Starcad B 50

STARCAD B 50 Tablet

Name:

• Brand Name: STARCAD B 50, Starcad Beta 50mg Tablet ER
• Common Name: Metoprolol (as S-Metoprolol Succinate)

Composition: STARCAD B 50 contains S-Metoprolol Succinate as its active ingredient, typically in a 50mg strength. Metoprolol belongs to a class of medicines known as beta-blockers.

Uses: This medication is primarily used to manage various cardiovascular conditions and other related issues:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): It helps lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems.
• Angina Pectoris (Chest Pain): It relieves heart-related chest pain by reducing the heart's workload and oxygen requirements.
• Heart Failure: It slows down the heart rate, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
• Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeat/Palpitations): It helps stabilize and manage irregular heart rhythms.
• Prevention of Heart Attack and Stroke: It is used to prevent future cardiovascular events.
• Migraine Prophylaxis: It can help prevent and reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.
• Overactive Thyroid Gland: It can help alleviate symptoms caused by an overactive thyroid.

Dosage and Administration: STARCAD B 50 tablets are typically taken orally, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is often advised to take it with food or immediately after food at the same time each day for consistent benefit. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. Dosage and duration of treatment are determined by a doctor based on the individual's medical condition. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as this can lead to adverse effects; dosage should be gradually reduced under medical supervision.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Tiredness/Fatigue
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint on standing (due to low blood pressure)
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation
• Cold hands and feet (cold extremities)
• Shortness of breath (especially on excessive physical activity)

Serious side effects are less common but require immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include severe low blood pressure, severe bradycardia, heart failure, and bronchospasm.

Precautions:

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Metoprolol or any other ingredients in the medicine.
• Heart Conditions: Not recommended for severe bradycardia, second or third-degree heart block, cardiogenic shock, or decompensated cardiac failure. Use with caution in patients with first-degree heart block, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, or heart failure.
• Respiratory Conditions: Not recommended for patients with bronchospastic diseases like asthma or COPD.
• Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.
• Diabetes: Caution is advised as Metoprolol may cause low blood sugar levels and alter the body's response to low blood sugar.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant women unless necessary and should be used with caution in breastfeeding women as it may pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may lower blood pressure further.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Avoid driving or operating machines if you experience dizziness or tiredness.
• Other Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, including prescription, non-prescription, herbal remedies, and supplements, as interactions can occur with medications for high blood pressure, arrhythmias, depression, fungal infections, and ulcers.

Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about STARCAD B 50 by Lupin Ltd:

What is STARCAD B 50 used for?

STARCAD B 50, which contains Metoprolol (specifically S-Metoprolol Succinate), is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina pectoris (chest pain), and irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia). It also helps prevent heart attacks, strokes, and migraines, and can relieve symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland.

How does STARCAD B 50 work?

This medicine is a beta-blocker that works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart. This action slows down the heart rate, reduces the force of heart muscle contractions, and relaxes blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.

What is the usual dosage for STARCAD B 50?

The usual recommended dose for adults is one tablet per day, typically taken orally with or immediately after food, around the same time each day for consistency. The dosage may vary based on your medical condition and response to treatment, with a maximum recommended dose of 200mg per day. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and not to crush, chew, or break the tablet.

What are the possible side effects of STARCAD B 50?

Common side effects can include fatigue, a slow heart rate, dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, and a sensation of coldness in the hands and feet. Some individuals may also experience low blood pressure, causing faintness upon standing. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is STARCAD B 50 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

STARCAD B 50 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless considered absolutely necessary by a doctor. It should be used with caution during breastfeeding, as the active ingredient may pass into breast milk. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding before taking this medicine.

Can STARCAD B 50 be taken with other medications?

STARCAD B 50 can interact with various other medications. It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Notable interactions can occur with other blood pressure medications (e.g., reserpine, clonidine, diltiazem, verapamil), drugs for irregular heart rhythms (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone), certain antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine), and some NSAIDs.

What precautions should be taken while taking STARCAD B 50?

Do not stop taking STARCAD B 50 abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition or lead to adverse effects like changes in heart rhythm or blood pressure. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects. Use with caution if you have asthma/COPD, diabetes (as it can mask symptoms of low blood sugar), liver disease, severe bradycardia, heart block, severe heart failure, or very low blood pressure. It is generally not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

What happens if a dose of STARCAD B 50 is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's 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 make up for a missed one. If you frequently forget doses, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

How should STARCAD B 50 be stored?

STARCAD B 50 should be stored in a cool and dry place, ideally below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and out of the sight and reach of children.