Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S

Description

About

{{Product}} belongs to the anthelmintics class of drugs and is known to produce destructive effects on the helminths (worms) which tend to develop their larvae in the stomach and intestine. {{Product}} not only destroys the pre-existing worms but also prevents the replication and growth of their larvae. 

{{Product}} is used as a single dose for the treatment of infections produced by certain worms such as pork & beef tapeworm, Ascaris, hookworm, etc. It has an antiprotozoal function with which it destroys the parasites residing in the intestine and tissues by vermicidal, larvacidal, and ovicidal activities. It causes energy deprivation in the parasite and hence produces its antihelmintic effect by making the organism immobile. 

{{Product}} comes as a single dose of 10ml that contains 400mg of the active agent i.e. Albendazole. It has the potential to cause harmful effects on the fetus, neither it is safe to be used by a lactating mother. Women of the childbearing stage should use Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S cautiously. It should be taken in the first week of menstruation or after when negative pregnancy test. 

Indications

{{Product}} is indicated to eradicate the most common infections of the gut, caused by the following intestinal worms or protozoa:

• Pinworm – Enterobiasis 
• Hookworm – Ancylostomiasis, Necatoriasis, Skin infections
• Dwarf Tapeworm – Hymenolepsiasis
• Beef Tapeworm – Taeniasis
• Pork Tapeworm – Parenchymal neurocysticercosis (Active lesions caused by the larvae)
• Dog Tapeworm – Cystic hydatid (Lung, Liver, and Peritoneal infection caused by the larvae)
• Giardia – Giardiasis
• Liver Fluke – Clonorchiasis, Opisthorchiasis 
• Roundworm – Ascariasis
• Threadworm – Strongyloidiasis

How Does Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S Work

{{Product}} deprives the parasite of energy by causing degenerative modifications in its cell. The target of Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S’s action is to make the worm immobile, unable to grow and replicate, and hence cause death by diminishing intracellular energy production. In the cytoplasm, microtubules promote glucose uptake and perform key steps in the larval and adult stages of parasitic multiplication. The active agent, Albendazole, binds with the colchicine-sensitive site of tubulin. This binding results in the cessation of polymerization and assembly of the microtubules. Consequently, the glycogen stores are depleted which leads to low Adenosine Tri Phosphatase production (ATP). No ATP means no energy production. These degenerative intracellular changes in a parasite’s system cause cell death and this way, Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S produces its antihelmintic effect. 

How To Use Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S

Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S should be taken orally (by mouth) with a meal as a single dose in adults and children above 2 years of age. For children younger than 2 years, two equally divided doses should be administered.

If the child is unable to swallow a tablet as a whole, it can be crushed and taken with water. 

Dosage

Form and strength

• 200mg tablet (two tablets to be taken as a single dose)
• 200mg/5ml suspension (10ml – as a single dose)

Adult Dose

Neurocysticercosis 

• People with weight more than 60kgs: 400mg twice daily for 8 to 30 days, depending on the clinical response. 
• People with weight less than 60kgs: 15mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 8 to 30 days. The dose should not be exceeded more than 800mg/day. 

Hydatid 

• People less than 60kgs: 15mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 28 days, then 14 drug-free days to complete 3 cycles.
• People more than 60kgs: 400mg twice daily for 28 days, then 14 drug-free days to complete 3 cycles 

Capillariasis

400 mg once a day for 10 days

Larva Migrans, Cutaneous & Trichuriasis

400 mg once daily for 3 to 5 days

Infections Caused By Pinworm 

400 mg once a day, then repeat in 2 weeks

Infections Caused By Liver Fluke 

10 mg/kg once daily for 7 days

Gnathostomiasis, Microsporidiosis

400 mg twice daily for 21 days

Pediatric Dose

Neurocysticercosis 

• Children with weight more than 60kgs: 400mg twice daily for 8 to 30 days, depending on the clinical response. 
• Children with weight less than 60kgs: 15mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 8 to 30 days. The dose should not be exceeded more than 800mg/day. 

Hydatid 

• Children less than 60kgs: 15mg/kg/day in two divided doses for 28 days, then 14 drug-free days to complete 3 cycles.
• Children more than 60kgs: 400mg twice daily for 28 days, then 14 drug-free days to complete 3 cycles 

Capillariasis

400 mg once a day for 10 days

Larva Migrans, Cutaneous & Trichuriasis

400 mg once a day for 3 to 5 days

Infection Caused By Pinworm (Enterobius)

400 mg once a day, then repeat in 2 weeks

Pregnancy And Lactation 

{{Product}} lies in the pregnancy category C which means it should be avoided in pregnancy until there is no other acceptable alternative available when clinically needed.  A pregnancy test should be done in females with childbearing potential before starting the treatment with Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S. Adequate studies for the recommended usage in lactating mothers are not available. Hence, it should not be used or taken with caution in lactating mothers. 

Contraindications

• {{Product}} should be avoided in pregnancy or if you are trying to conceive due to potential side effects on the fetus. 
• In case of hypersensitivity to the active agent or any of the excipients, Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S should not be used. 
• Galactose intolerant people or those who have Lapp Lactase Deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not use Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S. 

Precautions

• {{Product}} has the potential to cause liver diseases. Consult your doctor if you develop pale skin or eyes, observe dark urine or light feces. 
• People with renal and hepatic impairment should be treated with extra caution and close clinical monitoring. They should only take Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S if the healthcare provider recommends. 
• {{Product}} should not be used longer than recommended as its long-term use may cause Leucopenia (low white blood cells count).
• {{Product}} should not be used in pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus. To avoid the undesirable effects of Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S in the early pregnancy, the treatment should be initiated after a negative pregnancy test or within the first week of menstruation. 
• Maintenance of strict hygiene is recommended during the treatment against infection caused by pinworm. Usage of the same households and sharing meals should be avoided if there is proven dwarf tapeworm infection.
• If you are taking Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S for the fluke worm eradication, seek professional advice after a month of treatment. 
• Intake of grapefruit juice should be avoided during the treatment as it may increase the risk of side effects 
• Before you start taking Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S, tell your doctor if you previously had any liver and biliary tract disease, or bone marrow disorder.
• {{Product}} has the potential to cause liver problems and intake of alcohol can increase the risk of liver diseases. So, you should limit the use of alcoholic drinks during the treatment with Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S.
• If you have pre-existing neurocysticercosis (parasitic infection caused by pork tapeworm), Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S may uncover it. You may experience seizures, a rise in intracranial pressure, and signs of inflammatory reactions which occur as a result of parasitic death. You might get treatment with anticonvulsants and suitable steroids. 

Interactions With Other Medications

Following drugs show interaction with Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S. They either increase the concentration of the active agent “Albendazole” in the body or reduce it and render it less effective. 

• Praziquantel 
• Phenytoin
• Ritonavir
• Carbamazepine
• Phenobarbital 
• Dexamethasone 
• Cimetidine
• Ropeginterferon alfa 2b 

Adverse Effects

Potential Adverse Effects 

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Neutropenia (low white blood cells count)
• Fever
• Steven Johnson’s syndrome (skin and mucous membrane disorder)
• Myelosuppression 

Rare Adverse Effects

• Hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria & pruritis
• Severe headache
• Blurred vision
• Severe abdominal pain
• Bleeding and bruising
• Stiffness
• Seizures 

How To Cope With Some Of The Adverse Effects

• Dizziness –  You can cope with dizziness by taking a good sleep. Stop vigorous work if you feel lightheaded. Do not lift heavy weights and avoid taking rides. Usage of alcohol and caffeine should be avoided. 
• Nausea-  Take small and frequent meals, avoid taking heavy meals. Stay in the fresh air, chew peppermint gum, or take peppermint tea. You can also take an anti-emetic if there are episodes of vomiting, after discussing it with your doctor. 
• Abdominal pain – Heating your abdomen with hot water bag aids in stomach aches. Intake of tea, coffee, or alcohol promotes the pain so it should be avoided. An anti-colic agent can also be taken if pain persists.
• Diarrhea – Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, take light and healthy meals.  Avoid medications that may increase gastric motility. Intake Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) gets the electrolytes levels back to normal.  

Key Facts About Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S

• {{Product}} is antihelmintic that is used to treat parasitic infections such as the infections caused by ringworm, hookworm, liver fluke. These are common mostly in kids. 
• {{Product}] kills a parasite by nullifying their sugar absorbing capacity and hence they die due to deprivation of energy. 
• {{Product}} is usually administered in a single dose along with a fatty meal for better absorption. However, it can be given twice daily to a kid, depending upon his body weight. 
• Pregnant or lactating women should not take Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S unless clinically not required. For women of childbearing age, Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S should be taken in the first week of menstruation or after when the pregnancy test appears negative. 

FAQ’S

• CAN I DRIVE AFTER TAKING {{PRODUCT}}?

As the usage of Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S is known to cause dizziness, driving and lifting heavy machinery should be avoided if you feel dizzy. You should take caution in performing skilled tasks. 

• HOW SHOULD I STORE {{PRODUCT}}?

{{Product}} should be stored below 30°C, protected from direct exposure to the sunlight. Shake the bottle well before use. 

• ARE THERE ANY DIETARY RESTRICTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF {{PRODUCT}}?

There are no such dietary restrictions associated with the use of Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S. However, taking it with a fatty meal significantly enhances the bioavailability of the active component. Certain treatments require the maintenance of strict hygiene e.g. Pinworm and dwarf tapeworm infections. 

• FOR HOW LONG DO I NEED TO TAKE {{PRODUCT}}?

Not completing the course of your medication may result in the reversal of infection. Take Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S as long as your doctor has suggested you. Do tell your doctor if potential side effects are suspected. 

• WHAT TO DO IF I MISS THE DOSE?

{{Product}} is usually taken as a single dose. However, if a dose is missed during the course, you can take it as soon as you remember. You can skip the dose if the time for the next dose is nearer. 

• CAN I TAKE ALCOHOL DURING THE TREATMENT?

Intake of alcohol puts you at the risk of developing liver problems as Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S already has the potential to cause liver-related side effects. Avoid using alcohol or alcohol-containing beverages during the treatment. 

• IS {{PRODUCT}} SAFE TO USE IN PREGNANCY AND LACTATION?    

{{Product}} is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless not clinically required. It’s a pregnancy category C drug which means it is reserved for when there are no other acceptable alternatives. Studies for the usage of Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S in lactating mothers are not proven. So, it should not be used or taken with caution in lactating mothers. 

• IS THERE ANY ROUTINE MONITORING REQUIRED DURING THE TREATMENT?

People with compromised liver function should have routine monitoring of liver enzymes along with a physical examination for pale skin, yellowness in eyes, dark urine, etc. Since, Larex 200mg Tablet 2 ‘S has the potential to disturb liver function.                           

• CAN I TAKE CRUSHED TABLETS?

If you feel difficulty in swallowing the tablet, you can crush the tablet and take it with water. Tablets can be chewed a little and then engulfed with water as well.