Dexifen
Generic Name
desixen
Manufacturer
Alpha Pharmaceuticals
Country
USA
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Desixen is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with various musculoskeletal conditions and acute pain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
50 mg once daily, or 25 mg twice daily, adjusted based on patient response and tolerability, not exceeding 100 mg/day.
Elderly
Initial dose of 25 mg once daily, with careful titration due to potential reduced renal function.
Renal_impairment
Not recommended for severe renal impairment. For mild to moderate, initial dose of 25 mg once daily, with close monitoring.
How to Take
Taken orally with or without food. Taking with food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
Desixen selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme, leading to reduced prostaglandin synthesis. Prostaglandins are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever. By selectively inhibiting COX-2, Desixen aims to reduce these symptoms while potentially minimizing gastrointestinal side effects associated with non-selective NSAIDs.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Analgesic effect typically observed within 30-60 minutes, anti-inflammatory effects develop over several days.
Excretion
Excreted mainly via urine (approx. 60%) and feces (approx. 40%) as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 8-10 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; peak plasma concentrations reached within 2-3 hours. Bioavailability is high.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (e.g., CYP2C9).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Desixen or any NSAID.
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
- History of peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Severe heart failure, severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Third trimester of pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Lithium
May increase lithium plasma concentrations, leading to toxicity.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse events.
Diuretics/ACE inhibitors
May reduce their antihypertensive effects and increase risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain. Management is supportive and symptomatic; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Not recommended in the third trimester due to risk of premature closure of fetal ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in first and second trimesters, only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Lactation: Excreted in breast milk in small amounts. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Desixen or any NSAID.
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
- History of peptic ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Severe heart failure, severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Third trimester of pregnancy.
Drug Interactions
Lithium
May increase lithium plasma concentrations, leading to toxicity.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other NSAIDs/Aspirin
Increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse events.
Diuretics/ACE inhibitors
May reduce their antihypertensive effects and increase risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain. Management is supportive and symptomatic; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Not recommended in the third trimester due to risk of premature closure of fetal ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in first and second trimesters, only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Lactation: Excreted in breast milk in small amounts. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies for pain and inflammation management.
Patent Status
Patented by Alpha Pharmaceuticals
Clinical Trials
Multiple Phase III trials demonstrated efficacy and safety in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic monitoring of renal function (creatinine, BUN), liver function (ALT, AST), and blood pressure is recommended during long-term therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals to minimize risks.
- Monitor cardiovascular risk factors, renal function, and GI symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Take as directed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially gastrointestinal bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood) or signs of cardiovascular events (chest pain, shortness of breath).
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or drowsiness. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how Desixen affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
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