Avega SR (6mg) 10 Tablets

Paliperidone, the active ingredient in the 6mg tablet, primarily exerts its therapeutic effects by interacting with dopamine and serotonin receptors in the brain. It acts as a selective monoaminergic antagonist, binding strongly to dopamine D2 and serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. By blocking these receptors, paliperidone helps regulate dopamine and serotonin activity, which are neurotransmitters involved in mood, behavior, and cognition. This mechanism is thought to contribute to its effectiveness in managing psychotic disorders, as it helps alleviate symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorders by modulating these neurotransmitter systems.

Atypical antipsychotic

Oral

The following are the uses of Paliperidone 6mg Tablet:

• Used for treating schizophrenia, helping patients manage hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking.
• Used to stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of schizoaffective disorder.
• Used to control and manage severe behavioral problems associated with autism.
• Used for short-term treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Used to reduce aggression and psychotic symptoms in patients with severe behavioral issues.
• Used to alleviate symptoms of depression when other treatments have been ineffective.
• Used for maintaining mental health stability and preventing relapses.

Tailoring Treatment for Optimal Health, Prescribed Medication Dosage is:

• For anxiety, take Paliperidone 6mg as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• For high blood pressure, take Paliperidone 6mg as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• For schizophrenia, the starting dose is usually 1.5 to 3 mg and can be increased by 1.5 to 3 mg per day, up to 6 mg. The dosage may differ for different people depending on the severity of the condition and the response to the medication.

In the case of an overdose of Paliperidone 6mg Tablets, it is important to act promptly. The initial symptoms may include severe drowsiness, muscle stiffness, and an irregular heartbeat. Promptly contact a healthcare professional or poison control center for guidance. They will provide specific instructions for managing the overdose, which may include inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to prevent further absorption. Quick action is essential to ensure the best possible outcome.

In the case of a missed dose of Paliperidone 6mg Tablet, it is important to take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you miss multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance, as they may advise you to restart the medication or adjust the dosage accordingly. It is crucial to maintain a consistent medication routine for optimal effectiveness.

To take Paliperidone 6mg Tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably in the morning, as directed by your healthcare professional, and follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by your doctor.

Following are the conditions/situations when Paliperidone 6mg Tablet should not be used:

• Should not be taken if you are allergic to paliperidone or any other similar medications.
• Contraindicated in patients with known Parkinson's disease or dementia-related psychosis.
• Avoid using if you have a history of heart diseases, stroke, or low white blood cell count.
• Not recommended for individuals with liver or kidney problems.
• Do not use if you have a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome.
• Should not be taken by pregnant women or those who are planning to become pregnant.
• Breastfeeding mothers should not take this medication as it may pass into breast milk.
• Do not use if you have ever had a condition called tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the face, tongue, or body).
• Avoid using if you have diabetes, as it may affect blood sugar levels.
• Should not be used in children and adolescents below 18 years of age.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

The side effects of Paliperidone 6mg Tablet may include:

• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Increased heart rate
• Fatigue and drowsiness
• Restlessness or akathisia
• Weight gain
• Muscle stiffness or tremors

Following are the precautions and warnings for Paliperidone 6mg Tablet:

• Not recommended for individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Paliperidone or any other similar medications.
• Patients with a history of cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease or low blood pressure, should use with caution as it may cause a drop in blood pressure.
• Paliperidone can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, so patients should rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent falls.
• Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects, so dosage adjustments might be necessary.
• This medication may impair thinking and reactions, so activities requiring mental alertness should be avoided until the full effects are known.
• Not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years of age.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medication as it may affect the unborn child or pass into breast milk.

Following are the drug interactions for Paliperidone 6mg Tablet:

• Concomitant use with other antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of side effects such as extrapyramidal symptoms and sedation.
• Paliperidone can interact with central nervous system depressants like opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol, enhancing their effects and leading to increased sedation and respiratory depression.
• It may prolong the QT interval, so caution is advised when used with other medications that also prolong QT intervals, such as certain antiarrhythmic drugs or some antibiotics.
• Paliperidone can reduce the effectiveness of medications metabolized by CYP3A4, including some antiepileptic drugs, and may require dose adjustments.
• The effectiveness of Paliperidone may be reduced when used with CYP3A4 inducers, such as carbamazepine or rifampin.
• Antihypertensive medications may have their effects enhanced by Paliperidone, leading to potential hypotension.
• Caution is advised when combining Paliperidone with medications that affect liver function, as this may alter its metabolism.

Following are the food interactions for Paliperidone 6mg Tablet:

• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can interfere with the medication's metabolism, potentially leading to increased Paliperidone levels in the blood.
• Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may increase the sedative effects and impair your ability to think clearly.
• High-fat meals can slightly increase the absorption of Paliperidone, so it is advisable to maintain a consistent diet pattern to ensure stable blood levels.
• Avoid caffeine or reduce its intake as it can increase anxiety and interfere with the medication's effects.
• Avoid foods rich in tyramine (aged cheeses, cured meats) as Paliperidone may interact with tyramine, leading to increased blood pressure.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if you experience dry mouth as a side effect.
• Avoid excessive salt intake, as Paliperidone may cause sodium retention in some individuals.

Paliperidone 6mg Tablets should be stored in a secure and dry location, preferably at room temperature (around 20-25°C), ensuring protection from light and moisture. It is crucial to keep the tablets in their original packaging, tightly sealed, to maintain their integrity and prevent contamination. Avoid exposing the medication to high temperatures or storing it in the bathroom due to the potential for humidity and temperature fluctuations. Regularly check the expiration date, and if the tablets are no longer needed or have expired, do not dispose of them via household waste or sewage systems. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste management guidelines for safe and environmentally friendly disposal practices. Additionally, ensure that the medication is kept in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.

Following are the quick tips for Paliperidone 6mg Tablet:

• Take the tablet as directed by your doctor, typically once daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew.
• Consistency is key; take it at the same time each day.
• Ensure you complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.
• Avoid alcohol consumption as it may intensify side effects.
• Store the medication in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight.
• Regularly monitor your progress and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

Paliperidone is a medication used to treat schizophrenia, and it carries the risk of potential serious side effects affecting the heart and blood vessels. To ensure safety, laboratory tests are essential when starting Paliperidone 6mg. These tests include a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, which measures chemicals that reflect metabolic function, such as glucose and calcium, to ensure proper bodily function. An Electrolyte Panel examines blood levels of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate, which Paliperidone may cause to abnormal levels. Kidney function tests, such as blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, are included due to the risk of kidney damage from Paliperidone. Liver function tests, like ALT and AST, are monitored to check for stress or damage to the liver. Longer-term antipsychotic use can rarely lead to conditions like thrombocytosis or coagulopathy, thus a complete blood count with differential is included to monitor for these conditions. These tests are crucial during the first few months of treatment, followed by periodic intervals, dependent on the severity of side effects and response to the medication.