Trimet-MR (Trimetazidine Dihydrochloride): A Metabolic Anti-Ischemic Agent

Trimet-MR contains Trimetazidine Dihydrochloride, a metabolic anti-ischemic agent. It is indicated as an add-on therapy for the symptomatic treatment of adults with stable angina pectoris who are not adequately controlled by or are intolerant to other first-line antianginal therapies. It works by optimizing the heart's energy production. Trimet-MR belongs to the therapeutic class of Other Anti-anginal & Anti-ischaemic drugs.

How Trimet-MR Works (Pharmacology)

Trimetazidine works by shifting the heart's energy metabolism:

• Inhibits 3-keto acyl CoA thiolase: It inhibits this enzyme, which blocks the fatty acid oxidation pathway.
• Shifts to Glucose Pathway: This inhibition forces the heart to rely more on the glucose oxidation pathway for energy.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: The glucose pathway is more efficient at producing energy per unit of oxygen consumed. This means the same amount of oxygen produces more energy, making the heart more active without increasing oxygen demand.
• Prevents Lactic Acid Production: The shift to glucose oxidation also prevents the production of lactic acid, which helps to prevent angina pectoris.

Key Indications & Benefits

Trimet-MR is indicated for:

• Add-on therapy for the symptomatic treatment of stable angina pectoris. This is for patients who are not responding well to or cannot tolerate other antianginal medications.

Dosage & Administration

Trimet-MR should be taken during meals. The benefit of treatment should be assessed after three months, and if there is no response, the medication should be discontinued. Always consult a registered physician for specific dosage instructions.

• Recommended dose:
  • 35 mg twice daily, or
  • 20 mg tablet thrice daily.

Important Considerations & Warnings

It is crucial to discuss your full medical history with your doctor before taking Trimet-MR.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Trimetazidine or any of its components.
• Parkinson’s disease, parkinsonian symptoms, tremors, or restless legs movement disorders.
• Severe renal impairment.

Side Effects:

• Common: Dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, rash, pruritus (itching), urticaria (hives), and asthenia (weakness).
• Generally safe and well-tolerated.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

• Pregnancy: There is no adequate data on use in pregnant women. As a precautionary measure, it is preferable to avoid using it during pregnancy.
• Lactation: It is unknown if Trimetazidine is excreted in human milk. It should not be used during breast-feeding.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Not for Acute Attacks: Trimet-MR is not a treatment for acute angina attacks, unstable angina pectoris, or myocardial infarction. Patients should have appropriate medication for acute attacks.
• Discontinuation: The medication should be discontinued if there is no treatment response after three months.

Drug Interactions:

• No drug interactions have been reported with commonly used cardiovascular medications like beta-blockers, calcium antagonists, nitrates, heparin, or digitalis.

Storage Conditions

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.