Levosulpiridum

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

Introduction

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum 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?

Levosulpiridum usually starts to take effect within 2 - 4 hours and peak effectiveness can be seen within 8 - 12 hours.

Absorption

Levosulpiridum is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Route of Elimination

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum is generally very safe, however, long-term use is associated with drowsiness, confusion, and restlessness.

Precaution and Interaction

Levosulpiridum should be used with caution in people with cardiac disease, renal failure, or liver failure, as it can worsen these conditions. Levosulpiridum 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. Levosulpiridum should be used with caution in people with Parkinson's disease or renal disease, as it can worsen these conditions.

Food Interactions

Levosulpiridum should be taken with a meal or at least immediately after a meal for optimal absorption.

Pregnancy and Lactation Use

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum is contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to the drug and those with hepatic impairment.

Use Direction

Levosulpiridum 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

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Levosulpiridum

What is Levosulpiridum?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum.

What are the side effects of Levosulpiridum?

The most common side effects of Levosulpiridum include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, nausea, and increased blood pressure.

How should Levosulpiridum be stored?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum to take effect?

The effects of Levosulpiridum will typically start to become apparent within 1 hour, but may take up to 3 hours to reach full effect.

Is Levosulpiridum safe to use for long-term treatment?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum interact with any other medications?

Yes, Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum.

Can I take Levosulpiridum with alcohol?

No, it is recommended that Levosulpiridum not be taken with alcohol, as the combination may lead to drowsiness and increased risk of side effects.

Does Levosulpiridum cause addiction?

No, Levosulpiridum is not known to be addictive.

Is Levosulpiridum available over-the-counter?

No, Levosulpiridum is only available through a prescription from a doctor.

Does Levosulpiridum cause weight gain?

No, Levosulpiridum is not known to cause weight gain.

What is the dosage for Levosulpiridum?

The dosage of Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum reduce stomach acid levels?

No, Levosulpiridum does not reduce stomach acid levels, but can help to reduce the effects of acidic stomach contents.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Yes, Levosulpiridum can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Are there any herbs or supplements that could interact with Levosulpiridum?

Yes, certain herbs and supplements, such as St. John's Wort, can interact with Levosulpiridum, so it is important to tell your doctor about any herbs or supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Levosulpiridum.

What is the usual duration of treatment with Levosulpiridum?

The duration of treatment with Levosulpiridum will depend on the individual patient and the severity of their medical condition. Generally, treatment with Levosulpiridum should not exceed 16 weeks.

Is Levosulpiridum safe to use in elderly patients?

Yes, Levosulpiridum is considered safe to use in elderly patients.

Is Levosulpiridum safe to use in children?

Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used in children below the age of 18.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Levosulpiridum?

If you miss a dose of Levosulpiridum, 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 Levosulpiridum?

If you or someone else has overdosed on Levosulpiridum, seek immediate medical attention. Common overdose symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and shallow breathing.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat anxiety?

No, Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used to treat anxiety, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on anxiety.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat depression?

No, Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used to treat depression, as it is not known to have any therapeutic effect on depression.

Can I take Levosulpiridum while breastfeeding?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum be used to treat any other medical conditions?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum?

If you experience any side effects while taking Levosulpiridum, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the medication, as this could worsen your condition.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat Parkinson’s disease?

No, Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used to treat Parkinson’s disease.

Can Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum can cause tardive dyskinesia.

Is Levosulpiridum available as a generic drug?

No, Levosulpiridum is not available as a generic drug.

Does Levosulpiridum interact with other antipsychotic medications?

Yes, Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum.

Is Levosulpiridum effective in treating nausea and vomiting?

Yes, Levosulpiridum has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat gastroenteritis?

Yes, Levosulpiridum can be used to help reduce the symptoms of gastroenteritis such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

Is Levosulpiridum safe to use in liver disease or kidney disease?

Levosulpiridum 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 Levosulpiridum be used to treat seizures?

No, Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used to treat seizures.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat migraine headaches?

No, Levosulpiridum is not recommended to be used to treat migraine headaches.

Does Levosulpiridum cause drowsiness?

Yes, Levosulpiridum can cause drowsiness, so caution should be taken when operating machinery or driving.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat IBS-C?

Yes, Levosulpiridum has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C).

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat IBS-D?

Yes, Levosulpiridum has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).

Does Levosulpiridum cause insomnia?

Levosulpiridum may cause insomnia in some patients, although this is not a common side effect.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat gastroparesis?

Yes, Levosulpiridum has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of gastroparesis.

Can Levosulpiridum be used to treat ulcers?

Levosulpiridum can help to reduce the symptoms of peptic ulcers, but it is not recommended to be used as the sole treatment for ulcers.

Does Levosulpiridum cause withdrawal symptoms?

Levosulpiridum does not usually cause withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped.