Why Take Avapena and What are the Substitutes?
Allergy causes great discomfort to everyone. In some cases, it can be fatal. Avapena is one of the most common antihistamines. In the article, we will figure out why and how to take it, and also learn about its analogs in other countries.
Avapena is a synthetic medicine, which is a derivative of ethylenediamine and belongs to the first-generation antihistamines. For many years it has been one of the most popular and effective anti-allergy drugs. Therefore, we can say with confidence that Avapena has been tested over time.
In case of allergic reactions, timely use of Avapena can prevent terrible consequences and relieve discomfort. Let’s consider in detail how the medicine works, its dosage, possible side effects, and how you can find similar medicines in different countries.
What Avapena is used for?
The main purpose of Avapena — treatment of allergic reactions of different types and relief of unpleasant symptoms, the effects of allergies. The great advantage of Avapena is that it can be used by children in limited doses. Below we share a complete list of indications when it is necessary to use Avapena.
- seasonal allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis;
- urticaria, contact and atopic dermatitis, eczema, neurodermatitis (including in children);
- food allergies;
- allergic reactions caused by drugs;
- allergies caused by insect bites;
- initial stages of bronchial asthma;
- acute respiratory diseases and intestinal infections.
The medicine can be used as an adjunct in the treatment of severe allergic reactions and Quincke’s edema.
How does Avapena work?
Avapena blocks histamine H1-receptors, as well as m-choline receptors and serotonin. It reduces the permeability of capillaries, the spasmogenic effect of histamine on the smooth muscles of the bronchi and intestines. Thus, Avapena has a vomiting and antispasmodic effect and reduces the hypotensive effect of histamine.
The drug facilitates and prevents the development of allergic reactions of the immediate type. It has a pronounced antipruritic effect, which is expressed not only in allergic dermatoses but also in itching of non-allergic origin. It also has a mild sedative and hypnotic effect. This makes possible to use the drug in severe cases when you need to combine antihistamine and sedative effect.
In what doses and how to take Avapenа?
Avapena can be taken either orally, and in severe cases (such as Quincke’s edema or anaphylactic shock) it can be injected intravenously or intramuscularly. The drug is rapidly absorbed by both oral and parenteral intake. The onset of action of the drug is observed 15 minutes after oral intake, while the effect of the medicine lasts 3-6 hours.
The pills of Avapena are taken orally with meals without chewing.
Dosages
Adults can take 1-2 tablets (25-50 mg) 3-4 times a day.
As for children:
- age from 1 to 12 months can take 1/4 tablet 2-3 times a day;
- age from 1 to 6 years, the permitted dose is 1/3 tablet 2-3 times a day;
- age from 7 to 14 years old it is allowed to take 1/2 tablet 2-3 times a day.
Attention! Children can use Avapena from 1 month old.
The maximum daily dose is 2 mg/kg of body weight.
For intramuscular administration, the recommended daily dose for adults is 1-2 ml (1-2 ampoules).
Important! Intravenous injection is used only in acute severe cases under medical supervision.
What side effects can occur?
The following side effects are possible with taking Avapena:
- Allergic reactions — occasionally skin rash, itchy skin, photodermatosis;
- Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, diarrhea or constipation, increased symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux;
- Drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness; in children there may be a partial stimulating effect on the central nervous system, which manifests itself in anxiety, increased irritability;
- Elderly patients can experience the symptoms of tachycardia, arrhythmia, arterial hypotension;
- It can potentiate the effects of alcohol and drugs that suppress the central nervous system, as well as impair the mental and physical abilities required for specific activities (such as driving or working with machines)
Keep in mind! Avapena is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, glaucoma, exacerbation of bronchial asthma, gastric ulcer, myocardial infarction, and concomitant use of MAO inhibitors.
In case of side effects, it is necessary to stop using Avapena. Then you have to wash your stomach and consult a doctor.
How to buy Avapena and its substitutes in other countries?
The purchase of Avapena in many countries around the world is strictly regulated. Sometimes it can be sold only with a doctor’s prescription. However, similar drugs are available commercially and can be found under the following names:
Synopen | Suprastin | Chloropyramine Hydrochloride |
Allergosan | Supranorm | Chloropyramine |
Suprabat | Supralgon | Antiapin |
Conclusion
Avapena in many countries is included in the rating of drugs that must be kept in a first-aid kit. This is not surprising, because no one is insured from allergic reactions and their dire consequences. But it is always important to carefully read the instructions for the medicinal product and the dosage, and in case of side effects, you should immediately consult a doctor.