Itolux

Indications

Itopride Hydrochloride is used to relieve symptoms of functional dyspepsia (indigestion without an ulcer or other clear cause), such as bloating, a feeling of fullness after meals, feeling full early, upper stomach discomfort, nausea and vomiting. Doctors may also use it when the stomach empties slowly.

How It Works

Itopride blocks dopamine D2 receptors and also slows the breakdown of acetylcholine in the gut. Together these actions strengthen and coordinate stomach movements, so food moves on more quickly, and they reduce nausea.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually 50 mg three times a day, taken 15 to 30 minutes before meals, or as the doctor advises. The doctor may lower the dose for older people. Treatment is usually for a few weeks and then reviewed. Not recommended for children.

Interactions

Anticholinergic medicines, such as Hyoscine Butylbromide and Dicycloverine, can reduce its effect. Because it speeds up stomach emptying, it may change how quickly some other medicines are absorbed. Tell the doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Itopride or any ingredient.
• Bleeding, blockage or a tear (perforation) in the stomach or intestine, where stronger gut movement could be harmful.

Side Effects

Usually mild: diarrhoea, stomach pain, constipation, headache, dizziness, tiredness and increased saliva. It can raise the hormone prolactin, which rarely causes breast swelling or tenderness or milk discharge. Rash and itching can occur.

Get urgent medical help for: signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), yellowing of the skin or eyes, vomiting blood or black stools, or severe stomach pain.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Safety in pregnancy has not been established; use only if the doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk. It passes into breast milk in animal studies, so it is best avoided while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Older people are more likely to get side effects and may need a lower dose.
• See a doctor if symptoms do not improve, or if you have warning signs such as weight loss, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood or black stools, as these need investigation.
• May cause dizziness; take care with driving.

Overdose

Experience is limited. Too much may increase side effects. Seek medical advice; treatment is supportive.

Therapeutic Class

Prokinetic agent (gut motility stimulant).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.