Lafutidine

Dosage Forms Available

• Lafutidine can be taken orally (tablet).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is suitable for adults and children above 12 years of age.

Contraindications

• Lafutidine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medicine or its components.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Lafutidine can interact with antacids (such as aluminium hydroxide and calcium carbonate), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (such as ibuprofen, and naproxen), and anti-diabetic medications (like insulin, and metformin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An accidental overdose of Lafutidine is generally not harmful, but symptoms such as constipation, hallucinations, or yellowing of the skin may occur. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these symptoms are observed.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped. It is not recommended to double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Lafutidine are temporary and generally harmless, and they usually resolve upon discontinuation of the medicine. However, if severe side effects are experienced or if any symptoms worsen, a consultation with a doctor is advised.

• For nausea or vomiting: Try taking this medicine with or after a meal.

• For constipation: Drink plenty of water and increase dietary fibre intake.

• For dizziness: Sit or lie down until the feeling passes. Avoid caffeine as it may make the condition worse.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Lafutidine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. If affected, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advised to consult the doctor before using Lafutidine during pregnancy and breastfeeding as its safety for use in these conditions has not been well established.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with kidney or liver disease should exercise caution when taking Lafutidine. Dose adjustments may be necessary.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones as it may help reduce acid production.

• Avoid food and drinks that can trigger acid reflux, such as spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, and carbonated drinks.

• Avoid lying down right after meals to help prevent acid from moving up into the esophagus.