Levosulpiride
Levosulpiride Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Levosulpiride is a brand name. Its generic name is Levosulpiride.
Introduction
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride 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?
Levosulpiride usually starts to take effect within 2 - 4 hours and peak effectiveness can be seen within 8 - 12 hours.Absorption
Levosulpiride is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.Route of Elimination
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride is generally very safe, however, long-term use is associated with drowsiness, confusion, and restlessness.Precaution and Interaction
Levosulpiride should be used with caution in people with cardiac disease, renal failure, or liver failure, as it can worsen these conditions. Levosulpiride 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. Levosulpiride should be used with caution in people with Parkinson's disease or renal disease, as it can worsen these conditions.Food Interactions
Levosulpiride should be taken with a meal or at least immediately after a meal for optimal absorption.Pregnancy and Lactation Use
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to the drug and those with hepatic impairment.Use Direction
Levosulpiride 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
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Levosulpiride
What is Levosulpiride?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride.
What are the side effects of Levosulpiride?
The most common side effects of Levosulpiride include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and increased blood pressure.
How should Levosulpiride be stored?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride to take effect?
The effects of Levosulpiride will typically start to become apparent within 1 hour, but may take up to 3 hours to reach full effect.
Is Levosulpiride safe to use for long-term treatment?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride interact with any other medications?
Yes, Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride.
Can I take Levosulpiride with alcohol?
No, it is recommended that Levosulpiride not be taken with alcohol, as the combination may lead to drowsiness and increased risk of side effects.
Does Levosulpiride cause addiction?
No, Levosulpiride is not known to be addictive.
Is Levosulpiride available over-the-counter?
No, Levosulpiride is only available through a prescription from a doctor.
Does Levosulpiride cause weight gain?
No, Levosulpiride is not known to cause weight gain.
What is the dosage for Levosulpiride?
The dosage of Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride reduce stomach acid levels?
No, Levosulpiride does not reduce stomach acid levels, but can help to reduce the effects of acidic stomach contents.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?
Yes, Levosulpiride can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Are there any herbs or supplements that could interact with Levosulpiride?
Yes, certain herbs and supplements, such as St. John's Wort, can interact with Levosulpiride, so it is important to tell your doctor about any herbs or supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Levosulpiride.
What is the usual duration of treatment with Levosulpiride?
The duration of treatment with Levosulpiride will depend on the individual patient and the severity of their medical condition. Generally, treatment with Levosulpiride should not exceed 16 weeks.
Is Levosulpiride safe to use in elderly patients?
Yes, Levosulpiride is considered safe to use in elderly patients.
Is Levosulpiride safe to use in children?
Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used in children below the age of 18.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Levosulpiride?
If you miss a dose of Levosulpiride, 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 Levosulpiride?
If you or someone else has overdosed on Levosulpiride, seek immediate medical attention. Common overdose symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat anxiety?
No, Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used to treat anxiety, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on anxiety.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat depression?
No, Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used to treat depression, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on depression.
Can I take Levosulpiride while breastfeeding?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride be used to treat any other medical conditions?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride?
If you experience any side effects while taking Levosulpiride, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the medication, as this could worsen your condition.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat Parkinson’s disease?
No, Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Can Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride can cause tardive dyskinesia.
Is Levosulpiride available as a generic drug?
No, Levosulpiride is not available as a generic drug.
Does Levosulpiride interact with other antipsychotic medications?
Yes, Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride.
Is Levosulpiride effective in treating nausea and vomiting?
Yes, Levosulpiride has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat gastroenteritis?
Yes, Levosulpiride can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroenteritis such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
Is Levosulpiride safe to use in liver disease or kidney disease?
Levosulpiride 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 Levosulpiride be used to treat seizures?
No, Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used to treat seizures.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat migraine headaches?
No, Levosulpiride is not recommended to be used to treat migraine headaches.
Does Levosulpiride cause drowsiness?
Yes, Levosulpiride can cause drowsiness, so caution should be taken when operating machinery or driving.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat IBS-C?
Yes, Levosulpiride has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat IBS-D?
Yes, Levosulpiride has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).
Does Levosulpiride cause insomnia?
Levosulpiride may cause insomnia in some patients, although this is not a common side effect.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat gastroparesis?
Yes, Levosulpiride has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of gastroparesis.
Can Levosulpiride be used to treat ulcers?
Levosulpiride can help to reduce the symptoms of peptic ulcers, but it is not recommended to be used as the sole treatment for ulcers.
Does Levosulpiride cause withdrawal symptoms?
Levosulpiride does not usually cause withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped.