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Description
Levosulpiride is a substituted benzamide drug that is a levo enantiomer of sulpiride, it is an atypical antipsychotic (neuroleptic or tranquilizers) and a prokinetic agent that exerts its antidopaminergic (selective dopamine D2 receptors) activity on both central and peripheral levels. It reduces dopamine-mediated nausea and vomiting by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and in hypothalamus. This drug increases the release of acetylcholine and in return increases the movement of the stomach and intestines and prevents reflux. Levosulpiride is a partial agonist of serotonin 5-HT1A, this partial agonism increases the release of serotonin which results in enhancement of its antiemetic effect.
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Ingredients
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Dosage Form
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Uses
Levosulpiride is utilized for the following therapeutic indications:
- Used as an atypical antipsychotic for the treatment of schizophrenia
- Treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Helps in managing dyspepsia and gastritis
- Used in combination therapy for various mental health disorders
- May aid in the treatment of anxiety disorders
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Dosage
Dose must be taken according to the doctor’s advice only; doses given below are suggested as supportive literature for better understanding in some areas of requirements. Adult dose: For the treatment of functional digestive symptoms: 25mg 3 times a day. For the treatment of schizophrenia: 200-300mg a day, divided into 3 doses.
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In case of Overdose
Excessive overdose of this medicine may cause restlessness, sleep disturbances, and tremors. Consult your doctor in case of overdose.
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Missed Dose
In case you missed any dose, take the next dose as soon as you remember but don't double your next dose to compensate for the missed one.
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How To Use
This medicine should be taken orally as advised by the doctor.
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When Not to Use
This drug must be avoided in elderly people, in children less than 14 years of age, renal or hepatic insufficiency, porphyrias, Parkinson's disease, severe history of epilepsy, manic states, alcohol intoxication, malignant mastopathies, GI bleeding, hyperprolactinemia, cardiac impairment, breast cancer, certain tumors like; pituitary prolactinoma, Hypokalemia, and phaeochromocytoma.
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Side Effects
Headache Drowsiness Fatigue Irregular Menstrual Periods Constipation Weight gain Increased prolactin level in blood Increased salivation Excessive Sweating Gynecomastia (change in breast size) Abnormal Heart Rate Abdominal cramps
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Precautions & Warnings
This medicine may impair the ability to operate machinery or drive a vehicle so care must be taken. Caution must be taken while prescribing this medicine to pregnant women; this medicine must be recommended to pregnant ladies only when its benefits are increasing then its risk factors. The drug is secreted in breast milk, so, its use should be restricted in breastfeeding women.
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Food Interactions
Food does not significantly affect the absorption of levosulpiride. However, it is suggested to take levosulpiride with food to decrease the risks of gastrointestinal side effects, like; nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Grapefruit and its juice can increase the concentration of levosulpiride in the blood. This can result in an increase in side effects such as headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and gastrointestinal issues. The caffeine present in tea and coffee can decrease the absorption and effectiveness of levosulpiride, therefore tea or coffee should be avoided for at least 30 minutes before or after taking levosulpiride. Tea and coffee may also increase the risk of side effects associated with levosulpiride, like; dizziness, drowsiness, and increased heart rate.
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Storage/Disposal
Store at 25°C. Protect from heat and moisture.