Alphacept D 8 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET

ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET, manufactured by Lupin Ltd., is a combination medication primarily used to manage the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult men.

Composition:

Each tablet contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Silodosin: 8 mg
• Dutasteride: 0.5 mg

Uses:

ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate gland. It helps to alleviate associated urinary symptoms such as:

• Difficulty urinating
• Weak urine stream
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Increased nighttime urination (nocturia) The medication works by relaxing the muscles around the bladder exit and prostate gland (Silodosin) and shrinking the prostate gland by reducing levels of the hormone responsible for its growth (Dutasteride). It also helps reduce the risk of acute urinary retention and the likelihood of needing BPH-related surgery. This medicine is not used to prevent prostate cancer.

Dosage and Administration:

• Typical Dosage: The usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally once daily.
• Administration: It should be taken approximately 30 minutes after the same meal each day.
• Method: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break it.
• Duration: Continue taking the medicine as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve, as it may take up to 4 weeks to notice an improvement and up to 6 months for full benefits.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Decreased libido
• Ejaculation disorder (e.g., reduced semen volume)
• Breast enlargement (gynecomastia) and tenderness in males
• Headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing)
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)

Serious side effects should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Precautions:

• Contraindications: This medicine should not be taken by women or children. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should also not be used if you are allergic to Silodosin, Dutasteride, or any other ingredient, or if you have severe liver or kidney disorders.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may cause excessive drowsiness and increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET can cause dizziness or blurring of vision. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal preparations, and supplements you are taking, especially antifungal medicines (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), antiretroviral medications (e.g., ritonavir), and anti-hypertensive medicines, as interactions can occur.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, heart disease, or are planning for eye surgery (cataract or glaucoma).
• Prostate Cancer: There is an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer associated with the use of dutasteride.

Storage:

Store ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET at a temperature below 30°C. Keep it in an airtight container, protected from light and moisture, and out of reach of children. Always check the expiration date before use.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET:

What is ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET used for?

ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in adult men, a condition where the prostate gland is enlarged. It helps relieve urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, frequent or urgent need to urinate, a weak urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying. This medication is not used to prevent prostate cancer.

How does ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Silodosin (8 mg) and Dutasteride (0.5 mg). Silodosin is an alpha-blocker that works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the bladder and prostate, which helps improve urine flow. Dutasteride is a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor that reduces the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate growth, thereby shrinking the enlarged prostate gland over time.

What is the usual dosage for ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET?

The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, without cutting, breaking, or chewing it. It is typically recommended to take one tablet daily, approximately 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, nasal congestion (stuffy nose), diarrhea, decreased libido (reduced sexual desire), ejaculation disorders (such as reduced semen volume), and impotence (difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection). Some men may also experience breast enlargement or tenderness. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET is not suitable for women. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it is intended only for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. Men taking this medication should avoid donating blood for at least 6 months after their last dose to prevent potential exposure to pregnant women.

Can ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

Caution is advised as ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET can interact with certain medications. It should be avoided with some antifungal medicines (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), antiviral medicines (e.g., ritonavir), and immunosuppressant medicines (e.g., cyclosporine). Concomitant use with antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering) medicines should be done with caution, as it may lead to a sudden and significant drop in blood pressure. Always inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal preparations, and supplements you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET?

Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease; the medicine is contraindicated in severe liver disease. Be cautious if you have low blood pressure. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it may increase side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure. This medicine can cause dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are sure you are alert and stable. If you are scheduled for eye surgery (cataract or glaucoma), inform your eye doctor about your use of this medicine. Regular lipid profile checks may also be necessary.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET be stored?

Store ALPHACEPT D 8 MG TABLET in a cool and dry place, preferably below 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture, and ensure it is out of the reach of children and pets.