Itopride Hydrochloride

Itopride Hydrochloride is a potent dopamine-2 antagonist and an acetylcholine esterase inhibitor. It increases acetylcholine concentrations by inhibiting dopamine D2 receptors and acetylcholinesterase. Higher acetylcholine increases GI peristalsis, increases the lower esophageal sphincter pressure, stimulates gastric motility, accelerates gastric emptying, and improves gastro-duodenal coordination.

• Gastrointestinal symptoms in chronic gastritis (feeling of an enlarged abdomen, upper abdominal pain, anorexia, heartburn, nausea and vomiting)

Adult Dose (Oral):

• Usual dose: 50 mg three times daily (before meals)
• Dose may be reduced according to age and symptoms
• Elderly: Prone to adverse reactions due to physiological hypo function; close monitoring required

Child Dose: Not recommended in children and adolescents below 18 years

Side Effects:

• Shock and anaphylactoid reactions (hypotension, dyspnoea, larynx edema, urticaria, pallor, diaphoresis)
• Hepatic function disorder and jaundice (increased AST, ALT, g-GTP)

Precautions:

• Use with caution as it enhances the action of acetylcholine
• Do not use continuously for extended period when no improvement of GI symptoms is observed
• Remove tablet from PTP packaging before ingestion (risk of esophageal mucosa puncture)
• Close observation for shock and anaphylactoid reactions
• Close observation for hepatic function disorder and jaundice

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to active substance or any excipients
• Patients in whom increased gastrointestinal motility could be harmful (gastrointestinal haemorrhage, mechanical obstruction or perforation)

Drug Interactions:

• Anticholinergic drugs (Tiquizium bromide, Scopolamine butyl bromide, Timepidium bromide) may reduce the activity of Itopride

Food Interactions: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Itopride Hydrochloride; consult your doctor.

Use in Pregnancy: Safety not verified; use only if therapeutic benefits outweigh possible risks considerably.

Use in Lactation: Data about excretion in mother milk is known only in animals; not recommended due to lack of experience.

Renal Impairment: Safe in kidney disease; dose adjustment recommended.

Hepatic Impairment: Caution in severe liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed; discontinue if abnormalities occur.

Overdose: Gastric lavage and symptomatic therapy should be applied.