Instructions for Vasopro capsules 500 mg blister No. 60
Composition
active ingredient: meldonium;
1 capsule contains metonate (meldonium) in terms of 100% substance 250 mg or 500 mg;
excipients: potato starch, colloidal anhydrous silicon dioxide, calcium stearate;
capsule shell composition: gelatin, titanium dioxide (E 171), azorubine, carmoisine (E 122).
Dosage form
Capsules.
Main physicochemical properties: 250 mg capsules – hard gelatin capsules No. 1, white body, pink cap. Capsule contents – white or almost white crystalline powder with a faint odor. The powder is hygroscopic;
500 mg capsules – hard gelatin capsules No. 00, white body, pink cap. Capsule contents – white or almost white crystalline powder with a faint odor. The powder is hygroscopic.
Pharmacotherapeutic group
Other cardiological drugs. ATX code C01E B.
Pharmacological properties
Pharmacodynamics.
Meldonium is a precursor of carnitine, a structural analogue of gamma-butyrobetaine (GBB), in which one carbon atom is replaced by a nitrogen atom. Its effect on the body can be explained in two ways.
1. Effect on carnitine biosynthesis.
Meldonium, by reversibly inhibiting gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase, reduces carnitine biosynthesis and therefore prevents the transport of long-chain fatty acids across cell membranes, thus preventing the accumulation of a strong detergent - activated forms of unoxidized fatty acids - in cells. Thus, damage to cell membranes is prevented.
When carnitine concentration decreases under ischemic conditions, beta-oxidation of fatty acids is inhibited and oxygen consumption in cells is optimized, glucose oxidation is stimulated and ATP transport from its biosynthesis sites (mitochondria) to its consumption sites (cytosol) is restored. In essence, cells are supplied with nutrients and oxygen, and their consumption is optimized.
In turn, with an increase in the biosynthesis of the carnitine precursor, i.e., GBB, NO synthetase is activated, resulting in improved blood rheological properties and reduced peripheral vascular resistance.
As the concentration of meldonium decreases, carnitine biosynthesis increases again and the amount of fatty acids in the cells gradually increases.
It is believed that the effectiveness of meldonium is based on increasing tolerance to cellular stress (when changing the amount of fatty acids).
2. The function of the mediator in the hypothetical GBB-ergic system.
It is hypothesized that there is a neuronal signal transfer system in the body – the GBB-ergic system, which ensures the transmission of nerve impulses between cells. The mediator of this system is the last precursor of carnitine – GBB-ester. As a result of the action of GBB-esterase, the mediator gives an electron to the cell, thus transferring an electrical impulse, and is converted into GBB. Then the hydrolyzed form of GBB is actively transported to the liver, kidneys and ovaries, where it is converted into carnitine. In somatic cells, in response to irritation, new GBB molecules are again synthesized, ensuring the propagation of the signal.
When the concentration of carnitine decreases, the synthesis of GBB is stimulated, resulting in an increase in the concentration of GBB ester.
Meldonium, as mentioned earlier, is a structural analogue of GBB and can perform the functions of a “mediator”. In contrast, GBB hydroxylase “does not recognize” meldonium, so the concentration of carnitine does not increase, but decreases. Thus, meldonium, replacing the “mediator”, and contributing to the increase in the concentration of GBB, leads to the development of a corresponding reaction of the body. As a result, the overall metabolic activity also increases in other systems, for example, in the central nervous system (CNS).
Effect on the cardiovascular system.
Animal studies have shown that meldonium has a positive effect on myocardial contractile activity, has a myocardial protective effect (including against catecholamines and alcohol), and is able to prevent heart rhythm disturbances and reduce the area of myocardial infarction.
Ischemic heart disease (stable angina pectoris).
Analysis of clinical data on the course use of meldonium in the treatment of stable angina pectoris showed that the drug reduces the frequency and intensity of angina attacks, as well as the amount of glyceryl trinitrate used. The drug exhibits a pronounced antiarrhythmic effect in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and ventricular extrasystoles, a lesser effect is observed in patients with supraventricular extrasystoles.
Of particular importance is the drug's ability to reduce resting oxygen consumption, which is considered an effective criterion for antianginal therapy in coronary artery disease.
Meldonium has a beneficial effect on atherosclerotic processes in coronary and peripheral vessels, reducing total serum cholesterol levels and the atherogenic index.
Chronic heart failure.
In a separate study in the cardiology institutes of Latvia and Tomsk, the effectiveness of meldonium in heart failure of NYHA I-III functional class of moderate severity was tested. Under the influence of meldonium therapy, 59-78% of patients who were initially diagnosed with heart failure of functional class II were included in the group of functional class I. It was found that the use of meldonium improves the inotropic function of the myocardium and increases tolerance to physical exertion, improves the quality of life of patients, without causing severe side effects. However, it is noted that meldonium can cause slight hypotension. Other possible side effects of meldonium are allergic skin reactions, headaches, and a feeling of discomfort in the epigastrium.
In case of severe heart failure, meldonium should be used in combination with other traditional heart failure therapies.
Effects on the CNS.
In animal experiments, the antihypoxic effect of meldonium and the effect that promotes cerebral blood circulation have been established. The drug optimizes the redistribution of cerebral blood volume in favor of ischemic foci, increases the strength of neurons in conditions of hypoxia.
The drug has a stimulating effect on the CNS - increasing motor activity and physical endurance, stimulating behavioral reactions, as well as an anti-stress effect - stimulating the sympathoadrenal system, accumulating catecholamines in the brain and adrenal glands, protecting internal organs against changes caused by stress.
Effectiveness in neurological diseases.
It has been proven that meldonium is an effective remedy in the complex therapy of acute and chronic disorders of cerebral circulation (ischemic stroke, chronic cerebral circulatory insufficiency). Meldonium normalizes the tone and resistance of capillaries and arterioles of the brain, restores their reactivity.
The rehabilitation process of patients with neurological disorders (after suffering from diseases of the blood vessels of the brain, brain surgery, injuries, and tick-borne encephalitis) was studied.
The results of testing the therapeutic activity of meldonium indicate its dose-dependent positive effect on physical endurance and restoration of functional independence during the recovery period.
When analyzing changes in individual and total intellectual functions after using the drug, a positive effect on the recovery process of intellectual functions during the recovery period was established.
It has been established that meldonium improves the convalescent quality of life (mainly by restoring the physical function of the body), in addition, it eliminates psychological disorders.
Meldonium has an inherent positive effect on the function of the nervous system - reducing disorders in patients with neurological deficits during the recovery period.
The general neurological condition of patients improves (reduction of nerve damage, brain damage, and reflex pathology, regression of paresis, improvement of coordination of movements and autonomic functions).
Pharmacokinetics.
Absorption.
After a single oral dose, the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) is 2.23-2.43 μg/ml, and after repeated doses - 2.77 μg/ml. The time to reach maximum plasma concentration (tmax) is 1-3 hours. Bioavailability after oral administration is 78%. Food slightly delays absorption.
Distribution.
Meldonium is rapidly distributed from the bloodstream to tissues. The volume of distribution is 88.07±8.56 l, and the plasma protein binding is 78%. Meldonium and its metabolites partially cross the placental barrier.
Biotransformation.
In the study of metabolism in experimental animals, it was found that meldonium is mainly metabolized in the liver.
Breeding.
Renal excretion is important in the elimination of meldonium and its metabolites from the body. After oral administration of a single dose, the early elimination half-life of meldonium (t1/2) is approximately 3.5-4 hours. With repeated doses, the elimination half-life varies. These results indicate a possible accumulation of meldonium in the blood plasma.
Special patient groups.
Elderly patients.
Elderly patients with impaired liver or kidney function, in whom bioavailability is increased, should reduce the dose of meldonium.
Kidney dysfunction.
Patients with impaired renal function, in whom bioavailability is increased, should reduce the dose of meldonium. There is an interaction between renal reabsorption of meldonium or its metabolites (e.g. 3-hydroxymeldonium) and carnitine, resulting in increased renal clearance of carnitine. There is no direct effect of meldonium, GBB and the combination of meldonium/GBB on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
Liver dysfunction.
Patients with impaired liver function, in whom bioavailability is increased, should reduce the dose of meldonium. In a toxicity study on rats, yellow liver coloration and fat denaturation were observed when meldonium was administered at a dose of more than 100 mg/kg. In histopathological studies on animals, lipid accumulation in liver cells was observed after administration of high doses of meldonium (400 mg/kg and 1600 mg/kg). No changes in liver function parameters were observed in humans after administration of high doses of 400-800 mg. The possible infiltration of fat into liver cells cannot be ruled out.
There is no data on the safety and effectiveness of meldonium in children under 18 years of age, therefore the use of the drug in this category of patients is contraindicated.
Indication
In complex therapy in the following cases:
diseases of the heart and vascular system: stable angina pectoris, chronic heart failure (NYHA I-III functional class), cardiomyopathy, functional disorders of the heart and vascular system;
acute and chronic ischemic cerebrovascular disorders;
reduced working capacity, physical and psycho-emotional overstrain;
during the recovery period after cerebrovascular disorders, head injuries and encephalitis.
Contraindication
Hypersensitivity to meldonium and/or to any excipient of the drug;
increased intracranial pressure (in case of impaired venous outflow, intracranial tumors);
severe hepatic and/or renal failure (there is insufficient data on the safety of use).
Interaction with other medicinal products and other types of interactions
Meldonium can be used together with long-acting nitrates and other antianginal drugs (stable angina of exertion), cardiac glycosides and diuretics (heart failure). It can also be combined with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, antiarrhythmics and other drugs that improve microcirculation.
Meldonium may enhance the effects of drugs containing glyceryl trinitrate, nifedipine, beta-blockers and other antihypertensive agents and peripheral vasodilators.
As a result of the simultaneous use of iron and meldonium preparations in patients with iron deficiency anemia, the composition of fatty acids in erythrocytes improved.
When meldonium is used in combination with orotic acid to repair damage caused by ischemia/reperfusion, an additional pharmacological effect is observed.
Meldonium helps to eliminate pathological changes in the heart caused by azidothymidine (AZT) and indirectly affects oxidative stress reactions caused by AZT, which lead to mitochondrial dysfunction. The use of meldonium in combination with azidothymidine or other drugs for the treatment of AIDS has a positive effect in the treatment of acquired immunodeficiency (AIDS). In the test of loss of balance reflex caused by ethanol, meldonium reduced the duration of sleep. During seizures caused by pentylenetetrazol, a pronounced anticonvulsant effect of meldonium was established. In turn, when using the alpha2-adrenoblocker yohimbine at a dose of 2 mg/kg and the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor N-(G)-nitro-L-arginine at a dose of 10 mg/kg before meldonium therapy, the anticonvulsant effect of meldonium is completely blocked.
Meldonium overdose may enhance cardiotoxicity caused by cyclophosphamide.
Carnitine deficiency resulting from the use of meldonium may enhance cardiotoxicity caused by ifosfamide.
Meldonium has a protective effect against indinavir-induced cardiotoxicity and efavirenz-induced neurotoxicity.
Do not use meldonium capsules together with other drugs containing meldonium, as the risk of adverse reactions may increase.
Application features
Patients with a history of mild or moderate hepatic and/or renal impairment should be treated with caution (liver and/or renal function should be monitored).
Many years of experience in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina in cardiology departments shows that meldonium is not a first-line drug for acute coronary syndrome.
Due to the possible development of a stimulating effect, the drug is recommended to be used in the morning.
Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Pregnancy. Animal studies are insufficient to assess the effects of meldonium on pregnancy, embryonal/fetal development, parturition and postnatal development. The potential risk to humans is unknown, therefore meldonium is contraindicated during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding. Available animal data indicate that meldonium is excreted in human milk. It is not known whether meldonium is excreted in human milk. A risk to the newborn/infants cannot be excluded, therefore meldonium is contraindicated during breast-feeding.
Ability to influence reaction speed when driving vehicles or other mechanisms
No studies have been conducted to assess the effects on the ability to drive and use machines.
Method of administration and doses
For internal use. Due to the possible stimulating effect, the drug is recommended to be used in the morning.
Adults. Diseases of the heart and vascular system, cerebrovascular disorders.
The dose is 500 - 1000 mg per day. The daily dose can be taken all at once or divided into 2 doses. The maximum daily dose is 1000 mg.
Reduced performance, overexertion and recovery period.
The duration of the treatment course is 4-6 weeks. The treatment course can be repeated 2-3 times a year.
Elderly patients.
Elderly patients with impaired liver and/or kidney function may require a reduction in the dose of meldonium.
Patients with impaired renal function.
Since the drug is excreted from the body through the kidneys, patients with mild to moderate renal impairment should use a lower dose of meldonium.
Patients with liver dysfunction.
Patients with mild to moderate liver dysfunction should use a lower dose of meldonium.
Children.
There is no data on the safety and effectiveness of meldonium in children under 18 years of age, therefore the use of meldonium in this category of patients is contraindicated.
Overdose
There have been no reports of overdose with meldonium. The drug is low-toxic and does not cause any dangerous side effects.
Low blood pressure may cause headaches, dizziness, tachycardia, and general weakness. Treatment is symptomatic.
In case of severe overdose, liver and kidney function should be monitored.
Hemodialysis is of no significant importance in case of meldonium overdose due to its pronounced binding to blood proteins.
Side effects
Adverse reactions are classified by MedDRA system organ class and frequency: common (≥1/100 to <1/10), rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000), very rare (<1/10,000).
Side effects observed in clinical trials and in the post-marketing period:
| On the part of the immune system |
Often Rarely | Allergic reactions* Hypersensitivity, including allergic dermatitis, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic reactions up to shock |
| From the psyche |
| Rarely | Agitation, feelings of fear, intrusive thoughts, sleep disturbances |
| From the nervous system |
Often Rarely | Headaches * Paresthesia, tremor, hypoesthesia, tinnitus, vertigo, dizziness, gait disturbance, presyncope, syncope |
| From the heart |
| Rarely | Heart rhythm changes, palpitations, tachycardia/sinus tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, arrhythmia, chest discomfort/chest pain |
| From the circulatory system |
| Rarely | Increase/decrease in blood pressure, hypertensive crisis, flushing, pallor of the skin |
| Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders |
Often Rarely | Respiratory tract infections Sore throat, cough, dyspnea, apnea |
| Gastrointestinal tract |
Often Rarely | Dyspepsia* Dysgeusia (metallic taste in the mouth), loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, dry mouth or hypersalivation |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders |
| Rarely | Rash, generalized/macular/papular rash, pruritus |
| Musculoskeletal system |
| Rarely | Back pain, muscle weakness, muscle spasms |
| Renal and urinary system disorders |
| Rarely | Pollakiuria |
| General disorders and administration site conditions |
| Rarely | General weakness, chills, asthenia, edema, facial edema, leg edema, feeling hot, feeling cold, cold sweat |
| Research |
Often Rarely | Dyslipidemia, increased C-reactive protein Electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, tachycardia, eosinophilia* |
* Adverse effects observed in previously conducted uncontrolled clinical trials.
Expiration date
For 250 mg capsules – 2 years.
For 500 mg capsules – 4 years.
Do not use the drug after the expiration date indicated on the package.
Storage conditions
Store in a dry place at a temperature not exceeding 25 ° C. Keep out of the reach of children.
Packaging
250 mg capsules: 10 capsules per blister. 4 blisters per pack.
500 mg capsules: 10 capsules per blister. 6 blisters per pack.
Vacation category
According to the recipe.
Producer
JSC "Farmak".
Location of the manufacturer and its business address.
Ukraine, 04080, Kyiv, Kyrylivska St., 74.
