Akupen
Akupen Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Akupen is a brand name. Its generic name is Nefopam.
Introduction
Akupen is an analgesic, which is a type of medication used to treat pain. It is often used to reduce moderate to severe short-term pain, such as during surgery or dental procedures, for people who are unable to take other pain medications. Akupen is marketed under the brand name Befol in some countries.Uses For
Akupen is used to reduce short-term, moderate-to-severe pain in adults who need relief from their pain. It is most commonly used to relieve pain from dental procedures, surgery, or as an acute response to pain triggers (e.g. after an accident).Mechanism of Action
Akupen works by inhibiting the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain. This results in more of these neurotransmitters being available in the brain, ultimately leading to pain relief.How Long Does It Take To Work
Normally, the effects of Akupen can be felt within 30 minutes of taking the medication. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary, as everyone responds differently to medications.Absorption
After administration, Akupen is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within around 1 hour of ingestion.Route of Elimination
Akupen is mostly eliminated by the kidneys. Approximately 85% of an oral dose is recovered in the urine as the parent compound and its metabolites.Dosage
The dosage of Akupen depends on the severity of the pain and the person taking it. The usual recommended dose is 20 to 30 mg, taken three to four times a day. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 120 mg per day.Administration
Akupen is available in tablet or oral solution form. It should be taken orally with or without food. The tablets or oral solution should not be crushed or chewed.Side Effect
Common side effects of Akupen include dizziness, headache, constipation, nausea, dry mouth, and fatigue. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects.Toxicity
No serious toxicity was observed in clinical trials. However, in rare cases, an overdose of Akupen may lead to semi-consciousness or coma.Precaution
As with any medication, you should speak with your doctor before taking Akupen. People who suffer from liver or kidney disease should not take Akupen. It also should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women.Interaction
It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other medications you are taking before taking Akupen, as certain drugs may interact with it.Disease Interaction
Akupen can worsen certain heart and liver diseases. Make sure to inform your doctor if you suffer from any heart or liver diseases before taking Akupen.Drug Interaction
Akupen may interact with certain drugs, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications. Make sure to inform your doctor of any other drugs you are taking before taking Akupen.Food Interactions
Akupen can interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit and grapefruit juice. It is important to avoid these foods if you are taking Akupen.Pregnancy Use
Akupen should not be taken by pregnant women, as it may cause harm to the fetus.Lactation Use
Akupen should not be taken by nursing mothers, as it may be passed into breastmilk.Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of Akupen can be dangerous. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, sweating, and drowsiness. Seek medical attention immediately if you overdose on Akupen.Contraindication
Akupen should not be taken by people who suffer from liver or kidney disease, or by pregnant/breastfeeding women.Use Direction
The usual recommended adult dose of nefopam is 20-30 mg three to four times a day for short-term pain relief. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of 120 mg. Akupen should be taken with or without food, and the tablets or oral solution should not be crushed or chewed.Storage Condition
Akupen should be stored at a temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F) and away from light and moisture.Volume of Distribution
Akupen has a volume of distribution of 2.2–3.2 L/Kg.Half Life
Akupen has a half-life of 2.51–4.13 hours.Clearance
Akupen has a clearance of 8.3–11.4 L/Kg/hour.Here you find in details version of Akupen
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Akupen
What is Akupen?
Akupen is an non-opioid analgesic that is used to treat pain, specifically pain associated with the gastrointestinal tract, menstrual cramps, or bone and joint pain.
What is the mechanism of action of Akupen?
Akupen works by blocking several different pain pathways in the body, including the central nervous system, opioid receptors, monoamines, and noradrenaline receptors.
Is Akupen the same as an opioid?
No, Akupen is not an opioid. It is a non-opioid analgesic, meaning it works by blocking several pain pathways in the body, rather than by attaching to and activating opioid receptors.
What are the side effects of Akupen?
Common side effects of Akupen include dry mouth, constipation, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and headache. Other more serious side effects include increased heart rate, rash, breathing difficulties, urinary retention, and seizures. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your doctor right away.
How should Akupen be taken?
Akupen should be taken exactly as your doctor prescribes it. It is usually taken orally, every four to six hours, with or without food. The dose and length of treatment will depend on the kind and severity of your pain.
Who should not take Akupen?
Patients who are allergic to Akupen or any of the ingredients in the medication should not take it. In addition, patients who have severe kidney disease, a history of seizures, or those who are taking other medications that interact with Akupen should not take this medication.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Akupen?
If you miss a dose of Akupen, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
Can Akupen be used for migraines?
Akupen is not typically used for treating migraine headaches. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments, such as ibuprofen or triptans that are more suitable for treating migraine headaches.
Are there any interactions between Akupen and other medications?
Yes, Akupen can interact with some medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting Akupen. This includes, but is not limited to drugs used to treat depression or anxiety, blood thinners, and anticonvulsants.
Does Akupen have any interactions with alcohol?
Yes, drinking alcohol while taking Akupen is not recommended. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and can also decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Akupen?
If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention right away.
Can I take Akupen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, Akupen is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Talk to your doctor about other available treatments for your pain.
What is the maximum daily dose of Akupen?
The maximum recommended daily dose is 360 mg. Taking more than the recommended dose can increase your risk of side effects and is not recommended.
Can I take Akupen with other pain medications?
No, it is not recommended to take Akupen with other pain medications. Talk to your doctor about the safest and most effective pain management plan.
Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Akupen?
No, driving or operating heavy machinery is not recommended while taking Akupen as it can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to concentrate.
What can I do if I experience constipation while taking Akupen?
If you experience constipation while taking Akupen, your doctor may recommend a gentle laxative or stool softener to help relieve the symptoms. In addition, increase your intake of fluids and foods with dietary fiber can help reduce constipation.
What are the symptoms of an overdose of Akupen?
Symptoms of an overdose of Akupen may include confusion, extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, fainting, fast or slow heart rate, and seizures. If you or someone else may have taken an overdose of Akupen, seek medical attention immediately.
Is Akupen habit-forming?
No, Akupen is not considered to be habit-forming. However, if you find that you are taking the medication more often, or for longer periods of time than prescribed, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage to minimize the risk of addiction.
Is it safe to take Akupen long-term?
Akupen can be taken long-term, if necessary. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits associated with taking the medication for a long period of time.
Can Akupen cause weight gain?
No, Akupen is not known to cause weight gain. If you are gaining weight while taking Akupen, talk to your doctor as it could be a sign of a different health condition or a side effect of another medication you are taking.
Can I take Akupen with other medications?
Some medications may interact with Akupen and should not be used together. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting Akupen.
What are the possible side effects of combining Akupen with alcohol?
Drinking alcohol while taking Akupen is not recommended. Combining Akupen and alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, such as drowsiness and impaired concentration. It can also decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
What is the onset of action of Akupen?
The onset of action of Akupen is usually within 30 minutes. It is important to take the medication regularly to achieve consistent pain relief.
What form does Akupen come in?
Akupen comes as an oral tablet, an oral capsule, and an oral solution. All forms of the medication are taken orally.
Can Akupen be used to treat chronic pain?
Yes, Akupen may be used to treat chronic pain. It is important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with long-term use of the medication.
What are the most common side effects of Akupen?
The most common side effects of Akupen include dry mouth, constipation, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and headache.
Can Akupen cause dizziness?
Yes, one of the most common side effects of Akupen is dizziness.
How long does Akupen take to work?
The onset of action of Akupen is usually within 30 minutes. It is important to take the medication regularly to achieve consistent pain relief.
Can I take Akupen with ibuprofen?
No, it is not recommended to take Akupen with ibuprofen or other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). Taking the two medications together can increase the risk of side effects.
Can Akupen be used for other conditions besides pain?
No, Akupen is only approved to treat pain and should not be used for any other medical condition.
Is Akupen addictive?
No, Akupen is not considered to be addictive. However, if you find that you are taking the medication more often, or for longer periods of time than prescribed, talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage to minimize the risk of addiction.
Can I take Akupen with other medications for my pain?
Some medications may interact with Akupen and should not be used together. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting Akupen.
Can Akupen cause drowsiness?
Yes, Akupen can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking the medication.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Akupen?
If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention right away.
Can children take Akupen?
No, Akupen is not approved for use in children and should not be given to anyone under 18 years of age.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Akupen?
No, drinking alcohol while taking Akupen is not recommended. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and can also decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
What should I do if I experience nausea while taking Akupen?
If you experience nausea while taking Akupen, your doctor may recommend taking the medication with food or taking an anti-nausea medication.
What happens if I overdose on Akupen?
If you or someone else may have taken an overdose of Akupen, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include confusion, extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, fainting, fast or slow heart rate, and seizures.
Are there any alternatives to Akupen?
Yes, there are several alternatives to Akupen, including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and tramadol. Your doctor will be able to help you decide which medication is best for you.
Can Akupen be used to treat inflammation?
No, Akupen is not approved for use in treating inflammation and should not be used for this purpose.