Epicure
Form: Injection
Strength: 50mg/5ml
Generic Name: Brivaracetam
Company: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 280.0 (5ml Vial)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Epicure is used to treat partial onset seizures in patients 1 month of age and older.
Pharmacology
Epicure is a type of anticonvulsant called Brivaracetam. The exact way Epicure works is not fully understood, but Epicure binds to a protein in the brain, which might help prevent seizures.
Dosage & Administration
Adults (16 years and older): Start with 50 mg twice a day (100 mg per day). The dose can be adjusted between 25 mg and 100 mg twice daily (50 mg to 200 mg per day) based on the response.
Pediatric patients: The dose depends on the child’s weight. Epicure is important to adjust the dose based on the patient’s response and tolerability. No gradual dose increase is needed.
Geriatric use: Start with a low dose for elderly patients.
Renal impairment: No dose changes are needed for patients with impaired kidney function, but Epicure is not recommended for patients on dialysis.
Use in children under 1 month: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Interaction
When taken with rifampin, the dose of brivaracetam may need to be doubled. Using Epicure with carbamazepine can increase the levels of carbamazepine’s active form. Epicure can also raise phenytoin levels, so phenytoin should be monitored when used together. Brivaracetam does not add benefits when used with levetiracetam.
Contraindications
Epicure is not for patients who are allergic to brivaracetam or any of its ingredients.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, sleepiness, dizziness, tiredness, coordination issues, and irritability.
Pregnancy & Lactation
If pregnant, Epicure should only be used if the benefits to the mother clearly outweigh the risks to the baby. There is no information about how Epicure affects breast milk, so the decision to breastfeed should be made carefully, considering the mother’s needs and the potential risks to the baby.
Precautions & Warnings
Brivaracetam may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. Patients should be monitored for any mood changes. Epicure can cause tiredness, dizziness, and coordination problems, so Epicure is advised not to drive or use machines. Some patients may also experience irritability, anxiety, or psychotic symptoms like hallucinations. Gradual withdrawal is recommended to prevent seizures.
Overdose Effects
In case of overdose, symptoms may include dizziness, balance problems, fatigue, nausea, double vision, anxiety, and slow heart rate. There is no specific antidote, so standard treatment for overdose should be used.
Therapeutic Class
Epicure is an adjunct anti-epileptic drug.
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C and protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.