Benkinson
Generic Name
Benkinson Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
MediCo Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| benkinson 100 mg capsule | ৳ 12.00 | ৳ 120.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Benkinson 100 mg Capsule is an antidepressant belonging to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class. It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and panic disorder by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural substance (serotonin) in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 50 mg once daily, may be increased to 100 mg once daily after 1 week. Maximum dose 200 mg daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses (e.g., 25 mg once daily) may be considered, with gradual titration based on response and tolerability.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment typically required for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take Benkinson 100 mg Capsule orally, once daily, with or without food. Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or open it.
Mechanism of Action
Benkinson works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin by presynaptic neurons in the central nervous system. This action leads to an increased concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission and improving mood and anxiety symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial symptomatic improvement may be seen within 1-2 weeks, but full therapeutic effect typically requires 2-4 weeks of consistent treatment.
Excretion
Excreted primarily through the kidneys (urine) and to a lesser extent via feces. Approximately 60% of a dose is eliminated renally.
Half life
Elimination half-life is approximately 20-25 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. Steady-state concentrations are achieved within 5-7 days.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations reached within 4-8 hours. Bioavailability is approximately 80%.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP2D6, CYP3A4, CYP2C19) to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Benkinson Hydrochloride or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concurrent use can lead to serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Pimozide
Concurrent use is contraindicated due to potential for QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding due to Benkinson's potential to inhibit platelet aggregation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
May increase plasma concentrations of TCAs, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, tremor, agitation, and dizziness. Severe overdose can lead to serotonin syndrome, seizures, and coma. Treatment is supportive, including maintaining airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and symptomatic management.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SSRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications. Benkinson is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Benkinson Hydrochloride or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.
- Concomitant use with pimozide.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Concurrent use can lead to serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Pimozide
Concurrent use is contraindicated due to potential for QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding due to Benkinson's potential to inhibit platelet aggregation.
NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
May increase plasma concentrations of TCAs, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, tremor, agitation, and dizziness. Severe overdose can lead to serotonin syndrome, seizures, and coma. Treatment is supportive, including maintaining airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and symptomatic management.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Neonates exposed to SSRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications. Benkinson is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Benkinson in the treatment of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor for rare adverse events.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum sodium levels, especially in elderly patients.
- Regular monitoring of liver function tests in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Periodically assess renal function in patients with renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on the importance of adherence and not to discontinue treatment abruptly.
- Monitor for emergent suicidality, especially at the initiation of therapy or during dose changes.
- Counsel patients about potential sexual side effects and available management strategies.
- Consider genetic testing for CYP2D6/CYP2C19 poor metabolizers if clinical response is atypical.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better.
- Do not stop taking Benkinson suddenly, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will gradually reduce your dose.
- Report any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or thoughts of self-harm, to your doctor immediately.
- It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects to become apparent.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Benkinson may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
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