Ab Flo Sr Tab

AB FLO SR Tablet

Name: AB FLO SR (brand name), with other brand names like Abevia Sr, Acphy Sr, Ascovent Sr, Ablung Sr, Xanilax Sr, and Cebocontin also containing the same active ingredient.

Composition: The active ingredient in AB FLO SR Tablet is Acebrophylline (typically 200 mg).

Uses: AB FLO SR Tablet is prescribed for the management and prevention of symptoms associated with various respiratory conditions. It is primarily used to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. It works by relaxing the muscles of the air passages, widening them to facilitate easier breathing, and also acts as a mucolytic agent, thinning and loosening mucus in the airways for easier expulsion.

Dosage and Administration: AB FLO SR Tablet should be taken as advised by a doctor, typically with food, preferably in the evening. It is usually prescribed as one or two doses per day, with the exact dosage and duration determined by individual factors such as age, severity of the condition, and response to treatment. It is crucial to take the medicine at the same time each day for optimal benefits and not to discontinue use without consulting a doctor. This medication is not for immediate relief of acute breathing difficulties; a rescue inhaler should always be carried for emergencies.

Side Effects: Common side effects include stomach pain, abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, loss of appetite, rashes, itching, and headache. More serious, though less common, side effects can include difficulty breathing, swelling in the nose, increased heartbeat, changes in blood pressure, and in rare cases, esophageal bleeding. If any side effects persist or worsen, medical attention should be sought.

Precautions:

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Acebrophylline, Ambroxol, Theophylline, or any other ingredients of AB FLO SR.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Avoid if you have low blood pressure, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rate, a history of heart attack, or severe heart diseases. Use with caution in patients with heart failure or hypertension.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Not recommended for patients with severe liver or kidney problems. Caution is needed for those with liver or kidney dysfunction.
• Other Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have fits, stomach ulcers, viral infections, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for pregnant women. Use in breastfeeding women only if deemed necessary by a physician.
• Alcohol and Smoking: Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking while on this medication as it may cause excessive drowsiness and decrease efficacy.
• Drug Interactions: Caution is needed if taking furosemide, as combined use may decrease potassium levels, requiring regular monitoring.
• Driving: May cause dizziness and drowsiness; exercise caution if experiencing these side effects.

Storage: Store below 25°C or 30°C in a clean and dry place, protected from moisture, direct sunlight, and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use past the expiry date.

What is AB-Flo SR Tablet used for?

AB-Flo SR Tablet is primarily used to prevent and treat symptoms associated with respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis (inflammation of the airways), and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in adults. It helps in managing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness by opening the airways and reducing inflammation.

How does AB-Flo SR Tablet work?

AB-Flo SR Tablet contains Acebrophylline, which works in two ways. Firstly, it acts as a bronchodilator by relaxing the muscles around the air passages in the lungs, thereby widening them and making breathing easier. Secondly, it functions as a mucolytic agent, helping to thin and loosen the phlegm (mucus) in the lungs, windpipe, and nose, making it easier to cough out.

What is the usual dosage for AB-Flo SR Tablet?

AB-Flo SR Tablet is typically a once-daily medication. It should be taken with food, preferably in the evening, as advised by your doctor. It is crucial to take it at the same time each day to maximize its benefits. The exact dosage and frequency will be determined by your doctor based on your age, the severity of your condition, and your response to treatment. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of AB-Flo SR Tablet?

Common side effects may include abdominal discomfort, distension, bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach upset, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and skin rash. Some people might also experience an increased heartbeat or unusual tiredness. These side effects are generally mild and often resolve on their own. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is AB-Flo SR Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

AB-Flo SR Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, contact your doctor immediately. For breastfeeding mothers, it is generally not recommended as the medicine may pass into breast milk. It is important to consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can AB-Flo SR Tablet be taken with other medications?

AB-Flo SR Tablet can interact with other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medicines you are currently taking. For example, caution is advised when taken with certain medications for gout (e.g., Allopurinol), antiallergics (e.g., Cimetidine), corticosteroids, diuretics (e.g., Furosemide), Isoprenaline, oral contraceptives, and antifungals, as these may increase side effects or affect potassium levels. Beta-blockers can reduce the effect of AB-Flo SR Tablet, and birth control pills may increase its levels in the body.

What precautions should be taken while using AB-Flo SR Tablet?

Before taking AB-Flo SR Tablet, inform your doctor if you have any history of heart, liver, or kidney problems, high blood pressure, seizure disorders, stomach ulcers, viral infections, or hyperthyroidism. This medicine is not recommended for children below 18 years of age. It is not meant for immediate relief of sudden breathing problems; always carry a fast-acting (rescue) inhaler for emergencies. Avoid smoking and consuming caffeinated products (like tea) as they can decrease the effectiveness of the medicine or increase the risk of side effects. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it may cause excessive drowsiness.

What happens if a dose of AB-Flo SR Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of AB-Flo SR 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 take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should AB-Flo SR Tablet be stored?

AB-Flo SR Tablet should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 25°C or 30°C, in a clean and dry place. Protect it from light and moisture. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use this medicine after its expiry date.