Gardenal 60 Mg

GARDENAL 60 MG

GARDENAL 60 MG by ENTERO HEALTHCARE - CND DIV is a medication primarily used to manage epilepsy and seizures. It belongs to the class of barbiturates and works by slowing down abnormal brain activity.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: GARDENAL 60 MG
  • Common Name: Phenobarbitone (or Phenobarbital)

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Phenobarbitone 60 mg

• Uses: GARDENAL 60 MG is prescribed for the following conditions:

  • Management and prevention of epilepsy (seizures), including generalized tonic-clonic and cortical focal seizures.
  • Control of acute convulsions and status epilepticus.
  • In some cases, it may be used for anxiety disorders, mood stabilization, insomnia, or sedation under medical supervision.
  • Occasionally, it is used to treat febrile seizures in children.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • GARDENAL 60 MG should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, preferably at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of medicine in the body.
  • Tablets can be taken with or without food and may be crushed and mixed with fluid or food for oral administration.
  • Typical adult oral dosage for sedation is 30 to 120 mg/day in 2 to 3 divided doses, and for epilepsy, 60 to 250 mg/day.
  • Children's dosage is usually 5-8 mg per kg bodyweight daily.
  • Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal effects or precipitate status epilepticus.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhea, hyperactivity/restlessness, depression, confusion, decreased blood pressure, fatigue, headache, dizziness, constipation, excitement, hangover, drowsiness, and sleepiness.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention immediately if experienced): Severe skin rashes (especially if accompanied by fever), symptoms of allergic reaction (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), CNS depression (slow or shallow breathing, shortness of breath, feeling faint), thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, liver inflammation, or blood dyscrasias. Long-term use may also cause joint pain.

• Precautions:

  • Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can enhance CNS depressant effects and lead to very serious respiratory depression.
  • Pregnancy: Use with caution during pregnancy and only if clearly necessary, as it may be unsafe. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
  • Breastfeeding: Not recommended for breastfeeding women as the medicine can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby.
  • Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. It is contraindicated in severe liver or kidney impairment.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause drowsiness and sleepiness; avoid driving or activities requiring mental focus until you know how it affects you.
  • Habit-Forming: GARDENAL 60 MG can be habit-forming with long-term use.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, as GARDENAL 60 MG can interact with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), beta-blockers, certain antibiotics, antifungals, corticosteroids, oral contraceptives, and other CNS depressants.
  • Other Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to barbiturates, porphyria, severe respiratory depression.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight.
  • Keep below 25°C or 30°C.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions about GARDENAL 60 MG

What is GARDENAL 60 MG used for?

GARDENAL 60 MG, containing phenobarbitone, is primarily used to manage epilepsy and control various types of seizures, including generalized tonic-clonic and cortical focal seizures. It can also be used in exceptional circumstances to treat seizures associated with high fever in children. Additionally, it may be prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia or as a sedative for anxiety.

How does GARDENAL 60 MG work?

GARDENAL 60 MG works by slowing down abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Its active ingredient, phenobarbitone, belongs to a class of medicines called barbiturates. It enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical messenger in the brain that inhibits nerve cell activity. This increased inhibition helps to prevent and control seizures.

What is the usual dosage for GARDENAL 60 MG?

The dosage of GARDENAL 60 MG varies depending on the medical condition, age, and individual response. For epilepsy in adults, typical oral doses range from 60 to 250 mg per day. As a sedative, adults may take 30 to 120 mg daily in two to three divided doses. For use as a hypnotic, 100 to 200 mg at bedtime is common. It is crucial to take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, preferably at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in your body. Do not exceed a maximum daily dose of 400 mg for seizure control without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of GARDENAL 60 MG?

Common side effects of GARDENAL 60 MG include drowsiness, sleepiness, nausea, diarrhea, hyperactivity (especially in children), depression, confusion, decreased blood pressure, fatigue, headache, dizziness, constipation, excitement, and a hangover-like feeling. More serious, but less common, side effects can include severe allergic reactions (manifesting as rash, fever, or swollen glands), suicidal thoughts, or joint pain. Long-term use can also lead to physical dependence and addiction.

Is GARDENAL 60 MG safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

GARDENAL 60 MG is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy as there is clear evidence of potential risk to the developing baby. Your doctor may only prescribe it if the benefits significantly outweigh the risks, and often recommends taking folic acid alongside it. It is also generally considered unsafe during breastfeeding, as phenobarbitone can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding before taking this medicine.

Can GARDENAL 60 MG be taken with other medications?

GARDENAL 60 MG can interact with several other medications. It may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, anticoagulants (like warfarin), beta-blockers, certain antibiotics, and corticosteroids. Conversely, some medications, such as valproic acid, can increase the levels of phenobarbitone in the body. Always inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Taking folic acid might decrease the effectiveness of Gardenal 60 MG, and its use should be discussed with a doctor.

What precautions should be taken while on GARDENAL 60 MG?

It is important to avoid alcohol while taking GARDENAL 60 MG as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of falls. Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver disease, respiratory problems, or a history of drug abuse. This medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you. Do not stop taking GARDENAL 60 MG suddenly, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. Your doctor will advise on a gradual reduction if the medication needs to be stopped. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor medication levels in your body.

What happens if a dose of GARDENAL 60 MG is missed?

If you miss a dose of GARDENAL 60 MG, take it 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 take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should GARDENAL 60 MG be stored?

GARDENAL 60 MG tablets should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. The storage temperature should generally be below 30°C (86°F). Always keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children.