Iopar Sr 250mg Capsules

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES is a medication manufactured by FDC LIMITED.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES
  • Common Name: Acetazolamide

• Composition:

  • Each sustained-release capsule contains 250 mg of Acetazolamide. Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.

• Uses: IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES are primarily used to treat various medical conditions, including:

  • Glaucoma: It reduces intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye, helping to prevent damage to the optic nerve.
  • Fluid Retention (Edema): It acts as a diuretic, increasing the excretion of water, sodium, and potassium, thereby helping to manage edema caused by various conditions like congestive heart failure.
  • Epilepsy/Seizures: It is used as an adjunctive treatment to help manage certain types of seizures by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase in the central nervous system, which retards abnormal neuronal discharge.
  • Acute Mountain (Altitude) Sickness: It is prescribed for the prophylaxis and treatment of symptoms associated with acute altitude sickness.
  • It may also be used to treat muscle weakness, periodic paralysis, and to reduce pressure in the areas surrounding the spinal cord and brain.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Take IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES orally, with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take it with food.
  • The capsules should be swallowed whole; do not crush, chew, or break them.
  • It is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day for consistent effect.
  • For diuresis, dosages of 250-375 mg/day are common. For glaucoma and epilepsy, daily doses can range from 250-1000 mg. For prophylaxis of high altitude sickness, 500-1000 mg/day is typical.
  • To prevent frequent nighttime urination, consider taking the last dose in the early evening.
  • Dosage for children and adolescents is determined by a healthcare provider based on body weight.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Anorexia, diarrhoea, metallic taste, increased urination (polyuria), drowsiness, fever, fatigue, rash, hypokalemia (low potassium), dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tingling or pricking sensation (paresthesia) in extremities, blurred vision, changes in taste, headache, dizziness, flushing, increased thirst, confusion, malaise, and depression.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention): Severe allergic reactions (e.g., sudden wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of eyelids, lips, face, widespread rash or itching), blood in urine, convulsions, severe skin reactions, blood dyscrasias (e.g., sore throat, fever, tiny reddish-purple spots on skin or bruises, weak muscles), kidney problems (e.g., kidney stones, difficulty/painful urination, cessation of urine output), liver problems (e.g., pale/black/tarry stools, yellowness of skin or eyes), and thoughts of harming or killing oneself.

• Precautions:

  • Contraindications: Do not use if allergic to acetazolamide or sulfonamides. It is contraindicated in cases of severe kidney disease, severe liver disease (hepatic insufficiency/cirrhosis), chronic non-congestive angle-closure glaucoma, adrenal gland dysfunction (Addison's disease), low blood potassium (hypokalemia), low blood sodium (hyponatremia), high blood chlorine (hyperchloremia), severe pulmonary obstruction, and severe respiratory acidosis.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, as animal reproduction studies show adverse effects on the fetus. Consult a doctor if breastfeeding, as it enters breast milk.
  • Driving and Machinery: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
  • Sunlight Sensitivity: May increase skin sensitivity to sunlight; wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, lung problems, heart problems, diabetes (monitor blood sugar and electrolytes), electrolyte imbalances, or bone marrow depression/blood dyscrasias.
  • Interactions:
    • Concomitant use with high-dose aspirin may increase side effects and lead to metabolic acidosis.
    • May alter the excretion or increase levels of other drugs, including lithium, phenytoin, amphetamines, quinidine, ciclosporin, methotrexate, anti-diabetics, and blood thinners.
    • May decrease serum concentrations of primidone and reduce the antiseptic effect of methenamine.
    • Increased risk of kidney stones with sodium bicarbonate.
    • Additive effects with other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
  • Potassium Levels: This medicine may decrease potassium levels in the body; consuming potassium-rich foods like bananas or orange juice may be recommended.
  • Surgery: Inform your doctor or dentist about taking this medicine before any surgical procedures.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • Typically, store below 30°C.

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES (Acetazolamide) is a medication primarily used to manage certain medical conditions. Below are some frequently asked questions and their concise answers regarding this medicine.

What is IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES used for?

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES is primarily used to manage glaucoma, an eye condition characterized by increased pressure inside the eyes that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. It is also used as an adjunct treatment for various kinds of edema (fluid retention), certain types of epilepsy (seizures), and to prevent or treat symptoms of acute altitude (mountain) sickness.

How does IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES work?

This medicine contains Acetazolamide, which is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. It works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase in the body. This action reduces the production of aqueous humor, the fluid that fills the front part of your eye, thereby decreasing intraocular pressure. In conditions like edema, it increases the excretion of water, sodium, and potassium by the kidneys, acting as a diuretic. For epilepsy, it helps retard abnormal and excessive nerve discharges in the central nervous system.

What is the usual dosage for IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES?

The usual recommended adult dose for IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES is typically 250 mg once or twice a day, or as directed by your doctor. The exact dosage and duration of treatment can vary significantly depending on the specific condition being treated, the patient's age, and their response to the medicine. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely and not to alter the dose or stop the medication without consulting them. IOPAR SR capsules are generally not intended for administration in children, and elderly individuals may require a lower dose.

What are the possible side effects of IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES?

Common side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet (paraesthesia), increased urination frequency, and taste alterations (e.g., metallic taste). More serious, though less common, side effects can include kidney stones, severe allergic reactions, blurred vision, blood in the urine, convulsions, and fever. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Is IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus and limited human studies exist. It should only be used if the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks, and always under a doctor's guidance. During breastfeeding, this medicine passes into breast milk. While some sources suggest it is probably safe or can be taken with caution if prescribed by a doctor, it's best to consult your doctor, as it may harm a nursing baby.

Can IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES be taken with other medications?

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES can interact with several other medications. Concomitant use with high-dose aspirin or other salicylates can increase the risk of side effects, including metabolic acidosis. It may also interact with other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like dorzolamide), antihypertensive medicines, methotrexate, anti-diabetics, blood thinners, digoxin, medicines for seizures (e.g., phenytoin, primidone, carbamazepine), lithium, amphetamine, quinidine, methenamine, cyclosporine, and sodium bicarbonate. Inform your doctor about all medications, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES?

This medicine is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to acetazolamide or sulfa drugs, severe kidney or liver disease (including cirrhosis), marked electrolyte imbalances (such as low sodium or potassium, or high chloride levels), adrenal gland failure, and chronic non-congestive angle-closure glaucoma. Caution is advised for patients with diabetes, lung problems, and the elderly. Regular monitoring of plasma electrolytes and blood count may be required, especially during long-term use. Since it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how you react to the medication. It's recommended to take the medicine with food if stomach upset occurs and to drink plenty of water. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may worsen.

What happens if a dose of IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES is missed?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one, as this may increase the chances of experiencing side effects.

How should IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES be stored?

IOPAR SR 250MG CAPSULES should be stored below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep the capsules away from direct sunlight and moisture. It is important to keep this medicine out of the reach and sight of children and pets.