Fixocard 50
Form: tablet
Strength: 50mg
Generic Name: Amlodipine + Atenolol
Company: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 8.0 (Strip=10)
Per Piece: ৳ 0.80
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Fixocard 50 is used to treat:
- Essential hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Angina pectoris (chest pain) and hypertension when both are present
- Post-myocardial infarction (after heart attack) patients
- Refractory angina pectoris (when other treatments have not worked)
Pharmacology
Fixocard 50 is a combination of two drugs: Amlodipine and Atenolol.
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes the blood vessels, helping to lower blood pressure. Fixocard 50 mainly works on the blood vessels, making them widen, which reduces blood pressure and helps the heart pump more easily.
Atenolol is a beta-blocker that works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the amount of blood the heart pumps. This helps to lower blood pressure and reduces the heart’s oxygen demand. Fixocard 50 also lowers the levels of a hormone that raises blood pressure.
Dosage & Administration
The usual dosage is one tablet of Amlodipine and Atenolol (5/25 mg) once a day. If needed, the dosage may be increased to two tablets a day, as advised by the doctor. The dosage should be adjusted based on the patient’s condition.
Interaction
Some drugs may interact with Fixocard 50:
- Disopyramide: Atenolol may increase the effects of Disopyramide.
- Ampicillin: High doses of Ampicillin may reduce Atenolol levels.
- Oral antidiabetics and insulin: Beta-blockers may reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin, but Atenolol has a lesser effect.
Contraindications
Fixocard 50 should not be used in people with:
- Allergy to any of its components
- Slow heart rate (sinus bradycardia)
- Heart block (a condition that affects the heart’s rhythm)
- Cardiogenic shock (a condition where the heart can’t pump enough blood)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Congestive heart failure or poor left ventricular function
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Anxiety and depression
Pregnancy & Lactation
Fixocard 50 should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Fixocard 50 should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. If its use is necessary, breastfeeding should be stopped.
Precautions & Warnings
Special care should be taken in the following cases:
- Bronchospasm: Use cautiously in patients with breathing problems.
- Renal impairment: Can be used in patients with kidney problems, but caution is needed if kidney function is severely reduced.
- Liver impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver problems, as the drug may take longer to leave the body.
- Drug withdrawal: Do not stop taking Fixocard 50 suddenly. If discontinuation is necessary, Fixocard 50 should be done gradually under medical supervision.
Overdose Effects
Overdose may cause low blood pressure and, less commonly, heart failure. Treatment includes removing any unabsorbed drug and providing supportive care.
Therapeutic Class
Fixocard 50 belongs to the class of combined antihypertensive preparations.
Storage Conditions
Keep Fixocard 50 stored below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep Fixocard 50 out of the reach of children.