Category: Medicine

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Itopride | A Gastroprokinetic Agents

IntroductionItopride, marketed under the brand name of Ganaton, ITP, Nogerd and more, is a prokinetic benzamide derivative. Itopride is a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist and acetylcholine esterase inhibitor that is used to treat symptoms of functional dyspepsia such as nausea and vomiting.
Class of MedicineITOPRIDE HYDROCHLORIDE belongs to a class of drugs known as ‘gastroprokinetic agents, gastrokinetic agents, or propulsives,’ which are primarily used to treat disorders associated with decreased gastrointestinal motility.
Mode of ActionItopride has both anticholinesterase (AchE) and dopamine D2 receptor antagonistic activity. M3 receptors are well known to exist on the smooth muscle layer throughout the gut, and acetylcholine (ACh) released from enteric nerve endings stimulates smooth muscle contraction via M3 receptors. The enzyme AChE hydrolyzes the released ACh, inactivating it and thus inhibiting gastric motility, resulting in a variety of digestive problems. Dopamine, in addition to ACh, is found in significant amounts in the gastrointestinal tract and has several inhibitory effects on gastrointestinal motility, including the reduction of the lower esophageal sphincter and intragastric pressure. These effects appear to be mediated by the D2 subtype of dopamine receptors and appear to result from suppression of ACh release from myenteric motor neurons. Itopride removes the inhibitory effects of dopamine D2 receptor antagonism on Ach release. It also inhibits the enzyme AchE, preventing ACh degradation. The net result is an increase in ACh concentration, which promotes gastric motility, raises lower esophageal sphincter pressure, speeds up gastric emptying, and improves gastro-duodenal coordination. Itopride’s dual mode of action is distinct and distinct from the actions of other prokinetic agents on the market.
Medical UsesItopride is typically used to treat GI symptoms caused by decreased GI motility: non-ulcer/dysmotility dyspepsia (gastric “fullness”, discomfort, and possible pain)
Gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying)
Anorexia
Heartburn \Sregurgitation
Other possible gastric, prolactin, or dopamine-related conditions include bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
In placebo-controlled trials, itopride was shown to significantly improve symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia and motility disorders.These studies concluded that itopride was significantly superior to placebo in terms of reducing the severity of symptoms of functional dyspepsia after 8 weeks of treatment, and that itopride yielded a higher rate of response than placebo in terms of significantly reducing pain and fullness.
Avaiability & UsageITOPRIDE HYDROCHLORIDE tablets are available in 50mg and 100mg strengths. Based on your medical condition, your doctor will advise you on how frequently you should take ITOPRIDE HYDROCHLORIDE.
The usual dose is 50mg tab twice daily or 150mg once daily.
Side EffectsItopride’s most common side effects are mild to moderate
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Rashes
Giddiness
Exhaustion
Back or Chest pain
Increased Salivation
Constipation
Headache
Sleeping disorders
Dizziness
Galactorrhea
GynecomastiaBecause of poor penetration across the blood brain barrier, adverse effects on the central nervous system are rare, though a slight increase in prolactin levels may occur. Prolactin levels are more likely to rise when taking itopride at high doses.
Important WarningItopride can cause leukopenia, or a decrease in the normal level of white blood cells, which can be fatal.
Available BrandsGanaton
ITP
Nogerd

 

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Azithromycin | a Macrolide Antibiotic

 

IntroductionAzithromycin available under brand names of Azomax, Macrobac, Azitma, Zetro and more, is a macrolide antibiotic with a long half-life and a high level of tissue penetration.

It is primarily used to treat respiratory, enteric, and genitourinary infections, but it can also be used to treat some sexually transmitted and enteric infections in place of other macrolides. It has a similar structure to erythromycin 2.

Class of MedicineAzithromycin is a type of antibiotic known as a macrolide antibiotic. It works by either killing or preventing the growth of bacteria. This medication, however, will not help with colds, flu, or other virus infections.
Mode of ActionBacteria require a specific process of protein synthesis, which is enabled by ribosomal proteins, in order to replicate. Azithromycin binds to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit’s 23S rRNA. It inhibits protein synthesis in bacteria by inhibiting the transpeptidation/translocation step as well as the assembly of the 50S ribosomal subunit. Labeling As a result, various bacterial infections are controlled. Label number seven. The high affinity of macrolides for bacterial ribosomes, including azithromycin, is consistent with their broad spectrum antibacterial activity.

Azithromycin is highly stable at low pH, giving it a longer serum half-life and higher tissue concentrations than erythromycin.

Medical UsesAzithromycin should only be used to treat or prevent infections caused by susceptible bacteria, in order to prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance and maintain the efficacy of azithromycin Label.

Azithromycin is used to treat patients who have mild to moderate infections caused by susceptible strains of the microorganisms listed in the specific conditions below. Dosages, duration of therapy, and considerations for different patient populations may differ between these infections.

Avaiability & UsagePneumonia in the Community
Indicated for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia caused by Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, or Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients who can take oral antibiotics.Day 1: 500 mg PO x 1 dose, followed by 250 mg PO then OD on 2-5 DaysTonsillitis or Pharyngitis
Indicated as an alternative therapy for Streptococcus pyogenes-caused pharyngitis/tonsillitis in patients who are unable to receive first-line therapy.Day 1: 500 mg PO x 1 dose, followed by 250 mg PO then OD 2-5 Days.

Skin/skin structure that is uncomplicated
Indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Streptococcus agalactiae skin and skin structure infections.

Day 1: 500 mg PO x 1 dose, followed by 250 mg PO then Daily on Days 2-5.

Exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease caused by acute bacterial exacerbations
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae are indicated for treatment.

OR 500 mg PO qDay for 3 days

Alternatively, on Day 1, take 500 mg PO x 1 dose, followed by 250 mg PO qDay on Days 2-5.

Bacterial sinusitis, acute
Acute bacterial sinusitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae is treated with this medication.

500 mg PO Daily for three days

Chancroid Indicated for the treatment of genital ulcer disease in men caused by Haemophilus ducreyi (chancroid)

The efficacy of chancroid treatment in women has not been established.

1 dose of 1000 mg PO

Urethritis and Cervicitis caused by nongonococcal or gonococcal bacteria
It is used to treat urethritis and cervicitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

1 dose of 1000 mg PO

Inflammatory Pelvic Disease
Indicated in patients requiring initial IV therapy for pelvic inflammatory disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or Mycoplasma hominis.

Side EffectsThese common side effects of azithromycin happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Feeling sick (nausea)
Diarrhoea
Being sick (vomiting)
Losing your appetite
Headaches
Feeling dizzy or tired
Changes to your sense of taste
Keep taking the medicine, but talk to your doctor or pharmacist if these side effects bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects
Serious side effects are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people.

Call your doctor right way if:

You have a faster or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow (this may be less noticeable on brown or black skin), or you have pale poo with dark pee – these can be signs of liver or gallbladder problems
You get ringing in your ears (tinnitus), temporary hearing loss, or you feel unsteady on your feet (vertigo)
You have severe pain in your stomach or back – this can be a sign of inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
You have diarrhoea (perhaps with muscle cramps) that contains blood or mucus – if you have severe diarrhoea without blood or mucus for more than 4 days you should also speak to a doctor

Important WarningA word about the dangers of liver toxicity:
Because azithromycin is primarily eliminated by the liver, caution should be exercised when administering azithromycin to patients with impaired hepatic function.

A word about possible renal toxicity:
Because there is a lack of data in patients with renal GFR less than 10 mL/min, caution should be used when prescribing azithromycin to these patients.

Available BrandsAzomax
Macrobac
Azitma
Zetro

 

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Clarithromycin | A Macrolide Antibiotic

clarithromycin town pharmacy
IntroductionClarithromycin available under the brand names of Klaricid, Claritek, Clarion and more, is an antibiotic that can be used to treat a variety of infections.
It’s used to treat chest infections like pneumonia, as well as skin diseases like cellulitis and ear infections.
Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers, is also treated with it.People who are allergic to penicillin and antibiotics that are related to penicillin, such as amoxicillin, may take clarithromycin.
Class of MedicineClarithromycin belongs to the macrolide antibiotics family of drugs. It works by preventing bacteria from growing. Colds, flu, and other viral diseases will not respond to antibiotics like clarithromycin.
Mode of ActionBy attaching to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, clarithromycin, a semisynthetic macrolide antibiotic derived from erythromycin, suppresses bacterial protein production. Binding prevents amino acid translocation during translation and protein assembly by inhibiting peptidyl transferase activity.
Medical UsesClarithromycin is used to treat bacterial infections such pneumonia, bronchitis (infection of the tubes that lead to the lungs), and infections of the ears, sinuses, skin, and throat.
Avaiability & UsageClarithromycin in gernerally available in Tablet and Syrup forms.

Indicated for the treatment of mild-to-moderate infections caused by susceptible isolates of Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae.

For 7-14 days, take 250-500 mg every 12 hours.

1000 mg once daily for 7 days (extended release)

Acute Sinusitis of the Maxilla
Indicated for the treatment of mild to severe infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, or Streptococcus pneumoniae susceptible isolates.

For 14 days, take 500 mg every 12 hours.

1000 mg once daily for 14 days (extended release)

Infection with Mycobacterium
Treatment and prophylaxis for mycobacterial infections are recommended.

For 7-14 days, take 500 mg every 12 hours.

Use in combination with other antimycobacterial medications to treat disseminated infection caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) (eg, ethambutol)

Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) is a type of stomach ulcer.
When treating individuals with active or history of peptic ulcer disease, this medication is recommended for H pylori eradication.

For 10-14 days, take 500 mg every 8-12 hours.

Administer with bismuth subsalicylate, amoxicillin, H2 receptor antagonist, or proton pump inhibitor as part of a 2- or 3-drug combination therapy.

Tonsillitis, Pharyngitis: 250 mg every 12 hours for 10 days

Pneumonia acquired in the community
Susceptible isolates of Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Chlamydophila pneumoniae are used to treat mild to moderate illnesses.

For 7-14 days, take 250 mg every 12 hours.

1000 mg once daily for 7 days (extended release)

250 mg every 12 hours for 7-14 days for skin/skin structure infection

Pertussis is a kind of pertussis that causes (Off-label)
Off-label use for pertussis treatment or post-exposure prophylaxis

For 7 days, take 500 mg PO twice a day.

Side EffectsGeneral Side Efeects in more than 1%
Gastrointestinal (GI) effects, general (13%)
Abnormal taste (adults, 3-7%)
Diarrhea (3-6%)
Nausea (adults, 3-6%)
Vomiting (adults, 1%; children, 6%)
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN; 4%)
Abdominal pain (adults, 2%; children, 3%)
Rash (children, 3%)
Dyspepsia (2%)
Heartburn (adults, 2%)
Headache (2%)
Elevated prothrombin time (PT; 1%)
Caution
(while taking with other medicine)		Heart and Blood Vessel Problems.

In patients with these conditions, clarithromycin may increase the risk of heart and blood vessel problems. It could happen a year or ten years after taking this medication. If you are concerned about this risk, consult your doctor. This medication may cause diarrhoea, which can be severe in some cases.

Important WarningClarithromycin may cause QT prolongation, which is a heart rhythm problem. This condition can result in rapid, erratic heartbeats. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea can be caused by almost all antibiotics, including clarithromycin.
Available BrandsKlaricid
Claritek
Clarion

 

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Ibuprofen – NSAID – An Everyday Pain Killer

IntroductionIbuprofen available under brand name of Brufen is a common pain reliever used to treat a variety of aches and pains, such as back pain, period pain, and toothache. It also helps with inflammation from strains and sprains, as well as arthritis discomfort.
Class of MedicineIbuprofen belongs to the NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) class of drugs. It works by inhibiting the creation of a chemical that causes pain, heat, and inflammation in the body
Mode of ActionIbuprofen is a non-selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme essential for prostaglandin synthesis via the arachidonic acid pathway. COX is required for the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2 (PGH2). After then, PGH2 is converted to prostaglandins. As a result of ibuprofen’s suppression of COX, the body’s production of prostaglandins is reduced.

PGH2 produces prostaglandins, which are key mediators of feelings like pain and inflammatory processes including fever and inflammation. Ibuprofen’s antipyretic effects may be due to its influence on the hypothalamus, which results in vasodilation, increased peripheral blood flow, and subsequent heat dissipation.

Medical UsesIbuprofen is a common pain reliever used to treat a variety of aches and pains, such as back pain, period pain, and toothache. It also helps with inflammation from strains and sprains, as well as arthritis discomfort. It comes in the form of tablets, capsules, and a syrup that you ingest.
Avaiability & UsageIbuprofen is available in form of Tablet, Syrup and Cream (for external use)

Adults should take one or two 200mg pills three times each day. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe a larger dose of up to 600 mg to be taken four times each day. This should only be done under the guidance of a physician.
Allow at least 6 hours between doses if you take ibuprofen three times a day. Allow at least 4 hours between doses if you’re taking it four times a day.

If you’re in constant pain, ask your doctor about slow-release ibuprofen tablets or capsules. These are usually taken once or twice a day in the evening. If you’re taking ibuprofen twice a day, wait 10 to 12 hours between doses.

Ibuprofen tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water or juice. Ibuprofen tablets and capsules should be taken after a meal or snack, or with a glass of milk. It will be less prone to cause stomach discomfort.

Side EffectsMore than 1 in 100 people experience the common negative effects of ibuprofen taken by mouth. If these side effects annoy you or don’t go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist:

headaches
feeling nauseous
feeling unwell (nausea)
being unwell (vomiting)
wind \sindigestion

Caution
(while taking with other medicine)		Some drugs don’t combine well with ibuprofen.

When ibuprofen is applied to the skin rather than taken by mouth, it is less likely to interact with other medications.

Before taking ibuprofen or applying it to your skin, tell your doctor if you’re taking any of the following medications for your safety:

    • Warfarin, for example, is a blood thinner.
    • Aspirin, diclofenac, mefenamic acid, and naproxen are anti-inflammatory pain relievers.
  • high blood pressure medications
  • Betamethasone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, and prednisolone are examples of steroid medications.
  • Ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, nalidixic acid, norfloxacin, or ofloxacin are examples of antibiotics.
  • Citalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, paroxetine, or sertraline are examples of antidepressants.
  • Gliclazide, glimepiride, glipizide, and tolbutamide are examples of diabetes medications.
Important WarningIf you have any of the following symptoms, see a doctor right away.

  • Swollen ankles
  • Blood in your pee, or not peeing at all – these can be indicators of a kidney problem.
  • Black poo or blood in your vomit – these can be signs of stomach bleeding.
  • Severe chest or stomach discomfort – this could indicate a hole in your stomach or gut, as well as trouble breathing or worsening asthma symptoms.
Available BrandsBrufen

 

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Metformin | Biguanide | Anti-diabetic

IntroductionMetformin, marketed under the trade names Glucophage, Neophage, Neodipar and others, is the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, particularly in overweight people. It’s also used to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).  It is taken by mouth and is not linked to weight gain. It’s sometimes used as an off-label supplement to help persons who take antipsychotics and phenelzine avoid gaining weight.
Class of MedicineMetformin belongs to a group of medicines known as biguanides. Metformin aids in the regulation of glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. It reduces the amount of glucose you receive from food as well as the quantity of glucose your liver produces.
Mode of ActionThe mechanisms of action of metformin are distinct from those of other oral antihyperglycemic medications. Metformin lowers blood glucose levels by reducing hepatic glucose synthesis (gluconeogenesis), lowering glucose absorption in the intestine, and improving insulin sensitivity by enhancing peripheral glucose uptake and utilisation Label. Metformin is widely known for inhibiting mitochondrial complex I activity, and it has long been assumed that this is how it achieves its effective anti-diabetic actions 6,11. The actions described above result in a drop in blood glucose, which helps to manage type 2 diabetes and improve glycemic control.
Medical UsesMetformin is a drug that is used to treat and prevent type 2 diabetes in those who are at a high risk of developing it. Metformin is used to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), despite the fact that it isn’t officially approved for the condition.
Avaiability & UsageMetformin is available as tablet, and extended-release (long-acting) tablet for oral administration. The standard tablet is usually taken two or three times a day with meals. The extended-release tablet is normally taken with dinner once a day. Take metformin at the same time(s) every day to help you remember to take it.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and if there is anything you don’t understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain it to you. Metformin should be used exactly as prescribed. Do not take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than your doctor has suggested.
Side EffectsMetformin, like all drugs, can produce adverse effects, though not everyone experiences them.

Side effects that are common:
More than 1 in 100 people have common side effects.

If these side effects annoy you or do not go away after a week, talk to your doctor or pharmacist:

feeling unwell (nausea)
diarrhoea or getting sick (vomiting)
stomach pains
a decrease in appetite
In the mouth, there is a metallic taste.

Important WarningMetformin use is strongly discouraged in some individuals whose kidneys do not function normally because it increases the chance of developing lactic acidosis, a dangerous and potentially fatal condition in which too much lactic acid builds up in the blood.
Available BrandsGlucophage
Neophage
Neodipar

 

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Sitagliptin | DPP-4 inhibitor | Gliptin

IntroductionSitagliptin, sold under the brand names of Sita, SitaGlu, is an anti-diabetic drug that is used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is described as being less desirable in the United Kingdom than metformin or a sulfonylurea. It is administered orally. It’s also available as sitagliptin/metformin, a fixed-dose combination drug (Sita-met, Sitaglu-met etc.)
Class of MedicineSitagliptin is a member of the dipeptidylpeptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4 inhibitors) or gliptins class of drugs. It’s used to treat type 2 diabetes, which is caused by an issue with the hormone insulin in your body.
Mode of ActionSitagliptin belongs to the gliptin family of anti-diabetic drugs. It works by inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), an enzyme responsible for degrading and inactivating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Increased insulin release after meals and enhanced glucose tolerance occur from an increased GLP-1 level in response to sitagliptin. Because of this feature, as well as the lack of weight gain associated with medication, sitagliptin is now being used as a second-tier treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Medical UsesThe drug sitagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it does produce is ineffective. This can result in a spike in blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia).
In patients with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis, Sitagliptin should not be administered because it is ineffective.
Avaiability & UsageSitagliptin is available in tablet form and should be taken once a day.
It can be taken at any time of day, such as in the morning or evening. Simply make an effort to take it at the same time every day.
With a glass of water, take your tablet. Without breaking the tablet, swallow it whole.
Sitagliptin can be taken with or without food.
Side EffectsSitagliptin, like all drugs, might produce negative effects in some people.

However, many people experience no or moderate negative effects.

Common Side Effects includes:
Headaches are the most prevalent adverse effect, affecting more than one in every 100 patients.

If your headaches continue more than a week or are severe, see your doctor.

If you get a headache after taking sitagliptin, make sure you get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Don’t overindulge in alcoholic beverages.

Important WarningAlthough it is uncommon, some people may experience major side effects after taking sitagliptin.
If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor right once.
Severe stomach discomfort
Your skin may turn yellow, or the whites of your eyes may turn yellow.
Signs of kidney problems (such as a change in the amount of urine), joint pain, unusual skin blisters, or signs of heart failure (such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, or unusual/sudden weight gain), should be reported to your doctor right away.
Available BrandsSita
SitaGlu

 

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Alprazolam – Benzodiazepine – A Calming Sedative

IntroductionAlprazolam, often sold under the brand names of Xanax, Alp, Neuxam, Praz and others, is a short-acting tranquilizer that belongs to the triazolobenzodiazepine (TBZD) class, which consists of benzodiazepines (BZDs) fused with a triazole ring. It’s most typically used to treat anxiety disorders in the short term, such as panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Class of MedicineAlprazolam is a benzodiazepine (a medicine that has a relaxing, tranquil effect). It works by reducing aberrant brain excitation.
Mode of ActionAlprazolam works by attaching to a specific location on the central nervous system’s gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor. The receptor’s affinity for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA is increased as a result of this binding action. GABA activity is increased, which inhibits the transmission of neuronal signals in the brain that cause anxiety and panic.
Medical UsesAlprazolam is primarily used for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders, (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks), panic disorders, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Alprazolam may also be prescribed for the treatment of generalised anxiety disorder and anxiety disorders that are accompanied by depression. The FDA recommends that the physician evaluate the drug’s usefulness on a regular basis.
Avaiability & UsageAlprazolam is available in tablet form.
Alprazolam can be taken on a daily basis at set times or as needed (“PRN”). Your healthcare practitioner will usually limit the amount of dosages you can take in a single day. Alprazolam is a potent benzodiazepine that should only be used for six weeks at a time.
Side EffectsCommeon side effects includes:
Sleepiness
Depression
Headaches
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Memory issues
Some of the sedation and exhaustion may subside after a few days.
Important WarningDon’t take alprazolam without consulting your physician.
When used with other drugs, alprazolam can cause significant or life-threatening respiratory issues, drowsiness, or coma. So inform your physician about the medication you already taking.
Available BrandsXanax
Alp
Neuxam
Praz

 

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Pregablin – An Anticonvulsant

IntroductionPregabalin, available under brand names Gabica, Zeegap, Pregalax, Gablin and others, is an anticonvulsant and anxiolytic medicine used to treat epilepsy, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, restless leg syndrome, and generalized anxiety disorder, among other conditions. It is used as an add-on therapy for partial seizures in epilepsy. It decreases pain but causes more drowsiness and visual abnormalities when administered before surgery.
Class of MedicinePregabalin belongs to the anticonvulsant class of drugs. It works by reducing the number of pain impulses given out by the body’s injured nerves.
Mode of ActionPregabalin inhibits synaptic release of many neurotransmitters by binding to alpha2-delta subunits, which could explain its actions in vivo in reducing neuronal excitability and seizures. Several investigations, including structure-activity assessments of substances binding to alpha2-delta subunits and pharmacology in animals lacking in alpha2-delta Type 1 protein binding, suggest that pregabalin’s pharmacology is dependent on binding to alpha2-delta subunits. Preclinical data so far point to a mechanism involving reduced neurotransmitter release and a reduction in aberrant neuronal excitability. The focus of this review is on preclinical pharmacology.
Medical UsesPregabalin is a drug that is used to treat anxiety and epilepsy.
It’s also used to relieve nerve discomfort. Nerve pain can result from a variety of conditions, including diabetes and shingles, as well as an injury.
Pregabalin acts in a variety of ways:
With nerve pain, it reduces seizures in epilepsy by lowering aberrant electrical activity in the brain.
It reduces pain by interfering with pain messages as they go through the brain and down the spine, and it reduces anxiety by preventing your brain from generating the chemicals that cause anxiety.
Avaiability & UsagePregabalin is available as a capsule, an oral solution, and an extended-release tablet for oral administration. Pregabalin pills and oral solution are commonly taken two or three times a day, with or without food. Pregabalin extended-release tablets are typically used once a day, after dinner. Pregabalin should be taken at the same time(s) every day.
Side EffectsMore than 1 in 100 people may have these typical adverse effects. They are normally moderate and disappear on their own. Continue to take the medication, but let your doctor know if they irritate you or don’t go away:

Headaches
Feeling sleepy, tired or dizzy
Diarrhoea
Mood changes
Feeling sick
Swollen hands, arms, legs and feet
Blurred vision
For men, difficulties with getting an erection
Weight gain – because pregabalin can make you feel hungry
Memory problems

Important WarningOnly a small percentage of persons who take pregabalin develop major side effects.
If you have any of the following symptoms, see a doctor right once.Suicidal thoughts – a tiny proportion of patients taking pregabalin have experienced suicidal thoughts, which can occur after only a week of treatment. Problems breathing
Extreme dizziness or passing out hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
Issues with going to the bathroom, such as blood in your pee, the urge to urinate more frequently, or constipation
Available BrandsGabica
Zeegap
Pregalax
Gablin

 

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Domperidone – Dopamine Receptor Antagonist

IntroductionDomperidone available under brand names Motilium, Pelton and others, is an antiemetic, stomach prokinetic drug, and galactagogue.
This drug helps the digestive system move more freely. It’s used to treat the signs and symptoms of gastric problems. It can also be used to prevent nausea and vomiting from drugs.
Class of MedicineDomperidone is a dopamine receptor antagonist that is used for dyspepsia, indigestion, epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting as a peristaltic stimulant and anti-emetic.
Mode of ActionDomperidone is a peristaltic stimulant and a delayed gastric emptying adjuvant. Domperidone’s gastroprokinetic effects are linked to its peripheral dopamine receptor blocking abilities. By enhancing esophageal and gastric peristalsis and lowering esophageal sphincter pressure, domperidone speeds up gastric emptying and shortens small bowel transit time.Antiemetic: Domperidone’s antiemetic actions are linked to its ability to inhibit dopamine receptors at both the chemoreceptor trigger zone and the stomach level. It has great affinity for the D2 and D3 dopamine receptors, which are situated in the chemoreceptor trigger zone, which governs nausea and vomiting, among other things, just beyond the blood brain barrier.
Medical UsesDomperidone is a drug that helps people feel better while they’re sick. It aids in preventing you from feeling or being ill. It’s used to treat the signs and symptoms of gastric problems. It can also be used to prevent nausea and vomiting from drugs. If you’re receiving end-of-life care, it can also be used to alleviate stomach pain (palliative care).
Domperidone is occasionally used to boost milk production.
Avaiability & UsageDomperidone is available in tablet and syrup. It can be taken by mouth 30 minutes before meals and before bedtime as directed. Do not use this medication in higher doses or more frequently than recommended. Your condition will not improve any faster, but your chances of experiencing negative effects will increase.
Side EffectsAs your body adjusts to the medicine, you may experience

Headaches
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Nervousness
Flushing
Irritability for the first few days.

There have also been reports of difficulty sleeping, stomach cramps, heat flushes, and leg cramps. Inform your doctor if any of these side effects persist or become bothersome.
If you get chest pain, a slow/fast/irregular heartbeat, swelling of the feet or ankles, difficulty urinating, swelling of the breasts, or discharge from the nipple in men or women, call your doctor right once.

Important WarningDomperidone is contraindicated with powerful CYP3A4 inhibitors and other drugs that prolong the QTc interval due to its relation to QT interval prolongation. In older patients or those with a history of heart disease, dopamine should be administered with caution.
Available BrandsMotilium
Pelton

 

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Metronidazole – Nitroimidazole Antimicrobials – Antiprotozoal

Introduction

Metronidazole is an antibiotic and antiprotozoal medicine sold under the trade names Flagyl, Metrozine, Gramex and others. It’s used to treat pelvic inflammatory disease, endocarditis, and bacterial vaginosis, either alone or in combination with other antibiotics. Dracunculiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, and amebiasis are also treated with it.
Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole that is also used to treat rosacea inflammatory lesions, bacterial infections, and surgical infections.

Class of Medicine
Metronidazole belongs to the nitroimidazole antimicrobials class of drugs. It works by preventing bacteria from growing.

Mode of Action
The nitroimidazole class includes metronidazole. It disrupts the DNA of microbial cells by inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis by producing nitroso radicals. This activity is only activated when metronidazole is partially reduced, and because this reduction occurs mostly in anaerobic bacteria and protozoans, it has only a minor impact on human cells and aerobic microorganisms.

How should this medicine be used?
After you’ve eaten some food, consume metronidazole tablets whole with a drink of water. It is not necessary to take metronidazole liquid after eating. To help you measure out the proper quantity, this medicine comes with a plastic syringe or spoon. If you don’t have one, you can get one from your pharmacist.

Common Side Effects

Dizziness

Headache

Stomach upset
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Constipation

Important Warning

In persons with Cockayne syndrome, metronidazole can induce life-threatening liver issues.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Flagyl
Metrozine
Gramex