Depol-Extra
Generic Name
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) 500 mg + Caffeine 65 mg
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| depol extra 500 mg tablet | ৳ 2.00 | ৳ 20.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Depol-Extra 500 mg tablet is a combination medicine containing Paracetamol and Caffeine. It is used for fast and effective relief of mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, migraines, muscle aches, period pain, and fever.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Adults (12 years and over): 1 or 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed 4000 mg of paracetamol in 24 hours.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for the elderly, but caution should be exercised due to potential polypharmacy and reduced renal/hepatic function.
Renal_impairment
In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <10 mL/min), the dosing interval should be extended to 8 hours.
How to Take
For oral administration. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Paracetamol works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, thereby reducing pain and fever. Caffeine acts as a central nervous system stimulant, enhancing the analgesic effect of paracetamol and having vasoconstrictive properties which help alleviate headache.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of analgesic action typically occurs within 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Mostly excreted in the urine as metabolites, with a small proportion excreted unchanged.
Half life
Paracetamol: 1-4 hours; Caffeine: 3-7 hours.
Absorption
Paracetamol and Caffeine are both rapidly and extensively absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.
Metabolism
Both Paracetamol and Caffeine are primarily metabolized in the liver, mainly by conjugation and oxidation pathways.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Paracetamol, Caffeine, or any other component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment.
- Severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease (due to caffeine).
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Chronic alcohol consumption increases the risk of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity.
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of INR is advised.
MAO Inhibitors
Caffeine may interact with MAO inhibitors, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Cimetidine, Oral Contraceptives
These drugs may decrease caffeine clearance, leading to increased caffeine levels and potential adverse effects.
Other Paracetamol-containing products
Increased risk of overdose and liver damage if taken concurrently.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of paracetamol can lead to severe, potentially fatal, liver damage. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sweating, appearing 24-48 hours after ingestion. Caffeine overdose can cause restlessness, anxiety, tremors, insomnia, tachycardia, and arrhythmias. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Paracetamol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses. However, caffeine intake should be limited during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a doctor before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Paracetamol, Caffeine, or any other component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment.
- Severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease (due to caffeine).
Drug Interactions
Alcohol
Chronic alcohol consumption increases the risk of paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity.
Warfarin
May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Regular monitoring of INR is advised.
MAO Inhibitors
Caffeine may interact with MAO inhibitors, potentially leading to hypertensive crisis.
Cimetidine, Oral Contraceptives
These drugs may decrease caffeine clearance, leading to increased caffeine levels and potential adverse effects.
Other Paracetamol-containing products
Increased risk of overdose and liver damage if taken concurrently.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose of paracetamol can lead to severe, potentially fatal, liver damage. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sweating, appearing 24-48 hours after ingestion. Caffeine overdose can cause restlessness, anxiety, tremors, insomnia, tachycardia, and arrhythmias. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Paracetamol is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended doses. However, caffeine intake should be limited during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a doctor before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved and widely available
Patent Status
Patent expired, generic versions available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Paracetamol and caffeine are well-established drugs with extensive clinical data. Specific clinical trials for 'Depol-Extra' as a brand would focus on bioavailability and bioequivalence to existing formulations rather than novel efficacy studies.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (in cases of suspected overdose or chronic high-dose use)
- Renal function tests (in cases of prolonged high-dose use, especially in vulnerable patients)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on maximum daily dose and the risks of exceeding it.
- Advise patients to check for paracetamol in other concomitant medications to avoid accidental overdose.
- Be aware of potential drug-drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants and other CNS stimulants.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the stated dose.
- Do not take with other paracetamol-containing products.
- If symptoms persist for more than 3 days (fever) or 5 days (pain), consult a doctor.
- Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine-containing drinks.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Driving Precautions
This medicine is unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or nervousness (due to caffeine), avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Ensure adequate rest and hydration, especially when experiencing fever or headache.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption during treatment.
- Manage stress to help with headache symptoms.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.