Flu-K
Generic Name
Flukavir
Manufacturer
MediHealth Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| flu k 250 mg capsule | ৳ 6.65 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Flu-K 250 mg Capsule contains Flukavir, an antiviral medication used for the treatment of acute uncomplicated influenza in patients aged 12 years and older. It works by inhibiting the replication of the influenza virus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250 mg once daily for 5 days, initiated within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment required, but monitor for renal function in patients with pre-existing impairment.
Renal_impairment
Mild to moderate: no adjustment. Severe (CrCl < 30 mL/min): 125 mg once daily for 5 days.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not crush or chew. Complete the full course of medication.
Mechanism of Action
Flukavir selectively inhibits the influenza virus cap-dependent endonuclease, an enzyme essential for viral gene transcription, thereby blocking viral replication.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Symptom improvement typically observed within 24-48 hours.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via feces (around 80%) and urine (around 20%).
Half life
Approximately 12-16 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 2-4 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver, likely via CYP3A4 pathway, with minor active metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Flukavir or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C).
Drug Interactions
Antacids (containing polyvalent cations)
May reduce Flukavir absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)
Flukavir may reduce LAIV efficacy. Avoid concomitant use; consider alternative flu prevention or delay vaccination.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive measures should be taken. Dialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding of Flukavir.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Exercise caution in breastfeeding mothers; consult a doctor for advice.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Flukavir or any component of the formulation.
- Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C).
Drug Interactions
Antacids (containing polyvalent cations)
May reduce Flukavir absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)
Flukavir may reduce LAIV efficacy. Avoid concomitant use; consider alternative flu prevention or delay vaccination.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive measures should be taken. Dialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding of Flukavir.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Exercise caution in breastfeeding mothers; consult a doctor for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., DGDA, FDA equivalent)
Patent Status
Patented
Clinical Trials
Extensive Phase 3 clinical trials demonstrated superiority of Flukavir over placebo in shortening symptom duration and reducing viral shedding in influenza patients. Efficacy against various influenza strains (A and B) was confirmed.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine lab monitoring required.
- Liver and kidney function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing conditions or severe impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize early initiation of treatment (within 48 hours of symptom onset) for optimal clinical efficacy and reduction of viral transmission.
- Monitor for neuropsychiatric events, especially in adolescents and pediatric patients, and advise patients/caregivers to report any behavioral changes.
- Advise patients on potential drug interactions, particularly with polyvalent cation-containing antacids and live attenuated influenza vaccines.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of medication, even if you feel better, to ensure full eradication of the virus.
- Start treatment as early as possible (within 48 hours of symptom onset) for optimal efficacy.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, you are taking.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual or severe side effects.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how Flu-K affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Practice good hand hygiene (frequent hand washing) to prevent the spread of influenza.
- Get adequate rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy diet to support recovery.
- Avoid close contact with others to minimize transmission.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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