peristalsis and increasing intestinal transit time. Loperamide Hydrochloride increases the tone of the anal sphincter. This also inhibits electrolyte and fluid secretion in the intestine.

Loperamide Hydrochloride is an orally administered capsule. After administration absorption is more than 65% which occurs at a modest rate, with peak serum levels of 2-3 µgm/litre occurring at about 4 hours later after oral administration. The rest 35% is excreted unchanged in the faeces. Loperamide Hydrochloride undergoes an extensive presystemic first-pass metabolism in the gut wall and in the liver. Loperamide does not act centrally due to its high affinity for the gut wall and its presystemic metabolism. This is why it reaches the systemic circulation in a very minute amount. The route of elimination is 0.63-1.4% in urine as an unchanged drug, 58% is excreted in the bile and 15-23% appears in the faeces.

Acute diarrhea-

• Adults: 2 capsules initially followed by 1 capsule after every loose stool.
• Usual dosage: 3-4 capsules/day. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 8 capsules.
• Children (9-12 years): 1 capsule after each loose stool until diarrhea is controlled. But not more than 6 capsules daily.
• Children (5-9 years): 1 capsule 4 times daily until diarrhea is controlled. But not more than 4 capsules daily.

Chronic diarrhea-

• Adults: 2-4 capsules daily in divided doses, depending on severity.
• Children: 1-2 capsules daily, depending on severity. Or directed by physician.

Abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal disturbances including dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue and skin rashes etc. have been reported.

Hypersensitivity to the drug and in patients who must avoid constipation. Loperamide Hydrochloride should not be used alone in acute dysentery, which is characterized by blood in the stool and elevated body temperature.

Loperamide Hydrochloride must be used with caution in cases of severe hepatic disturbance.

There are no data available.

Safety in human pregnancy has not been established. As with other drugs, it is not advisable to administer Loperamide in pregnancy. Although the fraction of Loperamide Hydrochloride secreted in human breast milk is extremely low, caution is advised if Loperamide Hydrochloride is to be administered to a nursing mother.

Overdosage of Loperamide may result in constipation, CNS depression, and nausea.

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

Atypical neuroleptic drugs

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic agent and has affinities for serotonin 5HT2A/2C, 5HT3, 5HT6; dopamine D1, D2, D3, D4, D5; cholinergic muscarinic receptors M1-M5; α1 adrenergic; and histamine H1 receptors. The mechanism of action of Olanzapine, as with other drugs having efficacy in schizophrenia, is unknown. However, it has been proposed that this drug’s efficacy in schizophrenia is mediated through a combination of dopamine and serotonin type 2 (5HT2) antagonism. Olanzapine is well absorbed after oral administration, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 5 to 8 hours. The absorption is not affected by food. Olanzapine is not mutagenic or clastogenic as well as not carcinogenic.

Schizophrenia, combination therapy for Mania, Bipolar Disorder: The initial dose is 5-10 mg once daily. Daily dosage may subsequently be adjusted on the basis of individual clinical status within the range of 5-20 mg daily. Dosage greater than 10 mg daily only after reassessment. Maximum dose is 20 mg daily.

Monotherapy for Mania: Initially 15 mg once daily. Daily dosage may subsequently be adjusted on the basis of individual clinical status within the range of 5-20 mg daily. Dosage greater than 15 mg only after reassessment. Maximum dose is 20 mg daily.

Olanzapine can be given without regard to meals. Gradual tapering of the dose should be considered while discontinuing Olanzapine.

Very common undesirable effects are somnolence and weight gain. Besides increased appetite, elevated glucose levels, elevated triglyceride levels, dizziness, akathisia, Parkinson's disease, dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension, mild and transient anticholinergic effects including constipation and dry mouth, asthenia, edema and photosensitivity reaction etc. may be observed.

Olanzapine is contraindicated in those patients with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the product as well as in patients with known risk for narrow-angle glaucoma.

Olanzapine should be used cautiously in patients who have a history of seizures or have conditions associated with seizures. Olanzapine should be used cautiously in patients with low leukocyte and/or neutrophil counts for any reason, drug induced bone marrow depression/toxicity caused by radiation therapy or chemotherapy, hypereosinophilic conditions, impaired hepatic function, and patients using hepatotoxic medicines, centrally acting drug and medicines know to increase QT interval, especially in the elderly. Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including motor vehicles.

Olanzapine may antagonize the effects of levodopa and dopamine agonists. Drugs that induce CYP1A2 or glucoronyl transferase enzymes e.g, Omeprazole and Rifampicin, may increase Olanzapine clearance. Inhibitors of CYP1A2 may potentially inhibit Olanzapine elimination. Carbamazepine may increase the clearance of Olanzapine. Concomitant administration of activated charcoal reduces the oral bioavailability of Olanzapine by 50-60%. Caution should be taken when Olanzapine is administered with centrally acting drugs and alcohol.

Olanzapine should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the foetus. So, patients should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with Olanzapine. There is no report to show teratogenecity. Patients should not breast feed if they are taking Olanzapine.

Children: Olanzapine has not been studied in subjects under 18 years of age.

Elderly patients (age 65 and over): starting dose 5 mg/day

Patients with hepatic, renal impairment: starting dose 5 mg/day

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

Atypical neuroleptic drugs

Olanzapine is an antipsychotic agent and has affinities for serotonin 5HT2A/2C, 5HT3, 5HT6; dopamine D1, D2, D3, D4, D5; cholinergic muscarinic receptors M1-M5; α1 adrenergic; and histamine H1 receptors. The mechanism of action of Olanzapine, as with other drugs having efficacy in schizophrenia, is unknown. However, it has been proposed that this drug’s efficacy in schizophrenia is mediated through a combination of dopamine and serotonin type 2 (5HT2) antagonism. Olanzapine is well absorbed after oral administration, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 5 to 8 hours. The absorption is not affected by food. Olanzapine is not mutagenic or clastogenic as well as not carcinogenic.

Schizophrenia, combination therapy for Mania, Bipolar Disorder: The initial dose is 5-10 mg once daily. Daily dosage may subsequently be adjusted on the basis of individual clinical status within the range of 5-20 mg daily. Dosage greater than 10 mg daily only after reassessment. Maximum dose is 20 mg daily.

Monotherapy for Mania: Initially 15 mg once daily. Daily dosage may subsequently be adjusted on the basis of individual clinical status within the range of 5-20 mg daily. Dosage greater than 15 mg only after reassessment. Maximum dose is 20 mg daily.

Olanzapine can be given without regard to meals. Gradual tapering of the dose should be considered while discontinuing Olanzapine.

Very common undesirable effects are somnolence and weight gain. Besides increased appetite, elevated glucose levels, elevated triglyceride levels, dizziness, akathisia, Parkinson's disease, dyskinesia, orthostatic hypotension, mild and transient anticholinergic effects including constipation and dry mouth, asthenia, edema and photosensitivity reaction etc. may be observed.

Olanzapine is contraindicated in those patients with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient of the product as well as in patients with known risk for narrow-angle glaucoma.

Olanzapine should be used cautiously in patients who have a history of seizures or have conditions associated with seizures. Olanzapine should be used cautiously in patients with low leukocyte and/or neutrophil counts for any reason, drug induced bone marrow depression/toxicity caused by radiation therapy or chemotherapy, hypereosinophilic conditions, impaired hepatic function, and patients using hepatotoxic medicines, centrally acting drug and medicines know to increase QT interval, especially in the elderly. Patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including motor vehicles.

Olanzapine may antagonize the effects of levodopa and dopamine agonists. Drugs that induce CYP1A2 or glucoronyl transferase enzymes e.g, Omeprazole and Rifampicin, may increase Olanzapine clearance. Inhibitors of CYP1A2 may potentially inhibit Olanzapine elimination. Carbamazepine may increase the clearance of Olanzapine. Concomitant administration of activated charcoal reduces the oral bioavailability of Olanzapine by 50-60%. Caution should be taken when Olanzapine is administered with centrally acting drugs and alcohol.

Olanzapine should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the foetus. So, patients should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with Olanzapine. There is no report to show teratogenecity. Patients should not breast feed if they are taking Olanzapine.

Children: Olanzapine has not been studied in subjects under 18 years of age.

Elderly patients (age 65 and over): starting dose 5 mg/day

Patients with hepatic, renal impairment: starting dose 5 mg/day

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

Contrast medium for diagnostic procedures

Iopamidol, an organic Iodine compound and used as a non-ionic water soluble radiographic contrast medium. Iopamidol blocks X-rays as they pass through the body, thereby allowing body structures not containing Iodine to be visualized. The degree of opacity produced by Iopamidol is directly proportional to the total amount of the iodinated contrast agent in the path of the X-rays. The visualization of body structures is dependent upon the distribution and elimination of Iopamidol.

Adult dosage:

• Neurology: Lumber myelography: Iopamidol 370, 6-13 ml,
• Thoraco-cervical myelography: Iopamidol 370, 6-13 ml.
• Urography: Iopamidol 370, 40-80 ml IV up to 1.5 ml/kg in severe renal disease.

Children:

• Usual Dose: 1-2.5 ml/kg
• Other Diagnostic Procedure: Contrast enhancement in CT scanning: Iopamidol 370, 0.5-2.0 ml/kg

Angiography: Cerebral angiography: Iopamidol 370, 6-13 ml

Selective coronary arteriography: Iopamidol 370, 4-8 ml/artery

Peripheral arteriography: Iopamidol 370, 20-50 ml

Venography: Iopamidol 370, 24-60 ml

Angiocardiography: Iopamidol 370, 30-80 ml

Left ventriculography: Iopamidol 370, 30-80 ml

Percutaneous transfemoral or renal arteriography: Iopamidol 370, 30 ml

Selective renal arteriography: Iopamidol 370, 5-10 ml

Hepatic angiography: Iopamidol 370, 70 ml

Coeliac angiography: Iopamidol 370, 40-70 ml

Superior mesenteric angiography: Iopamidol 370, 25-50 ml

Inferior mesenteric angiography: Iopamidol 370, 5-30 ml

Digital subtraction angiography: 30-50 ml (10-20 ml/sec) of Iopamidol 370, IV 25 ml (left ventricle), 2-5 ml (coronary arteries) ,15 ml/sec. of Iopamidol 370 i.a for cardiac imaging

NEURORADIOLOGY-

Lumber myelography: A slow sub-arachnoid injection is made through a fine lumber puncture needle into one of the lower interspinous spaces (L3-L4 or L4-L5). Optimum contrast appears immediately after injections and films should be obtained promptly.
Thoraco-cervical myelography: Following a slow sub-arachnoid injection the patient should be turned on his/her side and tilted 10o-20o head down under fluoroscopic control. In this manner it is possible to control movement of the contrast medium column into the dorsal region.
If the cervical region is to be examined, the contrast medium should be run into the cervical region first, before the examination of the dorsal areas where it is progressively diluted. Iopamidol 300/370 may also be injected sub-occipitally or by lateral puncture technique .Care should be taken to ensure that the contrast medium does not move intracranially. It is generally recommended that in intrathecal use the patient should remain with a raised bed head and be kept well hydrated; following hydration it is preferable that the patient be allowed to be ambulatory .

ANGIOGRAPHY-

Cerebral angiography: Any current technique is suitable for radiological visualization of the cerebral vasculature with Iopamidol 370/300 injection. Carotid and vertebral angiography, performed by catheterization or percutaneous injection techniques, require rapid injection which, if necessary, may be repeated.
Peripheral arteriography and venography: Percutaneous injection into the appropriate blood vessel is used for visualization of peripheral arteries and veins.
Angiocardiography, left ventriculography, selective coronary arteriography: Iopamidol 370/300 injection may be administered by rapid injection through a catheter into a suitable peripheral artery or vein. It can also be introduced under pressure through a cardiac catheter in to any of the heart chambers, or injected into large vessel for immediate visualization. The contrast medium may also be administered during selective catheterization of the coronary arteries.
Aortography: The contrast medium may be introduced directly or by intra-arterial injection for visualization of the aorta and its main branches.
Selective visceral angiography: Visualization can be achieved by selective catheterization and injection into the hepatic, coeliac or mesenteric arteries.
Digital subtraction angiography: For cardiac imaging the contrast medium may be administered intra-arterially by selective catheterization to provide substrated images. Iopamidol 370/300 injected intravenously either centrally or peripherally is also recommended for use this modality.

UROGRAPHY-

The contrast medium injected intravenously and rapidly eliminated through the kidneys. In patients with severe renal failure, high dose urography should be used.

OTHER DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES-

Arthrography: Visualization of joint cavities and articular surfaces can be achieved either single or double contrast examination.
Contrast enhancement in CT scanning: Contrast enhancement for brain scans can be achieved between one and three minutes after i.v. injection. Iopamidol 370/300 are also be used for total body scanning examinations after i.v.administration as a bolus, as a drip infusion or by combination of the two methods.

Common side effects are arrhythmias, arterial spasm, flushing, vasodilatation, angina, cardiopulmonary arrest; dizziness, confusion, paraesthesia, visual disturbances, seizure, paralysis, coma, temporary amnesia; inj site pain, pallor, periorbital and facial oedema; coughing, sneezing, rhinitis, asthma, apnoea, laryngeal oedema, chest tightness; watery itchy eyes, lachrymation, conjunctivitis; muscle spasm, involuntary leg movement; tremors, malaise; severe retching and choking, abdominal pain; urogenital pain, haematuria.

There are no definite or absolute contraindications to the use of Amidol, with the possible exception of waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma and severe liver and kidney disease.

May inhibit blood coagulation. Multiple myeloma or other paraproteinaemia. Sickle-cell disease. Known or suspected phaeochromocytoma (monitor closely). Hyperthyroidism. Ensure adequate hydration. History of a previous sensitivity to a contrast medium, sensitivity to iodine, bronchial asthma, hay fever and food allergy. Monitor patients with CHF. Avoid angiography in patients with homocystinuria. Severe arterial or venous disease. Severe renal impairment, combined renal and hepatic disease or anuria, especially when large doses are used. Pregnancy and lactation.

Iopamidol may interfere with thyroid function. Biguanide compete for excretion in the kidneys with contrast media and this could lead to reduction in kidney function. Patient taking Metformin or other Biguanides should therefore not take any doses of Metformin for 48 hours before or 48 hours after the X-ray examination.

Iopamidol injection should be administered in pregnancy only if the procedure is considered essential by the physician.

Treatments of an overdose is directed toward the support of all vital functions and prompt institution of symptomatic therapy.

Store at 20-25° C

Calcium-channel blockers

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker, with a long duration of action, used for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris. Amlodipine influences the myocardial cells, the cells within the specialized conducting system of the heart, and the cells of vascular smooth muscle. Administration of Amlodipine results primarily in vasodilation, with reduced peripheral resistance, blood pressure and afterload, increased coronary blood flow and a reflex increase in coronary heart rate. This in turn results in an increase in myocardial oxygen supply and cardiac output.

Hypertension: Usual dose is 5 mg once daily. The maximum dose is 10 mg once daily. Elderly patients with hepatic insufficiency may be started on 2.5 mg once daily; this dose may also be used when adding Amlodipine to other antihypertensive therapy.

Angina (Chronic stable or Vasospastic): 5 to 10 mg, using the lower dose for elderly and in patients with hepatic insufficiency. Most patients require 10 mg.

Administrations: May be taken without regard to meals.

The most common adverse effects of amlodipine are associated with vasodilatory action, such as dizziness, flushing, headache, hypotension and peripheral edema. Gastrointestinal disturbances, increased micturition frequency, lethargy, eye pain and mental depression may also occur. A paradoxical increase in ischaemic chest pain may occur at the start of the treatment and in a few patients excessive fall in blood pressure has led to cerebral or myocardial ischaemia or transient blindness. Rashes, fever and abnormalities in liver function due to hypersensitivity reaction of Amlodipine may occur.

Hypersensitivity to dihydropyridine derivatives. Pregnant woman.

Precaution should be taken in patients with hepatic impairment and during pregnancy and breast feeding.

Drug Interactions-

• Potentially hazardous interactions: Little or no data are available in patients with markedly impaired cardiac left ventricular function; however, as with other calcium antagonist drugs, the combination of Amlodipine and p-blockers should be avoided in such patients.

Other Significant Interactions-

• Digoxin: Absence of any interaction between Amlodipine and Digoxin in healthy volunteers has been documented in a controlled clinical study.
• Cimetidine: An unpublished clinical study indicated no interaction between, Amlodipine and Cimetidine in healthy volunteers.
• Warfarin: An unpublished clinical study in healthy volunteers indicates that Amlodipine did not significantly alter the effect of Warfarin on prothrombin time.
• Food: Food does not alter the rate or extent of absorption of Amlodipine.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Amlodipine in pregnant women. Amlodipine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Amlodipine is excreted in human milk. In the absence of this information, it is recommended that nursing be discontinued while Amlodipine is administered.

Children with hypertension from 6 years to 17 years of age: 2.5 mg once daily as a starting dose, up-titrated to 5 mg once daily if blood pressure goal is not achieved after 4 weeks. Doses in excess of 5 mg daily have not been studied in pediatric patients.

Children under 6 years old:  The effect of amlodipine on blood pressure in patients less than 6 years of age is not known.

Elderly: Amlodipine used at similar doses in elderly or younger patients is equally well tolerated. Normal dosage regimens are recommended in the elderly, but increase of the dosage should take place with care.

Renal impairment: Changes in amlodipine plasma concentrations are not correlated with degree of renal impairment, therefore the normal dosage is recommended. Amlodipine is not dialysable.

Hepatic impairment: Dosage recommendations have not been established in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment; therefore dose selection should be cautions and should start at the lower end of the dosing range. The pharmacokinetics of Amlodipine have not been studied in severe hepatic impairment. Amlodipine should be initiated at the lowest dose (2.5 mg once daily) and titrated slowly in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Symptoms: Available data suggest that large overdosage could result in excessive peripheral vasodilatation and possibly reflex tachycardia. Marked and probably prolonged systemic hypotension up to and including shock with fatal outcome have been reported.

Management: Clinically significant hypotension due to amlodipine overdosage calls for active cardiovascular support including frequent monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function, elevation of extremities, and attention to circulating fluid volume and urine output. 

A vasoconstrictor may be helpful in restoring vascular tone and blood pressure, provided that there is no contraindication to its use. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be beneficial in reversing the effects of calcium channel blockade. Gastric lavage may be worthwhile in some cases. In healthy volunteers the use of charcoal up to 2 hours after administration of amlodipine 10 mg has been shown to reduce the absorption rate of amlodipine. Since amlodipine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be of benefit.

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

This is indicated in-

• Patients with essential hypertension
• Patients with angina pectoris & hypertension as co-existing diseases
• ln post Ml patients
• ln patients with refractory angina pectoris where nitrate therapy has failed.

Combined antihypertensive preparations

This is a fixed-dose combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol. Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle; it has a greater effect on vascular smooth muscle than on cardiac muscle. Amlodipine is a peripheral vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure. Amlodipine reduces tone, decreases coronary vasoreactivity and lowers cardiac demand by reducing afterload.

Atenolol is a cardioselective beta-blocker. The cardio-selectivity is dose-related. Atenolol causes a reduction in blood pressure by lowering cardiac output, decreasing the plasma renin activity and sympathetic outflow from CNS. Atenolol also causes a reduction in myocardial oxygen demand by virtue of its negative inotropic and negative chronotropic effects.

The recommended dosage is Amlodipine and Atenolol 5/25 mg tablet once daily. If necessary, the dosage may be increased to 5/25 mg two tablets daily or as advised by the physicians. The dosage however should be individualized.

The combination of Amlodipine and Atenolol is well tolerated. Overall side-effects include
fatigue, headache, edema, nausea, drowsiness, anxiety and depression.

Hypersensitivity to either component, sinus bradycardia, second and higher degrees of heart block, cardiogenic shock, hypotension, congestive heart failure, poor left ventricular function.

Bronchospasm: The combination should be used with caution in patients with airway obstruction.

Renal impairment: The combination can be used in patients with renal impairment. However, caution may be necessary if the creatinine clearance is less than 30 ml/min because of possible reduction in the excretion of unchanged Atenolol.

Hepatic impairment: Caution may be necessary in the use of the combination in patients with severe liver damage because of prolongation of the elimination half-life of Amlodipine.

Drug withdrawal: Since coronary heart disease may exist without being recognized, patients should be warned against stopping the drug suddenly. Any discontinuation should be gradual and under observation.

Disopyramide: Atenolol reduces the clearance of disopyramide by 20%. Additive negative inotropic effects on the heart may be produced.

Ampicillin: at doses of 1 gm and above may reduce Atenolol levels.

Oral antidiabetics and insulin: Beta-blockers may decrease tissue sensitivity to insulin and inhibit insulin secretion e.g. in response to oral antidiabetics. Atenolol has less potential for these actions.

The combination should be used during pregnancy only if the expected benefit outweighs the potential fetal risk. The combination should not be used by nursing mothers. If its use is considered necessary, breast-feeding should be stopped.

Though not documented, hypotension and less frequently congestive cardiac failure may occur in cases of overdosage. Unabsorbed drugs may be removed by gastric lavage or administration of activated charcoal. Symptomatic treatment is suggested.

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

Anti-platelet drugs

Clopidogrel is a prodrug. It inhibits platelet activation and aggregation through the irreversible binding of its active metabolite to the P2Y12 class of ADP receptors on platelets. Dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation can be seen 2 hours after single oral doses. Repeated doses of 75 mg per day inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation on the first day, and inhibition reaches steady state between Day 3 and Day 7.

Acute Coronary Syndrome: In patients who need an antiplatelet effect within hours, initiate clopidogrel with a single 300 mg (4 tablets) oral loading dose and then continue at 75 mg once daily. Initiating it without a loading dose will delay establishment of an antiplatelet effect by several days.

Recent MI, Recent Stroke, or Established Peripheral Arterial Disease: 75 mg once daily orally without a loading dose.

It is given orally with or without food.

Clopidogrel is generally well tolerated drug.

• Common side effects: Bleeding, Diarrhoea, gastrointestinal discomfort, haemorrhage, Skin reactions.
• Rare side effects: Acquired haemophilia, anaemia, angioedema, arthralgia, arthritis, bone marrow disorders.

Clopidogrel is contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to the drug substance or any component of the product. Active pathological bleeding such as peptic ulcer or intracranial hemorrhage.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is unknown whether clopidogrel is excreted in human breast milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric populations have not been established. No dosage adjustment is necessary in elderly patients.

Overdose following clopidogrel administration may lead to bleeding complications. Based on biological plausibility, platelet transfusion may restore clotting ability.

Keep below 30°C temperature in a dry place. Protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.

Anti-platelet drugs

Clopidogrel is a prodrug. It inhibits platelet activation and aggregation through the irreversible binding of its active metabolite to the P2Y12 class of ADP receptors on platelets. Dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation can be seen at 2 hours after single oral doses. Repeated doses of 75 mg per day inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation on the first day, and inhibition reaches steady state between Day 3 and Day 7.

Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation by irreversible inhibition of platelet cyclooxygenase and thus inhibiting the generation of thromboxane A2 a powerful inducer of platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction.

The recommended oral dose is one tablet daily.

This combination is generally well tolerated.

This combination is contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to the drug substance or any component of the product. Active pathological bleeding such as peptic ulcer or intracranial hemorrhage.

Oral anticoagulants, NSAIDs, Metamizole, SSRIs, CYP2C19 inhibitors increase the risk of bleeding. It shows interaction with Tonofovir, Valproic acid, Varicella vaccine, Acetazolamide and Nicorandil.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during first and second trimesters of pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy. It is unknown whether Clopidogrel is excreted in human breast milk but Aspirin is known to be excreted in human milk. This Drug should be discontinued during the breast feeding.

It should not be given to children, particularly those under 12 years, unless the expected benefits outweight the possible risks. Aspirin may be a contributory factor in the causation of Reye’s syndrome in some children.

Clopidogrel overdose may lead to bleeding complications. Based on biological plausibility, platelet transfusion may restore clotting ability. In moderate aspirin intoxication dizziness, headache, tinnitus, confusion, and gastrointestinal symptoms may occur which can be treated by inducing vomiting followed by gastric lavage if needed. In severe Aspirin intoxication respiratory alkalosis respiratory acidosis, metabolic acidosis, hyperthermia, perspiration, dehydration can occur. It can be treated with haemodialysis and other symptomatic treatment.

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

Anti-platelet drugs

Clopidogrel is a prodrug. It inhibits platelet activation and aggregation through the irreversible binding of its active metabolite to the P2Y12 class of ADP receptors on platelets. Dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation can be seen 2 hours after single oral doses. Repeated doses of 75 mg per day inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation on the first day, and inhibition reaches steady state between Day 3 and Day 7.

Acute Coronary Syndrome: In patients who need an antiplatelet effect within hours, initiate clopidogrel with a single 300 mg (4 tablets) oral loading dose and then continue at 75 mg once daily. Initiating it without a loading dose will delay establishment of an antiplatelet effect by several days.

Recent MI, Recent Stroke, or Established Peripheral Arterial Disease: 75 mg once daily orally without a loading dose.

It is given orally with or without food.

Clopidogrel is generally well tolerated drug.

• Common side effects: Bleeding, Diarrhoea, gastrointestinal discomfort, haemorrhage, Skin reactions.
• Rare side effects: Acquired haemophilia, anaemia, angioedema, arthralgia, arthritis, bone marrow disorders.

Clopidogrel is contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to the drug substance or any component of the product. Active pathological bleeding such as peptic ulcer or intracranial hemorrhage.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is unknown whether clopidogrel is excreted in human breast milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric populations have not been established. No dosage adjustment is necessary in elderly patients.

Overdose following clopidogrel administration may lead to bleeding complications. Based on biological plausibility, platelet transfusion may restore clotting ability.

Keep below 30°C temperature in a dry place. Protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.

Anti-platelet drugs

Clopidogrel is a prodrug. It inhibits platelet activation and aggregation through the irreversible binding of its active metabolite to the P2Y12 class of ADP receptors on platelets. Dose-dependent inhibition of platelet aggregation can be seen at 2 hours after single oral doses. Repeated doses of 75 mg per day inhibit ADP-induced platelet aggregation on the first day, and inhibition reaches steady state between Day 3 and Day 7.

Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation by irreversible inhibition of platelet cyclooxygenase and thus inhibiting the generation of thromboxane A2 a powerful inducer of platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction.

The recommended oral dose is one tablet daily.

This combination is generally well tolerated.

This combination is contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to the drug substance or any component of the product. Active pathological bleeding such as peptic ulcer or intracranial hemorrhage.

Oral anticoagulants, NSAIDs, Metamizole, SSRIs, CYP2C19 inhibitors increase the risk of bleeding. It shows interaction with Tonofovir, Valproic acid, Varicella vaccine, Acetazolamide and Nicorandil.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It should be used during first and second trimesters of pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy. It is unknown whether Clopidogrel is excreted in human breast milk but Aspirin is known to be excreted in human milk. This Drug should be discontinued during the breast feeding.

It should not be given to children, particularly those under 12 years, unless the expected benefits outweight the possible risks. Aspirin may be a contributory factor in the causation of Reye’s syndrome in some children.

Clopidogrel overdose may lead to bleeding complications. Based on biological plausibility, platelet transfusion may restore clotting ability. In moderate aspirin intoxication dizziness, headache, tinnitus, confusion, and gastrointestinal symptoms may occur which can be treated by inducing vomiting followed by gastric lavage if needed. In severe Aspirin intoxication respiratory alkalosis respiratory acidosis, metabolic acidosis, hyperthermia, perspiration, dehydration can occur. It can be treated with haemodialysis and other symptomatic treatment.

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

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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

This is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. It is also indicated to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy.

Combined antihypertensive preparations

Angiotensin II formed from angiotensin I in a reaction catalyzed by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), is a potent vasoconstrictor, the primary vasoactive hormone of the renin-angiotensin system and an important component in the pathophysiology of hypertension. It also stimulates aldosterone secretion by the adrenal cortex. Losartan and its principal active metabolite block the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT₁ receptor found in many tissues, (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland). In vitro binding studies indicate that losartan is a reversible, competitive inhibitor of the AT₁ receptor. Neither Losartan nor its active metabolite inhibits ACE (kinase II, the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II and degrades bradykinin); nor do they bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. Thiazides affect the renal tubular mechanisms of electrolyte reabsorption, directly increasing excretion of Sodium and Chloride in approximately equivalent amounts. Indirectly, the diuretic action of Hydrochlorothiazide reduces plasma volume, with consequent increases in plasma renin activity, increases in Aldosterone secretion, increases in urinary Potassium loss, and decreases in serum Potassium. The renin-aldosterone link is mediated by angiotensin II, so co-administration of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist tends to reverse the Potassium loss associated with these diuretics.

Hypertension-

• The usual starting dose of 50/12.5 is one tablet once daily.
• For patients who do not respond adequately to one tablet the dosage may be increased to 100/25 once daily.
• A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Losartan 100 mg monotherapy may be switched to this combination 100/12.5 once daily.
• In hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy initial dose is 50/12.5, if additional blood pressure reduction is needed, 100/12.5 may be given, followed by 100/25 if required. The maximum dose is 100/25 once daily.
• In general, the antihypertensive effect is attained within three weeks after initiation of therapy.
• No initial dosage adjustment of 50/12.5 is necessary for elderly patients. But maximum dose of 100/25 once daily dose should not be used as initial therapy in elderly patients.

Severe Hypertension:

• The starting dose for initial treatment of severe hypertension is one tablet of 50/12.5 once daily.
• For patients who do not respond adequately to this dose after 2 to 4 weeks of therapy, the dosage may be increased to 100/25 once daily. The maximum dose is one tablet of 100/25 once daily.

This preparation may be administered with other antihypertensive agents. This may be administered with or without food.

Side-effects are usually mild. Symptomatic hypotension including dizziness may occur, particularly in patients with intravascular volume depletion (e.g. those taking high-dose diuretics). Hyperkalaemia occurs occasionally; angioedema has also been reported with some angiotensin-II receptor antagonists. Vertigo; less commonly gastro-intestinal disturbances, angina, palpitation, oedema, dyspnoea, headache, sleep disorders, malaise, urticaria, pruritus, rash; rarely hepatitis, atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular accident, syncope, paraesthesia; also reported pancreatitis, anaphylaxis, cough, depression, erectile dysfunction, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, hyponatraemia, arthralgia, myalgia, renal impairment, rhabdomyolysis, tinnitus, photosensitivity, and vasculitis (including Henoch-Schonlein purpura)

The combination of Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Because of the Hydrochlorothiazide component, this product is contraindicated in patients with anuria or hypersensitivity to other sulfonamide-derived drugs.

Losartan Potassium: No significant drug-drug pharmacokinetic interactions have been found in interaction studies with Hydrochlorothiazide, Digoxin, Warfarin, Cimetidine and Phenobarbital. As with other drugs that block angiotensin II or its effects, concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g. Spironolactone, Triamterene, Amiloride), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increase in serum potassium. As with other antihypertensive agents, the antihypertensive effect of Losartan may be blunted by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug Indomethacin.

Hydrochlorothiazide: When administered concurrently, the following drugs may interact with Thiazide diuretics: alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics-potentiation of orthostatic hypotension may occur.

Antidiabetic drugs (oral agents and Insulin): dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic drug may be required.

Other antihypertensive drugs: additive effect or potentiation.

Cholestyramine and colestipol resins: absorption of Hydrochlorothiazide is impaired in the presence of anionic exchange resins

Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists should be avoided in pregnancy unless essential. They may adversely affect fetal and neonatal blood pressure control and renal function; skull defects and oligohy dramnios have also been reported. Information on the use of angiotensin-II receptor antagonists in breastfeeding is limited. They are not recommended in breastfeeding and alternative treatment options, with better-established safety information during breastfeeding, are available.

Use in Patients with Renal Impairment: The usual regimens of therapy with 50/12.5 may be followed as long as the patient's creatinine clearance is >30 ml/min. In patients with more severe renal impairment, loop diuretics are preferred to thiazides. In that case, hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended.

Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment: The combination of Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for titration in patients with hepatic impairment because the appropriate 25 mg starting dose of Losartan cannot be given.

Use in pediatric patients: The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Losartan Potassium: Limited data are available in regard to overdosage in humans. The most likely manifestation of overdosage would be hypotension and tachycardia; bradycardia could occur from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If symptomatic hypotension should occur, supportive treatment should be instituted. Neither losartan nor its metabolite can be removed by hemodialysis.

Hydrochlorothiazide: The most common signs and symptoms observed are those caused by electrolyte depletion (hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis. If digitalis has also been administered, hypokalemia, may accentuate cardiac arrhythmias. The degree to which Hydrochlorothiazide is removed by hemodialysis has not been established.

Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children.

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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

This is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. It is also indicated to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy.

Combined antihypertensive preparations

Angiotensin II formed from angiotensin I in a reaction catalyzed by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), is a potent vasoconstrictor, the primary vasoactive hormone of the renin-angiotensin system and an important component in the pathophysiology of hypertension. It also stimulates aldosterone secretion by the adrenal cortex. Losartan and its principal active metabolite block the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT₁ receptor found in many tissues, (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland). In vitro binding studies indicate that losartan is a reversible, competitive inhibitor of the AT₁ receptor. Neither Losartan nor its active metabolite inhibits ACE (kinase II, the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II and degrades bradykinin); nor do they bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. Thiazides affect the renal tubular mechanisms of electrolyte reabsorption, directly increasing excretion of Sodium and Chloride in approximately equivalent amounts. Indirectly, the diuretic action of Hydrochlorothiazide reduces plasma volume, with consequent increases in plasma renin activity, increases in Aldosterone secretion, increases in urinary Potassium loss, and decreases in serum Potassium. The renin-aldosterone link is mediated by angiotensin II, so co-administration of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist tends to reverse the Potassium loss associated with these diuretics.

Hypertension-

• The usual starting dose of 50/12.5 is one tablet once daily.
• For patients who do not respond adequately to one tablet the dosage may be increased to 100/25 once daily.
• A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Losartan 100 mg monotherapy may be switched to this combination 100/12.5 once daily.
• In hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy initial dose is 50/12.5, if additional blood pressure reduction is needed, 100/12.5 may be given, followed by 100/25 if required. The maximum dose is 100/25 once daily.
• In general, the antihypertensive effect is attained within three weeks after initiation of therapy.
• No initial dosage adjustment of 50/12.5 is necessary for elderly patients. But maximum dose of 100/25 once daily dose should not be used as initial therapy in elderly patients.

Severe Hypertension:

• The starting dose for initial treatment of severe hypertension is one tablet of 50/12.5 once daily.
• For patients who do not respond adequately to this dose after 2 to 4 weeks of therapy, the dosage may be increased to 100/25 once daily. The maximum dose is one tablet of 100/25 once daily.

This preparation may be administered with other antihypertensive agents. This may be administered with or without food.

Side-effects are usually mild. Symptomatic hypotension including dizziness may occur, particularly in patients with intravascular volume depletion (e.g. those taking high-dose diuretics). Hyperkalaemia occurs occasionally; angioedema has also been reported with some angiotensin-II receptor antagonists. Vertigo; less commonly gastro-intestinal disturbances, angina, palpitation, oedema, dyspnoea, headache, sleep disorders, malaise, urticaria, pruritus, rash; rarely hepatitis, atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular accident, syncope, paraesthesia; also reported pancreatitis, anaphylaxis, cough, depression, erectile dysfunction, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, hyponatraemia, arthralgia, myalgia, renal impairment, rhabdomyolysis, tinnitus, photosensitivity, and vasculitis (including Henoch-Schonlein purpura)

The combination of Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Because of the Hydrochlorothiazide component, this product is contraindicated in patients with anuria or hypersensitivity to other sulfonamide-derived drugs.

Losartan Potassium: No significant drug-drug pharmacokinetic interactions have been found in interaction studies with Hydrochlorothiazide, Digoxin, Warfarin, Cimetidine and Phenobarbital. As with other drugs that block angiotensin II or its effects, concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g. Spironolactone, Triamterene, Amiloride), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increase in serum potassium. As with other antihypertensive agents, the antihypertensive effect of Losartan may be blunted by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug Indomethacin.

Hydrochlorothiazide: When administered concurrently, the following drugs may interact with Thiazide diuretics: alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics-potentiation of orthostatic hypotension may occur.

Antidiabetic drugs (oral agents and Insulin): dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic drug may be required.

Other antihypertensive drugs: additive effect or potentiation.

Cholestyramine and colestipol resins: absorption of Hydrochlorothiazide is impaired in the presence of anionic exchange resins

Angiotensin-II receptor antagonists should be avoided in pregnancy unless essential. They may adversely affect fetal and neonatal blood pressure control and renal function; skull defects and oligohy dramnios have also been reported. Information on the use of angiotensin-II receptor antagonists in breastfeeding is limited. They are not recommended in breastfeeding and alternative treatment options, with better-established safety information during breastfeeding, are available.

Use in Patients with Renal Impairment: The usual regimens of therapy with 50/12.5 may be followed as long as the patient's creatinine clearance is >30 ml/min. In patients with more severe renal impairment, loop diuretics are preferred to thiazides. In that case, hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended.

Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment: The combination of Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for titration in patients with hepatic impairment because the appropriate 25 mg starting dose of Losartan cannot be given.

Use in pediatric patients: The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Losartan Potassium: Limited data are available in regard to overdosage in humans. The most likely manifestation of overdosage would be hypotension and tachycardia; bradycardia could occur from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If symptomatic hypotension should occur, supportive treatment should be instituted. Neither losartan nor its metabolite can be removed by hemodialysis.

Hydrochlorothiazide: The most common signs and symptoms observed are those caused by electrolyte depletion (hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis. If digitalis has also been administered, hypokalemia, may accentuate cardiac arrhythmias. The degree to which Hydrochlorothiazide is removed by hemodialysis has not been established.

Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children.

Angiotensin-ll receptor blocker

Losartan Potassium is the first non-peptide orally active angiotensin II receptor blocker. It binds to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g. vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland, kidneys and the heart) and reduces several important biological actions including vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone responsible for hypertension.

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

The side effects with the use of Losartan Potassium are mild and transient in nature. The most common side effects are dizziness, diarrhea, nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection. Other side effects are fatigue, oedema, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache & pharyngitis.

Losartan Potassium is contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. Losartan Potassium should not be administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Use of Losartan Potassium during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. In patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), symptomatic hypotension may occur. Plasma concentration of Losartan Potassium is significantly increased in cirrhotic patients. Changes in renal function including renal failure have been reported in renal impaired patient.

Rifampicin and fluconazole reduce levels of active metabolite of Losartan Potassium. Concomitant use of Losartan Potassium and hydrochlorothiazide may lead to potentiation of the antihypertensive effects. Concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to increases in serum potassium. The antihypertensive effect of losartan may be attenuated by the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin. The use of ACE-inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment.

Pregnancy Category D. The risk to the fetus increases if Losartan Potassium is administered during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. It is not known whether Losartan Potassium is excreted in human milk, as many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

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