Seemaquine
Generic Name
Seemaquine
Manufacturer
MediPharma Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| seemaquine 250 mg tablet | ৳ 1.20 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Seemaquine 250 mg tablet is an antimalarial drug used to treat and prevent certain types of malaria. It works by interfering with the growth of parasites in red blood cells.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For uncomplicated malaria: Initial dose 1000 mg (4 tablets) followed by 500 mg (2 tablets) 6-8 hours later, then 500 mg (2 tablets) once daily for 2 days. Total course: 2500 mg. For prophylaxis: 500 mg (2 tablets) once weekly starting 1-2 weeks before exposure.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment required, but caution due to potential age-related decline in renal or hepatic function. Monitor for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction may be necessary in severe renal impairment (CrCl < 10 mL/min). Monitor drug levels and clinical response closely.
How to Take
Take tablets orally with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure complete eradication of the parasite.
Mechanism of Action
Seemaquine is believed to exert its antimalarial effects by inhibiting the polymerization of heme into hemozoin, leading to the accumulation of toxic heme within the parasite, ultimately causing its death. It also acts as an immunomodulator and anti-inflammatory agent.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically within a few hours for clinical effect, with steady-state levels achieved after prolonged administration.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine (about 50%), with some biliary excretion. Renal clearance is a significant elimination pathway.
Half life
Approximately 7-10 days (terminal elimination half-life is highly variable and can range from days to weeks).
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-6 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2D6, into active and inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Seemaquine or any other 4-aminoquinoline derivatives.
- Pre-existing retinal or visual field changes (due to risk of exacerbation).
- Porphyria (acute attacks may be precipitated).
- Severe hepatic dysfunction.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Seemaquine may increase serum digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels closely.
Cimetidine
May inhibit the metabolism of Seemaquine, leading to increased plasma concentrations and potential toxicity.
Mefloquine
Increased risk of seizures and cardiac arrhythmias when co-administered. Concurrent use is generally not recommended.
Antacids & Kaolin
May decrease the absorption of Seemaquine. Administer Seemaquine at least 4 hours before or after antacids.
CYP2D6 Inhibitors
Co-administration with potent CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) may increase Seemaquine exposure.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, dizziness, cardiovascular collapse (hypotension, arrhythmias), seizures, and respiratory arrest. Treatment is urgent and supportive, involving gastric lavage, activated charcoal, symptomatic management of cardiac and respiratory issues, and close monitoring.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, particularly in endemic areas where malaria treatment is critical. Seemaquine is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation. Advise breastfeeding mothers to consult their doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Seemaquine or any other 4-aminoquinoline derivatives.
- Pre-existing retinal or visual field changes (due to risk of exacerbation).
- Porphyria (acute attacks may be precipitated).
- Severe hepatic dysfunction.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Seemaquine may increase serum digoxin levels. Monitor digoxin levels closely.
Cimetidine
May inhibit the metabolism of Seemaquine, leading to increased plasma concentrations and potential toxicity.
Mefloquine
Increased risk of seizures and cardiac arrhythmias when co-administered. Concurrent use is generally not recommended.
Antacids & Kaolin
May decrease the absorption of Seemaquine. Administer Seemaquine at least 4 hours before or after antacids.
CYP2D6 Inhibitors
Co-administration with potent CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) may increase Seemaquine exposure.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, dizziness, cardiovascular collapse (hypotension, arrhythmias), seizures, and respiratory arrest. Treatment is urgent and supportive, involving gastric lavage, activated charcoal, symptomatic management of cardiac and respiratory issues, and close monitoring.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, particularly in endemic areas where malaria treatment is critical. Seemaquine is excreted into breast milk; use with caution during lactation. Advise breastfeeding mothers to consult their doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacturing.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive historical clinical trial data support the efficacy of Seemaquine as an antimalarial. Ongoing clinical trials may explore its utility in novel therapeutic areas or against emerging resistant strains.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular ophthalmological examinations (baseline and every 6-12 months for long-term therapy).
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) periodically to monitor for hematological toxicities.
- Liver and kidney function tests (LFTs, RFTs) at baseline and periodically.
- Electrolyte levels, especially potassium, if there's a risk of arrhythmias.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of adherence to the full treatment course to prevent resistance and recurrence.
- Counsel patients thoroughly regarding potential visual side effects and the necessity of regular ophthalmological checks, especially for long-term use or high doses.
- Be aware of potential drug interactions, particularly with medications that prolong the QT interval or affect CYP2D6 activity.
- Consider G6PD screening prior to initiation of therapy due to the risk of hemolytic anemia in deficient individuals.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment.
- Report any visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, unusual bleeding/bruising, or severe muscle weakness immediately.
- Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments, especially for eye examinations.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Seemaquine may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or other visual disturbances. Patients should be advised to exercise extreme caution when driving or operating machinery until they are sure Seemaquine does not adversely affect their ability to do so.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene and avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria recurrence (if applicable).
- Stay well-hydrated throughout the treatment course.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure as Seemaquine can increase photosensitivity. Use sunscreen and protective clothing.
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Global Brand Names
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