Parkrel Cap

PARKREL CAP by TORRENT PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

PARKREL CAP is a medication developed by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., designed to manage specific neuropsychiatric symptoms.

• Name:
  • Brand Name: PARKREL CAP
  • Common Name: Pimavanserin
• Composition:
  • Each capsule contains Pimavanserin 34 mg as the active ingredient.
• Uses:
  • PARKREL CAP (Pimavanserin) is indicated for the treatment of hallucinations and delusions associated with Parkinson's disease psychosis. It works by targeting specific serotonin receptors in the brain to reduce these symptoms without worsening motor function.
• Dosage and Administration:
  • The recommended dosage is 34 mg, taken orally once daily.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • Capsules can be swallowed whole, or the contents can be sprinkled over a tablespoon of applesauce, yogurt, pudding, or liquid nutritional supplement and consumed immediately.
  • No dose titration is typically required.
  • Dosage adjustment to 10 mg once daily is recommended when co-administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
• Side Effects:
  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, constipation, peripheral edema (swelling of ankles, hands, or feet), confusion, and drowsiness/fatigue.
  • Serious Side Effects:
    • QT Prolongation: Pimavanserin can prolong the QT interval, which may lead to serious heart rhythm problems.
    • Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis: A boxed warning indicates an increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs, including pimavanserin. It is not approved for psychosis unrelated to Parkinson's disease.
    • Rarely, hallucinations may worsen, or allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) may occur.
• Precautions:
  • Avoid use in patients with known QT prolongation or in combination with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, or antibiotics).
  • Use with caution in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias, symptomatic bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
  • Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, due to potential drug interactions, especially with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers.
• Storage:
  • Store in a closed container at room temperature.
  • Keep away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Here are frequently asked questions about PARKREL CAP (Pimavanserin), manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.:

What is PARKREL CAP used for?

PARKREL CAP is used to treat hallucinations and delusions associated with Parkinson's disease psychosis.

How does PARKREL CAP work?

Pimavanserin, the active ingredient in PARKREL CAP, works by targeting specific serotonin receptors (5-HT2A and to a lesser extent 5-HT2C) in the brain. It acts as a selective serotonin inverse agonist and antagonist, helping to reduce psychotic symptoms without blocking dopamine receptors, which can worsen motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease.

What is the usual dosage of PARKREL CAP?

The recommended dosage is one 34 mg capsule taken orally once daily, with or without food. The capsule can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled over a tablespoon of soft food (like applesauce, yogurt, or pudding) and consumed immediately. No dose titration is typically required.

What are the possible side effects of PARKREL CAP?

Common side effects include nausea, constipation, swelling in the legs or arms (peripheral edema), confusion, and trouble walking (gait disturbance). More serious side effects can include QT prolongation (a heart rhythm abnormality), and in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, there is an increased risk of death. Allergic reactions like rash or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue can also occur.

Is PARKREL CAP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There is no human data on the use of pimavanserin during pregnancy, so the risks to an unborn baby are unknown. Animal studies did not show developmental issues. For breastfeeding mothers, it's not known if the medicine passes into breast milk or its effects on the infant or milk production. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can PARKREL CAP be taken with other medications?

PARKREL CAP can interact with many other medications. It is particularly important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin), strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, St. John's Wort), and drugs known to prolong the QT interval (e.g., certain antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, or antibiotics). Concomitant use with certain drugs may require a dose adjustment of PARKREL CAP or should be avoided entirely due to increased risks.

What precautions should be taken while using PARKREL CAP?

A significant precaution is the increased risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis not related to Parkinson's disease; PARKREL CAP is not approved for this condition. The medication can also prolong the QT interval, so it should be avoided in patients with known QT prolongation, a history of certain cardiac arrhythmias, or other risk factors for heart rhythm issues. Patients should also be cautious when driving or operating machinery as the medicine can impair mental or physical abilities.

What happens if a dose of PARKREL CAP 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 make up for a missed one.

How should PARKREL CAP be stored?

PARKREL CAP should be stored in its closed container at room temperature, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light. If you open a capsule and sprinkle its contents onto food, the mixture must be consumed immediately and not stored for later use.