Drotin

Description

Drotin Syrup is an antispasmodic medication manufactured by Martin & Harris, available in Nepal. Its active ingredient is Drotaverine Hydrochloride.

What is it used for?

Drotin Syrup helps to relieve pain and discomfort caused by muscle spasms in various conditions, including:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) tract spasms: This covers common stomach and intestinal cramps.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Helps ease associated abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstrual periods and cramps.
• Biliary colics: Pain originating from the gallbladder or bile ducts, often due to gallstones.
• Renal colics: Pain from kidney or urinary tract issues, commonly caused by kidney stones.

How to take it:

Adults:

• Oral (Tablets): The typical recommended dose is 1 to 2 tablets, three times daily, as advised by your doctor. (Note: While this information mentions tablets, the product name is “Syrup.” Always follow the specific instructions for the syrup formulation provided by your doctor or pharmacist).
• Injection (for acute cases): For faster relief in severe situations, a healthcare professional might administer 1 to 2 ampoules via intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC) injection, 1-3 times daily. For acute stone colics, it can be given as 1 or 2 ampoules by slow intravenous (IV) injection.

Children (Oral – as an antispasmodic):

• Children over 6 years: 1/2 to 1 tablet, 1-2 times daily (equivalent to 40 mg 1-2 times daily). (Again, confirm syrup dosage with a healthcare professional as these are tablet-based instructions).
• Children 1-6 years: 1/4 to 1/2 tablet, 1-2 times daily (equivalent to 20 mg 1-2 times daily).

Drotin Syrup can generally be taken with or without food.

Important Precautions and Contraindications:

Do NOT use Drotin Syrup if you have:

• Severe kidney, liver, or heart dysfunction (e.g., severe heart failure).
• Porphyria (a rare genetic blood disorder).
• A known allergy or hypersensitivity to Drotaverine or any other ingredient.

Use with caution and consult your doctor if you have:

• Any existing kidney, liver, or heart conditions (even if not severe).
• Low blood pressure, as it might cause a further drop.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Its use during pregnancy should be discussed with your doctor, and it’s generally not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential risks to the baby.

Drug Interactions:

• Drotin may reduce the effectiveness of levodopa (a medication used for Parkinson’s disease).
• Its antispasmodic effects might be enhanced when taken concurrently with other analgesics (pain relievers), antimuscarinics, or benzodiazepines.

Possible Side Effects:

Common side effects can include:

• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth

If these side effects persist, worsen, or if you experience any severe reactions (like an allergic reaction, chest pain, or sudden weakness), seek immediate medical attention.

How it Works (Mechanism of Action):

Drotin Syrup (Drotaverine) is a direct-acting antispasmodic. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-IV (PDE4), which is specifically found in smooth muscle cells. By blocking this enzyme, it leads to an increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels within these cells. This increase in cAMP promotes the relaxation of smooth muscle tissues, thereby alleviating spasms and the associated pain.

Disclaimer: This information about Drotin Syrup is for general knowledge and educational purposes only, based on publicly available drug information. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns or before using any medication, especially regarding dosage for syrup formulations.