Etilaam 1.5 Cr Tablet

ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET

ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET, manufactured by Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a prescription medication primarily used for the short-term management of anxiety and insomnia.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET
  • Common Name: Etizolam (as the active ingredient)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 1.5 mg of Etizolam. Etizolam belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the activity of GABA, a natural nerve-calming agent in the brain, to reduce neuronal excitability.

• Uses:

  • ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET is prescribed for the short-term treatment of:
    • Anxiety disorders, including excessive worry and nervousness.
    • Panic disorder, which involves sudden and intense feelings of fear.
    • Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep), particularly when related to irregular sleeping habits or anxiety.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor, adhering to the recommended dosage and duration.
  • It can be administered with or without food.
  • To maintain a consistent level of the medicine in the body, it is crucial to take it at the same time each day.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.
  • Do not stop the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, impaired muscle coordination (ataxia), slurred speech (dysarthria), muscle weakness, altered libido, depression, confusion, fainting, sedation, tremors, visual impairment, involuntary eye movement (nystagmus), involuntary closure of eyelids (blepharospasm), yawning, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth.
  • Serious Side Effects (primarily during withdrawal or with high doses): Suicidal thoughts, seizures, psychosis, agitation, confusion, and hallucinations.

• Precautions:

  • Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol while taking ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET, as it can significantly increase dizziness and drowsiness and potentiate adverse effects.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential adverse effects on the baby.
  • Elderly Patients: Use with caution in elderly patients due to an increased risk of adverse reactions like dizziness, muscle weakness, and drowsiness.
  • Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or vision problems, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
  • Underlying Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have conditions such as kidney or liver disease, myasthenia gravis, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, chronic psychosis, porphyria, or a history of drug addiction or abuse.
  • Habit-Forming Potential: ETILAAM 1.5 CR TABLET has a potential for habit formation, especially with prolonged use.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as interactions can occur with antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, general anesthetics, sleep medicines, pain medicines, stomach medicines, heart medicines, low blood sugar medicines, medicines for chronic alcoholism, and muscle relaxants.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry place.
  • Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.
  • Typically, store below 30°C.

What is ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet used for?

ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet is a prescription medicine primarily used for the short-term management of anxiety, panic disorder, and insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep). It helps to alleviate symptoms of excessive worry, nervousness, and promotes restful sleep.

How does ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet work?

ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet contains Etizolam, which belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines. It works by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural nerve-calming chemical messenger in the brain. By enhancing GABA's effects, it helps to slow down excessive neuronal activity, thereby inducing relaxation, reducing anxiety, and facilitating sleep.

What is the usual dosage for ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet?

The dosage and duration of ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet are determined by your doctor based on your medical condition, age, and body weight. It can be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medicine in your body. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration, as this medicine has a notable risk of becoming habit-forming with prolonged use.

What are the possible side effects of ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet?

Common side effects associated with ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet include headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, impaired muscle coordination (ataxia), slurred speech (dysarthria), muscle weakness, altered libido, confusion, depression, fainting, sedation, tremors, and visual impairment. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is important to consult your doctor. Rarely, serious side effects such as suicidal thoughts have been reported, and immediate medical attention is required if these occur.

Is ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harmful effects on the baby. It is essential to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or currently breastfeeding before starting this medication, so they can assess the risks and benefits.

Can ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet be taken with other medications?

While ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet can generally be mixed safely with other medicines, some interactions can occur. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Significant interactions can occur with alcohol, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-allergy medications, general anesthetics, sleep medications, certain pain medications (especially opioids), and some stomach medications. Concomitant use with opioids is not recommended due to increased risk of breathing problems, severe drowsiness, coma, and even death.

What precautions should be taken while using ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet?

Several precautions should be observed when taking ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can significantly increase dizziness and drowsiness, impairing your ability to function.
• Driving & Machinery: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or drowsiness after taking this medicine, as it can affect your mental alertness.
• History of Abuse: Inform your doctor if you have a history of drug addiction or abuse, as this medication has a potential for habit formation.
• Medical Conditions: Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions, especially kidney or liver problems, lung diseases (like myasthenia gravis, chronic pulmonary insufficiency), acute narrow-angle glaucoma, chronic psychosis, or porphyria.
• Stopping Treatment: Do not stop taking ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet abruptly without consulting your doctor. Sudden discontinuation can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, heightened anxiety, agitation, flu-like symptoms, sweating, tremors, and confusion. Your doctor will advise a gradual tapering schedule.
• Elderly and Children: Use with caution in elderly patients due to an increased risk of adverse reactions like dizziness and muscle weakness. It is not recommended for routine use in children; consult a healthcare professional for pediatric patients.

What happens if a dose of ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of ETILAAM 1.5 CR 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 the dose to catch up.

How should ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet be stored?

Store ETILAAM 1.5 CR Tablet in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. If you have any questions about proper storage, consult your pharmacist.