ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml Syrup

What is ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

ALFRESED is an oral syrup formulation that contains Alimemazine, a phenothiazine derivative with potent antihistaminic and sedative properties. It is primarily prescribed to manage conditions like allergic disorders and pruritus, and is also widely used as a sedative and premedication agent in pediatric care due to its calming effects.

• Therapeutic Class: Antihistamine and sedative (H1 receptor antagonist)
• Indications:
  • Relief from allergic symptoms including urticaria, rhinitis, and eczema-related itching
  • Treatment of pruritus due to systemic conditions or skin disorders
  • Pre-operative sedation in children
  • Short-term management of anxiety and sleep disturbances
• Age Group: Often used in children, but dosage must be carefully adjusted

ALFRESED provides a fast-acting and reliable option for managing allergic and behavioral symptoms, especially when sedation is also beneficial. Its dual-action—both anti-histaminic and sedative—makes it especially useful in pediatric care and dermatological complaints accompanied by intense itching.

How to use ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

Correct usage of ALFRESED ensures optimal therapeutic outcomes and reduces the risk of adverse effects. This syrup should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Route of Administration: Oral
• Shake Well: Always shake the bottle before use to ensure uniform distribution of the active ingredient.
• Measuring: Use a calibrated oral syringe or dosing cup for accurate dosing. Avoid using household spoons.
• With or Without Food: Can be taken with or without food, though taking it with meals may help reduce gastric irritation.
• Timing:
  • For allergies or pruritus: Typically administered 2–3 times daily
  • For sedation: Administered 1–2 hours before the desired sedative effect (e.g., bedtime or pre-surgery)
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to compensate.
• Alcohol and Activities: Avoid alcohol and activities requiring mental alertness (e.g., driving) due to sedative effects.

Follow-up visits with a doctor may be necessary to monitor progress or adjust the dose. Long-term or high-dose use should be avoided unless specifically indicated.

Mode of Action ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

ALFRESED (Alimemazine) functions primarily as a first-generation H1-receptor antagonist but also exhibits additional pharmacologic actions due to its chemical structure.

• Histamine H1 Blockade:
  • Competes with histamine for H1-receptor sites on effector cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and respiratory tract
  • Reduces symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and skin redness
• Central Nervous System Depression:
  • Penetrates the blood-brain barrier and binds to H1 receptors in the brain
  • Causes drowsiness and sedation by inhibiting neuronal excitation
• Anticholinergic Effects:
  • Blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, contributing to drying of secretions and sedation
• Additional Effects:
  • Weak dopamine antagonist activity, which may explain occasional extrapyramidal side effects

This combination of peripheral and central activity makes ALFRESED especially effective for pruritus, allergic reactions, and anxiety-related conditions in children and adults alike.

ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml Interactions ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

Due to its sedative and anticholinergic effects, ALFRESED may interact with various medications and substances. Care should be taken to avoid potentially harmful interactions.

• CNS Depressants:
  • Alcohol
  • Barbiturates
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Opioids
  • Other sedating antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine)
  • Effect: Increased sedation, dizziness, confusion
• MAO Inhibitors:
  • Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, etc.
  • Effect: Enhanced anticholinergic and sedative effects, potential toxicity
• Anticholinergic Drugs:
  • Atropine, scopolamine, tricyclic antidepressants
  • Effect: Increased risk of dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention
• QT-Prolonging Drugs:
  • Amiodarone, erythromycin, certain antipsychotics
  • Effect: Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia

Patients should always inform their healthcare provider about all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, before starting ALFRESED.

Dosage of ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

Dosage must be individualized based on the age, weight, indication, and response of the patient. ALFRESED is often used in pediatric patients, but adult dosages may also apply in some cases.

• Children (2–12 years):
  • Typical dose: 0.5–1 mg/kg/day divided into 2–3 doses
  • Maximum daily dose: Should not exceed 5 mg per dose for young children
• Children over 12 years and Adults:
  • Starting dose: 7.5–10 mg 2–3 times daily as needed
  • Maximum: 30 mg/day unless under strict medical supervision
• For sedation (pre-operative or bedtime):
  • Administer 1–2 hours before procedure or bedtime
• Administration Tip: Use an oral syringe for accurate dosing, especially in children.

Always follow the doctor's instructions and adjust the dose only under medical supervision. Overdose can lead to serious central nervous system depression, especially in children.

Possible side effects of ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

Like all medications, ALFRESED may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most are related to its sedative and anticholinergic properties.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Blurred vision
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Urinary retention
  • Hypotension
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
• Serious but Rare Side Effects:
  • Extrapyramidal symptoms (involuntary muscle movements)
  • Seizures
  • QT prolongation and arrhythmias
  • Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

If any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction occur, immediate medical attention is necessary. Long-term use should be avoided unless strictly monitored.

ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml Contraindications ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

There are several conditions and situations in which ALFRESED should not be used. These contraindications are crucial to prevent serious adverse reactions.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to Alimemazine or other phenothiazines
  • Comatose states or severe central nervous system depression
  • Children under 2 years of age (due to risk of respiratory depression)
  • History of agranulocytosis or bone marrow suppression
  • Severe hepatic or renal impairment
• Relative Contraindications (Use with caution):
  • Epilepsy
  • Cardiac arrhythmias or family history of QT prolongation
  • Prostatic hypertrophy
  • Glaucoma (especially angle-closure)
  • Asthma or chronic respiratory diseases

Always consult a healthcare provider before initiating ALFRESED, especially if there is a known history of neurological, cardiac, or respiratory issues.

Storage of ALFRESED 7.5 mg/5 ml

Proper storage of ALFRESED is essential to maintain its efficacy and safety.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F)
• Protection: Keep the bottle tightly closed and protected from light and moisture
• Refrigeration: Not required unless specified on the packaging
• Shelf Life: Refer to the expiry date on the bottle label
• After Opening: Use within the timeframe mentioned by the manufacturer (typically within 1–2 months)
• Keep Out of Reach: Always store out of sight and reach of children
• Disposal: Discard unused or expired medicine safely; do not flush down the toilet

Always follow any additional storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or printed on the label to preserve product stability and safety.