Avidro® 0.5 Tablet: Each film coated tablet contains Pizotifen Malate BP equivalent to Pizotifen 0.5 mg.
Avidro® 1.5 Tablet: Each film coated tablet contains Pizotifen Malate BP equivalent to Pizotifen 1.5 mg.
Avidro is the brand name of Pizotifen, which is a tricyclic compound having antiserotonergic and antihistaminic effects together with a weak anticholinergic action. Pizotifen inhibit the permeability increasing effects of serotonin and histamine on the affected cranial vessels, thereby checking the transudation of plasmakinin so that pain threshold of the receptors is maintained at normal levels. In the sequence of events leading to the migraine attack, depletion of plasma serotonin contributes to loss of tone in the extra-cranial vessels. Pizotifen inhibits serotonin reuptake by the platelets, thus maintaining plasma serotonin and preventing the loss of tone and passive distension of the extra-cranial arteries.
Adult: Usually 1.5 mg daily, which may be taken as a single dose at night or in three divided doses. Dose should be adjusted to individual patient's requirements. Up to a maximum of 4.5 mg daily and up to 3 mg may be given as a single dose daily.
Children: Up to 1.5 mg daily, usually in divided dose, and daily 1 mg as a single dose has been given at night using 0.5 mg tablet.
Duration of treatment: 3-6 months; minimum one month to observe the benefit.
Drowsiness is the most common side effect and also increased appetite, which may lead to increase in body weight. Other side effects are, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, constipation, which are rare. In children central nervous system (CNS) stimulation may occur.
Information of using Pizotifen in pregnancy is limited, so it should only be used during pregnancy under compelling circumstances and it is not recommended to the nursing mother.
Patients should be cautioned about the possibility of drowsiness and informed of its significance in driving vehicles and operation of machineries. Pizotifen may enhance the central effects of sedatives, hypnotic, antihistamines and alcohol. Dose adjustment may be required in patients with renal insufficiency.
Use in Special Population