Unicus
Generic Name
Esomeprazole 40 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| unicus 40 mg tablet | ৳ 14.00 | ৳ 140.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Unicus 40 mg Tablet is a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid production, treating conditions like GERD, ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For GERD: 20-40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. For Erosive Esophagitis: 40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. For Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: Initial dose 40 mg twice daily, adjusted as needed.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment is generally required based solely on age, but consider age-related decrease in renal/hepatic function and concomitant disease.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with impaired renal function.
How to Take
Take orally, usually 1 hour before a meal. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it. If unable to swallow, consult your doctor for alternative administration methods.
Mechanism of Action
Esomeprazole, an S-isomer of omeprazole, selectively inhibits the H+/K+-ATPase (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells, thereby reducing gastric acid secretion.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1 hour, maximum effect within 2-4 days of repeated dosing.
Excretion
Approximately 80% via urine and 20% via feces as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration; bioavailability is about 64% (increasing to 89% with repeated dosing). Food may delay and decrease absorption but does not significantly affect efficacy.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system, mainly by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to esomeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased INR and prothrombin time, potentially leading to abnormal bleeding.
Tacrolimus
Increased serum concentrations of tacrolimus.
Clopidogrel
Reduced antiplatelet activity of clopidogrel due to inhibition of CYP2C19.
Methotrexate
Increased and prolonged elevation of methotrexate serum levels.
Nelfinavir, Atazanavir
Decreased plasma levels of these antiretrovirals, potentially leading to loss of antiviral effect.
Diazepam, Phenytoin, Citalopram, Imipramine
Increased plasma concentrations of these drugs due to CYP2C19 inhibition.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are generally minimal and may include drowsiness, tachycardia, nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Esomeprazole is likely excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to esomeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use with nelfinavir (an antiretroviral drug).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Increased INR and prothrombin time, potentially leading to abnormal bleeding.
Tacrolimus
Increased serum concentrations of tacrolimus.
Clopidogrel
Reduced antiplatelet activity of clopidogrel due to inhibition of CYP2C19.
Methotrexate
Increased and prolonged elevation of methotrexate serum levels.
Nelfinavir, Atazanavir
Decreased plasma levels of these antiretrovirals, potentially leading to loss of antiviral effect.
Diazepam, Phenytoin, Citalopram, Imipramine
Increased plasma concentrations of these drugs due to CYP2C19 inhibition.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose are generally minimal and may include drowsiness, tachycardia, nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed. Esomeprazole is likely excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated esomeprazole's efficacy and safety in various acid-related disorders, including GERD, erosive esophagitis, and H. pylori eradication.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor serum magnesium levels periodically, especially in patients on long-term therapy or concomitant diuretics.
- Monitor Vitamin B12 levels during prolonged therapy (over 3 years) due to potential malabsorption.
Doctor Notes
- Re-evaluate the need for continued PPI therapy periodically, especially for long-term use.
- Consider potential drug interactions, particularly with clopidogrel and antiretrovirals.
- Advise patients about potential long-term risks, including bone fractures and hypomagnesemia.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet; swallow it whole.
- Take it at least 1 hour before a meal for best results.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Esomeprazole generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some side effects like dizziness or visual disturbances may occur rarely; if experienced, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid trigger foods that worsen heartburn (e.g., spicy, fatty foods, caffeine, carbonated drinks).
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating; wait at least 2-3 hours.
- Elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
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