Levosulpirida
Levosulpirida Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Levosulpirida is a brand name. Its generic name is Levosulpiride.
Introduction
Levosulpirida is a dopamine D2 antagonist used in the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders like gastritis, intestinal colic, dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is commonly used with ppis like lansoprazole and rabeprazole.Uses For
Levosulpirida is used for the treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders like gastritis, intestinal colic, dyspepsia, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is used in combination with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It is also used to treat symptoms of drug-induced extrapyramidal dysfunction including parkinsonian syndrome.Mechanism of Action
Levosulpirida works by blocking the action of dopamine at D2 receptors in the gut and the brain. By blocking dopamine, it reduces the symptoms of gastric acid reflux and ulcers, as well as symptoms of parkinsonism caused by certain drugs.How Long Does It Take to Work?
Levosulpirida usually starts to take effect within 2 - 4 hours and peak effectiveness can be seen within 8 - 12 hours.Absorption
Levosulpirida is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.Route of Elimination
Levosulpirida is eliminated mainly in the urine, with only a small amount eliminated in the faeces.Dosage
The dosage of levosulpiride depends on the condition being treated and the individual patient characteristics. The recommended starting dosage is 25 mg two times daily. The dosage may be increased depending on the response. The maximum dosage is 75 mg/day.Administration
Levosulpirida should be taken orally, preferably with a meal.Side Effect
The most common side effects associated with levosulpiride use are dry mouth, constipation, headache, weight gain, and fatigue.Toxicity
Levosulpirida is generally very safe, however, long-term use is associated with drowsiness, confusion, and restlessness.Precaution and Interaction
Levosulpirida should be used with caution in people with cardiac disease, renal failure, or liver failure, as it can worsen these conditions. Levosulpirida should not be used with psychiatric medications, as it may increase the risk of psychotic symptoms.Drug and Disease Interactions
The use of levosulpiride with certain medications, like antipsychotics, levodopa, and tricyclic antidepressants, can result in increased effects or side effects. Levosulpirida should be used with caution in people with Parkinson's disease or renal disease, as it can worsen these conditions.Food Interactions
Levosulpirida should be taken with a meal or at least immediately after a meal for optimal absorption.Pregnancy and Lactation Use
Levosulpirida should not be used during pregnancy or lactation as it can cause adverse effects in the fetus and nursing infant.Acute Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include restlessness, tremor, hypotension, collapse, coma, and death.Contraindication
Levosulpirida is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to the drug and those with hepatic impairment.Use Direction
Levosulpirida should be taken orally, preferably with a meal. The dosage should be gradually increased as directed by the prescribing doctor, and maximum daily dosage should not exceed 75 mg per day.Storage Condition
Levosulpirida should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution for levosulpiride is 0.7 - 0.8 L/kg.Half Life
The half-life of levosulpiride is 2 - 3 hours.Clearance
The clearance of levosulpiride is 0.7 - 0.8 L/h/kg.Here you find in details version of Levosulpirida
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Levosulpirida
What is Levosulpirida?
Levosulpirida is a medication used to help reduce or control the symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach pain, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome.
What is the mechanism of action of Levosulpirida?
Levosulpirida works by stimulating the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter which can help to reduce nausea,relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract.
Who should not take Levosulpirida?
Levosulpirida is not recommended for pregnant women or those with a history of seizures or extreme sensitivity to other similar medications. Furthermore, patients that are taking drugs such as MAO (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) should not take Levosulpirida.
What are the side effects of Levosulpirida?
The most common side effects of Levosulpirida include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and increased blood pressure.
How should Levosulpirida be stored?
Levosulpirida should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. It should also be kept out of reach of children and pets.
How long does it take for Levosulpirida to take effect?
The effects of Levosulpirida will typically start to become apparent within 1 hour, but may take up to 3 hours to reach full effect.
Is Levosulpirida safe to use for long-term treatment?
Levosulpirida is considered safe to use for long-term treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Studies have shown that long-term use does not lead to any unfavorable effects.
Does Levosulpirida interact with any other medications?
Yes, Levosulpirida can interact with some other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all the other medications you are taking before starting treatment with Levosulpirida.
Can I take Levosulpirida with alcohol?
No, it is recommended that Levosulpirida not be taken with alcohol, as the combination may lead to drowsiness and increased risk of side effects.
Does Levosulpirida cause addiction?
No, Levosulpirida is not known to be addictive.
Is Levosulpirida available over-the-counter?
No, Levosulpirida is only available through a prescription from a doctor.
Does Levosulpirida cause weight gain?
No, Levosulpirida is not known to cause weight gain.
What is the dosage for Levosulpirida?
The dosage of Levosulpirida will depend on the individual patient's medical condition, age, and weight. Your doctor will be able to recommend the appropriate dose for your case.
Does Levosulpirida reduce stomach acid levels?
No, Levosulpirida does not reduce stomach acid levels, but can help to reduce the effects of acidic stomach contents.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Yes, Levosulpirida can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Are there any herbs or supplements that could interact with Levosulpirida?
Yes, certain herbs and supplements, such as St. John's Wort, can interact with Levosulpirida, so it is important to tell your doctor about any herbs or supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Levosulpirida.
What is the usual duration of treatment with Levosulpirida?
The duration of treatment with Levosulpirida will depend on the individual patient and the severity of their medical condition. Generally, treatment with Levosulpirida should not exceed 16 weeks.
Is Levosulpirida safe to use in elderly patients?
Yes, Levosulpirida is considered safe to use in elderly patients.
Is Levosulpirida safe to use in children?
Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used in children below the age of 18.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Levosulpirida?
If you miss a dose of Levosulpirida, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
What should I do if I overdose on Levosulpirida?
If you or someone else has overdosed on Levosulpirida, seek immediate medical attention. Common overdose symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat anxiety?
No, Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used to treat anxiety, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on anxiety.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat depression?
No, Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used to treat depression, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on depression.
Can I take Levosulpirida while breastfeeding?
Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used by breastfeeding mothers, as it may be detectable in the mother's milk, and could potentially be passed on to the baby.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat any other medical conditions?
Levosulpirida is only recommended to be used to treat gastrointestinal problems such as stomach pain, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is not recommended to be used for any other medical conditions.
What should I do if I experience any side effects while taking Levosulpirida?
If you experience any side effects while taking Levosulpirida, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the medication, as this could worsen your condition.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat Parkinson’s disease?
No, Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Can Levosulpirida cause tardive dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia is a rare but serious neurological disorder that is caused by long-term use of certain antipsychotic medications. There is no evidence suggesting that Levosulpirida can cause tardive dyskinesia.
Is Levosulpirida available as a generic drug?
No, Levosulpirida is not available as a generic drug.
Does Levosulpirida interact with other antipsychotic medications?
Yes, Levosulpirida can interact with other antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting treatment with Levosulpirida.
Is Levosulpirida effective in treating nausea and vomiting?
Yes, Levosulpirida has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat gastroenteritis?
Yes, Levosulpirida can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroenteritis such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
Is Levosulpirida safe to use in liver disease or kidney disease?
Levosulpirida should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, as it may aggravate certain symptoms or cause problems with the elimination of the medication from the body.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat seizures?
No, Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used to treat seizures.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat migraine headaches?
No, Levosulpirida is not recommended to be used to treat migraine headaches.
Does Levosulpirida cause drowsiness?
Yes, Levosulpirida can cause drowsiness, so caution should be taken when operating machinery or driving.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat IBS-C?
Yes, Levosulpirida has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat IBS-D?
Yes, Levosulpirida has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).
Does Levosulpirida cause insomnia?
Levosulpirida may cause insomnia in some patients, although this is not a common side effect.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat gastroparesis?
Yes, Levosulpirida has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of gastroparesis.
Can Levosulpirida be used to treat ulcers?
Levosulpirida can help to reduce the symptoms of peptic ulcers, but it is not recommended to be used as the sole treatment for ulcers.
Does Levosulpirida cause withdrawal symptoms?
Levosulpirida does not usually cause withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped.