Meltolan 2.5

MELTOLAN 2.5 by ALKEM LABORATORIES LTD

Name

Brand Name: Meltolan 2.5 Common Name: Olanzapine

Composition

Meltolan 2.5 contains Olanzapine 2.5 mg as its active ingredient. Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic medication.

Uses

Meltolan 2.5 is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain mental and mood disorders.

• Schizophrenia: It helps manage symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking.
• Bipolar Disorder: It is used for the short-term treatment of acute manic episodes and to prevent the recurrence of severe manic episodes.
• It can also be used in combination with other medications to treat depression.

Dosage and Administration

This medicine should be taken orally, with or without food, usually once daily, or as directed by your doctor. It is advised to take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in the body. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Do not stop taking Meltolan 2.5 suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen symptoms or lead to withdrawal effects.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness, sleepiness, dizziness
• Weight gain, increased appetite
• Dry mouth, constipation
• Headache, restlessness, tremors/shaking
• Swelling of hands or feet
• Changes in levels of some blood cells, increase in blood sugar and cholesterol levels

Serious Side Effects (consult doctor immediately if experienced):

• Uncontrolled muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
• Blood clots (especially in legs, leading to chest pain and difficulty breathing)
• Fever, muscle stiffness, sweating, and drowsiness
• Very high blood sugar levels or seizures
• Sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)

Precautions

• Elderly patients with dementia: Use with caution, as there is an increased risk of death.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor; Meltolan 2.5 may be unsafe during pregnancy and is not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Avoid these activities if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of blood clotting issues, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, or Parkinson's disease.
• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can affect how the medicine works.

Storage

Store Meltolan 2.5 at room temperature, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions about MELTOLAN 2.5

MELTOLAN 2.5 MG Tablet, manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., contains Olanzapine as its active ingredient and is an atypical antipsychotic medication.

What is Meltolan 2.5 used for?

MELTOLAN 2.5 is primarily used to treat certain mental and mood conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression). It can also be used for agitation and to manage severe manic episodes of bipolar disorder and prevent their recurrence.

How does Meltolan 2.5 work?

MELTOLAN 2.5 works by restoring the balance of certain natural chemical messengers in the brain, specifically dopamine and serotonin. This action helps to improve thinking, mood, and behavior, and can relieve psychotic symptoms like hallucinations.

What is the usual dosage of Meltolan 2.5?

MELTOLAN 2.5 is typically taken by mouth, with or without food, usually once daily, or as directed by your doctor. For adults, the recommended initial dose is generally 5 to 10 mg once a day, with maintenance doses often ranging from 10 mg to 20 mg per day. For adolescents, the recommended starting dose is 2.5 or 5 mg per day. It is crucial to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in the body.

What are the possible side effects of Meltolan 2.5?

Common side effects include weight gain, sleepiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, constipation, stomach pain, increased appetite, and tremors or shaking. More serious, though less common, side effects can include uncontrolled muscle movements, swelling of hands or feet, high blood sugar, high cholesterol levels, and a sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). If severe or unusual symptoms occur, it's important to consult your doctor.

Is Meltolan 2.5 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MELTOLAN 2.5 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless clearly needed and under strict doctor supervision, as limited human studies suggest potential harm to the developing baby. For breastfeeding, it is also not recommended, as the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant. Always consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Meltolan 2.5 be taken with other medications?

Several medications can interact with MELTOLAN 2.5. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, or nutritional supplements. Specific interactions include certain antidepressants, tranquillizers, antiparkinsonian agents, and diuretics. Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Grapefruit or grapefruit juice should also be avoided as it can increase the levels of Meltolan in the body.

What precautions should be taken?

Certain precautions are necessary while taking MELTOLAN 2.5. Elderly patients suffering from dementia should not use this medication due to an increased risk of serious side effects, including death. Patients with high blood sugar or diabetes should use it with caution and monitor their blood sugar levels closely. Inform your doctor about any history of blood clotting issues, liver disease, kidney issues, or allergies. This medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stop taking MELTOLAN 2.5 suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms or worsening of your condition.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of MELTOLAN 2.5, 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 a missed one.

How should it be stored?

MELTOLAN 2.5 should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children and pets. The storage temperature is typically below 30°C or between 10°C to 25°C.