Tonact Ez 20mg

TONACT EZ 20MG Tablet

TONACT EZ 20MG is a combination medication manufactured by LUPIN LTD, designed for the comprehensive management of high cholesterol levels.

Composition Each tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Atorvastatin (20 mg): A statin that works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme crucial for cholesterol production in the liver.
• Ezetimibe (10 mg): A cholesterol absorption inhibitor that reduces the absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol from the small intestine.

Uses TONACT EZ 20MG is primarily prescribed for the treatment of:

• Primary hypercholesterolemia (high levels of cholesterol in the blood).
• Mixed dyslipidaemia.
• Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, especially in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. It is used in conjunction with a strict exercise and diet regimen.

Dosage and Administration The usual starting dose is one tablet daily, taken orally. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it regularly at the same time each day for best results. Patients should swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and avoid crushing or chewing it.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Cough, runny nose, sore throat
• Muscle pain, joint pain
• Headache, dizziness
• Diarrhoea, nausea, stomach pain, constipation
• Impaired liver function (elevated liver enzymes)

Serious side effects, though rare, can include:

• Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle weakness and tenderness)
• Liver damage (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain)
• Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing)

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: TONACT EZ 20MG is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Avoid heavy alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
• Liver Disease: Use with extreme caution in patients with a history of liver diseases. It is not recommended for active liver diseases.
• Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, including immunosuppressants, fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil), antivirals (e.g., tipranavir, ritonavir), antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin), antifungals (e.g., itraconazole), and blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) due to potential interactions and increased risk of side effects.
• Grapefruit Juice: Consumption of grapefruit juice is not recommended as it can increase the risk of severe adverse effects.
• Diabetes: May cause an increase in blood sugar levels; close monitoring is recommended for diabetic patients.

Storage Store in a cool and dry place, below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

What is TONACT EZ 20MG used for?

TONACT EZ 20MG is a combination medication primarily used to manage high cholesterol levels in the blood, a condition known as primary hypercholesterolemia. It helps to reduce "bad" cholesterol (LDL), triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B, while increasing "good" cholesterol (HDL). This medication is prescribed for individuals who haven't achieved adequate cholesterol control with diet and exercise alone, and it also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.

How does TONACT EZ 20MG work?

TONACT EZ 20MG works through a dual mechanism due to its two active ingredients: Atorvastatin (20mg) and Ezetimibe (10mg). Atorvastatin, a statin, reduces cholesterol production in the liver by blocking the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. Ezetimibe complements this action by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol from the diet and bile in the small intestine. This combined action leads to a more significant reduction in cholesterol levels than either drug alone.

What is the usual dosage for TONACT EZ 20MG?

The usual starting dose is one tablet daily, taken orally. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it at the same time each day can help with remembering. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dose and duration of treatment, and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects of TONACT EZ 20MG?

Common side effects of TONACT EZ 20MG can include muscle pain (myalgia), joint pain, fatigue, nausea, headache, diarrhea, and cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or sore throat. More serious but rare side effects include severe muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine, which could indicate rhabdomyolysis, a serious muscle problem that can damage the kidneys. Other serious side effects may involve signs of liver damage (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), unexplained bleeding or bruising, or severe allergic reactions. Report any unexplained or severe symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Is TONACT EZ 20MG safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

TONACT EZ 20MG is highly unsafe and not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. Similarly, it is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women, as the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the nursing infant. Your doctor may prescribe a safer alternative if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can TONACT EZ 20MG be taken with other medications?

TONACT EZ 20MG can interact with various other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements you are taking. Specific interactions include increased risk of muscle damage with immunosuppressants like cyclosporine and fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil). Certain antiviral medicines (e.g., tipranavir plus ritonavir, glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir), antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin), and antifungals (e.g., itraconazole) can increase atorvastatin levels, potentially leading to serious side effects. If you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, there's an increased risk of excessive bleeding. Additionally, avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit juice (more than a quart a day) as it can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood.

What precautions should be taken while taking TONACT EZ 20MG?

Before starting TONACT EZ 20MG, inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney problems, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or any muscle disorders. Caution is advised for patients with liver disease, and it is not recommended for those with active liver disease or persistent elevation of liver enzymes. Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels and liver function tests is important during treatment. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it can increase the risk of liver problems. Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise are also important to maximize the benefits of the medication.

What happens if a dose of TONACT EZ 20MG is missed?

If you miss a dose of TONACT EZ 20MG, 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 double the dose to make up for the missed one.

How should TONACT EZ 20MG be stored?

TONACT EZ 20MG tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep the medicine in its original packaging, protected from moisture and light, and out of sight and reach of children.