LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Overview

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE is a Schedule H drug.
Lofexidine is a centrally acting ?-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, prescribed for reducing the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms in adults, with the focus to facilitate the abrupt discontinuation of opioids or following the completion of opioid therapy.Lofexidine is the first non-opioid drug approved for the symptomatic management of opioid withdrawal.Lofexidine is also used for treating women suffering from postmenopausal hot flashes. 

Usage

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE is generally used to treat: Postmenopause Period
LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE can address symptoms like: Nausea, Vomit, Abdomen Pain, Restless Or Irritability, Anxiety, Abdomen Stomach Cramps, Eyes Enlarged (dilated) Pupils, Rapid Heart Rate (pulse)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it safe on my liver?
A: Check with your Doctor first

Q: Is it safe on my kidney?
A: Check with your Doctor first

Q: Can I take it with alcohol?
A: Not Safe

Q: Is it safe for children?
A: Ask your doctor

Q: Is it safe to take for someone breastfeeding?
A: Check with your Doctor first

How Do I Take It?

Route of Administration: Oral

Precautions

  • Lofexidine affects mental alertness, and hence driving vehicles, operating heavy machinery or handling hazardous chemicals should be strictly avoided.
  • Patients with electrolyte abnormalities such as hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia should be treated first before starting treatment with lofexidine.
  • Alcohol consumption should be avoided as lofexidine increases the depressive effects on the brain.
  • Do not discontinue taking lofexidine tablets abruptly as it could result in a sudden rise in blood pressure. It usually requires a gradual dose reduction supervised by the prescriber.
  • Patients should be advised not to stand immediately from a sitting or a lying position to avoid accidental falls or injuries.
  • Patients taking lofexidine tablets should drink sufficient quantity of water to keep hydrated, so as to avoid dehydration or getting overheated, as it may result in a sudden drop in heart rate or in low blood pressure.
  • Scheduling counseling with a health counselor will help to overcome the craving of taking opioids after withdrawal of opioid therapy.
  • Be careful in hot weather or while being active. Drink lots of fluids to stop fluid loss.
  • Do not use more often or for longer than you were told.
  • Do not take naltrexone within 2 hours before or 2 hours after lofexidine.
  • Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

Common Side-Effects

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE : Hives, Dizziness, Slow Heart Rate (pulse), Dry Mouth, Lightheadedness, Drowsiness, Weakness (generalized)

Serious Side-Effects

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE : Difficulty Swallowing, Difficulty Breathing, Face Swelling, Throat Tightness, Chest Discomfort, Mouth Swelling, Swollen Lips, Swollen Tongue

Technical Classification

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE is categorized as: ANTIADRENERGIC AGENTS, CENTRALLY ACTING / CARDIOVASCULAR AGENTS

Storage Conditions

Room Temperature (Between 15 To 25 C)

Available Alternatives

What are the other drugs with similar Ingredients?

LOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDELOFEXIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE