Benitowa 8 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET

BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET, manufactured by Akumentis Healthcare Ltd., is a medication belonging to the class of calcium channel blockers, primarily used for managing hypertension and angina.

Composition

The active ingredient in BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET is Benidipine, present in an 8 mg strength.

Uses

BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET is prescribed for:

• Management of high blood pressure (hypertension): It helps relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and effectively lowering blood pressure. This action reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack, and can also protect against kidney problems caused by uncontrolled hypertension.
• Prevention and management of chest pain (angina pectoris): It improves blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart, thereby reducing the workload on the heart and alleviating chest pain.
• Management of renal parenchymal hypertension: This refers to high blood pressure caused by kidney problems.

Dosage and Administration

BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET should be taken as advised by a healthcare professional. It is usually prescribed once daily, and can be taken with or without food, swallowed whole with a glass of water. It is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body. Do not crush or chew the tablet. It's crucial to continue taking this medicine even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Abruptly stopping the medication can worsen the condition or cause a sudden rise in blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck, and chest)
• Palpitations (a feeling of a racing, pounding, or irregular heartbeat)
• Peripheral edema (swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet)
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Sleepiness/Drowsiness

Serious side effects, though rare, may include a severe drop in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or severe allergic reactions. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Precautions

• Allergies: Avoid using if allergic to benidipine or any other ingredients in the tablet.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Caution is recommended during pregnancy, and it is generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Consult your doctor.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may cause dizziness and temporarily lower blood pressure.
• Liver/Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems; dose adjustment and careful monitoring may be required.
• Heart Conditions: Use with caution in patients with heart conditions such as severe aortic stenosis, low blood pressure (hypotension), or cardiogenic shock.
• Drug Interactions:
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir): May increase benidipine levels, enhancing effects or side effects.
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin): May decrease benidipine effectiveness.
  • Other Antihypertensive agents: Concurrent use may lead to extremely low blood pressure.
  • Grapefruit juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit juice as it can increase benidipine levels in the body, potentially leading to side effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Older Patients: Older patients should take under medical supervision as they may be more susceptible to side effects.

Storage

Store BENITOWA 8 MG TABLET below 30°C, away from direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children. Ensure the medicine is used before its expiry date.

What is BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet used for?

BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet is primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and to prevent and treat angina pectoris, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It also helps in preventing serious cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack, and can protect against kidney problems resulting from uncontrolled high blood pressure.

How does BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet work?

BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. Its active ingredient, Benidipine, works by blocking the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and cardiac muscle cells. This action relaxes and widens the blood vessels (vasodilation), which reduces resistance to blood flow, thereby lowering blood pressure. It also eases the heart's workload and improves blood and oxygen supply to the heart, which helps alleviate chest pain.

What is the usual dosage for BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet?

The dosage of BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition and how you respond to the medication. The usual starting dose for adults with hypertension or renal parenchymal hypertension is often 4 mg once daily, typically after breakfast. If the effect is insufficient, the dosage may be increased up to 8 mg once a day. For severe hypertension, 4 to 8 mg once daily may be prescribed. For angina pectoris, 4 mg twice daily, after breakfast and supper, is a common regimen, though this specific product is 8mg, so follow your doctor's instructions. It is crucial to take the tablet at the same time each day, swallow it whole with a glass of water, and not crush or chew it.

What are the possible side effects of BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet?

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal pain, flushing (a sudden reddening of the face, neck, or upper chest), palpitations (a feeling of a racing or irregular heartbeat), sleepiness, nausea, and peripheral edema (swelling in the ankles and feet). Most of these side effects are usually mild and temporary. If dizziness occurs, taking the medicine at night may help. For stomach pain, try taking it with meals. Elevating your legs can help reduce ankle swelling. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor. Rarely, serious liver problems can occur, indicated by weakness, decreased appetite, or yellowing of the skin or eyes; seek immediate medical attention if these signs appear.

Is BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet should be used with caution during pregnancy and is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed by a doctor who has determined that the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Limited studies suggest it might have harmful effects on the fetus. Similarly, if you are breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits, as specific information on its safety for nursing women and breastfed infants is not readily available.

Can BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet can interact with various medications. Taking it with certain CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir) can increase the levels of Benidipine in your body, potentially leading to enhanced effects or side effects. Conversely, CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin) may decrease its effectiveness. Combining it with other antihypertensive agents can lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure. Medicines like digoxin, cimetidine, and certain beta-blockers may also interact. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking, to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet?

Several precautions should be observed when taking BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it may enhance dizziness and lower blood pressure. Patients with liver problems, particularly severe hepatic impairment, may require lower doses and careful monitoring. Caution is also advised for elderly patients due to an increased risk of very low blood pressure. It may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medication affects you. Inform your doctor if you have pre-existing conditions such as low blood pressure, cardiogenic shock, severe aortic stenosis, coronary artery disease, or kidney problems. It is not recommended for children under 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose of BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one without consulting your doctor.

How should BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet be stored?

BENITOWA 8 MG Tablet should be stored at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Always ensure the medicine is kept out of the reach of children for their safety. Remember to use the medication before its expiry date.