Category: Medicine

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Flurbiprofen – NSAID – Pain Killer

Introduction

Flurbiprofen, also known as Froben, Inflamatix, Ansaid, Rasbid, and other brand names, is an NSAID that is used to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Flurbiprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine that has antibacterial efficacy against Trichophyton species, Microsporum species, and Epidermophyton species.

Class of Medicine
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) include flurbiprofen. It works by inhibiting the creation of a chemical that causes pain, heat, and inflammation in the body.

Mode of Action
Flurbiprofen’s anti-inflammatory activity is mediated through reversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX), the enzyme that converts arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G2 (PGG2) and PGG2 to prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) in the prostaglandin production pathway, similar to other NSAIAs. This successfully lowers the levels of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation, discomfort, swelling, and fever. Flurbiprofen is a non-selective COX inhibitor that suppresses both COX-1 and COX-2 activity. In terms of prostaglandin inhibitory activity, it is likewise one of the most powerful NSAIAs.

How should this medicine be used?
Flurbiprofen is available in tablet form, that must be swallowed. It’s commonly taken twice a day, up to four times a day. Flurbiprofen should be taken at the same time each day. 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.

Common Side Effects

Upset stomach
Constipation
Diarrhea
Gas
Heartburn
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Headache
If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Important Warning

This drug has the potential to produce a serious allergic reaction. Hives, rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the neck or tongue, and chest pain are all possible symptoms. If you’ve had any of these symptoms or asthma after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, don’t use flurbiprofen.

If you have a peptic ulcer or a bleeding issue, you should not use Flurbiprofen, unless a physician advises you otherwise.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Froben
Inflamatix
Ansaid
Rasbid

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Methylcobalamin – Mecobalamin – Vitamin B12

Introduction

Methylcobalamin (mecobalamin, MeCbl, or MeB12) available in the brand names of Methycobal, Cobalmin, Mabil, Neuromet and others, is a kind of vitamin B12 known as cobalamin. Vitamin B12 insufficiency is treated with methylcobalamin. Vitamin B12 is required for the proper functioning of the brain and nerves, as well as the synthesis of red blood cells.
Methylcobalamin is also used to treat peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as a preliminary treatment.
Pernicious anaemia, diabetes, and other diseases may necessitate the usage of methylcobalamin.

Class of Medicine
Mecobalamin and Methylcobalmin are two terms that are interchangeable and both belong to the vitamin B12 family (cyanocobalamin and analogues). Vitamin B12 insufficiency is treated with this supplement (Anemia). Vitamin B12 is required for the proper functioning of the brain and nerves, as well as the synthesis of red blood cells. In persons with pernicious anaemia, diabetes, and other diseases, methylcobalamin is sometimes used.

Mode of Action
Ingested methylcobalamin is first transformed to cob(II)alamin by MMACHC before being employed as a cofactor. Cob(II)alamin is then transformed into adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin, which are then used as cofactors. To put it another way, methylcobalamin is first dealkylated, then regenerated.

Treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency using hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, or a mix of adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin, rather than methylcobalamin alone, is critical.

How should this medicine be used?
Methycobalamin, often known as mecobalamin, is available in tablet, capsule, and injection form. Water-soluble vitamins are better absorbed when eaten on an empty stomach, which is the optimal way to eat. That means bringing them in for the first time in the morning, 30 minutes before eating, or two hours after eating. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and are used by your body.
It could be injected every day or on alternate days when using injections.

Common Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Methylcobalamin are:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Headache

Important Warning

Methylcobalamin can cause blood clots, diarrhoea, paresthesia, rhinitis, ataxia, pruritis, and allergic responses at high doses. Before starting this therapy, people with polycythemia should talk to their doctor [26-29]. This medication can be used as a topical paste on the skin without causing any side effects. This drug’s intravenous infusion can cause hypersensitivity reactions, which can lead to anaphylactic shock. While using methylcobalamin to treat megaloblastic anaemia, hypokalamia and thrombocytosis have occurred in certain patients.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Methycobal
Cobalmin
Mabil
Neuromet

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Doxycycline – A Tetracycline Class – Antibiotic

Introduction

Doxycycline, available under brand names Vibramycin, Contimycin, Nordox and others. It is a broad-spectrum tetracycline-class antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial and parasitic diseases. Bacterial pneumonia, acne, chlamydia infections, Lyme disease, cholera, typhus, and syphilis are all treated with it. It’s also used in conjunction with quinine to prevent malaria.

Class of Medicine
Doxyycline belongs a a class of medicines called Tetracycline antibiotics,  It acts to cure infections by preventing germs from growing and spreading. It effectively treats acne by destroying bacteria that infect pores and reducing a natural greasy substance that causes acne. It combats rosacea by reducing the inflammation that causes the illness.

Mode of Action
In bacterial replication, a crucial contact for protein translation initiation occurs at the 3′ end of the 16S rRNA, which is present on the 30S subunit of the ribosome. The 30S subunit is the ribosome’s smallest subunit in prokaryotes, such as bacteria.
Tetracyclines, such as doxycycline, are hypothesised to prohibit tRNA from binding to the RNA-30S bacterial ribosomal subunit, which is required for the transport of amino acids for protein synthesis, by binding to the 16S rRNA part of the ribosome. The commencement of protein synthesis by polyribosome formation is prevented as a result of the preceding actions. Hence the replication of bacteria stops and produces a bacteriostatic effect

How should this medicine be used?
Doxycycline is available in the form of a capsule, a delayed-release capsule, a tablet, a delayed-release tablet, and a solution (liquid) for oral administration. Once or twice a day, doxycycline is commonly taken. With each pill, drink a full glass of water. If you have stomach problems while using doxycycline, take it with food or milk. If you take doxycycline with milk or food, the amount of medication absorbed from your stomach may be reduced.

Common Side Effects

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Itching of the rectum or vagina
Sore or irritated throat
Swollen tongue
Dry mouth
Anxiety
Back pain
Changes in color of skin, scars, nails, eyes, or mouth

Important Warning

This medicine has the potential to induce significant skin responses. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and medication reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms are among them (DRESS). Blisters, peeling skin, and a rash of small purple patches are some of the symptoms.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Vibramycin
Contimycin
Nordox

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Loratadine – Anti Histamine – H1 Receptor

Introduction

Loratadine is an antiallergic drug, that is sold under the brand names Lorin NSA,  Xylor, Antial and others. Loratadine is an antihistamine that works by reducing the effects of the body’s natural chemical histamine. Sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose are all symptoms of histamine. Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms are treated with loratadine.

Class of Medicine
Loratadine belongs to the antihistamine class of drugs. Loratadine inhibits the activation of cells with H1 receptors by blocking one type of histamine receptor (the H1 receptor). It works by preventing histamine, a chemical in the body that produces allergy symptoms, from acting.

Mode of Action
In allergic rhinitis and urticaria, histamine release is a major mediator. As a result, loratadine works via binding to the H1 histamine receptors.

H1 histamine receptors can be found on the surface of epithelial cells, endothelial cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, airway cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells, among other things. H1 histamine receptors are part of the G-protein coupled receptor family, and they exist in a state of balance between active and inactive forms. Cross connecting between transmembrane domains III and V is facilitated by histamine binding to the H1-receptor, stabilising the active state of the receptor.

Antihistamines, on the other hand, bind to a different location on the H1 receptor, which favors the inactive form. As a result, loratadine is better characterised as a “inverse agonist” rather than a “histamine antagonist,” and it can help avoid or lessen the intensity of histamine-mediated symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?
Loratadine tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water, milk, or juice. If the pill has a score line, you can cut it in half if swallowing it whole is difficult. It is not to be chewed. Without the need for a drink, melt-in-the-mouth tablets dissolve instantaneously on your tongue.

Common Side Effects

Headache
Dry mouth
Nose-bleed
Sore throat
Mouth sores
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Nervousness
Weakness
sSomach pain
Diarrhea
Red or itchy eyes

Important Warning

If you are using loratadine for hives and experience any of the following symptoms, get immediate medical attention: Wheezing, drooling, dizziness, or loss of consciousness are all symptoms of difficulties swallowing, speaking, or breathing; swelling in and around the mouth or swelling of the tongue; wheezing; drooling; dizziness; or loss of consciousness.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Lorin NSA
Xylor
Antial

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Cetirizine – H1 Receptor – An Anti-Histamine

Introduction

Cetirizine sold under the bran dames of Zyrtec, Rigix, Baydal, is a second-generation antihistamine that is used to treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever), dermatitis, and urticaria, among other things (hives). It is taken orally. The effects usually start within an hour and last approximately a day.

Class of Medicine
Cetirizine belongs to the antihistamine class of drugs. It works by preventing histamine, a chemical in the body that produces allergy symptoms, from acting.

Mode of Action
Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication that is a metabolite of hydroxyzine. Its major effects are obtained by inhibiting peripheral H1 receptors selectively. Cetirizine’s antihistamine activity has been demonstrated in a range of animal and human models. Anticholinergic and antiserotonergic effects were shown to be minimal in both in vivo and ex vivo animal models. However, dry mouth was found to be more common with cetirizine than with a placebo in clinical tests. Cetirizine has no measurable affinity for histamine receptors other than H1 receptors, according to in vitro receptor binding experiments.

How should this medicine be used?
Cetirizine tablets or capsules should always be taken with a glass of water, milk, or juice. Consume them in their whole. They should not be chewed. Cetirizine liquid, rather than pills or capsules, may be easier for youngsters to swallow.

Common Side Effects

Headaches
Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Fatigue
Feeling sick
Dizziness
Stomach pain
Diarrhoea
as well as more serious but uncommon adverse effects such as heart failure, tachycardia, and edoema.

Important Warning

In conclusion, cetirizine given daily for a long time (i.e. 3 years) may reduce the development of new sensitizations in monosensitized youngsters, indicating the possibility of tertiary allergy prevention.
When you stop taking cetirizine over a long period of time (usually more than six months), you may have generalized itching.


Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Zyrtec
Rigix
Baydal

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Ebastine – Anti-Histamine – H1 Receptor

Introduction

Ebastine is a second-generation antihistamine, available in brand names Kestine, Ebaget, Atmos has been demonstrated to be helpful in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, both seasonal and perennial.
Ebastine is an H1 antihistamine with a modest drowsiness risk.
It does not permeate the blood–brain barrier very well, combining an effective inhibition of the H1 receptor in peripheral tissue with a low prevalence of central side effects, such as sedation and tiredness.

Class of Medicine
Ebastine is an H1 receptor antagonist of the second generation that is used to treat allergic rhinitis and chronic idiopathic urticaria. It comes in 10 and 20 mg tablets, as well as fast-dissolving tablets and paediatric syrup.

Mode of Action
Ebastine is a piperidine H1 antihistamine of the second generation. H1-antihistamines block histamine’s agonist effect at the H1 receptor and are used to reduce inflammation in allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and urticaria. Antigen presentation and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, and chemotactic factors are all reduced when the activity of the NF-B immune response transcription factor is reduced via the phospholipase C and phosphatidylinositol (PIP2) signalling pathways. Furthermore, lowering the calcium ion concentration increases mast cell stability, which reduces the further release of histamine .

How should this medicine be used?
Ebastine can be taken with or without food once a day. Patients who are old or have mild–moderate hepatic impairment do not require dose adjustments. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the maximum dose is 10 mg once day.

Common Side Effects

Nausea
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Nose bleed
Weakness
Indigestion
Sleeplessness
Headache
Drowsiness
Abdominal pain
Pharyngitis
Dyspepsia
Asthenia
Sinusitis

Important Warning

Must talk to your doctor:
If the patient has the history of heart disease (e.g. long QT syndrome, hypokalaemia, treatment with agents known to increase QT interval). Use with CYP3A4 inhibitors at the same time.
Hepatic impairment is severe.
Children. Lactation and pregnancy.
If you are already taking certain antibiotics or drugs used to treat fungal infections

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Kestine
Ebaget
Atmos

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Atorvastatin – A Statin

Introduction

Atorvastatin, a genaric branded under the name of Lipitor, Lipiget, Lipirex is a statin drug used to treat abnormal cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular disease in people who are at high risk. Statins are a first-line medication for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is taken orally.

Class of Medicine
Atorvastatin is part of a class of drugs known as statins. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood cholesterol, it’s used to lower it. It’s also used to prevent cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and strokes.

Mode of Action
The statin class of medications includes atorvastatin, which is a cholesterol-lowering treatment. Statins lower blood cholesterol levels by inhibiting 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase, an enzyme required for the liver’s cholesterol production.

How should this medicine be used?
Because atorvastatin does not cause stomach distress, it can be taken with or without food. With a glass of water, swallow atorvastatin pills whole. Completely swallow the tablet with a glass of water. It should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. This drug can be taken with or without food. When taking atorvastatin, avoid drinking a lot of alcohol.

Common Side Effects

Headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, and cold-like symptoms are the most prevalent adverse effects.

Clinical research have found that 1–10% of patients using atorvastatin experience the following side effects:
Joint discomfort
Stools that are too loose
Indigestion
Muscle ache
Nausea
Hyperglycemia Atherosclerosis has also been linked to a worsening of blood sugar control when taken in high doses.

If you’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, avoid taking atorvastatin. Even if you feel fine, keep taking atorvastatin since you will still reap the benefits.

Important Warning

While using atorvastatin, your risk of myopathy (muscle discomfort, soreness, or weakness) and rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) increases. If you’re a senior, have thyroid issues, or have kidney disease, your risk is higher.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Lipitor
Lipiget
Lipirex

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Eperisone – An Antispasmodic – Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxant

Introduction
Eperisone (eperisone hydrochloride salt) available under brand name Myonal, Karisona, is an antispasmodic medication. Eperisone works by relaxing both skeletal and vascular smooth muscles, and it has a wide range of effects, including decreased myotonia, improved circulation, and suppression of the pain reflex.

Class of Medicine
Eperisone (eperisone hydrochloride salt) is a centrally acting muscle relaxant an Antispasmodic class of medicine. Eperisone works by relaxing both skeletal and vascular smooth muscles, and it has a wide range of effects, including decreased myotonia, improved circulation, and suppression of the pain reflex.

Mode of Action
The centrally acting muscle relaxant eperisone hydrochloride has showed potential in the treatment of pain. It works by inhibiting the voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC) in the brain stem, which inhibits neuronal activity and pain feeling.

How should this medicine be used?
Eperisone comes in tablet form and can be taken orally 50 mg twice a day. Dosage should be adjusted based on age and symptoms. It’s best if you take it with food.
The treatment will last 14 days in total. Patients will be screened for baseline parameters before being randomly assigned to one of two groups, according to a preset randomization schedule. For a period of 14 days, patients will be given either Eperisone-HCl (Myonal) or placebo.

Common Side Effects

Eperisone is not recommended for people who have a history of hypersensitivity to the medicine.
Common side effects includes:

  • Excessive relaxation
  • Stomachache
  • Nausea
  • Vertigo
  • Anorexia
  • Sleepiness
  • Skin rashes
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Indigestion
  • GI troubles
  • Insomnia
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • other side effects are “very infrequent.”

Important Warning

When Eperisone is taken with 1,2-Benzodiazepine, the risk of or severity of undesirable effects can rise.
When Eperisone is coupled with Abametapir, the serum levels of Eperisone can rise.
When Eperisone and Acarbose are combined, the risk or severity of hypoglycemia can be enhanced.
When Eperisone is taken in combination with Acemetacin, the risk of hyperkalemia is enhanced.
When Acetazolamide and Eperisone are combined, the risk of or severity of undesirable effects can be enhanced.
When Eperisone is coupled with Acetohexamide, the risk or severity of hypoglycemia may be enhanced.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Myonal
Karisona

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Clopidogrel – An Anti-platelet Agent

Introduction

The prescription used to minimize risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke in people who have a high risk is Clopidogrel, offered under the brand name of Plavix, Lowplat, Noclot and among others. It is also used in heart attacks along with aspirin and after the coronary stent has been placed (dual antiplatelet therapy). The mouth is taken. The impact lasts around two hours and five days

Class of Medicine
Clopidogrel belongs to the Antiplatelet Agents class of medicines. It keeps platelets (a kind of blood cell) from clumping together and producing a potentially fatal blood clot. If you have a higher risk of blood clots, using clopidogrel can help you avoid them.

Mode of Action
Clopidogrel undergo chemical conversion by metabolic processes, that is activated in two phases, first by CYP2C19, CYP1A2, and CYP2B6, and secondly by CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2B6, and CYP3A. The active metabolite then blocks the P2Y12 subtype of ADP receptor, which is necessary for platelet activation and eventual cross-linking by the protein fibrin, in a particular and irreversible manner. Platelet inhibition can be seen two hours after taking a single dose of oral clopidogrel, but because the beginning of action is sluggish, a loading dose of 600 or 300 mg is used when a quick effect is required.

How should this medicine be used?
Clopidogrel is available as a tablet that must be swallowed. It’s taken once a day, with or without food. Clopidogrel should be taken at the same time each day. 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.

Common Side Effects

Headaches or dizziness.
Nausea.
Diarrhoea or constipation.
Indigestion (dyspepsia)
Stomach ache or abdominal pain.
Nosebleeds.
Increased bleeding (your blood taking longer to clot – for example, when you cut yourself), or easy bruising.

Important Warning

Warning: Serious Bleeding
Clopidogrel may cause you to bruise and bleed more readily, as well as nosebleeds and bleeding that lasts longer than usual. Any significant bleeding, such as unexplained, persistent, or heavy bleeding, should be reported to your doctor. You have blood in your urine or faeces.

If you have a peptic ulcer or a bleeding issue, you should not use clopidogrel unless a physician advises you otherwise. If you have liver or kidney problems, you should use clopidogrel with caution. Clopidogrel should not be given to anyone under the age of 16 unless under the supervision of a doctor.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Plavix
Lowplat
Noclot

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Co-amoxiclav – A Penicillin Antibiotic

Introduction

Co-amoxiclav is an antibiotic available under brand names of Augmentin, Calamox, Amoxi-Clave that is used to treat bacterial infections.

It is made composed of amoxicillin (a penicillin antibiotic) and clavulanic acid. The clavulanic acid in amoxicillin prevents bacteria from breaking it down, allowing the antibiotic to operate more effectively.

Class of Medicine
Co-amoxiclav is an antibiotic that acts by killing infection-causing bacteria. It comprises amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, which are two distinct antibiotics. Amoxicillin is part of a class of antibiotics known as “penicillins.”

Mode of Action
Amoxicillin belongs to a group of antibiotics known as penicillin-like drugs. It works by preventing bacteria from growing. Clavulanic acid belongs to the beta-lactamase inhibitors class of drugs. It works by preventing amoxicillin from being destroyed by bacteria.
Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid are combined in this antibiotic. It kills germs by preventing them from forming cell walls. – Clavulanic acid inhibits the chemical defence against penicillins known as beta-lactamase, which is found in some bacteria.

How should this medicine be used?
Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid is available as a tablet, a chewable tablet, an extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and a solution (liquid) for oral administration. Every 8 hours (three times a day) or every 12 hours, the pills, chewable tablets, and suspension are commonly taken at the start of a meal (twice a day). The extended-release tablets are normally taken every 12 hours with a meal or snack (twice a day). Take amoxicillin and clavulanate at the same times every day to make it easier to remember. 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.

Follow the directions for taking amoxicillin and clavulanic acid strictly. Do not take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than your doctor has suggested.

Common Side Effects
diarrhea
upset stomach
vomiting
mild skin

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
severe skin rash
itching
hives
difficulty breathing or swallowing
wheezing
vaginal itching and discharge
yellowing of the skin or eyes rash

Important Warning

People with phenylketonuria, a rare genetic disorder, should avoid taking co-amoxiclav liquid.

If you have this disease, the beverage may include aspartame, which might be dangerous.

Co-amoxiclav does not combine well with a number of medications.

Before starting co-amoxiclav, tell your doctor if you’re taking any of the following medications:

  • Allopurinol or probenecid, which are used to treat gout
  • Warfarin, a blood thinner
  • Methotrexate, a cancer or rheumatic disease treatment
  • Mycophenolate mofetil is a drug that is used to keep transplanted organs from being rejected.

Available Brands (list can be updated in future)
Augmentin
Calamox
Amoxi-Clave