Caritec Inj

CARITEC INJ

CARITEC INJ, also known as Caritec Solution for Injection, is a medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

Composition

CARITEC INJ contains Carbetocin at a concentration of 100mcg/ml as its active ingredient. Carbetocin is a synthetic long-acting analogue of oxytocin.

Uses

CARITEC INJ is primarily used for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding after childbirth) due to uterine atony. It stimulates rhythmic contractions of the uterus, helping to reduce the risk of abnormal bleeding following delivery. It is particularly indicated for use after a cesarean delivery performed under epidural or spinal anesthesia.

Dosage and Administration

Caritec Solution for Injection is administered as a single dose of 100 mcg. It is given via slow intravenous (IV) injection over one minute or intramuscular (IM) injection. The administration should occur as soon as possible after the delivery of the infant, preferably before the removal of the placenta. This medication must only be administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with CARITEC INJ include nausea, stomach pain, itching, headache, flushing (feeling of warmth), low blood pressure, tremors, vomiting, back pain, chest pain, metallic taste, anemia, breathlessness, chills, generalized pain, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects may include water retention, hypertension, and rare allergic reactions.

Precautions

CARITEC INJ should not be used during pregnancy (before the delivery of the infant) or for inducing labor. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to carbetocin or oxytocin, serious cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy, and severe hepatic or renal impairment. Patients with existing heart issues, high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, gestational diabetes, migraines, asthma, or preeclampsia should inform their doctor before administration. Blood pressure and fluid balance should be monitored, especially in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease. The safety and efficacy of CARITEC INJ in children and geriatric populations have not been fully established. While information on alcohol interaction is unknown, one source advises against consuming alcohol with this medication.

Storage

CARITEC INJ typically requires storage in a cool place, specifically at 2°C to 8°C, protected from light, and should not be frozen. However, a room temperature stable (RTS) formulation of Carbetocin (CARITEC®) has been developed that can be stored at up to 30°C and 75% relative humidity, maintaining efficacy for two years.

Here are the frequently asked questions about CARITEC INJ:

What is CARITEC INJ used for?

CARITEC INJ is primarily used to prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth, a condition known as postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). It is specifically indicated for preventing uterine atony (when the uterus fails to contract) following childbirth, particularly after a cesarean section performed under epidural or spinal anesthesia.

How does CARITEC INJ work?

CARITEC INJ contains Carbetocin, which is a synthetic analogue of the hormone oxytocin. It works by binding to oxytocin receptors in the smooth muscle of the uterus, stimulating strong and sustained uterine contractions. These contractions help to reduce bleeding after delivery by aiding the uterus in shrinking back to its normal size.

What is the usual dosage of CARITEC INJ?

The typical dosage is 100 mcg (1 ml) administered as a single intravenous injection. It is given slowly over 1 minute, as soon as possible after the delivery of the infant, and preferably before the removal of the placenta. This medication is only administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered.

What are the possible side effects of CARITEC INJ?

Common side effects may include nausea, stomach pain, itching, headache, flushing (a feeling of warmth), low blood pressure (hypotension), tremors, vomiting, back pain, and chest pain. If any side effects persist or worsen, it's important to consult your doctor.

Is CARITEC INJ safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CARITEC INJ is considered highly unsafe and is contraindicated for use during pregnancy, before the delivery of the infant, or for inducing labor, due to potential harmful effects on the developing baby. However, it is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding, as human studies suggest it does not pass into breastmilk in significant amounts and is not harmful to the baby.

Can CARITEC INJ be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements. CARITEC INJ may interact with other medications, potentially increasing blood pressure when given with sympathomimetic pressors or ergot alkaloids.

What precautions should be taken before receiving CARITEC INJ?

You should inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, especially if you have allergies to any components of the medicine, kidney or liver problems, heart issues, epilepsy, high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, gestational diabetes, migraines, asthma, or preeclampsia. CARITEC INJ is not for use in children.

What happens if a dose of CARITEC INJ is missed?

Since CARITEC INJ is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting, the likelihood of a missed dose that a patient needs to manage is low. If there are any concerns about the administration, it is important to discuss them immediately with the medical team.

How should CARITEC INJ be stored?

CARITEC INJ should be stored in a cool place, typically between 2°C to 8°C (cold chain storage), and protected from light. It should not be frozen. Keep it out of reach and sight of children.