Simple Medicine Info
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    Welcome to Simple Medicine Info!

    Our mission is to offer clear and reliable information about common medications. We strive to simplify pharmaceutical knowledge, making it accessible and easy to understand. Each article covers the uses, side effects, dosages, and other important details about various drugs. The information in our articles is based on resources from the Korea Pharmaceutical Information Center.

Stavaster Info: Rosuvastatin, Diabetes, Rhabdomyolysis, Fenofibrate

Rosuvastatin is primarily used to treat hyperlipidemia and is effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. This medication works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver, thereby reducing the production of cholesterol. As a result, it lowers the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood. Additionally, rosuvastatin can contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Stavaster Info: Rosuvastatin, Diabetes, Rhabdomyolysis, Fenofibrate





A. Key Information

  Rosuvastatin is primarily used to treat hyperlipidemia and is effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. This medication works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver, thereby reducing the production of cholesterol. As a result, it lowers the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the blood. Additionally, rosuvastatin can contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  This medication can be used for both adults and pediatric patients, and the safety profile for children is reported to be similar to that for adults. However, during the use of rosuvastatin, side effects such as liver dysfunction or muscle pain may occur, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms appear. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and appropriate contraceptive measures should be taken.
  In conclusion, rosuvastatin plays a crucial role in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Category Details
Product Name Stavaster Tablets 10mg
Ingredients Rosuvastatin Calcium 10mg
Form Brown, round film-coated tablets
Company Sandoz
ATC Code C10AA07 (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors)
Dosage &
Administration
Take as prescribed by a doctor
How to Take Oral
Packaging Unit 28 Tablets/Alu-Alu (7 Tablets/Alu-Alu x 4)

A.1. Ingredients

Rosuvastatin
- Role -
Rosuvastatin is primarily used to treat hyperlipidemia, with its main role being the reduction of blood cholesterol levels. It achieves this by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver, which helps decrease LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels.

- Characteristics -
Rosuvastatin is noted for having a more potent cholesterol-lowering effect compared to other statins and is effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The drug is predominantly metabolized in the liver, has fewer drug interactions, and shows minimal pharmacokinetic differences across various ethnic groups. These characteristics make rosuvastatin a safe and effective treatment option for many patients.

A.2. Appropriate Users

Rosuvastatin is used to treat hyperlipidemia and belongs to the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors class. It is mainly used for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Women who may become pregnant should use appropriate contraception, and it should not be used during pregnancy.

A.3. Side Effects

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, elevated liver enzyme levels, and muscle pain. Rarely, cognitive impairments (such as memory loss and confusion) may occur, which are reversible upon discontinuation of the medication. Serious side effects like liver failure can also occur.

A.4. Dosage Instructions

Rosuvastatin is taken orally, and the dosage varies according to the doctor’s prescription. In case of overdose, there is no specific treatment, and supportive care is needed. Liver function and CK levels should be monitored, and hemodialysis is not considered effective.

• Primary Hypercholesterolemia
- Initial dose: 15 mg once daily.
- Maintenance dose can be adjusted to 10 mg once daily as needed, with a maximum dose of 20 mg. The dosage should be individualized based on treatment goals.

• Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Pediatric Patients
- Age: 10 to 17 years.
- Usual dose range: 15 mg to 20 mg once daily.
- Clinical data for doses above 20 mg are not available, and dose adjustments should be made at intervals of at least four weeks.

• Elderly Patients
- No special dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. The usual adult dose applies.

• Patients with Renal Impairment
- Mild to moderate renal impairment: No dose adjustment is necessary.
- Severe renal impairment: Rosuvastatin should not be administered. Caution is needed when administering 20 mg to patients with moderate renal impairment.

• Patients with Hepatic Impairment
No specific dosage adjustment guidelines are provided for patients with hepatic impairment. Caution is advised, and dose adjustments may be necessary based on the patient's condition.

B. Additional Information

B.1. Diabetes

• Incidence of Adverse Reactions
The frequency of adverse reactions falls between 1/100 and 1/10. These reactions were generally mild and temporary. Less than 4% of patients discontinued the study due to adverse reactions.

• General Precautions
- Risk of Diabete -
Statins like rosuvastatin can increase the risk of developing diabetes. This risk is more pronounced in high-risk patients, who should be monitored for the onset of diabetes.

- Blood Glucose Monitoring -
Blood glucose levels should be regularly monitored during treatment. If blood glucose levels rise, appropriate action should be taken.

- Patient Education -
Educate patients about the symptoms of diabetes (e.g., excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue) and instruct them to promptly inform healthcare providers if such symptoms occur.

B.2. Rhabdomyolysis

• Incidence of Adverse Reactions
- The incidence of rhabdomyolysis falls between 1/10,000 and 1/1,000.

• Contraindications
Rosuvastatin 40 mg is contraindicated in patients who are at higher risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. These risk factors include:
- Moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 60 mL/min)
- Hypothyroidism
- Personal or family history of genetic muscle disorders
- History of muscle toxicity with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or fibrates
- Alcohol abuse
- Situations that may increase plasma concentration
- Asian patients
- Concomitant use of fibrate medications

• Precautions
- Like other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, this drug can affect skeletal muscle, with reported cases of muscle pain, myopathy, and rarely, rhabdomyolysis in patients. Immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy has also been reported in patients taking or discontinuing statins, including this drug. Immune-mediated myopathy is characterized by proximal muscle weakness and elevated blood CK (creatine kinase) levels, with symptoms persisting even after discontinuation of the medication.

- As with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, in patients with risk factors for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, the benefits and risks of treatment should be carefully considered, and clinical monitoring is recommended. Treatment should not be started if baseline CK levels are significantly elevated (more than five times the upper limit of normal).

- In cases of acute severe conditions that may worsen underlying muscle disease or lead to renal impairment (e.g., sepsis, hypotension, trauma, severe metabolic/endocrine/electrolyte disorders, uncontrolled seizures), discontinuation of this medication is advised.

C. Drug Interactions

C.1. Fenofibrate

• Pharmacokinetic Interactions
The pharmacokinetic interactions between fenofibrate and rosuvastatin are not well-documented. However, pharmacodynamic interactions may occur.

• Risks with Fibrate Drugs
Fenofibrate, ciprofibrate, and other fibrates can cause myopathy when used alone. The risk of myopathy is increased when fibrates are used in combination with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors like rosuvastatin.

• Dosage Adjustment
When used in combination with fibrates, rosuvastatin should not be administered at a dose of 40 mg. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg.

C.2. Fusidic Acid

• Interaction with Rosuvastatin
There is no specific research on the interaction between rosuvastatin and fusidic acid. However, post-marketing experience with other statins has shown that combining statins with fusidic acid can lead to muscle-related adverse effects, including rhabdomyolysis.

• Recommendation
Combining rosuvastatin with fusidic acid is not recommended. If the combination is necessary, it is advisable to temporarily discontinue rosuvastatin if possible. If the combination cannot be avoided, close monitoring is essential.

C.3. Ticagrelor

Ticagrelor can affect the renal excretion of rosuvastatin, potentially increasing the risk of rosuvastatin accumulation. In some cases, the combination of ticagrelor and rosuvastatin has led to reduced kidney function, elevated CPK (creatine phosphokinase) levels, and rhabdomyolysis.

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MethySol Injection Info: Indications, Adverse Reactions, Skin, rash

This drug is primarily used to suppress inflammation and modulate immune responses. As a corticosteroid, it is effective in treating various endocrine disorders, particularly adrenal insufficiency. It is administered through intravenous or intramuscular injection, and in cases of acute adrenal insufficiency, drugs like hydrocortisone or cortisone are the first choice. Additionally, this medication can be used in combination with synthetic corticosteroids in specific situations, and special caution is needed for newborns and pregnant women.

MethySol Injection Info: Indications, Adverse Reactions, Skin, rash




A. Key Information

This drug is primarily used to suppress inflammation and modulate immune responses. As a corticosteroid, it is effective in treating various endocrine disorders, particularly adrenal insufficiency. It is administered through intravenous or intramuscular injection, and in cases of acute adrenal insufficiency, drugs like hydrocortisone or cortisone are the first choice. Additionally, this medication can be used in combination with synthetic corticosteroids in specific situations, and special caution is needed for newborns and pregnant women.
Since this drug can reduce immunity to infections, it should be used cautiously in patients at high risk of infections. It may also exacerbate symptoms in patients with peptic ulcers, so caution is needed in such cases. The use of this drug should be carried out under consultation with a healthcare professional, and long-term use requires monitoring for side effects.

Category Details
Product Name MethySol Injection 125mg
Ingredients Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate 125mg
Form Injection (lyophilized powder)
Company Alvogen
ATC Code H02AB04 (Corticosteroids for systemic use)
Dosage &
Administration
Intravenous or intramuscular injection as directed by a professional
Method of Administration Administered by injection
Packaging Unit 10 vials (125mg/vial) with 10 ampoules of diluent (2ml/ampoule)

A.1. Ingredients

Methylprednisolone
- Role -
The main ingredient of this medication is methylprednisolone. This compound has potent anti-inflammatory properties, playing a crucial role in suppressing inflammation and modulating immune responses. Methylprednisolone is used in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases, allergic reactions, and autoimmune disorders. It is particularly essential in managing endocrine disorders such as adrenal insufficiency. The medication is administered via intravenous or intramuscular injection, allowing for rapid efficacy.

- Characteristics -
Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid that offers stronger anti-inflammatory effects compared to naturally occurring corticosteroids. It inhibits the production of substances in the body that cause inflammation and regulates the activity of immune cells to reduce excessive immune responses. Additionally, this drug is available in various formulations, allowing for dosage adjustments to provide tailored treatment based on the patient's condition. However, long-term use may lead to side effects, so careful monitoring is necessary.

A.2. Indications

Methylprednisolone is used for the treatment of various conditions, especially for effective treatment in severe acute situations. The dosage for pediatric patients should be reduced and determined based on the severity of symptoms and response.

Contraindications
- Patients with infections without effective antimicrobial therapy and systemic fungal infections
- Patients receiving live or live-attenuated vaccines
- Patients with herpes simplex, herpes zoster, or chickenpox
- Neonates and premature infants

This medication is administered via intravenous or intramuscular injection when oral therapy is uncertain, and based on dosage, formulation, and administration route, it is considered appropriate for the following conditions:

1. Skin Diseases
- Pemphigus
- Severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
- Exfoliative dermatitis
- Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis
- Severe seborrheic dermatitis
- Severe psoriasis
- Mycosis fungoides

2. Allergic Diseases
Severe or incapacitating allergic conditions unresponsive to conventional treatments, including:

- Bronchial asthma
- Contact dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis
- Serum sickness
- Seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis
- Drug hypersensitivity reactions
- Urticaria(hives) related to blood transfusions
- Acute non-infectious laryngeal edema

3. Respiratory Diseases
- Symptomatic sarcoidosis
- Berylliosis
- Fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis
  (in conjunction with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy)
- Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means
- Aspiration pneumonitise Effects

A.3. Side Effects

Long-term use may cause growth retardation, increased intracranial pressure symptoms, and tissue atrophy when injected intramuscularly, intradermally, or subcutaneously.

Patients Requiring Caution
- Patients with renal impairment or chronic renal failure
- Patients with a history of acute myocardial infarction
- Patients with active or latent peptic ulcer disease
- Patients with a history of hypertension, diabetes, tuberculosis, or liver disorders

A.4. Dosage Instructions

Methylprednisolone is administered via intravenous or intramuscular injection, with an initial dose ranging from 10-40 mg. If administered for several days, the dosage should be gradually reduced or discontinued.

For Pediatric Patients
The minimum effective dose should be used, with careful monitoring of growth and development. It is generally preferable to administer on alternate days.

Dosage Adjustment
The dosage of methylprednisolone may need to be adjusted when co-administered with CYP enzyme inhibitors or inducers.

B. Additional Information

B.1. Adverse Reactions

• Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Hirsutism
- Rash, erythema, pruritus
- Urticaria(hives)
- Acne
- Hyperhidrosis

• Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
- Osteonecrosis
- Pathological fractures
- Growth retardation
- Muscle atrophy
- Myopathy
- Osteoporosis
- Neuropathic arthropathy
- Arthralgia (joint pain)
- Myalgia (muscle pain)
- Muscle weakness

• Infection-related Adverse Reactions
- Infection, opportunistic infection, peritonitis
- Liver failure due to reactivation of hepatitis B virus

• Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
- Leukocytosis
- Aseptic abscess, drug hypersensitivity, pseudo-anaphylactic or anaphylactic reactions

• Immune System Disorders
- Increased susceptibility to infections due to immunosuppressive action
- Some signs of infection may present subclinically

• Endocrine Disorders
- Cushing's syndrome
- Hypopituitarism
- Steroid withdrawal syndrome
- Secondary adrenal insufficiency
  (especially after discontinuation, in cases of trauma, surgery, or illness)

• Nervous System Disorders
- Seizures, sensory disturbances
- Acute myopathy may occur with high-dose corticosteroid therapy

• Others
- Increased incidence of scleroderma renal crisis
- Acute myopathy may occur when combined with neuromuscular blockers

B.2. Precautions for Chickenpox and Measles

• Infection Risk in Immunocompromised Patients
Patients receiving corticosteroids are at a greater risk of severe or fatal outcomes if infected with chickenpox or measles compared to healthy individuals. Therefore, special precautions are necessary for these patients.

• Medical History and Vaccination
Before administering the medication, the patient's history of chickenpox or measles and their vaccination status should be checked. For patients without a history of these diseases, measures should be taken to prevent infection as much as possible.

• Actions if Infection is Suspected
If chickenpox or measles infection is suspected, the patient should be immediately examined and receive appropriate treatment. If exposed to chickenpox, administration of Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin (VZIG) within 3 to 10 days is necessary.

• Active and Latent Tuberculosis
In patients with active tuberculosis receiving corticosteroids, fulminant or disseminated tuberculosis can develop, and appropriate antitubercular therapy should be administered concurrently. In patients with latent tuberculosis, careful monitoring is required as corticosteroid use can reactivate the disease.

B.3. Administration to Pregnant and Nursing Women

• Administration to Pregnant Women
- Corticosteroids can cross the placenta, and animal studies have reported fetal growth retardation and the occurrence of congenital malformations (e.g., cleft palate).
- Repeated administration of corticosteroids during pregnancy increases the risk of fetal developmental delay (e.g., low birth weight, reduced height, and head circumference).

• Administration to Nursing Women
- Corticosteroids are excreted in breast milk; therefore, breastfeeding should be discontinued during the administration of this drug.
- Corticosteroids in breast milk can inhibit the growth of nursing infants and interfere with endogenous glucocorticoid production.
- When considering the use of corticosteroids in nursing women, the benefits and risks should be carefully evaluated before administration.

C. Drug Interactions

C.1. CYP Enzyme Inhibitors

Methylprednisolone is a substrate of CYP3A4, and co-administration with CYP3A4 inhibitors can decrease hepatic clearance and increase plasma concentrations. In such cases, the dosage of methylprednisolone should be adjusted to avoid steroid toxicity.

C.2. CYP Enzyme Inducers

Co-administration with CYP3A4 inducers can increase hepatic clearance and decrease plasma concentrations of methylprednisolone. In such cases, an increase in the dosage may be necessary.

C.3. Antitubercular Drugs

When co-administered with isoniazid, the plasma concentration of isoniazid may decrease, necessitating dosage adjustment.

C.4. Anticoagulants

Methylprednisolone can affect the efficacy of oral anticoagulants, potentially decreasing or enhancing their effect.

C.5. Other Drug Interactions

• Salbutamol
Co-administration can increase the effects and side effects of glucocorticoids.

• Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine
Co-administration can increase the risk of myopathy and cardiomyopathy.

• Antihypertensive Drugs
Co-administration can reduce the antihypertensive effect.

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Paxlovid Info: Ingredients, Age, Breastfeeding, Liver

This medication is primarily used as an antiviral treatment for COVID-19, containing Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir works by inhibiting the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, thereby preventing its proliferation. Ritonavir regulates the metabolism of Nirmatrelvir, increasing its concentration in the blood and maximizing its therapeutic effect. This medication is particularly effective in reducing hospitalization and mortality rates in high-risk patients, with a more pronounced effect when treatment is initiated early. Additionally, due to potential interactions with various other medications, caution is required when co-administering this drug. To maximize the efficacy of this medication, it is essential to consider the patient's condition and existing medications, ensuring appropriate dosage adjustments and monitoring.

Paxlovid Info: Ingredients, Age, Breastfeeding, Liver


A. Key Information

This medication is primarily used as an antiviral treatment for COVID-19, containing Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir works by inhibiting the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, thereby preventing its proliferation. Ritonavir regulates the metabolism of Nirmatrelvir, increasing its concentration in the blood and maximizing its therapeutic effect. This medication is particularly effective in reducing hospitalization and mortality rates in high-risk patients, with a more pronounced effect when treatment is initiated early. Additionally, due to potential interactions with various other medications, caution is required when co-administering this drug. To maximize the efficacy of this medication, it is essential to consider the patient's condition and existing medications, ensuring appropriate dosage adjustments and monitoring.

Category Details
Product Name Paxlovid Tab.
Ingredients Nirmatrelvir 150mg / Ritonavir 100mg
Form Oral Film-coated Tablet
Company Pfizer
ATC Code J05AE30 (Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir)
Dosage &
Administration
- Start administration within 5 days of COVID-19 symptom onset
- Recommended dosage: 300mg Nirmatrelvir (2 tablets) + 100mg Ritonavir (1 tablet)
- Take for a total of 5 days (30 tablets in total)
How to Take - Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir must be taken together; taking Nirmatrelvir without Ritonavir may not provide a sufficient therapeutic effect.
Packaging Unit 30 tablets (1 box)

A.1. Ingredients

Nirmatrelvir
- Role -
Nirmatrelvir inhibits the main protease (3CL protease) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, preventing viral replication. This inhibition suppresses the virus's proliferation, slowing the progression of the infection.

- Characteristics -
Nirmatrelvir is an effective antiviral agent for treating COVID-19, particularly when used in the early stages of infection.

Ritonavir
- Role -
Ritonavir is primarily used as an antiviral agent in the treatment of HIV. In Paxlovid, Ritonavir inhibits the metabolism of Nirmatrelvir, increasing its concentration in the blood. This enhancement amplifies the effect of Nirmatrelvir.

- Characteristics -
Ritonavir acts as a CYP3A enzyme inhibitor, necessitating caution due to potential interactions with other medications.

A.2. Appropriate Users

This medication contains Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir and is primarily used to treat COVID-19. Administration is contraindicated in certain patient groups, such as those with severe hypersensitivity to the active ingredients of this drug, or when co-administered with strong CYP3A inducers.

A.3. Side Effects

Common side effects include neurological symptoms, vascular hypertension, gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting), and general fatigue or malaise at the administration site. Additionally, there is a risk of serious adverse reactions due to drug interactions, particularly with medications metabolized by CYP3A, requiring careful monitoring when co-administered.

A.4. Dosage Instructions

This medication can be taken with or without food and must be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing. The recommended dosage is 300 mg of Nirmatrelvir (two 150 mg tablets) and 100 mg of Ritonavir (one 100 mg tablet) taken together orally twice daily for 5 days. If a dose is missed and it is within 8 hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as possible. If more than 8 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with the next scheduled dose.

B. Additional Information

B.1. Age

• Pediatric Patients
The safety and efficacy of Paxlovid in pediatric patients have not been established. Therefore, the use of this medication in children is not recommended. Due to the lack of clinical data for pediatric patients, alternative treatment options should be considered after consulting with a healthcare provider.

• Elderly Patients
Paxlovid can be used in elderly patients, and clinical trials have included individuals aged 65 and older. Research has not shown significant differences in safety between older and younger patients. However, elderly patients may have increased sensitivity to the medication, so caution is advised. Dose adjustments or additional monitoring may be necessary for elderly patients.

B.2. Birth Control

• Types of Hormonal Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives containing hormones such as ethinyl estradiol should be discontinued for 5 days while using this medication. Additionally, it is recommended to use an alternative non-hormonal contraceptive method for one complete menstrual cycle before and after the use of this medication.

• Interactions
Hormonal contraceptives may have reduced effectiveness when used in conjunction with certain medications, potentially decreasing their contraceptive efficacy. Therefore, caution is advised when using other medications while on hormonal contraceptives to avoid reduced pregnancy prevention effectiveness.

B.3. Breastfeeding

• Presence of Nirmatrelvir in Breast Milk
Data on whether Nirmatrelvir is present in human or animal breast milk is limited. In studies with lactating rats, temporary weight loss was observed following Nirmatrelvir administration.

• Presence of Ritonavir in Breast Milk
Limited data indicate that Ritonavir is present in breast milk. However, there is no information on its impact on breastfeeding infants or milk production.

• Benefits and Risks of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding offers benefits for infant development and health, but the clinical need for this medication and potential adverse reactions in the infant while breastfeeding should be carefully considered.

• Precautions for Breastfeeding Mothers with COVID-19
Breastfeeding mothers infected with COVID-19 should take precautions to prevent exposing their infants to the virus, following relevant guidelines and recommendations.

B.4. Kidney Function

• Dose Adjustment Based on Renal Function
Mild Renal Impairment (60 ≤ eGFR < 90 mL/min): No dose adjustment is needed.
Moderate Renal Impairment (30 ≤ eGFR < 60 mL/min): Administration at specific doses is required.
Severe Renal Impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min): Use of this medication is not recommended.

• Precautions for Patients with Renal Impairment
In patients with reduced renal function, the drug's plasma concentration may increase, which could lead to significant adverse effects. Therefore, caution is necessary.

B.5. Liver Function

• Hepatic Impairment
1. Mild or Moderate Hepatic Impairment (Child-Pugh A or B)
No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.

2. Severe Hepatic Impairment (Child-Pugh C)
There is no pharmacokinetic or safety data available regarding the use of Nirmatrelvir or Ritonavir in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Therefore, this medication is not recommended for use in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

• Hepatotoxicity
Ritonavir has been associated with elevated liver transaminases, clinical hepatitis, and jaundice in patients. Caution is advised when administering this medication to patients with pre-existing liver conditions, liver enzyme abnormalities, or hepatitis.

B.6. With Food

PAXLOVID can be taken with or without food. It should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, broken, or crushed.

C. Drug Interactions

C.1. Eliquis(Apixaban)

• Interactions
When used in combination, the plasma concentration of Apixaban may increase, leading to an elevated risk of bleeding. Therefore, caution is necessary when co-administering Apixaban with this medication.

• Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage when co-administering with Apixaban should be adjusted based on the dosing of Apixaban. Additional information should be referenced from the prescribing guidelines for Apixaban.

C.2. Statins

• Interactions with Lovastatin and Simvastatin
- Due to the potential risk of muscle disorders, including rhabdomyolysis, co-administration with Lovastatin and Simvastatin is contraindicated.
- If the use of this medication is medically necessary, Lovastatin and Simvastatin should be discontinued 12 hours prior to starting this medication, during the 5-day period of use, and for 5 days after completing this medication.

• Interactions with Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin
- Consider temporarily discontinuing Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin while administering this medication.
- There is no need to temporarily discontinue Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin before or after the administration of this medication.

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Rapamune Info: Side effects, Drug Interactions

This medication is primarily used as an immunosuppressant and plays a crucial role in preventing rejection of transplanted organs in kidney transplant patients. Additionally, it can be used to treat certain autoimmune diseases. The mechanism of action of the drug is to inhibit the activation of T cells, thereby reducing the immune response. This helps the patient's immune system better accept the transplanted organ.

Rapamune(sirolimus), Side effects, Drug Interactions



A. Key Information

This medication is primarily used as an immunosuppressant and plays a crucial role in preventing rejection of transplanted organs in kidney transplant patients. Additionally, it can be used to treat certain autoimmune diseases. The mechanism of action of the drug is to inhibit the activation of T cells, thereby reducing the immune response. This helps the patient's immune system better accept the transplanted organ.
The medication can also interact with other drugs, particularly those affecting CYP enzymes and P-glycoprotein. Such interactions can influence the blood concentration of the drug, potentially increasing the likelihood of its effects or side effects. Therefore, caution is needed when using this medication in combination with other drugs.

Category Details
Product Name Rapamune Tab. 2mg
Ingredients Sirolimus 2mg (Sirolimus Dispersible Tablet 13.3mg)
Form Tablet
Company Pfizer
ATC Code L04AH01: SIROUMUS
Dosage &
Administration
2mg orally once daily
How to Take Oral administration (can be taken with or without food)
Packaging Unit 100 tablets (10 tablets per blister pack x 10)

A.1. Ingredients

Rapamycin (Sirolimus)
- Role -
Rapamycin is primarily used as an immunosuppressant and plays a crucial role in preventing organ rejection in transplant patients. It inhibits the activation of T cells and modulates the immune response, helping the body not to attack the transplanted organ. Additionally, rapamycin is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, inhibiting cell growth and division to impede tumor growth. This drug contributes to the regulation of cellular metabolism and growth signals by inhibiting the mTOR (mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin) pathway.

- Characteristics -
Rapamycin has unique features in terms of its chemical structure and mechanism of action. The drug has low solubility and strongly binds to plasma proteins, affecting its distribution and metabolism within the body. Rapamycin can interact with various drugs, particularly acting as a substrate for CYP450 enzymes and P-glycoprotein, thereby influencing the metabolism of other medications. Patients taking rapamycin need to carefully monitor potential drug interactions. Lastly, rapamycin poses a risk of toxicity to the fetus when used during pregnancy, so it should be avoided during this period.

A.2. Appropriate Users

This drug is an immunosuppressant primarily used in organ transplant patients. It is specifically not recommended for use in liver transplant patients. Studies in patients receiving their first liver transplant have shown that concomitant administration of this drug with tacrolimus is associated with excess mortality and graft failure.

A.3. Side Effects

Potential side effects of this drug include increased susceptibility to infections, the development of lymphoma and other malignancies. Other reported side effects include hepatotoxicity, azoospermia, and Clostridium difficile enterocolitis. Hepatotoxicity can be severe, including fatal hepatic necrosis.

A.4. Dosage Instructions

This medication should be taken consistently with or without food. It should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed or crushed. If symptoms such as rash, redness, or itching occur, consult a healthcare professional. It is important to notify a healthcare professional immediately if any signs of infection appear.

B. Drug Interactions

B.1. Diltiazem

Diltiazem is known as both a substrate and an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein. Co-administration with sirolimus can significantly alter the bioavailability of sirolimus, necessitating monitoring and dose adjustment.

B.2. Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, which can increase the concentration of sirolimus when used together. This may require adjusting the dosage of sirolimus.

B.3. Rifampin

Rifampin is a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and can decrease the blood levels of sirolimus. Therefore, the combination of sirolimus with rifampin is not recommended.

B.4. Erythromycin

Erythromycin is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and can increase the concentration of sirolimus when used together. Monitoring and dose adjustment are necessary in this case as well.

B.5. Verapamil

Verapamil can affect the bioavailability of sirolimus, and co-administration of sirolimus and verapamil can increase the AUC of sirolimus. Hence, this combination also requires caution.

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