Betacap Plus 5 Mg Capsule (10 Cap)

BETACAP PLUS 5 MG CAPSULE (10 CAP)

BETACAP PLUS 5 MG CAPSULE is a combination medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., primarily used for the prevention of migraine headaches. It works by regulating brain activity and improving blood flow to help reduce the frequency, severity, and intensity of migraine attacks.

Composition

Each capsule contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Propranolol (40 mg): A non-selective beta-blocker that reduces heart rate and blood pressure, and inhibits cortical spreading depression which contributes to migraine pain.
• Flunarizine (5 mg): A selective calcium channel blocker that improves cerebral blood flow by dilating blood vessels in the brain and inhibiting vasospasm.

Uses

BETACAP PLUS 5 MG CAPSULE is prescribed for:

• Prevention and prophylaxis of migraine headaches.
• Management of severe migraine attacks and reduction of episode frequency.
• It may also be used to treat vertigo disorders.

Dosage and Administration

BETACAP PLUS 5 MG CAPSULE should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day, ideally at night. The capsule should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. The dosage and duration depend on the patient's condition and response to therapy. It is important not to stop this medicine suddenly without consulting a doctor, as it may worsen symptoms or cause withdrawal effects.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Weight gain
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Tiredness/Fatigue
• Depression
• Drowsiness
• Abnormal or unusual dreams
• Cold extremities (hands and feet)
• Nausea, constipation, increased appetite, blocked or runny nose, problems with sleeping, muscle ache, breast pain, and menstrual problems have also been reported.

Serious side effects, though rare, warrant immediate medical attention, such as allergic reactions, intolerance (slow heart rate, low blood pressure), tingling/numbness, or tinnitus.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Avoid use if allergic to propranolol, flunarizine, or any components. It is contraindicated in patients with low blood pressure, slow heart rate, certain heart conditions (e.g., heart block, sick sinus syndrome), depressive illness, Parkinson's disease, or bronchial asthma.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about liver or kidney disease, depression, diabetes (propranolol can mask low blood sugar symptoms), breathing problems (asthma, bronchitis), heart failure, heart rhythm problems, overactive thyroid, blood circulation issues (Raynaud's disease), or myasthenia gravis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consult a doctor for risks and benefits.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving: This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or fatigue, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Drug Interactions: Propranolol may interact with other anti-hypertensives, heart medications, and certain antidepressants. Flunarizine may interact with sedatives and medications affecting the central nervous system. Grapefruit juice should be avoided.

Storage

Store BETACAP PLUS 5 MG CAPSULE in its original packaging, tightly closed, in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture, preferably below 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., is a combination medication primarily used for the prevention of migraine headaches. It contains two active ingredients: Propranolol and Flunarizine.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule:

What is Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule used for?

Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule is primarily used for the prevention of frequent migraine headaches. It helps to reduce the frequency, severity, and intensity of migraine attacks and can also be used to manage severe migraine attacks. Some sources also indicate its use in managing vertigo (spinning sensation) and high blood pressure, though migraine prevention is its main indication.

How does Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule work?

This medicine works through the combined action of its two active ingredients: Propranolol and Flunarizine. Propranolol is a beta-blocker that helps stabilize reactive nerve cells, reduces cerebral blood flow, and inhibits cortical spreading depression (electrical activity linked to migraine pain and inflammation). Flunarizine is a calcium channel blocker that improves blood flow to the brain by dilating blood vessels and preventing vasospasm, while also suppressing cortical spreading depression. Together, they regulate brain activity and improve blood flow to prevent migraines.

What is the usual dosage for Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule?

The dosage of Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule should be strictly followed as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken once daily. While some sources suggest it can be taken with or without food, others recommend taking it on an empty stomach, preferably at a fixed time, often at night, for maximum benefits. Do not alter the dosage or duration of treatment without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule?

Common side effects may include weight gain, increased appetite, slow heart rate (bradycardia), fatigue, drowsiness, depression, abnormal dreams, cold extremities (hands and feet), nausea, constipation, and a blocked or runny nose. If any side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor.

Is Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule is generally not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Limited information is available regarding its safety during pregnancy, and animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the fetus. It is also advised to avoid it during breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects on the infant. Always consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule be taken with other medications?

This medicine can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Interactions can occur with medicines used for anxiety (e.g., citalopram, diazepam), hypnotics, oral contraceptives, certain blood pressure medications (e.g., enalapril, verapamil, diltiazem), anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine), antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), antidiabetics (e.g., insulin), and other anti-migraine medicines.

What precautions should be taken while taking Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or fatigue. Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems, asthma, depression, diabetes, or certain heart conditions (e.g., heart failure, heart block, slow heart rate, low blood pressure). It's also advised to stop smoking and consuming tobacco products. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions before starting treatment.

What happens if a dose of Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 compensate for the missed one. Consistency is key for effective migraine prevention.

How should Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule be stored?

Store Betacap Plus 5 mg Capsule in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect it from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.