Alrista Plus

Alrista Plus Tablet

Name:

• Brand Name: Alrista Plus Tablet (also commonly referred to as Alrista Plus Tablet SR, indicating Sustained Release)
• Manufacturer: Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Composition:

• Active Ingredients:
  • Epalrestat (150 mg)
  • Methylcobalamin (1500 mcg)

Uses: Alrista Plus Tablet is a combination medicine primarily indicated for the management of diabetic neuropathy. This condition involves nerve damage resulting from high blood glucose levels, commonly affecting the nerves in the legs and feet, leading to neuropathic pain. It is used for:

• Treating diabetic neuropathy (diabetic nerve pain).
• Preventing further nerve damage due to diabetes.
• Promoting nerve regeneration and protection of damaged nerve cells.
• Improving nerve function and enhancing the quality of life in patients with diabetic neuropathy.

Dosage and Administration:

• Alrista Plus Tablet should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• It can be taken with or without food, but it is advisable to take it at a fixed time daily for consistent efficacy.
• The dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by the doctor based on the patient's medical condition. Do not discontinue without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Increased liver enzyme levels

Less common or serious side effects, though rare, can include skin rash, itching, stomach pain, fatigue, severe confusion, extreme tiredness, or allergic reactions (such as swelling or trouble breathing). Consult a doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions:

• Allergies: Do not take Alrista Plus Tablet if you are allergic to any of its components.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems. Exercise caution with mild to moderate liver impairment or kidney problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as information on safety is limited or caution is advised.
• Driving and Machinery: Alrista Plus Tablet may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery, and only do so if you are alert.
• Children: Not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
• Alcohol Interaction: Avoid consuming alcohol with Alrista Plus Tablet as it may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of low blood sugar, potentially worsening nerve symptoms.
• Contraindications: Contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity, severe hepatic insufficiency, Leber Congenital Amaurosis, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Kidney Disease, and Polycythemia Vera.
• Overdose: In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage:

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine out of reach and sight of children.
• Maintain storage temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

ALRISTA PLUS by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Alrista Plus is a combination medicine used in the management of diabetic neuropathy, a condition where high blood sugar levels lead to nerve damage. It contains Epalrestat and Methylcobalamin, which work together to reduce nerve pain and promote nerve regeneration.

What is ALRISTA PLUS used for?

Alrista Plus Tablet is primarily used to treat diabetic neuropathy, also known as diabetic nerve pain. This condition involves nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels, often affecting the legs and feet, leading to symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness. The medicine helps to alleviate these symptoms, prevent further nerve damage, promote nerve regeneration, and improve overall nerve function.

How does ALRISTA PLUS work?

Alrista Plus combines two active ingredients: Epalrestat and Methylcobalamin. Epalrestat is an aldose reductase inhibitor that blocks the enzyme responsible for converting excess glucose into sorbitol. By preventing sorbitol accumulation in nerve cells, it helps to protect nerves from damage. Methylcobalamin, an active form of Vitamin B12, aids in the rejuvenation and protection of damaged nerve cells by assisting in the production of myelin, a protective sheath around nerves.

What is the usual dosage of ALRISTA PLUS?

The typical dosage is one tablet daily, but the exact dose and duration should be strictly followed as prescribed by your doctor, as it depends on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. The tablet can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it. It is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day for consistent effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects of ALRISTA PLUS?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain or discomfort, rash, gastritis, muscle cramps, and increased liver enzyme levels. Most of these side effects are usually mild, temporary, and resolve on their own. However, if any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor. Rarely, more serious side effects like severe confusion, extreme tiredness, or allergic reactions (such as swelling or trouble breathing) can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.

Is ALRISTA PLUS safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when considering Alrista Plus during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some sources indicate it might be safe during pregnancy, while others suggest it may be unsafe or that human and animal studies are not available, with some animal studies showing harmful effects on the developing baby. For breastfeeding, information is generally not available, though one source states it does not show side effects. Due to conflicting or limited information, it is crucial to consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can ALRISTA PLUS be taken with other medications?

Alrista Plus may interact with certain medications. For instance, Epalrestat can enhance the blood sugar-lowering effects of antidiabetic medicines like insulin, glimepiride, or metformin, potentially leading to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Methylcobalamin has been noted to have moderate interactions with Neomycin and Chloramphenicol. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, that you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using ALRISTA PLUS?

You should not take Alrista Plus if you are allergic to any of its components or have certain conditions such as severe liver impairment, Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, toxic optic neuropathy related to tobacco use, or diabetic ketoacidosis. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems. Avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication, as it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of low blood sugar, potentially worsening neuropathy symptoms. Since Alrista Plus can cause drowsiness and dizziness, exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery. The medicine is not recommended for children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of ALRISTA PLUS is missed?

If you miss a dose of Alrista Plus, 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 ALRISTA PLUS be stored?

Alrista Plus should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. It should be kept out of the reach and sight of children. The recommended storage temperature is typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.