It-mac Sb 65

IT-MAC SB 65 is an antifungal medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd. used to treat various fungal infections.

Name

• Common Name: Itraconazole
• Brand Name: IT-MAC SB 65

Composition

IT-MAC SB 65 contains Itraconazole as its active ingredient, at a strength of 65 mg. Itraconazole is an azole antifungal that works by inhibiting the production of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. This action weakens and damages the fungal cell membranes, preventing the growth and spread of the fungus and ultimately clearing the infection. Some sources also mention Serratiopeptidase as an active ingredient, which helps reduce inflammation and promote healing, though this is not consistently listed across all search results.

Uses

IT-MAC SB 65 is prescribed for a range of fungal infections, including:

• Fungal infections of the mouth, throat, toenails, fingernails, or lungs.
• Yeast infections, particularly vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida fungus.
• Systemic fungal infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
• Ringworm infections, athlete's foot, and infections in the groin and buttocks.
• Cryptococcal infection and infections caused by Histoplasma, Aspergillus, and Blastomyces.
• Preventive care in patients undergoing chemotherapy or those prone to fungal infections due to immune deficiencies.

Dosage and Administration

IT-MAC SB 65 should be taken in the dose and duration as prescribed by your doctor. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and can be taken with food to prevent stomach upset. For optimal absorption, it is advised to take antacids or similar medicines at least 2 hours after taking IT-MAC SB 65. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or developing drug resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea, headache, diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting.
• Tiredness, cough, cold, throat pain, back pain.
• Dizziness.

Serious side effects, requiring immediate medical attention, include:

• Tingling, numbness, and weakness in the limbs.
• Symptoms of liver problems such as severe lack of appetite, yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, unusual tiredness, vomiting or nausea, and stomach pain.
• Changes in hearing, including temporary or permanent hearing loss.
• Severe breathing problems.

Precautions

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to itraconazole or any other components of the medicine.
• Heart Conditions: Not recommended for patients with heart failure due to the risk of severe adverse effects. Use with caution if you have other heart problems.
• Liver/Kidney Problems: Use with caution and inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease. Liver function tests may be required during prolonged treatment.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may harm the unborn baby or pass into breast milk. Effective contraception should be used during treatment and for two months after stopping.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as IT-MAC SB 65 can interact with various drugs, including certain allergy medicines, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and strong opioid painkillers like fentanyl.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver problems and other adverse effects.
• Children and Elderly: Not recommended for children under 12 years of age; caution is advised in elderly patients.
• Driving: May cause dizziness, hearing loss, or blurred vision, so drive only if you are alert.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight and moisture, at a temperature between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

IT-MAC SB 65 is a medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd. that contains Itraconazole 65mg as its active ingredient. It belongs to the class of antifungal medications.

What is IT-MAC SB 65 used for?

IT-MAC SB 65 is primarily used to treat a wide range of fungal and yeast infections in adults. These include infections of the skin (like ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch), nails (onychomycosis), mouth and throat (oral candidiasis or thrush), lungs (such as aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis), and various other systemic (internal) fungal infections in both immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patients.

How does IT-MAC SB 65 work?

IT-MAC SB 65 works by stopping the growth of fungi. Its active ingredient, Itraconazole, inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol, which is an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. By disrupting ergosterol production, it compromises the integrity of the fungal cell membrane, ultimately leading to the death of the fungal cell and preventing the spread of the infection.

What is the usual dosage for IT-MAC SB 65?

The dosage of IT-MAC SB 65 can vary significantly depending on the type and severity of the fungal infection being treated. For example, some systemic infections may require a loading dose, while skin infections might be treated once or twice daily for a few weeks. Nail infections often involve treatment over several months or in pulse therapy cycles (taking the medicine for a week, then a break). For oropharyngeal candidiasis, a typical dose might be 65 mg once daily for 15 days, which could be increased in patients with impaired absorption like those with AIDS or neutropenia. It is crucial to always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.

What are the possible side effects of IT-MAC SB 65?

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation, rash, itching, and increased blood pressure. More serious but less common side effects can involve liver problems (symptoms like dark urine, yellowing skin/eyes, loss of appetite, severe stomach pain), congestive heart failure (symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling of ankles/feet, rapid weight gain), peripheral neuropathy (tingling/numbness in hands and feet), and even hearing loss. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is IT-MAC SB 65 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

IT-MAC SB 65 is generally not recommended during pregnancy and is contraindicated for onychomycosis in pregnant patients or those planning to become pregnant, due to potential risks to the developing fetus. If you are of childbearing potential, your doctor will likely recommend using highly effective contraception during treatment and for at least two months after the last dose. Itraconazole can pass into breast milk, and its effects on a nursing infant are not fully known, so breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking this medication.

Can IT-MAC SB 65 be taken with other medications?

Itraconazole can interact with many other medications, and some interactions can be serious or life-threatening, potentially affecting heart rhythm (QTc prolongation). It is vital to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Certain medications, such as some cholesterol-lowering drugs, sedatives, calcium channel blockers, and specific drugs for heart rhythm disorders, should not be taken with itraconazole. Additionally, antacids or other acid-reducing medications should be taken at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after IT-MAC SB 65 capsules to ensure proper absorption.

What precautions should be taken while on IT-MAC SB 65?

It is important to take IT-MAC SB 65 capsules with a full meal for optimal absorption. Do not crush or chew the capsule; swallow it whole. Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or developing drug resistance. Your doctor may conduct regular blood tests to monitor liver and kidney function, especially during prolonged treatment. If you have a history of heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease, inform your doctor, as caution is advised. IT-MAC SB 65 may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or hearing loss, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of IT-MAC SB 65 is missed?

If you miss a dose of IT-MAC SB 65, 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 a missed one.

How should IT-MAC SB 65 be stored?

IT-MAC SB 65 capsules should be stored at room temperature, typically between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep the medicine in a tightly closed, light-resistant container, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Do not freeze the medication. Always keep it out of the reach of children.