Fepanil 500mg Suspension

FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION by VERITAZ HEALTHCARE LTD is a widely used medication for pain relief and fever reduction. It is suitable for both adults and children, though specific dosages apply to different age groups.

Name

• Brand Name: FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION (often referred to with "Banana Flavour")
• Common Name: Paracetamol Oral Suspension, Acetaminophen Oral Suspension

Composition

• Active Ingredients: Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) 500mg.

Uses

FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It is prescribed for:

• Pain Relief: Mild to moderate pain including headaches, migraines, toothaches, sore throats, muscle aches, arthritis-related pain, menstrual (period) pains, and post-surgery pain.
• Fever Reduction: To reduce high body temperature associated with infections, colds, and flu.
• Cold and Flu Symptom Relief: Alleviates symptoms such as body aches, fever, and headaches.

Dosage and Administration

• FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION should be taken regularly as advised by a doctor.
• It is generally recommended to take it with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.
• Shake well before use.
• Use a measuring cup/dosing syringe/dropper for accurate dosing.
• For adults and children above 12 years of age, 5-10 ml every 4-6 hours is typically advised, but do not exceed the stated daily recommended dosages.
• Do not exceed four doses in a 24-hour period, ensuring at least a 4-hour gap between each dose.
• Do not use for more than three days without consulting a doctor.
• If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of a dose, retake the same dose. If vomiting occurs more than 30 minutes after a dose, no further dose is needed until the next standard dose.
• This medicine is primarily intended for pediatric use, but the 500mg suspension is indicated for adults and children over 12 years.

Side Effects

While side effects are rare when used correctly, some individuals may experience:

• Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Skin rashes, itching, and blisters (allergic reactions).
• Dizziness or lightheadedness (rare).
• Blood-related problems (rare).
• Serious side effects, especially with overdose, include severe life-threatening liver injury, kidney injury, decreased platelet count, and even coma. Early symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach ache, and general tiredness.

Precautions

• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, as the dose may need adjustment and long-term use can pose risks.
• Other Paracetamol-containing Medicines: Avoid taking other medicines or products that contain paracetamol to prevent overdose and potential liver damage.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase the risk of stomach and liver problems.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Do not take indigestion remedies (antacids) within two hours of taking FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, especially blood-thinning medicines like warfarin, cholesterol-lowering medicines like cholestyramine (do not take within one hour), and medicines for nausea or vomiting like metoclopramide or domperidone, and antibiotics like chloramphenicol.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use Fepanil only under medical supervision.
• Children: While Fepanil is used in children, the 500mg suspension is generally for adults and children above 12 years of age. The product is intended for pediatric use only according to some sources, but other sources indicate usage for adults and children over 12. Always follow the doctor's specific instructions for a child's age and weight.

Storage

• Store below 30°C, or at or below 25°C.
• Do not freeze.
• Protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

What is FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION used for?

FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION is primarily used to relieve pain and reduce fever. It is effective for managing various types of pain, including headaches, migraines, toothaches, sore throats, menstrual pains, arthritis, muscle aches, and discomfort associated with the common cold and flu.

How does FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION work?

FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION contains Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen), which is an analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the brain called prostaglandins, which are responsible for triggering pain and fever. Additionally, it acts on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center in the brain to lower body temperature by promoting heat loss through sweating.

What is the usual dosage for FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION?

For adults and children above 12 years of age, the recommended dose is typically 5-10 ml every 4-6 hours. It is crucial not to exceed the stated daily recommended dosages, and the dose should not be repeated more frequently than every four hours. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 4g (40ml) in any 24-hour period. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the exact dosage and duration.

What are the possible side effects of FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION?

Common side effects may include abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. Rarely, individuals might experience skin rashes, itching, blisters, or other allergic reactions. Overuse or prolonged high doses can lead to serious liver and kidney damage. In cases of severe overdose, symptoms like reduced urine, acid build-up in the blood, confusion, low blood sugar, jaundice, severe liver injury, decreased platelet count, and even coma can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.

Is FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION (Paracetamol) may be used if clinically needed, but it should be taken at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest possible time, and with the lowest possible frequency. It is generally considered unsafe to use without consulting a doctor, who will weigh the benefits and potential risks. During breastfeeding, FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION is generally considered safe as paracetamol is excreted into breast milk in clinically insignificant quantities, and published data do not contraindicate breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions. You should avoid taking FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION with any other products containing paracetamol to prevent an overdose. Certain medications, such as those used for nausea or vomiting (like metoclopramide or domperidone), blood thinners (like warfarin), and cholesterol-lowering medicines (like cholestyramine), can interact with paracetamol. Use with chloramphenicol and flucloxacillin also requires caution.

What precautions should be taken while using FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION?

Do not exceed the recommended dose, as this can lead to serious liver damage. Inform your doctor if the patient has liver or kidney disease, as dosage adjustments may be necessary. It is generally recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase the risk of stomach problems and liver damage. Take the suspension with food or milk to help prevent stomach upset. Do not use this medicine for long-term pain management without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION is missed?

If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Maintain a gap of at least 4-6 hours between doses. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION be stored?

FEPANIL 500MG SUSPENSION should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at or below 25°C or below 30°C. Do not freeze the medicine. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Shake the bottle well before each use.