Apuldon 

Presentation: Apuldon is available as tablets, each containing Domperidone Maleate BP equivalent to Domperidone 10 mg. It is also available as a suspension, with each 5 ml containing Domperidone BP 5 mg, in a 60 ml bottle. Additionally, Paediatric Drops are available, with each ml containing Domperidone BP 5 mg, in a 15 ml bottle. Apuldon is a product of Aristopharma Ltd. in Bangladesh. The tablets are usually film-coated and available in blister packs. The suspension and paediatric drops are liquid formulations for oral use.

Indications: Apuldon (Domperidone) is indicated for the symptomatic relief of nausea and vomiting. It is also used for the management of upper gastrointestinal motility disorders such as:

• Epigastric sense of fullness
• Abdominal distension  
• Upper abdominal pain  
• Eructation, flatulence, early satiety  
• Nausea and vomiting  
• Heartburn with or without regurgitationof gastric contents

It can also be used to counteract the nausea and vomiting induced by dopamine agonists used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and to speed up barium transit in follow-through radiological examinations.

Dosage and Administration: Apuldon should be taken 15-30 minutes before meals and, if necessary, before retiring.

• Adults (Tablets/Suspension): The usual dose is 10-20 mg (1-2 tablets or 10-20 ml suspension) every 6-8 hours daily. The maximum daily dose is 80 mg. For acute nausea and vomiting, 20 mg every 6-8 hours is recommended, with a maximum treatment duration of 12 weeks.
• Children (Suspension/Paediatric Drops): 0.2-0.4 mg/kg body weight every 6-8 hours daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 2.4 mg/kg body weight, up to a maximum of 80 mg per day. For acute nausea and vomiting, the maximum treatment duration is 12 weeks. The paediatric drops should be administered at a dose of 0.4-0.8 ml per 10 kg body weight every 6-8 hours daily.

Side Effects: Common side effects of Apuldon (Domperidone) may include:

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain

Less common side effects can include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Anxiety
• Breast tenderness or enlargement (galactorrhoea in rare cases)
• Skin rash or itching

Rare but potentially serious side effects include irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). If you experience any significant or persistent side effects, especially palpitations or fainting, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions: Apuldon (Domperidone) is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to domperidone or any of the excipients.
• Pituitary gland tumour (prolactinoma).
• Severe liver disease.
• Certain heart conditions or electrolyte imbalances that can increase the risk of heart rhythm disorders.
• Gastrointestinal haemorrhage, obstruction, or perforation.
• Use in neonates.

Caution should be exercised in patients with kidney problems and in the elderly. Apuldon should be used with caution in children due to a potential increased risk of extrapyramidal reactions because of an incompletely developed blood-brain barrier in young children. Domperidone can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all the medicines you are currently taking.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of Domperidone has not been established for pregnant women. It is not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Domperidone may pass into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Apuldon. Consult your doctor for advice.

Storage: Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. For the suspension and paediatric drops, follow any specific storage instructions mentioned on the label.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.