Doxovent 400 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET by GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Name:

• Brand Name: DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Doxofylline

Composition: Each tablet contains Doxofylline 400 mg as the active ingredient.

Uses: DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is prescribed to prevent and treat symptoms associated with various respiratory conditions. These include:

• Asthma, including bronchial asthma and night-time asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema
• Other respiratory obstructive diseases, such as those involving bronchospasm, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It can also be used to reduce apnea (breathing stops for a brief period).

Dosage and Administration: The typical adult dosage is one tablet (400 mg) taken once or twice daily, or up to three times daily, as directed by a healthcare professional. It is generally advised to take the medicine after a meal, preferably in the evening. This medication is not for immediate relief of sudden breathing difficulties; patients should always carry their emergency medical inhaler.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, upper stomach pain, upset stomach
• Headache, dizziness
• Irritability, sleeplessness (insomnia)
• Abnormal or rapid heartbeat, fast breathing, palpitations

Less common or serious side effects can include muscle weakness, increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), albuminuria (presence of albumin in urine), and cardiac arrhythmias.

Precautions: DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is contraindicated if you are allergic to doxofylline or any other ingredients, have severe hypotension, active peptic ulcer disease, or heart problems such as acute myocardial infarction or severe cardiac arrhythmias. Caution is advised for patients with congestive heart failure, liver or kidney disease, an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), hypoxemia (low oxygen levels), pulmonary heart diseases, or a history of stomach ulcers. It is not recommended for breastfeeding women and should be used with caution during pregnancy, only if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including herbal products, as interactions can occur. Specific interactions include other methylxanthines, certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, lincomycin, clindamycin), allopurinol, cimetidine, influenza vaccine, propranolol, phenytoin, and sympathomimetic drugs. Avoid alcohol consumption, smoking, and high intake of caffeinated products like coffee, tea, and dark chocolates, as they may increase side effects. The medicine is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

Storage: Store DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET in a cool, dry place, typically below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET:

What is DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET used for?

DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat and prevent symptoms associated with various respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. It helps to alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and chronic cough. It can also be used to reduce apnea (lack of breathing) and other respiratory diseases linked to the tightening of airways (bronchospasm).

How does DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET work?

DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET contains doxofylline, which is a bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways in your lungs, causing them to widen and making it easier to breathe. This action is achieved by inhibiting specific phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes, which leads to the relaxation of bronchial smooth muscles and the suppression of inflammatory mediators. The medicine also helps to reduce the sensitivity of your lungs to allergens that can cause irritation and muscle constriction.

What is the usual dosage for DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET?

The typical adult dosage for DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is one tablet (400 mg) taken once or twice daily. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the exact dose and duration of treatment. It is often recommended to take this medicine with food, preferably in the evening, and around the same time each day for consistency. Do not adjust your dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects of DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET?

Common side effects associated with DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or upset stomach, and insomnia (sleeplessness). Other reported side effects can include an increased heart rate, increased blood sugar levels, muscle weakness, tremors, irritability, restlessness, and fast breathing. If any side effects worsen or persist, you should inform your doctor.

Is DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Information regarding the use of DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET during pregnancy is limited. It should only be used in pregnant women if considered absolutely necessary by a physician, who will weigh the potential risks and benefits. Some sources indicate mild effects during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into breast milk and could potentially harm the infant. Due to the possibility of serious adverse reactions in a breastfed baby, it is often advised to avoid breastfeeding while on this medication.

Can DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET can interact with other medications, so it is crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or plan to take. Specific interactions to be cautious about include medicines like ephedrine, erythromycin, lincomycin, clindamycin, allopurinol, cimetidine, phenytoin, influenza vaccine, and propranolol. Interactions may also occur with certain antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), and antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone).

What precautions should be taken while taking DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET?

Before taking DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET, inform your doctor about your complete medical history. Special caution is needed if you have heart problems (such as low blood pressure, heart attack, heart rhythm disorders, congestive heart failure), liver, kidney, or lung diseases, an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), a history of stomach ulcers (peptic ulcers), or seizure disorders.

Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly, as it may worsen your condition. This medication is not for immediate relief of sudden breathing difficulties; always carry a fast-acting (rescue) inhaler for emergencies. It is also advisable to avoid or limit smoking while on this treatment. Because Doxovent may cause sleepiness or dizziness, it is best to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Your doctor may periodically monitor the levels of doxofylline in your blood.

What happens if a dose of DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET, 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 DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET be stored?

DOXOVENT 400 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children. The recommended storage temperature is typically below 30°C (or between 10ºC to 25ºC).