Astanol

Astanol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Astanol is a brand name. Its generic name is Allylestrenol.

Introduction

Astanol (INN) is a synthetic steroidal progestin with antigonadotropic and antiglucocorticoid activity used as a treatment for recurrent miscarriage and threatened miscarriage.

Uses for

Astanol is indicated for the prevention and treatment of recurrent and threatened miscarriages, and for the prevention of preterm labor.

Mechanism of Action

Astanol is believed to act mainly through its estrogenic component. It promotes the development of the endometrium, enhancing the likelihood of successful implantation of a fertilized ovum. It also improves the strength of uterine contractions and exerts a sedative effect on the uterus and relaxes its smooth muscles.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Astanol begins to work immediately on administration, although its effects may not be fully manifest in the body until some weeks later. For example, if it is being used to reduce the risk of preterm labor, its effects may be seen within the week following administration.

Absorption

Astanol is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Astanol is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in the bile as metabolites. Approximately 40% of a dose of allylestrenol is excreted in the urine and 10% in the feces.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of allylestrenol is 10 mg three times daily for three to six days. The dose may be increased up to 20 mg three times daily depending on the patient's response to treatment.

Administration

Astanol is taken orally, usually with a full glass of water, after meals or at bedtime.

Side Effect

The most frequently reported side effects of allylestrenol include nausea, dizziness, bloating, and breast tenderness.

Toxicity

No cases of toxicity from allylestrenol have been reported.

Precautions

Astanol should be used with caution in patients who have a history of liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or any other endocrine disorder. Women taking allylestrenol should not breastfeed while using the drug.

Interactions

Astanol may interact with certain medications and reduce their effectiveness. Patients taking hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, or anticoagulants should not take allylestrenol.

Disease Interactions

Astanol should not be used in patients with a history of any of the following conditions: stroke, breast cancer, endometrial hyperplasia, or a history of jaundice or liver disease.

Drug Interactions

Astanol may interact with certain medications and reduce their effectiveness. Patients taking hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, or anticoagulants should not take allylestrenol. This drug should also not be used in combination with barbiturates, phenytoin, cyclosporine, or any other drug metabolized by CYP3A4 enzyme.

Food Interactions

It is not known if allylestrenol interacts with food. Patients should discuss diet and potential food interactions with their doctor prior to beginning treatment.

Pregnancy Use

Astanol should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus.

Lactation Use

It is not known if allylestrenol is excreted in breast milk. This drug should not be used while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

No cases of acute overdose of allylestrenol have been reported. However, if an overdose is suspected, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Contraindication

Astanol should not be used in patients with any of the following conditions: porphyria, thromboembolism, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, or a history of breast or endometrial cancer.

Use Direction

Astanol should be taken orally, usually with a full glass of water, after meals or at bedtime. The recommended starting dose is 10 mg three times daily for three to six days. The dose may be increased up to 20 mg three times daily depending on the patient's response to treatment.

Storage Condition

Astanol should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container. It should not be stored in the bathroom or near any heat source.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of allylestrenol is approximately 18 – 22 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of allylestrenol is estimated to range from 3.4 – 7.5 hours.

Clearance

The average clearance of allylestrenol is approximately 5.1 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Astanol

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Astanol

What is Astanol?

Astanol is a synthetic progestogen, or a man-made hormone, used in the treatment of threatened abortion and habitual abortion.

What is Astanol used for?

Astanol is used to prevent threatened miscarriage and habitual abortion in pregnant women. It is also used in combination with estrogen to treat secondary amenorrhea.

What is the dosage of Astanol?

The usual dose of Astanol is 5 mg to 10 mg a day. Dosage adjustments may be required depending on the individual patient’s condition.

What are the side effects of Astanol?

The most common side effects of Astanol include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches, drowsiness, and diarrhea. Other serious side effects may include depression, skin rash, and facial swelling. If any of these side effects occur, seek medical attention right away.

Can Astanol be used in combination with other medications?

Astanol may interact with certain medications, so it should not be used in combination with other medications without consulting a doctor. Always make sure to tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while consuming Astanol?

Never take more than the prescribed dose of Astanol. Also, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using Astanol. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

What are the contraindications for Astanol?

Astanol should not be used in people who are hypersensitive to this drug or any of its components. It should also not be used in people with a history of stroke or thromboembolic disease.

Is Astanol available in generic form?

Yes, Astanol is available in generic form.

What is the price of Astanol?

The price of Astanol varies depending on the pharmacy and where it is purchased. It is typically less expensive in generic form.

Is Astanol available over the counter?

No, Astanol is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter.

What is the mechanism of action of Astanol?

Astanol works by stopping the release of certain hormones that are responsible for triggering miscarriage and habitual abortion. It also helps to reduce the risk of premature delivery.

How long does it take for Astanol to work?

The effects of Astanol typically begin to be felt within one to two weeks of starting treatment. It is important to continue taking Astanol as prescribed in order for it to be effective.

Can Astanol be taken during pregnancy?

Yes, Astanol can be used in pregnant women in order to prevent miscarriage and habitual abortion. However, it should not be used in the last three months of pregnancy without consulting a doctor.

Are there any known drug interactions with Astanol?

Yes, Astanol may interact with certain drugs, so it is important to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before taking Astanol.

Can Astanol be taken with anticoagulant drugs?

No, Astanol should not be taken with anticoagulant drugs without consulting a doctor first.

Can Astanol be used in patients with liver or kidney diseases?

Yes, Astanol may be used in patients with liver or kidney diseases, but the dose may need to be adjusted for these patients. Consult a doctor for more information.

Are there any foods that should be avoided with Astanol?

There are no foods that should be avoided while taking Astanol, however it is important to follow a healthy, balanced diet to ensure optimal health.

Can Astanol cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Astanol, although some patients may experience an increase or decrease in appetite.

Does Astanol affect fertility?

Astanol has not been shown to affect fertility. However, it is important to consult a doctor if you are planning to become pregnant while taking Astanol.

Can Astanol cause sleep disturbances?

Yes, Astanol can cause sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or vivid dreams. If this occurs, then consulting a doctor is recommended.

Can Astanol cause mood changes?

Yes, Astanol can cause mood changes, such as increased anxiety or depression. If this occurs, then consult a doctor.

Can Astanol affect menstrual cycles?

Yes, Astanol can affect menstrual cycles. This is because it prevents the body from releasing hormones that are responsible for triggering ovulation. It can also lead to irregular bleeding.

Can Astanol cause headaches?

Yes, Astanol can cause headaches in some patients. If you experience a persistent or severe headache while taking Astanol, then consult a doctor.

Can Astanol lower blood pressure?

Yes, Astanol can lower blood pressure in some patients. It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking Astanol.

Can Astanol be used to treat breast cancer?

No, Astanol should not be used to treat breast cancer. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any medication for breast cancer.

Is Astanol linked to an increased risk of cancer?

No, Astanol is not linked to an increased risk of cancer. However, it is important to consult a doctor if you are concerned about the potential risk of cancer while taking Astanol.

Does Astanol affect the liver?

Yes, Astanol can affect the liver in some patients. It is important to monitor your liver functions regularly while taking Astanol.

Can Astanol be used in women of childbearing age?

Yes, Astanol can be used in women of childbearing age, but it should not be used for the treatment of pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

Can Astanol cause skin rashes?

Yes, Astanol can cause skin rashes in some patients. If you experience any skin rashes while taking Astanol, then consult a doctor for treatment.

Can Astanol affect libido?

Yes, Astanol can have an effect on libido in some patients. Consult a doctor if you are experiencing any changes in your libido while taking Astanol.

Does Astanol affect the heart?

Yes, Astanol can affect the heart in some people. It is important to inform your doctor if you have any heart-related conditions before taking Astanol.

Does Astanol accumulate in the body?

No, Astanol is not known to accumulate in the body. This means that it is not necessary to adjust the dosage of Astanol based on the amount of time it has been taken.

Is Astanol an anti-inflammatory drug?

No, Astanol is not an anti-inflammatory drug. It is a synthetic progestogen used for the prevention of miscarriage and habitual abortion.

Can Astanol be used to induce labor?

No, Astanol should not be used to induce labor unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

Can Astanol cause drowsiness?

Yes, Astanol can cause drowsiness in some patients. It is important to be aware of how Astanol affects you before operating any machinery or driving a vehicle.

Does Astanol cause hair loss?

No, Astanol does not cause hair loss. However, it is important to consult a doctor if you experience any unusual hair loss while taking Astanol.

Can Astanol cause breast tenderness?

Yes, Astanol can cause breast tenderness in some patients. If this occurs, then consult a doctor.

Can Astanol be taken while breastfeeding?

Yes, Astanol can be taken while breastfeeding, but it is important to inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding while taking Astanol.

Can Astanol cause visual disturbances?

Yes, Astanol can cause visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or double vision. If this occurs, then consult a doctor.

Does Astanol cause nausea?

Yes, Astanol can cause nausea in some patients. If you experience persistent or severe nausea while taking Astanol, then consult a doctor.