Floslo 5

FLOSLO 5 is a medication manufactured by INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD, primarily used for the treatment of overactive bladder.

Name

• Brand Name: FLOSLO 5
• Common Name: Solifenacin

Composition

FLOSLO 5 contains Solifenacin 5 mg as its active ingredient. Solifenacin is classified as a muscarinic antagonist or urinary antispasmodic.

Uses

FLOSLO 5 is prescribed for the treatment of symptoms associated with an overactive bladder (OAB). These symptoms include a frequent and sudden urge to urinate, inability to control urination, and involuntary leakage of urine (urge urinary incontinence). It works by relaxing the muscles of the urinary bladder, thereby increasing the bladder's capacity and reducing uncontrolled contractions. It may also be used for neurogenic detrusor overactivity in children aged 2 years and above.

Dosage and Administration

FLOSLO 5 is typically taken orally once daily, with or without food, as advised by a doctor. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, broken, or chewed. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment for optimal results, as it may take some time for symptoms to improve.

Side Effects

Common side effects of FLOSLO 5 include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain, dizziness, and drowsiness. Other reported side effects can include dry skin, extreme tiredness, back pain, cough, and a runny or stuffy nose. Serious side effects, such as facial swelling or abnormal heart rhythm, should prompt immediate medical consultation.

Precautions

• Children: FLOSLO 5 is generally not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age due to a lack of established safety and efficacy.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding; discuss with a doctor.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if affected.
• Liver and Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with reduced liver or kidney function, as dose adjustments may be necessary. A dose exceeding 5 mg is generally not recommended in cases of moderate liver damage or severe kidney damage.
• Other Conditions: Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, bladder outlet obstruction, or conditions leading to gastric retention (e.g., gastroparesis), as it may worsen these conditions.
• Alcohol and Grapefruit: Limit alcohol intake as it can increase side effects and worsen OAB symptoms. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions, especially with antifungals, anticonvulsants, and other anticholinergic agents.

Storage

Store FLOSLO 5 tablets at room temperature, ideally below 30°C, in a cool, dark, and dry place. Keep the medicine away from direct light, moisture, and out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

What is FLOSLO 5 used for?

FLOSLO 5 is primarily used to manage symptoms of an overactive bladder (OAB). This includes addressing issues like frequent urination, a sudden and strong urge to urinate (urinary urgency), and involuntary leakage of urine (urge urinary incontinence). It helps to relax the bladder muscles, which in turn increases the bladder's capacity and reduces the frequency of involuntary contractions, leading to better control over urination.

How does FLOSLO 5 work?

FLOSLO 5 contains the active ingredient Solifenacin (5 mg). Solifenacin works as a muscarinic receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the action of a chemical called acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors found in the bladder muscles. By blocking these receptors, Solifenacin helps to relax the bladder muscles, which increases the bladder's ability to hold urine and reduces the intensity and frequency of involuntary bladder contractions, thereby alleviating OAB symptoms.

What is the usual dosage for FLOSLO 5?

The dosage of FLOSLO 5 should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, the recommended adult dose is 5-10 mg once daily, taken orally. The initial dose is usually 5 mg and may be increased to 10 mg based on your individual response and tolerability. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and can be taken with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. It is crucial not to exceed the prescribed dosage without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of FLOSLO 5?

Common side effects of FLOSLO 5 include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, dry eyes, drowsiness, indigestion, and stomach pain. Less common side effects may include fatigue and urinary retention. If you experience severe side effects such as facial swelling, an abnormal heart rhythm, difficulty urinating, generalized swelling, or allergic reactions, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Is FLOSLO 5 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Caution is advised when taking FLOSLO 5 during pregnancy due to limited available information regarding its safety in humans. It is classified as a Category C medicine. It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: Caution is also advised while breastfeeding. Components of FLOSLO 5 are known to be excreted in breast milk, and long-term use might potentially reduce milk production. It is crucial to consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Can FLOSLO 5 be taken with other medications?

FLOSLO 5 can interact with certain other medications, potentially altering its effects or increasing the risk of side effects. It is vital to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal preparations, and supplements you are currently taking.

For example, medicines like antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) can increase the concentration of Solifenacin in your body. Conversely, anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) may decrease its concentration. Combining FLOSLO 5 with other anticholinergic agents (e.g., dicyclomine) can enhance anticholinergic effects and increase the risk of side effects. It is also advisable to avoid grapefruit juice, as it can increase Solifenacin levels.

What precautions should be taken while taking FLOSLO 5?

Several precautions should be considered when taking FLOSLO 5:

• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have conditions such as bladder outlet obstruction (which could lead to urinary retention), gastrointestinal obstruction or decreased motility, narrow-angle glaucoma, severe renal impairment, liver problems, heart disease (including a history of QT prolongation), urinary tract infections, or myasthenia gravis.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: FLOSLO 5 may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. If you experience these effects, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Alcohol Consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol intake as it can worsen symptoms of an overactive bladder and may increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness.
• Overheating: FLOSLO 5 can potentially increase body temperature by decreasing sweating. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid hot weather or strenuous exercise that could lead to overheating.
• Lactose Intolerance: If you have an intolerance to any sugars, inform your doctor, as FLOSLO 5 contains lactose.
• Children: This medicine is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
• Treatment Duration: Do not stop taking FLOSLO 5 abruptly, even if your symptoms improve. Complete the entire course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor for optimal effectiveness.

What happens if a dose of FLOSLO 5 is missed?

If you forget to take a dose of FLOSLO 5, 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 FLOSLO 5 be stored?

FLOSLO 5 should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 30°C (or around 20-25°C). Keep the medicine in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Ensure it is kept out of the reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before using the medicine.