Livadox 5 

Presentation: Each film-coated tablet contains Obeticholic Acid 5 mg. Livadox 5 is a brand name marketed by Jenphar Bangladesh Ltd.It is usually available in blister packs containing 3 x 10 tablets.

Indications: Livadox (Obeticholic Acid) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) who:  

• Do not have cirrhosis, or  
• Have compensated cirrhosis without signs of portal hypertension.  

It can be used:  

• In combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) for patients with an inadequate response to UDCA, or  
• As a standalone treatment for patients unable to tolerate UDCA.  

Dosage and Administration: The recommended starting dosage of Livadox is 5 mg orally once daily for the first 3 months. After the first 3 months, if an adequate reduction in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and/or total bilirubin has not been achieved and the drug is tolerated, the dosage may be increased to a maximum of 10 mg once daily.  

Livadox can be taken with or without food.If taking a bile acid-binding resin (such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam), take Livadox at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid-binding resin, or at as great an interval as possible.  

Side Effects:The most common side effects of Livadox include pruritus (itching), fatigue, and stomach pain and discomfort.Other common side effects include rash, arthralgia (joint pain), oropharyngeal pain (pain in the middle part of the throat), dizziness, constipation, abnormal thyroid function, and eczema (inflammation of the skin).Severe pruritus has been reported and may require management strategies such as adding an antihistamine or bile acid-binding resin, reducing the dosage, temporarily stopping treatment, or discontinuing Livadox.  

Precautions: Livadox is contraindicated in patients with decompensated cirrhosis (Child-Pugh Class B or C), a prior decompensation event, or compensated cirrhosis with evidence of portal hypertension (e.g., ascites, gastroesophageal varices, persistent thrombocytopenia), or complete biliary obstruction.  

Hepatic decompensation and failure, sometimes fatal, have been reported in PBC patients with cirrhosis.Monitor closely for liver-related adverse reactions. Severe pruritus may occur. Dose-dependent reductions in HDL-C levels have been observed.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation:There is limited human data available on the use of Obeticholic Acid in pregnant women.The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for Obeticholic acid and any potential adverse effects on the breastfedinfant.

Storage: Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry, light-protected location. Keep out of reach of children.

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.