Brivasure Injection 5ml

BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML

BRIVASURE Injection 5ml, manufactured by ALKEM LABORATORIES LIMITED, is a medication primarily used in the management of epilepsy.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML
  • Common Name: Brivaracetam

• Composition:

  • The active ingredient is Brivaracetam, typically at a concentration of 10mg/ml. It belongs to a group of medicines called Anti-epileptics.

• Uses:

  • BRIVASURE INJECTION is prescribed for the treatment of partial-onset seizures associated with epilepsy.
  • It can be used alone (monotherapy) in adults or in combination with other medications (adjunctive therapy) for both adults and children over one month old.
  • Brivaracetam works by attaching itself to specific sites (SV2A) on the surfaces of nerve cells, which suppresses abnormal activity and manages the spread of electrical signals that cause seizures in the brain.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • This medicine is administered parenterally, meaning it is given as an injection either intravenously (into a vein) or intramuscularly (into a muscle).
  • It must be given by a doctor or nurse and should not be self-administered.
  • The doctor will determine the correct dose and duration based on the patient's age, body weight, and disease condition.
  • It is generally advised as a long-term treatment, and consistent administration at the same time each day is crucial for maximizing efficacy. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly, as this may worsen seizures; discontinuation should be gradual under medical supervision.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Feeling sleepy or dizzy, flu-like symptoms, fatigue (feeling very tired), convulsion or feeling of 'spinning' (vertigo), constipation, anxiety, insomnia (not being able to sleep), irritability, infection of the nose and throat, cough, decreased appetite, restlessness and hyperactivity (psychomotor hyperactivity), loss of touch with reality and/or abnormal thinking, nervous excitement (agitation), decrease in white blood cells, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, depression, and rash.
  • Serious Side Effects: Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat).

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy unless considered necessary by a doctor, as monitoring is required.
  • Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in breastfeeding women as it may pass through breast milk.
  • Liver Problems: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, and not recommended for use in patients with severe liver problems.
  • Kidney Problems: Caution should be exercised if you have kidney health issues, and some sources state it's not recommended for use in patients with impaired renal function.
  • Alcohol: Avoid consumption of alcohol while receiving this medicine as it can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and dizziness and may increase the risk of seizures.
  • Driving and Operating Machinery: Do not drive or operate any machines if you feel sleepy, dizzy, or tired while receiving this medicine.
  • Mental Health: Inform your doctor if you have depression, self-harming thoughts, or any unusual changes in mood and behavior.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin), St John's Wort, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., opioids, antidepressants, antianxiety medicines), as they may interact with Brivaracetam.
  • Allergy: Do not receive BRIVASURE INJECTION if you are allergic to Brivaracetam or any other ingredients of this medicine.
  • Pediatric Use: Not recommended for use in children under 4 years of age by some sources, while others mention use in children over one month old as an adjunctive therapy.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children.
  • Store at 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

What is BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML used for?

BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML is an anti-epileptic medication primarily used to manage partial-onset seizures in individuals with epilepsy. It can be used alone for adults or in combination with other medications for both adults and children over one month old. Its purpose is to help control the frequency and severity of seizures by stabilizing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

How does BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML work?

This medicine contains Brivaracetam, which works by selectively binding to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain. SV2A is a protein essential for releasing neurotransmitters that facilitate signal transmission. By acting on SV2A, Brivaracetam helps regulate abnormal neuronal electrical activity, thereby controlling the excessive spread of electrical impulses that trigger epileptic seizures.

What is the usual dosage of BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML?

The exact daily dose of BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML is determined and prescribed by your doctor. Dosage may vary based on individual factors such as age, body weight, the severity of the condition, and response to treatment. This medication is administered as an injection, either intravenously (into a vein) or intramuscularly (into a muscle), by a healthcare professional. It is not for self-administration.

What are the possible side effects of BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML?

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, irritability, anxiety, mood changes, constipation, and decreased appetite. Most side effects are mild and may lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, and unusual changes in mood or behavior. You should contact your doctor if any symptoms worsen or if you experience severe or unusual side effects.

Is BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless considered absolutely necessary by your doctor, who will weigh the benefits against potential risks, as animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. For breastfeeding, information on its safety is not fully available, and it is generally contraindicated as it may pass into breast milk. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Can BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML be taken with other medications?

BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML can interact with several other medications. For example, some antiepileptic medicines (like carbamazepine and phenytoin) and antibiotics (like rifampin) can decrease brivaracetam levels, reducing its effectiveness. Conversely, brivaracetam can increase the concentration of carbamazepine epoxide, an active metabolite of carbamazepine. Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants such as opioids, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications can increase drowsiness and sedation when taken with BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML. St. John's wort may also interact with it. Always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML?

Caution should be exercised if you have liver disease, as dose adjustments may be necessary, especially for severe impairment. It is not recommended for patients with impaired renal function or end-stage renal disease. Inform your doctor if you have a history of psychiatric disorders, depression, or suicidal thoughts, as this medicine may exacerbate these conditions. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of seizures and worsen side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Due to potential drowsiness and dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Do not stop taking BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML abruptly, as this can worsen seizures; discontinuation should always be gradual and under medical supervision.

What happens if a dose of BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML is missed?

If you miss a scheduled dose of BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML, you should consult with your doctor for advice immediately. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML be stored?

BRIVASURE INJECTION 5ML should be stored at room temperature, typically at 25°C (77°F), with excursions permitted between 15-30°C (59-86°F). It should be protected from light and moisture and kept out of reach and sight of children. Unopened vials should be stored as advised, and diluted solutions, if prepared, should not be stored for more than four hours at room temperature. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.