Banocide Forte 30 Tablet

BANOCIDE FORTE 30 TABLET is a prescription medicine manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd., primarily used to treat various parasitic worm infections.

Name

• Brand Name: BANOCIDE FORTE 30 TABLET
• Common Name: Diethylcarbamazine

Composition

Each uncoated tablet contains Diethylcarbamazine Citrate I.P. 100 mg. Inactive ingredients include Lactose, Maize starch, Calcium Silicate, Magnesium Stearate, Sodium Starch Glycolate, and Purified water.

Uses

BANOCIDE FORTE is an anthelmintic medication that works by killing both the larval and adult forms of parasitic worms. It is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Filariasis: Including lymphatic filariasis, Bancroft's filariasis, and elephantiasis.
• Loiasis: Also known as eye worm infections.
• Tropical Eosinophilia: Also known as eosinophilic lung, which helps manage lung-related allergic reactions caused by parasitic infections.
• Toxocariasis: To treat roundworm infections that can affect the liver, lungs, and eyes.
• River Blindness (Onchocerciasis): Used in its treatment.

Dosage and Administration

BANOCIDE FORTE TABLETS are for oral use and should be administered after meals to avoid stomach discomfort. The dosage and duration vary based on the severity of the infection, age, and overall health, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Typically, treatment may start with a low dose and gradually increase over 2-3 days, maintained for the remaining treatment period. For lymphatic filariasis, treatment may involve a gradual increase to 6 mg/kg daily for 12-14 days. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, broken, or chewed. It is crucial to complete the entire prescribed course even if symptoms improve.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
• Tiredness, joint pain, and abnormal liver function tests.
• Allergic manifestations such as itching, swelling of the face (especially near the eyes), tightness in the chest or throat, and wheezing. Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions. Patients experiencing persistent or severe symptoms should seek medical help.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Diethylcarbamazine or any other components of the tablet.
• Lactose Intolerance: Contains lactose, so it should not be taken by patients with galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose and galactose malabsorption syndrome.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential severe reactions, and caution is advised. It is not recommended during breastfeeding as data on excretion into breast milk are unavailable.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, a history of convulsions or seizures, or severe eye damage due to onchocerciasis (river blindness).
• Driving and Machinery: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision; therefore, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Alcohol: Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it may increase side effects.

Storage

Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Store in its original packaging, ensuring it's kept tightly closed.

What is Banocide Forte Tablet used for?

Banocide Forte Tablet is primarily used to treat various parasitic worm infections, including filariasis (such as Bancroft's filariasis, Loa loa, and Brugia malayi/timori), tropical pulmonary eosinophilia, and toxocariasis. These infections can affect different parts of the body, including the lymphatic system, lungs, and eyes.

How does Banocide Forte Tablet work?

The active ingredient in Banocide Forte Tablet is diethylcarbamazine citrate. It works by interfering with the metabolic processes of the parasitic worms, causing their immobilization and making them more susceptible to destruction by the host's immune system. It targets both larval and adult forms of the parasites.

What is the usual dosage of Banocide Forte Tablet?

The dosage of Banocide Forte Tablet varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the patient's age and weight. Treatment typically begins with a low dose that is gradually increased over 2 to 3 days and continued for the prescribed duration, which can range from a few days to several weeks. It should generally be taken after meals. For lymphatic filariasis, a common starting dose is 1 mg/kg on the first day, gradually increasing to 6 mg/kg daily, preferably in divided doses, for 12 to 14 days.

What are the possible side effects of Banocide Forte Tablet?

Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and general fatigue. Other possible reactions may involve itching, skin rash, swelling (especially around the eyes), tightness in the chest or throat, wheezing, and joint or muscle pain. More severe reactions, such as the Mazzotti reaction, can occur due to the rapid killing of microfilariae, leading to intense itching, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

Is Banocide Forte Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Banocide Forte Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to the potential for severe reactions. It is advisable to postpone treatment for pregnant women until after parturition if feasible. Similarly, its use is not recommended during breastfeeding as there is no data available on its excretion in human breast milk. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks if treatment is essential.

Can Banocide Forte Tablet be taken with other medications?

While there is limited specific data on drug interactions, it's crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Some drugs may interact with diethylcarbamazine, and dosage adjustments might be necessary, particularly in patients with sustained alkaline urine. Diethylcarbamazine may increase the effects of certain medications that slow heart rate or block neuromuscular activity.

What precautions should be taken while taking Banocide Forte Tablet?

You should inform your doctor if you have a history of convulsions or conditions that predispose to seizures, existing liver or kidney disease, or a history of allergies to any components of the medicine. Patients with galactose intolerance or glucose and galactose malabsorption syndrome should not take this medicine as it contains lactose. Due to the possibility of dizziness or drowsiness, it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Close monitoring for adverse reactions is recommended, especially during the initial days of treatment.

What happens if a dose of Banocide Forte Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Banocide Forte 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 a missed one. It is important to complete the full prescribed course of treatment to ensure the infection is completely cleared and to prevent its return.

How should Banocide Forte Tablet be stored?

Banocide Forte Tablet should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, ideally not exceeding 30°C. It should be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not allow it to freeze.