Provanol Plus 10

PROVANOL PLUS 10 by INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD

Name:

• Brand Name: Provanol Plus 10

Composition: Provanol Plus 10 contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Propranolol: 40 mg (a beta-blocker)
• Flunarizine: 10 mg (a calcium channel blocker)

Uses: This medication is primarily used for the prevention and management of migraine headaches, reducing their frequency and severity. It is not intended to treat acute migraine attacks. Additionally, it may be prescribed for:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Angina (chest pain)
• Vertigo (spinning sensation)
• Anxiety symptoms and essential tremor

Dosage and Administration: Provanol Plus 10 should be taken as advised by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, but it's often recommended to take it on an empty stomach, preferably at a fixed time, such as at night. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed. The dose and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen some conditions.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Weight gain, increased appetite
• Tiredness, drowsiness, fatigue
• Slow heart rate
• Depression, abnormal dreams, problems with sleeping, nightmares
• Nausea, constipation, stomach ache, or other digestive problems
• Blocked or runny nose
• Cold extremities (fingers and toes)

Serious side effects are rare but include allergic reactions (itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue) or intolerance to the medicine (slow heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting). Consult your doctor if any side effects worsen or persist.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving and Machinery: Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or tired.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems, liver problems, heart conditions (e.g., uncontrolled heart failure, slow heart rate, heart block), asthma, depression, or Parkinson's disease. Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions or other medications you are taking.

Storage: Store Provanol Plus 10 in a cool, dry, and dark place, ideally between 15°C and 30°C. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets. Ensure the container is tightly closed to protect from moisture. Always check the expiry date before use.

PROVANOL PLUS 10 by INTAS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Provanol Plus 10 used for?

Provanol Plus 10 is primarily used for the prevention and prophylactic management of migraine headaches, including common and classical migraines (those with aura). It aims to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of migraine attacks but does not treat acute episodes.

How does Provanol Plus 10 work?

This medicine contains two active components: Flunarizine (10 mg) and Propranolol (40 mg). Flunarizine is a selective calcium channel blocker that improves cerebral blood flow and inhibits blood vessel contraction, which is thought to contribute to migraine pain. Propranolol is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent that helps regulate blood vessel dilation, increases the migraine threshold, and reduces triggers for attacks by stabilizing reactive nerve cells and inhibiting cortical spreading depression.

What is the usual dosage for Provanol Plus 10?

The dosage of Provanol Plus 10 should be taken as instructed by your doctor, as it can vary based on your health condition and response to the medicine. It is typically recommended to take the tablet once daily, preferably at night, on an empty stomach, and at a fixed time each day for optimal results. It is crucial not to exceed the prescribed dosage.

What are the possible side effects of Provanol Plus 10?

Common side effects include weight gain, drowsiness, fatigue, slow heart rate (bradycardia), depression, abnormal dreams, and cold extremities (hands and feet). Other possible side effects can include dry mouth, gastrointestinal distress (nausea, diarrhea, constipation), insomnia, increased appetite, and a blocked or runny nose.

Is Provanol Plus 10 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Provanol Plus 10 is generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks, and limited information is available regarding its safety in these situations. It's crucial to consult your doctor to assess the benefits against the risks if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Provanol Plus 10 be taken with other medications?

Yes, Provanol Plus 10 can interact with various other medications. It may interact with antihypertensives (medicines for high blood pressure), antiarrhythmics, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), sedatives (such as diazepam and lorazepam), and antidepressants (like fluoxetine and sertraline). It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Provanol Plus 10?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can enhance the medicine's effects, increasing drowsiness and dizziness.
• Medical Conditions: Exercise caution if you have liver or kidney problems, heart conditions (like slow heart rate, heart block, or cardiac failure), respiratory conditions (such as asthma or COPD), diabetes (as it can mask low blood sugar symptoms), depression, Parkinson's disease, or low blood pressure.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid activities requiring mental alertness like driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Sudden Withdrawal: Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as sudden withdrawal of propranolol can lead to adverse effects like sweating, shaking, irregular heartbeat, or worsening angina.

What happens if a dose of Provanol Plus 10 is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Provanol Plus 10 be stored?

Provanol Plus 10 should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, ideally between 15°C and 30°C. Keep the container tightly closed to protect it from moisture and out of reach of children. Always check the expiry date before using the medicine.