Drotaverine + Paracetamol/acetaminophen

Dosage Forms Available

• Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen is available as oral tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This combination is meant for use by adults. It is suitable for children only under specific guidance from a doctor regarding appropriate dosages based on body weight.

Contraindications

• Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

• This medicine is also contraindicated in individuals with acute liver disease and severe renal insufficiency (CrCl < 10 mL/min).

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole and quinidine), CYP3A4 inducers (like rifampicin and phenytoin), antihypertensives (including amlodipine, lisinopril), nitrates (such as nitroglycerin, isosorbide), warfarin, and lamotrigine.

• It is crucial to consult a doctor before starting any new medications while taking this combination.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen can lead to severe hepatotoxicity and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, hypotension, and CNS depression. If suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and proceed with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this combination. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• If experiencing dizziness or headaches, consider resting in a quiet, dark room and drinking plenty of water.

• For dry mouth or thirst, sipping water regularly or chewing sugar-free gum may help.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen may cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Avoid engaging in these activities if you do not feel alert.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of using Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen during pregnancy or lactation has not been conclusively established. It should only be used when clearly necessary and under the advice of a doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment should use Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen with caution. Regular monitoring by a doctor may be necessary.

• Patients with G6PD deficiency should be cautious due to the risk of hemolytic anaemia from paracetamol.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids; this can help manage abdominal conditions treated by Drotaverine + Paracetamol/Acetaminophen.

• Consuming a balanced diet rich in fibre can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.

• Regular gentle exercise such as walking can improve digestion and reduce stress levels which might exacerbate abdominal pain.

• Avoiding caffeine and spicy foods can help reduce gastrointestinal irritation and minimise abdominal discomfort.