Profigran
Profigran Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Profigran is a brand name. Its generic name is Flunarizine.
Introduction
Profigran is a calcium channel blocker used in the treatment of migraine, vertigo, and neurosensory deafness. It is a highly selective antagonist of the L-type calcium channels in the brain, modulating the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and serotonin, thereby providing relief from the symptoms of migraine.Uses
Profigran is used to treat migraine, vertigo, and neurosensory deafness. It is also used to prevent migraine headaches and other similar conditions.Mechanism of Action
Profigran is a highly selective antagonist of the L-type calcium channels in the brain. By blocking the L-type channels, it modulates the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, norepinephrine, and serotonin, thereby providing relief from the symptoms of migraine. Profigran also blocks the calcium channels present in peripheral blood vessels, thereby reduced the amount of calcium available, which leads to the relaxation of the blood vessels and reduction in blood pressure.How Long Does It Take to Work?
The effects of flunarizine can be noticed after about 6-8 hours after the initial dose. It may take up to two weeks for the full therapeutic effects of flunarizine to be noticed.Absorption
Profigran is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. The peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1-2 hours.Route of Elimination
Profigran is eliminated from the body in urine and feces. It undergoes extensive biotransformation and has an elimination half-life of around 25-30 hours.Dosage
Profigran is available in the form of tablets and capsules containing 10mg of flunarizine. The recommended dosage of flunarizine for migraine prophylaxis is 10-20mg per day in divided doses, or as advised by a doctor. It should not be taken more than twice a day.Administration
Profigran should be taken orally with or without food. It can be taken with food to reduce the adverse effects. It should not be taken with alcohol as it can increase the side-effects.Side Effects
The side effects associated with flunarizine include drowsiness, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, dry mouth, headache and constipation.Toxicity
The acute oral toxicity of flunarizine is very low. Long-term exposure of flunarizine in higher doses than recommended can lead to toxicity. The primary effects of flunarizine toxicity include bradycardia, QT prolongation, and cardiac arrhythmias.Precaution
It is recommended to avoid using flunarizine in patients with history of congenital or acquired QT prolongation, orthostatic intolerance, myasthenia gravis, depression, Parkinson’s disease and renal impairment.Interaction
Profigran may interact with other medicines such as anticonvulsants, antibiotics, and antihistamines.Disease Interactions
Profigran may interact with certain diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.Drug Interactions
Profigran may interact with other drugs and can increase the risk of toxicity or adverse effects.Food Interactions
Profigran should be taken after a meal to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid taking flunarizine with alcohol.Pregnancy Use
Profigran should be avoided in pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risk.Lactation Use
Profigran should be avoided in breastfeeding women as it can be passed through breast milk and may cause adverse effects on the infant.Acute Overdose
Acute overdose with flunarizine can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, seizures, bradycardia, and hypotension.Contraindication
Profigran is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug.Use Direction
The benefits and effectiveness of flunarizine should be discussed with a doctor before using the medication.Storage Condition
Profigran should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.Volume of Distribution
Profigran has a volume of distribution of 11L/kg.Half Life
The elimination half-life of flunarizine is around 25-30 hours.Clearance
The clearance of flunarizine is 5.9 L/h.Here you find in details version of Profigran
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Profigran
.Q1. What is Profigran?
Profigran is a medication used to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo primarily caused by vascular problems. It belongs to the calcium channel blocker family, which works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine.
Q2. How does Profigran work?
Profigran belongs to the calcium channel blocker family, which works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine. It also relaxes the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and can reduce the severity of the headaches.
Q3. What are the uses of Profigran?
Profigran is used primarily to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo. It can also be used to prevent cluster headaches. Additionally, it may be used to treat neuropathic pain caused by diabetes.
Q4. Is Profigran safe?
When taken as directed, Profigran is generally safe. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions, as taking too much can cause serious side effects. It is important to note that Profigran may interact with other medications.
Q5. What are the side effects of Profigran?
Common side effects of Profigran include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating. In rare cases, Profigran may cause more serious side effects, such as kidney problems, liver damage, skin rash, or muscle weakness.
Q6. Who should not take Profigran?
Patients with certain medical conditions should not take Profigran. These include pregnant or nursing mothers, those with kidney or liver problems, or those taking certain medications. If you have any questions, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Q7. How do I take Profigran?
Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking Profigran. Generally, adults should take 5-10mg once daily at bedtime. You should not take more than 15mg of Profigran per day. Take Profigran with food or milk to reduce nausea.
Q8. How long does it take for Profigran to work?
It can take up to 4 weeks for Profigran to start working. During this time, your doctor may adjust your dosage to find the best results. Generally, Profigran is most effective when taken over a long period of time.
Q9. What should I do if I miss a dose of Profigran?
If you miss a dose of Profigran, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.
Q10. Is flunarizine habit-forming?
No, flunarizine is not addictive. If you take flunarizine for a long period of time, your doctor may need to gradually reduce your dose before stopping it completely.
Q11. Is Profigran generic?
Yes, flunarizine is a generic medication. It is also available under brand names such as Sibelium,Calaptin, Solariz, and Fluress.
Q12. What are the possible drug interactions of Profigran?
Profigran may interact with other medications, such as drugs to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, or depression. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you take. It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Profigran.
Q13. Are there any other precautions to consider when taking Profigran?
Yes, it is important to avoid performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, while taking Profigran. Additionally, Profigran may increase the risk of allergic reactions, so be sure to discuss any allergies you have with your doctor.
Q14. Is Profigran available over the counter?
No, Profigran is not available over the counter. It must be prescribed by a physician.
Q15. Is Profigran safe for children?
No, children under the age of 12 should not take Profigran. For children ages 12 to 18, the dosage and treatment schedule should be discussed with a doctor.
Q16. Can Profigran be used to treat depression?
No, Profigran is not effective for treating depression. It is only used to prevent headaches, migraines, vertigo, and cluster headaches.
Q17. Is Profigran safe for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women should not take Profigran. It can cause birth defects and other serious side effects.
Q18. Is Profigran safe for nursing mothers?
No, nursing mothers should not take Profigran, as it can pass through breast milk and can harm the infant.
Q19. Is Profigran an opioid?
No, Profigran is not an opioid. It is a medication used to prevent headaches, migraines, and vertigo.
Q20. Does Profigran have any interactions with other drugs?
Yes, Profigran may interact with other drugs, such as drugs to treat high cholesterol, diabetes, or depression. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you take.
Q21. How long can I take Profigran?
Profigran is generally taken over a long period of time, but the exact length of treatment should be discussed with your doctor. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Profigran.
Q22. Does Profigran cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Profigran, though it is possible. If you experience unexplained weight gain while taking Profigran, contact your doctor.
Q23. What should I do if I experience serious side effects from Profigran?
If you experience serious side effects such as kidney problems, liver damage, skin rash, or muscle weakness, contact your doctor immediately.
Q24. Are there any natural alternatives to Profigran?
Some natural alternatives to Profigran include herbs, vitamins, and supplements. Always talk to your doctor before taking any herbs, vitamins, or supplements to make sure they don't interact with other medications.
Q25. What are the long-term effects of taking Profigran?
Long-term effects of taking Profigran are not well known. It is important to talk to your doctor about any risks associated with long-term use of Profigran.
Q26. What food should I avoid while taking Profigran?
If you experience nausea while taking Profigran, you should avoid foods that are high in fat, such as fried foods, and opt for lighter food like salads or fruits.
Q27. Is Profigran available in generic form?
Yes, flunarizine is a generic medication. It is also available under brand names such as Sibelium,Calaptin, Solariz, and Fluress.
Q28. How is Profigran different from other migraine medications?
Profigran works differently than other migraine medications. Instead of treating the headache, Profigran works by preventing the headache or migraine from occurring in the first place. It also takes longer to start working than other medications.
Q29. Does Profigran affect the brain?
Profigran works by blocking signals in the brain to decrease the intensity of the headache or migraine. It also relaxes the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and can reduce the severity of the headaches.
Q30. Does Profigran have any interactions with alcohol?
Yes, it is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Profigran. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.