Akurit Tab

AKURIT TAB is an anti-tuberculosis medication manufactured by Lupin Ltd.

Name

• Common Name: Akurit Tablet
• Brand Name: AKURIT TAB

Composition

Each tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Rifampicin 150 mg
• Isoniazid 75 mg Other ingredients may include microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone, pregelatinized starch, ascorbic acid, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, color iron oxide red, and simethicone.

Uses

AKURIT TAB is indicated for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is used in adults and children weighing above 30 kg (or 25 kg in some guidance) for both active and latent tuberculosis infections. It works by inhibiting DNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (Rifampicin) and the biosynthesis of mycolic acid (Isoniazid), essential components for the bacteria's survival.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of AKURIT TAB is determined by body weight and should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

• 21-30 kg: 2 tablets daily (for children who can swallow solid tablets)
• 30-39 kg: 2 tablets daily
• 40-54 kg: 3 tablets daily
• 55-70 kg: 4 tablets daily
• Above 70 kg: 5 tablets daily The tablets should be swallowed with water on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed tablet. If vomiting occurs within one hour of taking the medicine, another dose should be taken. Treatment should not be stopped without consulting a healthcare provider.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Reddish discoloration of body fluids (urine, sputum, tears, saliva, sweat)
• Diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting
• Skin reactions (rash, itching)
• Disturbances of the menstrual cycle Serious side effects can include:
• Liver disease (hepatitis), characterized by unexplained loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, yellow discoloration of the skin (jaundice), persistent fatigue, and abdominal pain.
• Visual disturbances, dizziness, headache, fits (epileptic seizures)
• Inflammation of the brain, personality changes, memory impairment
• Peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbness in hands and feet)
• Hematological toxicity (e.g., hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

Precautions

• Liver Disease: AKURIT TAB may cause liver disease (hepatitis). Patients should be monitored for signs of liver damage, and its use should be avoided in those with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
• Alcohol: Alcohol consumption should be restricted as it increases the risk of liver damage.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements. AKURIT TAB can interact with voriconazole, HIV protease inhibitors, aluminium hydroxide, and disulfiram.
• Food Interactions: Avoid cheese and fish (histamine- or tyramine-rich foods) as they may cause adverse reactions like flushing, itching, rapid heartbeat, and headache.
• Pyridoxine: Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) supplementation may be routinely co-administered to prevent peripheral neuropathy.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause visual disturbances, dizziness, or other nervous system side effects that can impair the ability to drive or use machines.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor.

Storage

Store AKURIT TAB in a dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about AKURIT TAB by LUPIN LTD, along with concise answers:

What is AKURIT TAB used for?

AKURIT TAB is used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), an infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs but capable of impacting other body parts.

How does AKURIT TAB work?

AKURIT TAB is a combination of two active ingredients: Rifampicin and Isoniazid. Rifampicin works by inhibiting bacterial RNA polymerase, which prevents RNA synthesis and leads to bacterial death. Isoniazid inhibits the synthesis of mycolic acid, a crucial component of the mycobacterial cell wall, thereby killing the bacteria.

What is the usual dosage for AKURIT TAB?

The dosage of AKURIT TAB is determined based on body weight and is typically taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. For example, adults weighing 40-54 kg might take 3 tablets daily, while those weighing 55-70 kg might take 4 tablets daily. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions for dosage and duration.

What are the possible side effects of AKURIT TAB?

Common side effects can include reddish-orange discoloration of body fluids such as urine, sputum, and tears, as well as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, skin rash, itching, diarrhea, and disturbances of the menstrual cycle. More serious side effects can involve liver damage (hepatitis), tingling in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy), headache, dizziness, and visual disturbances. If you experience symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent fatigue, or vision changes, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Is AKURIT TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

For pregnancy, AKURIT TAB is generally considered safe, but it is strongly recommended to consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Some sources suggest it may be unsafe or require careful consideration, particularly in the first trimester. If you are breastfeeding, AKURIT TAB can usually be used, but it is still advisable to consult your doctor.

Can AKURIT TAB be taken with other medications?

AKURIT TAB can interact with many other medications. For instance, it should not be taken with voriconazole (for fungal infections) or HIV protease inhibitors. Rifampicin, one of the active ingredients, is a strong inducer of hepatic drug metabolism, which can reduce the effectiveness of drugs like oral contraceptives, warfarin, antihypertensives, anti-epileptic medications, and immunosuppressants. It is important to avoid antacids within two hours of taking AKURIT TAB as they may reduce its effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on AKURIT TAB?

You should not consume alcohol while taking AKURIT TAB, as this significantly increases the risk of liver damage. Patients with existing liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes require careful monitoring. To reduce the risk of peripheral neuropathy, pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) supplementation is often administered routinely. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your healthcare provider, as premature discontinuation can lead to drug resistance or recurrence of the infection. AKURIT TAB may also cause your urine, sweat, saliva, and tears to turn a reddish-orange color, which is a normal and harmless effect of rifampicin.

What happens if a dose of AKURIT TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of AKURIT TAB, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the next regular dose is scheduled within 6 hours, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.

How should AKURIT TAB be stored?

AKURIT TAB should be stored in a dry place below 30°C and protected from light. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.