Heparest
Generic Name
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA)
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| heparest 3 gm powder | ৳ 75.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Heparest 3 gm powder contains L-Ornithine L-Aspartate (LOLA), an amino acid combination used to reduce elevated blood ammonia levels in conditions like hepatic encephalopathy and other liver disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Oral: 1-2 sachets (3-6 gm) dissolved in a glass of water, 1-3 times daily, or as directed by the physician. May be taken with or after meals.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised in elderly patients with significant renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (serum creatinine > 3 mg/100 ml). For mild to moderate impairment, use with caution and monitor renal function.
How to Take
Dissolve the entire contents of one sachet in a glass (approx. 200 ml) of water, fruit juice, or tea. Stir well and consume immediately. It is recommended to take it with or after meals.
Mechanism of Action
L-Ornithine L-Aspartate facilitates ammonia detoxification by stimulating urea synthesis (via the urea cycle) and glutamine synthesis (extrahepatic detoxification). Ornithine and Aspartate are substrates for these two processes, thereby reducing circulating ammonia levels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects may be observed within hours to days depending on the severity of hyperammonemia.
Excretion
Metabolites are primarily excreted renally.
Half life
Short half-life, quickly metabolized into L-ornithine and L-aspartate.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Metabolized in the liver and kidneys to L-ornithine and L-aspartate, which then enter metabolic pathways (urea cycle, glutamine synthesis).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to L-Ornithine L-Aspartate or any excipients.
- Severe renal impairment (serum creatinine > 3 mg/100 ml).
Drug Interactions
Thiazide diuretics
May increase plasma ammonia levels, potentially counteracting the effect of LOLA. Monitor ammonia levels.
Laxatives (non-absorbable disaccharides)
Synergistic effect in reducing ammonia levels, often used together in hepatic encephalopathy.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
No specific antidote. In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Gastric lavage may be considered if taken recently.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Limited data on use in pregnancy and lactation. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the manufacturing date, consult the packaging for exact date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved in Bangladesh
Patent Status
Generic available, original compound likely off-patent
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of L-Ornithine L-Aspartate in reducing ammonia levels and improving clinical symptoms in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Studies also explore its role in chronic liver diseases.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum ammonia levels
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Renal function tests (RFTs)
- Electrolytes (if concomitant diuretic use)
Doctor Notes
- LOLA is a safe and effective option for managing hyperammonemia in liver disease.
- Crucial for patients with overt hepatic encephalopathy.
- Always confirm renal function before prescribing, especially in elderly patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Always dissolve the powder completely in water before consumption.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.
- Continue taking the medicine as directed, even if you feel better, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
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 double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Generally, Heparest does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness or confusion, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your doctor.
- Stay well-hydrated.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.