Piride

Description

Piride 50mg Tablets contain Levosulpiride, a selective antagonist at dopamine D2 receptors. It works by regulating the central and peripheral nervous circuits that control the dynamics of the digestive system. Levosulpiride is commonly used to treat schizophrenia, as well as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) when taken at lower doses (25mg). It helps to reduce symptoms associated with mental disorders and digestive issues.

How It Works

Levosulpiride works by blocking dopamine receptors (D2), which helps to balance the action of dopamine in the brain. This effect has therapeutic uses in treating mental health conditions like schizophrenia and digestive disorders by regulating gastric motility and acidity levels.

Indications

• Levosulpiride 50mg is indicated for the treatment of:

  • Schizophrenia: A chronic mental health disorder characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, and behavior.

  • Endogenous and Reactive Suppressive States: Conditions involving emotional and cognitive suppression, often related to stress or neurochemical imbalance.

• Levosulpiride 25mg (lower dose) is indicated for:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Dosage

• Schizophrenia and related conditions: The typical dose is 50mg once or twice daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• For IBS or GERD: The lower dose of 25mg is commonly prescribed.

Note: Always follow the prescribed dosage from your healthcare provider and do not self-adjust the dosage.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Sleep disturbances

• Overstimulation

• Agitation

• Extrapyramidal effects (movement disorders such as tremors, rigidity, and involuntary movements)

• Cardiovascular effects (e.g., hypotension)

If you experience severe side effects or unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions

Piride Tablets may interact with the following:

• Alcohol: May enhance sedative effects, leading to excessive drowsiness.

• CNS depressants: Additive effects leading to extreme sedation and drowsiness.

• Guanethidine: Blood pressure-lowering effects may be enhanced.

• Anticholinergics: Can increase the risk of side effects.

• Antacids: May alter the absorption of the medication.

• NSAIDs: Can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding.

Always inform your doctor about other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

When Not to Use

Do not use Piride Tablets 50mg if you:

• Are allergic to Levosulpiride or any of its components.

• Have epilepsy or a history of seizures.

• Have bipolar disorder, as Levosulpiride may trigger manic episodes.

• Have breast cancer, as it can increase prolactin levels, potentially worsening the condition.

• Have bleeding disorders in the stomach or intestines.

• Have severe liver or kidney impairment.

Precautions

• Bipolar Disorder: Use with caution in patients with bipolar disorder, as Levosulpiride may trigger manic episodes.

• Epilepsy: Not recommended for individuals with epilepsy as it may increase the risk of seizures.

• Breast Cancer: Should be avoided if you have breast cancer, as Levosulpiride increases prolactin levels, which can worsen the condition.

• Elderly Patients: Older adults should use this medication with caution due to a higher risk of side effects. Dosage should be carefully adjusted based on clinical assessment.

• Liver and Kidney Function: Use with caution in individuals with liver or kidney problems. Regular monitoring may be necessary.

Warnings

• Epilepsy: Levosulpiride can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy, so it is contraindicated for these individuals.

• Breast Cancer: Since Levosulpiride raises prolactin levels, it can worsen conditions like breast cancer and should not be used in such cases.

• Elderly: Older individuals may be more sensitive to side effects, so close monitoring is recommended.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor before using Piride Tablets during pregnancy. It should be used only if clearly needed and prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use during breastfeeding due to the potential risk to the infant.

Storage

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from direct light and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children and dispose of unused medication properly.

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Ali Shah, MD, Psychiatrist:
“Piride 50mg (Levosulpiride) is a well-established medication for managing schizophrenia and related conditions. It has a significant impact on reducing both the psychiatric symptoms and digestive disturbances related to the condition. While generally well-tolerated, Levosulpiride requires careful use in elderly patients and those with pre-existing heart or liver conditions. Monitoring for side effects, particularly movement disorders and sleep disturbances, is essential.”

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any medication, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking other drugs.