Freego Granules 150 G

FREEGO GRANULES 150 G by ALEMBIC PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED

FREEGO GRANULES is a laxative medication manufactured by Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited, primarily used for the effective management of constipation.

Composition

FREEGO GRANULES contain a combination of two active ingredients:

• Lactitol Monohydrate (10 gm): An osmotic laxative that draws water into the colon, softening the stool and promoting bowel movements.
• Ispaghula Husk (3.5 gm): A natural fiber and bulk-forming laxative that absorbs water, increasing stool volume and weight, which aids in easier passage through the intestines. These concentrations are typically found per 15 gm of the granules.

Uses

FREEGO GRANULES are primarily prescribed for:

• Treatment of constipation, including chronic idiopathic constipation.
• Relief from symptoms such as stomach bloating, gas, and indigestion associated with irregular bowel movements. The medication works by absorbing water into the intestine, thereby softening stools and facilitating their easy passage.

Dosage and Administration

FREEGO GRANULES should be taken exactly as advised by a healthcare professional.

• Preparation: Typically, two scoops (approximately 15 grams) of the granules are mixed into a glass of water or milk. Stir briskly until the granules are completely dispersed and consume immediately.
• Timing: It can be taken once or twice daily, or as directed by a physician. Taking it with food can help reduce the risk of stomach upset. It is often recommended to take it at bedtime as it may take 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
• Fluid Intake: Ensure adequate fluid intake (at least 6-8 glasses of water) while using this medicine to enhance its effect and prevent discomfort.
• Other Medications: Maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between FREEGO GRANULES and other medications to avoid interference with absorption. Do not exceed the daily recommended dosage.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with FREEGO GRANULES include:

• Bloating
• Flatulence (excessive gas)
• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Abdominal distension
• Diarrhea (especially with higher doses)
• Cough (may indicate improper ingestion, ensure granules are fully dissolved) Most side effects are temporary and usually resolve with continued use or discontinuation. Consult a doctor if any side effects are serious, persistent, or worsen. Overdose may lead to diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to Ispaghula, Lactitol, or any other components of FREEGO GRANULES.
• Medical Conditions: Exercise caution if you have diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), intestinal obstruction or narrowing, faecal impaction, colonic atony, or unexplained abdominal pain or bleeding.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding. It should be used with caution, particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy, only if deemed necessary and the benefits outweigh the risks.
• Children: Generally not recommended for children below 12 years of age, unless specifically advised by a doctor.
• Duration of Use: Avoid taking FREEGO GRANULES for more than a week without medical advice, as prolonged use may lead to dependency for bowel movements.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes, blood lactose, and blood glucose levels may be necessary for some patients.
• Warning Signs: Immediately contact your doctor if there is no bowel movement, or if you experience rectal bleeding after taking the medication.

Storage

Store FREEGO GRANULES in a clean, cool, and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat, ideally below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

What is Freego Granules used for?

Freego Granules is a laxative primarily used to treat constipation. It helps in managing occasional constipation in adults and promotes regular bowel movements and healthier digestive function. It can also be used for symptoms like stomach bloating, gas, and indigestion.

How does Freego Granules work?

Freego Granules contains two active ingredients: Ispaghula and Lactitol. Ispaghula is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the water content in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Lactitol is an osmotic laxative that breaks down in the colon, increasing osmotic pressure, which draws more water into the stools and increases their volume, thereby providing relief from constipation.

What is the usual dosage of Freego Granules?

The dosage of Freego Granules should be as advised by your doctor, as it can vary based on your health condition and response to the medicine. Generally, a scoop (approximately 15g) is mixed into a glass of water or milk, stirred well, and consumed immediately. It is often prescribed for twice daily use and should be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

What are the possible side effects of Freego Granules?

Common side effects may include abdominal distension, cramps, flatulence (gas), bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Most of these side effects are temporary and usually resolve over time. If they persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Is Freego Granules safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when taking Freego Granules during pregnancy or breastfeeding. You should consult your doctor before using this medicine, as it will only be prescribed if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not definitively known whether Freego Granules passes into mother's milk.

Can Freego Granules be taken with other medications?

Freego Granules can interact with certain medications. It may affect the absorption of antidiabetic medications (like metformin or insulin) and some antibiotics (such as rifampicin or erythromycin). It is recommended to take Freego Granules at least 2 hours after taking other medicines to avoid interference with their absorption. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Freego Granules?

It is important to drink plenty of fluids (at least 6-8 glasses) while taking Freego Granules. Do not use this medicine for more than a week unless directed by a doctor, as it may lead to dependency for bowel movements. Avoid Freego Granules if you have an allergy to its ingredients, ileostomy, colostomy, galactosemia, intestinal obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain, or rectal bleeding. Patients with diabetes should use it with caution, and blood glucose levels may need monitoring. It should not be given to children below 12 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor.

What happens if a dose of Freego Granules is missed?

If you miss a dose of Freego Granules, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Freego Granules be stored?

Freego Granules should be stored at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep the medicine in its original packaging and out of the sight and reach of children. The storage temperature should typically be between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) or below 30°C.