Ruphen

Ruphen Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Ruphen is a brand name. Its generic name is Dextropropoxyphene + Paracetamol.

Introduction

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol combination is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. Dextropropoxyphene is an opioid pain reliever and Paracetamol is a non-opioid pain reliever. Together, they provide better control of pain compared to using either drug separately.

Uses

This combination is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and back pain.

Mechanism of Action

Dextropropoxyphene is an opioid pain reliever that calms the central nervous system and affects opioid receptors in the brain. This reduces the sensation of pain. Paracetamol is a non-opioid pain reliever that blocks body chemicals to reduce pain.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The combination of Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol usually starts to work in 60 minutes after it is taken.

Absorption

The absorption and bioavailability of Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is rapid. Peak plasma concentration is obtained in 0.5-1.2 hours after ingestion.

Route of Elimination

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol are mainly eliminated through the kidneys by glomerular filtration.

Dosage

The recommended dose for both Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is 500 mg/65 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not to exceed 5 total doses in 24 hours. The usual max daily dose is 4000 mg of Paracetamol and 2000 mg of Dextropropoxyphene. Doses of Dextropropoxyphene higher than 2000 mg/day should be avoided due to the risk of hepatotoxicity.

Administration

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol tablets are taken by mouth, usually with or without food. Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol contain 65mg of Dextropropoxyphene and 500mg of Paracetamol.

Side effects

Common side effects of Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol include drowsiness, constipation, stomach upset, dizziness, and lightheadedness. More serious side effects include confusion, difficulty breathing, prolonged or painful erection, or seizures.

Toxicity

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol may cause liver or kidney damage if taken in doses higher than the recommended daily dose or for an extended period of time.

Precautions

• This medication can be habit-forming and must be used with caution.
• Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, as higher doses can worsen their condition.
• Patients should be monitored for signs of abuse or addiction.

Interaction

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol may interact with other medications such as sedatives, ethanol, antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, MAOIs, other opioids, and drugs that affect the liver or kidneys.

Disease Interaction

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, as higher doses can worsen their condition.

Drug Interactions

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol may interact with other medications such as sedatives, ethanol, antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, MAOIs, other opioids, and drugs that affect the liver or kidneys.

Food Interactions

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol and increase the effects of the medication.

Pregnancy Use

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is not recommended for use in pregnancy due to the risks of fetal harm.

Lactation Use

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is not recommended for use in breastfeeding mothers due to the high risk of toxicity in infants.

Acute Overdose

In cases of overdose, signs of opioid overdose such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, slowed heart rate, shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, cold and clammy skin, muscle weakness, fainting, or coma may occur.

Contraindication

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to either Dextropropoxyphene or Paracetamol.

Use Direction

Take this medication exactly as prescribed or directed by the doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Take this medication with or without food.

Storage Condition

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is 0.5-1.2 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol is 9-10 hours.

Clearance

Dextropropoxyphene and Paracetamol have an elimination clearance of 0.13-0.25 L/kg/hr.

Here you find in details version of Ruphen

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Ruphen

What is Ruphen?

Ruphen is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients: dextropropoxyphene (a pain reliever and cough suppressant) and paracetamol (an analgesic and antipyretic). The combination is used to treat mild to moderate pain.

How does Ruphen work?

Dextropropoxyphene is a narcotic analgesic agent that acts on the central nervous system, while paracetamol is an antipyretic and analgesic agent that acts on the peripheral pain receptors. Together, these two active ingredients help to relieve pain through their combined effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems.

What are the side-effects of Ruphen?

Common side-effects of Ruphen include nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, itching, and rash. If any of these side-effects persist or worsen, it is important to contact a doctor. Severe side-effects such as breathing problems, extreme nervousness and depression, yellowing of the skin, and vision problems may also occur and should also be reported to a doctor.

Can Ruphen be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Ruphen should not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the developing fetus. Similarly, it should not be used while breastfeeding, as it can be passed to the infant through breast milk. Talk to a doctor to determine the safest course of action when pregnant or breastfeeding while taking Ruphen.

How should Ruphen be taken?

Ruphen should be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor, usually 2-4 times per day. Do not take more than the recommended dose, as this can increase the risk of side-effects.

What if I miss a dose of Ruphen?

If a dose of Ruphen is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time of the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular schedule resumed. Do not take a double dose or take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.

Are there any interactions with Ruphen?

Ruphen may interact with other medications, including other CNS depressants, alcohol, MAO inhibitors, and certain other drugs. It is important to inform the doctor of any medications and supplements being taken before starting Ruphen, as well as any changes to the medications or supplements being taken while on the medication.

Are there any precautions when taking Ruphen?

Ruphen should not be used in children under 12 years of age, and should be used with caution in elderly or debilitated patients. It should also not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney problems, and should be used with caution in patients with a history of alcoholism, drug abuse, or mental illness. Talk to the doctor to determine the safest course of action for each individual patient.

Is Ruphen addictive?

Ruphen can be addictive if it is taken in large doses or for long periods of time. Even at therapeutic doses, dependence and addiction can still occur. The risk of addiction is higher in people with a history of substance abuse or mental illness.

What should I do if I have an overdose of Ruphen?

If an overdose of Ruphen is suspected, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe drowsiness, slowed breathing, coma, or death. Do not attempt to treat an overdose without professional medical help.

How long can I take Ruphen?

Ruphen should only be taken as long as it has been prescribed by the doctor. Taking more than the prescribed amount or for longer than prescribed can lead to addiction and side-effects. Do not increase the dose or duration without consulting the doctor to determine the safest course of action.

What is the storage for Ruphen?

Ruphen should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not store in areas where young children or pets could access the medication, and always keep Ruphen in the original packaging.

Is Ruphen available over-the-counter?

No, Ruphen is not available over-the-counter. It is a prescription medication and should only be taken as directed by the doctor.

What is the recommended dosage of Ruphen?

The recommended dosage of Ruphen varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient's needs. Always follow the instructions provided on the medication label or by the doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose or for longer than prescribed.

Is there any difference between Ruphen and tramadol?

Yes, there is a difference between Ruphen and tramadol. Ruphen is a combination of two medications, while tramadol is a single medication. Both are used to treat pain, but have different side-effects and potential interactions.

What are the common brand names for Ruphen?

The most common brand name for Ruphen is Dalargan. Other brand names include Dexpro, Dexapar and Dimetap.

What forms does Ruphen come in?

Ruphen is available in tablet and capsule forms. Each form usually contains 50mg of dextropropoxyphene and 500mg of paracetamol.

Does Ruphen have any anti-inflammatory effects?

No, Ruphen does not have any anti-inflammatory effects. It is primarily used to relieve mild to moderate pain due to its sedative and analgesic effects.

Can I take Ruphen with ibuprofen?

It is generally not recommended to take Ruphen and ibuprofen together. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and may increase the risk of side-effects associated with Ruphen. Talk to a doctor to determine the safest course of action when taking these medications together.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Ruphen?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Ruphen. Alcohol can increase the risk of side-effects and can also increase the risk of dependence and addiction. Talk to the doctor before consuming any alcohol while taking Ruphen.

Is Ruphen safe for long-term use?

Ruphen can be used for long-term pain relief, but it is important to use caution. Prolonged use can increase the risk of dependence and addiction, as well as side-effects. Talk to a doctor to help determine the safest course of action when using Ruphen for long-term pain relief.

Does Ruphen interact with any other drugs?

Yes, Ruphen may interact with other drugs, including other CNS depressants, alcohol, MAO inhibitors, and certain other drugs. It is important to inform the doctor of all medications and supplements being taken before starting Ruphen.

What is the mechanism of action for Ruphen?

The mechanism of action of Ruphen is two-fold. Dextropropoxyphene is a narcotic analgesic agent that acts on the central nervous system, while paracetamol is an antipyretic and analgesic agent that acts on peripheral pain receptors. Together, these two active ingredients help to relieve pain through their combined effects on the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Can Ruphen be used in children?

No, Ruphen should not be used in children under 12 years of age. Talk to a doctor to determine the safest course of action when treating pain in children.

Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Ruphen?

No, it is not recommended to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Ruphen, as it can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Talk to a doctor if driving or operating heavy machinery becomes necessary while taking Ruphen.

Can Ruphen be used to treat fever?

Yes, Ruphen can be used to treat fever, as paracetamol is an antipyretic. However, always talk to a doctor before self-treating fever with Ruphen.

Does Ruphen cause weight gain?

No, weight gain is not a common side-effect of Ruphen. However, other side-effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and stomach upset can cause temporary weight fluctuations.

Does Ruphen cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a common side-effect of Ruphen. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fiber diet to help prevent constipation when taking Ruphen.

Can Ruphen cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side-effect of Ruphen. If drowsiness occurs, exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.

Can Ruphen be used to treat chronic pain?

Yes, Ruphen can be used to treat chronic pain, but it is important to use caution due to the risk of side-effects and addiction. Talk to a doctor to help determine the safest course of action for chronic pain management.

What is the half-life of Ruphen?

The half-life of Dextropropoxyphene