Hepakind 150 Tablet

HEPAKIND 150 TABLET

HEPAKIND 150 TABLET, manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd., is a medication primarily used for certain liver and gallbladder conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Hepakind 150 Tablet
  • Common Name: Ursodeoxycholic Acid Tablet

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Ursodeoxycholic Acid (150 mg)

• Uses: HEPAKIND 150 TABLET is prescribed for several medical conditions, including:

  • Dissolution of cholesterol-rich gallstones.
  • Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease.
  • Management of liver diseases associated with cystic fibrosis in children above 6 years.
  • Reducing excess cholesterol in bile.

• Dosage and Administration: HEPAKIND 150 TABLET should be swallowed whole, ideally after a meal, with a glass of milk or water. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by the doctor based on the patient's condition and body weight. For gallstone dissolution, a typical adult dosage is 8-10 mg/kg body weight per day, divided into two to three doses. It is often suggested to take the last dose at bedtime. Consistent intake for several months or longer may be necessary for efficacy, even if symptoms improve.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain/discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Pruritus (itching)
  • Rash
  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Dizziness

• Precautions:

  • Avoid use if allergic to ursodeoxycholic acid or bile acids.
  • Not recommended for gallstones larger than 20 mm, cholesterol, radiopaque, or bile pigment stones.
  • Contraindicated in patients with acute gallbladder or bile duct inflammation, bile duct blockages, variceal bleeding, ascites, or liver encephalopathy.
  • Use with caution in patients with liver impairment, as liver function and bilirubin levels may need monitoring.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before use.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase drowsiness and liver damage.
  • Antacids containing aluminum, cholestyramine, or colestipol can decrease the effectiveness of HEPAKIND 150 TABLET and should be avoided or taken at different times.
  • Hormonal birth control pills may affect gallstone production; discuss with a doctor.

• Storage: Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures below 30°C (10ºC to 25ºC). Keep out of sight and reach of children.

HEPAKIND 150 Tablet, manufactured by Mankind Pharma Ltd, contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) as its active ingredient. This medication is primarily used to manage various liver and gallbladder conditions.

What is HEPAKIND 150 Tablet used for?

HEPAKIND 150 Tablet is primarily used to dissolve cholesterol-rich gallstones and prevent their formation. It is also prescribed for the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis (an autoimmune liver disease) and liver diseases associated with cystic fibrosis. Additionally, it may be used to treat cholestasis during pregnancy.

How does HEPAKIND 150 Tablet work?

HEPAKIND 150 Tablet contains Ursodeoxycholic Acid, which is a naturally occurring bile acid. It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestines, thereby decreasing cholesterol levels in the bile. This action helps to dissolve existing cholesterol gallstones and prevents new ones from forming. It also has a protective effect on liver cells, shielding them from injury caused by toxic bile acids and improving overall liver function and bile flow.

What is the usual dosage for HEPAKIND 150 Tablet?

The dosage of HEPAKIND 150 Tablet varies depending on the condition being treated and your body weight. For the dissolution of gallstones, a typical dose is 8-10 mg/kg of body weight per day, usually divided into 2-3 doses, with the last dose often taken at bedtime. For primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), the usual dose ranges from 13-15 mg/kg of body weight per day, also divided into multiple doses. It should generally be swallowed whole after a meal, with a glass of water or milk. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage and duration.

What are the possible side effects of HEPAKIND 150 Tablet?

Common side effects of HEPAKIND 150 Tablet may include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, vomiting, fatigue, headache, pruritus (itching), rash, dyspepsia (indigestion), and a metallic taste. Less common side effects can include hair loss or dizziness. If these side effects persist or worsen, it's important to consult your doctor.

Is HEPAKIND 150 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, HEPAKIND 150 Tablet is generally considered safe when prescribed by an expert and should only be used when clearly needed, as there is limited human study data available. For breastfeeding mothers, it should be used with caution, and a doctor should be consulted. Some sources suggest it has very minor side effects for breastfeeding mothers.

Can HEPAKIND 150 Tablet be taken with other medications?

Certain medications can interact with HEPAKIND 150 Tablet. It is advisable to avoid taking aluminum-containing antacids, cholesterol-lowering medicines like cholestyramine or colestipol, clofibrate, and hormonal contraceptives (estrogens or hormonal pills) as they can reduce the effectiveness of HEPAKIND or increase the risk of gallstone formation. Always inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal preparations, as interactions can occur with antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, dapsone) and immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine).

What precautions should be taken while taking HEPAKIND 150 Tablet?

Before taking HEPAKIND 150 Tablet, inform your doctor if you have an allergy to ursodeoxycholic acid, or if you have conditions such as variceal bleeding, ascites (excess abdominal fluid), liver encephalopathy, or chronic liver disease. The medicine is not generally recommended for children under 6 years of age, though it can be given to children above 6 years if prescribed by a doctor for specific conditions. It is important to avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication as it may lead to increased drowsiness and potential liver damage. Regular liver function tests and ultrasound scans may be required to monitor your progress and liver health. Maintaining a healthy diet low in cholesterol can also support the treatment.

What happens if a dose of HEPAKIND 150 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of HEPAKIND 150 Tablet, 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 make up for the missed one.

How should HEPAKIND 150 Tablet be stored?

HEPAKIND 150 Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. The recommended storage temperature is typically below 30°C or between 10ºC to 25ºC. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.