Heptral (ademetionine) tablets 500 mg, #20

Description

Heptral (ademetionine) tablets 500 mg, #20 Solution

Composition

Each Heptral tablet of 500 mg contains the active ingredient ademetionine, commonly known as S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). This is a naturally occurring compound that is found in almost every tissue and fluid in the body. In each pack, there are 20 tablets.

Pharmacological Group

Heptral belongs to the group of hepatoprotectors, drugs that protect the liver cells from damage and enhance their function. It’s also considered a choleretic agent, promoting the production and flow of bile.

Indications

Heptral is primarily indicated for the treatment of various liver diseases. This includes intrahepatic cholestasis (a condition where bile cannot flow from the liver to the duodenum), alcoholic and non-alcoholic liver diseases, liver cirrhosis, and hepatitis. It is also used in the treatment of depression, especially where standard anti-depressants have not been effective.

Pharmacological Effects

Ademetionine, the active ingredient in Heptral, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of every cell in the body, particularly the liver cells. It promotes the production and secretion of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that defends the body against damage from free radicals and oxidative stress. Heptral also regulates the flow of lipids and bile in liver cells and helps in the detoxification process. As an antidepressant, Heptral enhances the effects of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Heptral depends on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. In general, the recommended dose for adults is 800 to 1600mg daily, divided into two or four doses. Heptral should be taken on an empty stomach, usually an hour before meals. The tablets should not be crushed or chewed, but swallowed whole with a glass of water.

Contraindications

Heptral is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to ademetionine or any other component of the tablet. It is also not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age, due to lack of safety and efficacy data. Pregnant and lactating women should only use Heptral under a doctor’s supervision.

Precautions

Patients with a history of bipolar disorder should use Heptral with caution, as it may cause them to switch from depression to a manic state. Patients with Parkinson’s disease should also use Heptral cautiously, as it may exacerbate symptoms. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended during long term treatment with Heptral.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Heptral can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include dry mouth, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, and insomnia. Rarely, Heptral can cause allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If any of these effects persist or worsen, the patient should inform their doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Interactions

Heptral may interact with other drugs, including antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, and medications used for Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, it’s important to inform the doctor or pharmacist about all the products the patient is using before starting treatment with Heptral.

Storage

Heptral should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

Packaging

Heptral (ademetionine) tablets 500 mg are packaged in a box containing 2 blisters of 10 tablets each, totaling 20 tablets per box.

Manufacturer

Heptral is manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, a global healthcare company committed to helping people live their best possible life through the power of health.