Nervmax Capsule

NERVMAX CAPSULE by ALKEM LABORATORIES LTD

Nervmax Capsule is a prescription medication manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd, primarily utilized for the management of neuropathic pain in adults.

Composition Each Nervmax Capsule contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Methylcobalamin: 0.75 mg (750 mcg)
• Pregabalin: 75 mg

Uses Nervmax Capsule is prescribed for the treatment of various forms of neuropathic pain, which arises from nerve damage or diseases affecting the sensory nervous system. It supports nerve health, helps reduce nerve-related pain, and promotes nerve regeneration. Specific conditions for which it is used include:

• Diabetic neuropathy (painful diabetic neuropathy)
• Post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles)
• Spinal cord injury-related neuropathic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Peripheral neuropathy (weakness, numbness, and pain from nerve damage, often in hands and feet)

Dosage and Administration Nervmax Capsule is for oral administration. It should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day, and ideally before bedtime. The capsule should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not be broken or chewed. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the doctor, even if symptoms improve. Abruptly stopping the medication is not recommended as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, but if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped; never double up on doses without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects Common side effects of Nervmax Capsule may include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Oedema (swelling, particularly in hands and feet)
• Weight gain
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Tiredness/fatigue
• Uncoordinated body movements
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased appetite
• Mood changes, including euphoria, depression, or suicidal thoughts

More serious, though less common, side effects that require immediate medical attention include severe allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or difficulty breathing), persistent vision problems, decreased urination (indicating potential kidney issues), heart rhythm abnormalities, or exacerbation of heart failure symptoms.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take Nervmax Capsule if you have a known hypersensitivity to pregabalin, methylcobalamin, or any other components of the formulation.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease, liver issues, heart problems (including heart failure or heart block), and diabetes. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, especially for renal impairment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medication is generally not recommended during pregnancy (Category C) and should be avoided as it may cause harm to the fetus. Breastfeeding women should use this capsule with caution, and it is considered probably unsafe during breastfeeding as the supplement may pass through milk. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception if prescribed this medicine.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Nervmax Capsule, as it can intensify side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Due to potential dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they understand how the medication affects them.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter, herbal, and dietary supplements. Nervmax Capsule can interact with CNS depressants (like benzodiazepines) and alcohol, increasing sedation. ACE inhibitors may increase the risk of angioedema when taken with Nervmax Capsule.
• Pediatric Use: Nervmax Capsule is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
• Elderly Patients: Caution is advised in elderly patients (above 75 years) due to increased risk of accidental injury (falls) from dizziness and sleepiness.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Nervmax Capsule suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, sweating, vomiting, depression, seizures, and hallucinations.

Storage Store Nervmax Capsule at room temperature, ideally between 15-30°C or below 25°C. Keep it in a tightly sealed container, away from direct light and moisture. Always ensure the capsule is out of reach of children. Check the expiry date on the package before use.

Here are frequently asked questions about Nervmax Capsule:

What is Nervmax Capsule used for?

Nervmax Capsule is primarily used to treat neuropathic pain, which is pain caused by nerve damage. This can include conditions such as painful diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia (pain after shingles), spinal cord injury-related neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia. It may also be prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder and as an adjunctive therapy for partial seizures in adults.

How does Nervmax Capsule work?

Nervmax Capsule is a combination of two medicines: Pregabalin and Methylcobalamin. Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant that works by binding to specific sites on voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system, thereby decreasing the release of neurotransmitters that send pain signals. This helps calm overactive nerves and relieve pain. Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that helps rejuvenate and protect damaged nerve cells by producing myelin, the protective outer layer of nerve cells, and supports nerve regeneration.

What is the usual dosage of Nervmax Capsule?

The dosage of Nervmax Capsule should always be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken orally, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels of the medicine in the body. Do not alter your dosage without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Nervmax Capsule?

Common side effects of Nervmax Capsule include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, blurred or double vision, dry mouth, increased appetite, weight gain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue. More serious but less common side effects can include mood changes, depression, suicidal thoughts, swelling (oedema), and potential cardiac issues. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor immediately.

Is Nervmax Capsule safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Nervmax Capsule is generally not recommended during pregnancy as there is limited data on its safety and it may cause harm to the fetus. Women of childbearing age are advised to use effective contraception while taking this medicine. During breastfeeding, it is probably unsafe to use as it may excrete via breast milk and potentially harm the newborn baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits against the risks before prescribing it during these periods.

Can Nervmax Capsule be taken with other medications?

Nervmax Capsule can interact with other medicines. For example, pregabalin can enhance the effects of CNS depressants like benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam) and alcohol, potentially leading to increased drowsiness or dizziness. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, when taken with Nervmax, may increase the risk of angioedema. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription, non-prescription, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements you are taking to prevent potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Nervmax Capsule?

Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery as Nervmax Capsule can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase these side effects. Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver disease, heart problems (especially heart failure), or a history of drug abuse. Do not stop taking Nervmax Capsule abruptly, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, sweating, and seizures; the dosage should be gradually tapered under medical supervision.

What happens if a dose of Nervmax Capsule is missed?

If you miss a dose of Nervmax Capsule, 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 compensate for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should Nervmax Capsule be stored?

Nervmax Capsule should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The ideal temperature range is typically between 15-30°C. Keep it in a tightly sealed container and out of sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before use and dispose of unused medicine properly.