Ziflu
Generic Name
Ziflu Hydrochloride
Manufacturer
MediCorp Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| ziflu 20 mg tablet | ৳ 1.50 | ৳ 15.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ziflu 20 mg tablet contains Ziflu Hydrochloride, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial: 20 mg once daily. May be increased after several weeks to a maximum of 60 mg/day depending on response and tolerability.
Elderly
Initial: 10 mg once daily. May be increased cautiously to 20 mg/day. Lower doses may be appropriate due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment necessary for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
Ziflu selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft and enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antidepressant effects typically observed after 2-4 weeks of consistent treatment, though some patients may respond earlier.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via urine as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 24-36 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations typically reached within 4-8 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, to active and inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Ziflu or any components of the tablet
- Concurrent use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI treatment
- Concurrent use with Pimozide or Thioridazine
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding due to interference with platelet aggregation.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Increased plasma concentrations of TCAs, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, tachycardia, tremor, and seizures. Management is supportive and symptomatic, including maintaining airway, monitoring cardiac function, and activated charcoal.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Ziflu is excreted in breast milk; advise caution or consider alternative treatment during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Ziflu or any components of the tablet
- Concurrent use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI treatment
- Concurrent use with Pimozide or Thioridazine
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Triptans
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Warfarin
Increased risk of bleeding due to interference with platelet aggregation.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Increased plasma concentrations of TCAs, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, tachycardia, tremor, and seizures. Management is supportive and symptomatic, including maintaining airway, monitoring cardiac function, and activated charcoal.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Ziflu is excreted in breast milk; advise caution or consider alternative treatment during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Clinical trials demonstrated Ziflu's efficacy in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, with a favorable safety profile comparable to other SSRIs. Long-term studies are ongoing to further assess sustained efficacy and safety.
Lab Monitoring
- Periodic liver function tests in patients with hepatic impairment
- Sodium levels in elderly or volume-depleted patients
- Renal function tests if severe renal impairment
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients on the delayed onset of therapeutic effects and the importance of adherence.
- Warn about potential for withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly.
- Monitor for suicidality, especially in young adults.
- Consider drug interactions with other serotonergic agents or drugs affecting CYP enzymes.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Ziflu regularly as prescribed, even if you feel well.
- Do not stop taking Ziflu abruptly, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for gradual tapering.
- Report any worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual changes in behavior to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol while on Ziflu treatment.
- It may take several weeks for the full antidepressant effect to be felt.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Ziflu may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, especially at the beginning of treatment. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Ziflu affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques.
- Ensure adequate sleep.
- Limit caffeine intake.
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