Atrest 25 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ATREST 25 MG TABLET

Name:

• Brand Name: ATREST 25 MG TABLET
• Manufacturer: CENTAUR PHARMACEUTICALS PVT. LTD.

Composition:

• Active Ingredient: Tetrabenazine 25 mg

Uses: ATREST 25 MG TABLET is primarily prescribed to manage hyperkinetic motor disorders, characterized by jerky, irregular, and uncontrollable movements, associated with Huntington's chorea (an inherited neurodegenerative disease). It works by inhibiting the absorption of certain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which helps to improve movements.

Dosage and Administration: This medicine should be taken orally as advised by your physician. It can be consumed with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it. The correct dose and duration of treatment will be determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen symptoms.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness, confusion, anxiety, sleeplessness (insomnia)
• Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension)
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Parkinson-like symptoms (e.g., uncontrollable movements of head, legs, hands, arms)
• Dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing)
• Fatigue, headache, restlessness, body pain, sweating, akathisia (inability to stay still), depression Serious but less common side effects can include Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) and QT prolongation. Consult your doctor if any side effects worsen or persist.

Precautions:

• Contraindications: Do not use if allergic to Tetrabenazine, or if you have Parkinson-like symptoms, depression, active suicidal thoughts, pheochromocytoma, or kidney disorders. It is also contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or reserpine.
• Warnings: Use with caution if you have heart problems (such as long QT syndrome, heart rhythm disorders), liver problems, or intolerance to certain sugars (e.g., lactose). Inform your doctor about all existing medical conditions and current medications to avoid interactions.
• Specific Populations: Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. Use with caution in elderly patients (65 years and above).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Should be used with caution during pregnancy only if clearly necessary and is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
• Activities: As this medicine can cause drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption while taking ATREST 25 MG TABLET, as it may increase drowsiness and other side effects.

Storage: Store the medicine below 30°C.

ATREST 25 MG TABLET, manufactured by Centaur Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., contains Tetrabenazine, an active ingredient primarily used to treat involuntary movements associated with Huntington's disease.

What is ATREST 25 MG TABLET used for?

ATREST 25 MG TABLET is used for the treatment of chorea, a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, jerky movements, which is commonly associated with Huntington's disease. Huntington's disease is a hereditary disorder where brain nerve cells gradually degrade, leading to progressive motor, cognitive, and mental symptoms.

How does ATREST 25 MG TABLET work?

ATREST 25 MG TABLET contains tetrabenazine, which functions as a vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) inhibitor. It works by depleting the stores of certain chemical messengers in the brain, such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and histamine, which are involved in controlling body movements. By reducing the overactivity of these natural substances, it helps to lower brain signals that trigger involuntary muscle movements.

What is the usual dosage for ATREST 25 MG TABLET?

The chronic daily dose of ATREST is determined individually for each patient, up to a maximum of 50 mg per day. The usual starting dose is 12.5 mg once per day in the morning. After one week, the dose can be increased to 25 mg per day, given as 12.5 mg twice a day. The dosage should be titrated up slowly at weekly intervals by 12.5 mg daily to find a tolerated dose that reduces chorea. ATREST 25 MG TABLET can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of ATREST 25 MG TABLET?

Common side effects include nausea, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), anxiety, fatigue, sleepiness or drowsiness, akathisia (inability to stay still), and depression. Other possible side effects may include headache, vomiting, restlessness, body pain, confusion, low blood pressure, gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, constipation), QTc prolongation (a heart rhythm issue), and in rare cases, Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). It is important to report any unusual changes in mood or behavior, new or worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.

Is ATREST 25 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ATREST 25 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also likely unsafe during breastfeeding, as limited human data suggests the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can ATREST 25 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

ATREST 25 MG TABLET is contraindicated if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or reserpine. You should wait at least 14 days after discontinuing an MAOI and 20 days after stopping reserpine before starting ATREST. Concomitant use with alcohol or other sedating drugs can have additive effects, worsening sedation and somnolence. Caution is advised with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine), as a dose reduction of ATREST may be necessary. The risk for Parkinsonism, NMS, and akathisia may increase with concomitant use of ATREST and dopamine antagonists or antipsychotics. Avoid using it with other drugs known to prolong the QTc interval.

What precautions should be taken while taking ATREST 25 MG TABLET?

Do not take ATREST 25 MG TABLET if you have active suicidal tendencies or untreated/undertreated depression, or if you have hepatic impairment. Use with caution if you have a history of liver or kidney diseases, heart problems (especially those causing QT prolongation), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), or hyperprolactinemia. Due to potential drowsiness and dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medication affects you. This medicine is not recommended for children below 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose of ATREST 25 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ATREST 25 MG 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 double your dose to make up for the missed one. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as sudden cessation can worsen your symptoms.

How should ATREST 25 MG TABLET be stored?

ATREST 25 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from light. It should not be stored above 25°C and must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.