MEVIR 135 135MG TABLET

Indications

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Functional bowel disorders
• Abdominal cramps
• Gastrointestinal spasm

Dosage

Children: For children aged 10 years and above, the dosage is typically 135 mg three times daily before meals, while children aged 5 to 10 years may be prescribed a lower dose based on clinical judgment. For precise dosing in children, refer to the BNF for Children.

Adults: The usual adult dose for mebeverine is 135 mg taken three times daily before meals.

Mechanism of action

Mebeverine acts as a selective spasmolytic agent, inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract. It works by interfering with the calcium influx in smooth muscle cells, reducing spasms without significantly affecting normal gastrointestinal motility.

Pharmacodynamics

Mebeverine is effective in decreasing intestinal motility and helping to relieve abdominal pain and discomfort associated with gastrointestinal spasms. It does not inhibit the gastrointestinal secretions and is considered to have a direct effect on the muscle tissue, providing symptomatic relief in patients with IBS.

Pharmacokinetics

Mebeverine is rapidly absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within a few hours. It undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver, producing several metabolites, some of which may retain spasmolytic activity. The elimination half-life is approximately 1 to 2 hours, and it is primarily excreted through urine, with a small fraction excreted unchanged.

Contra-indications

• Hypersensitivity to mebeverine or any of its components
• Severe inflammatory bowel disease
• Obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract

Adverse effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Skin rash
• Allergic reactions

Interactions

• Mebeverine may enhance the effects of other anticholinergic drugs
• There are no known significant drug interactions reported

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal obstruction
• Consult a physician if symptoms persist or worsen
• Not recommended for use in children without medical advice

Pregnancy

Mebeverine should be used in pregnancy only if clearly needed, and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Consult a healthcare provider.

Breast-feeding

Mebeverine is not known to be excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administered to breastfeeding women.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Tablets
• Capsules
• Oral suspension

Indications

• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Smooth muscle spasm
• Cholestatic pruritus

Dosage

Children: For children aged 12–17 years: 15 mg three times a day, taken at least one hour before food, with a maximum of 120 mg per day.

Adults: 135–150 mg three times a day, preferably taken 20 minutes before meals.

Mechanism of action

Mebeverine acts as a direct spasmolytic agent, targeting the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. It inhibits the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells, which is crucial for muscle contraction. By preventing this influx, mebeverine induces relaxation of the smooth muscle, thereby reducing spasms and associated pain.

Pharmacodynamics

The primary pharmacodynamic effect of mebeverine hydrochloride is its ability to relieve smooth muscle spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. This leads to a reduction in abdominal pain and discomfort associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. The onset of action can vary, but patients typically experience relief within a short period after administration, particularly when taken before meals.

Pharmacokinetics

Mebeverine hydrochloride is administered orally and is characterized by low systemic absorption. Its pharmacokinetic profile includes rapid metabolism, with metabolites excreted primarily via urine. The drug has a short half-life, necessitating multiple doses throughout the day to maintain therapeutic effects. The timing of administration is important, as taking the medication 20 minutes before meals enhances its efficacy.

Contra-indications

• Paralytic ileus

Adverse effects

• Angioedema
• Facial edema
• Skin reactions
• Arrhythmias
• Decreased bronchial secretion
• Mydriasis

Interactions

• Propantheline

Precautions

• Caution in hepatic impairment
• Caution in renal impairment
• May suppress lactation

Pregnancy

Manufacturer advises avoiding use unless essential, as limited information is available.

Breast-feeding

Manufacturer advises avoiding use due to potential suppression of lactation.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from light.

Formulations

• Mebeverine hydrochloride 135 mg tablets
• Mebeverine hydrochloride 200 mg modified-release capsules
• Mebeverine hydrochloride 100 mg modified-release capsules