Thiotab
Generic Name
Thiocolchicoside
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| thiotab 15 mg tablet | ৳ 0.72 | ৳ 7.20 |
| thiotab 75 mg tablet | ৳ 0.46 | ৳ 4.60 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Thiocolchicoside is a muscle relaxant used to treat painful muscle spasms and contractures associated with various conditions like spondylosis, torticollis, lumbago, and other traumatic or neurological disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Oral: 4-8 mg twice daily. Maximum recommended duration of treatment is 7 consecutive days for oral forms. Intramuscular injection: 4 mg once or twice daily.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required, use with caution. Dosage reduction may be necessary in patients over 65 years.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment may be necessary in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min). Monitor carefully.
How to Take
Oral tablets/capsules can be taken with or without food. Intramuscular injections should be administered by a healthcare professional.
Mechanism of Action
It acts as a potent GABA-mimetic and glycino-mimetic agent, selectively binding to GABA-A and glycine receptors, thereby producing muscle relaxation without affecting voluntary movement.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Muscle relaxant effect typically starts within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via urine (approximately 20%) and feces (approximately 79%) as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
The elimination half-life of thiocolchicoside and its active metabolites ranges from approximately 2 to 7 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentration usually attained within 1-2 hours. Bioavailability is low due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized by hydrolysis into active metabolites, primarily 3-desmethylthiocolchicoside, which has a similar pharmacological profile.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to thiocolchicoside or any component of the formulation
- Flaccid paralysis or muscular hypotonia
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Women of childbearing potential not using adequate contraception
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Other muscle relaxants
May potentiate the muscle relaxant effects and increase the risk of side effects.
CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics)
Increased risk of drowsiness, sedation, and central nervous system depression. Concomitant use should be avoided or used with caution.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and potential for hepatotoxicity at very high doses. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered in recent ingestions. No specific antidote is available.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to its genotoxic potential (aneuploidy induction). Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after stopping treatment.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to thiocolchicoside or any component of the formulation
- Flaccid paralysis or muscular hypotonia
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Women of childbearing potential not using adequate contraception
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Other muscle relaxants
May potentiate the muscle relaxant effects and increase the risk of side effects.
CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics)
Increased risk of drowsiness, sedation, and central nervous system depression. Concomitant use should be avoided or used with caution.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and potential for hepatotoxicity at very high doses. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage may be considered in recent ingestions. No specific antidote is available.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to its genotoxic potential (aneuploidy induction). Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after stopping treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific formulation and manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Patent expired
Clinical Trials
Several clinical trials have investigated the efficacy and safety of thiocolchicoside in various musculoskeletal conditions. Some studies have shown comparable efficacy to other muscle relaxants and NSAIDs for acute painful conditions. Ongoing research continues to evaluate its long-term safety, especially regarding its genotoxic potential.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (LFTs) should be considered during prolonged treatment or in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
- Renal function monitoring in patients with severe renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize to patients the short-term use (max 7 days orally) and the absolute contraindication in pregnancy, lactation, and women of childbearing potential without effective contraception.
- Monitor for signs of hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal side effects, especially in susceptible patients.
- Advise caution with concomitant use of other CNS depressants due to increased risk of sedation.
- Educate patients on potential genotoxicity risks and the importance of adhering to prescribed duration and dosage.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment (max 7 days for oral).
- Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience drowsiness or dizziness.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Use effective contraception if you are a woman of childbearing potential.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially severe gastrointestinal issues or signs of liver problems, to your doctor immediately.
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 continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Thiocolchicoside may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Patients should be warned not to drive or operate machinery if affected.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine as it may increase drowsiness.
- Follow your doctor's advice on physical therapy and exercise to aid muscle recovery.
- Maintain a balanced diet and adequate hydration.
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