Filmet

Indications

Filmet is used for treating a variety of conditions, including:

• Chronic Constipation: When lifestyle changes are insufficient, Filmet aids in relieving chronic constipation.
• Intestinal Flora Disturbances: Effective for conditions like colitis, diverticulosis, and gall bladder diseases, as well as restoring intestinal flora after antibiotic use.
• Increased Blood Ammonia Levels: Helps manage hyperammonemia linked to hepatopathy and portal-systemic encephalopathy.
• Infections: Treats anaerobic bacterial infections including post-operative wounds, brain abscesses, and dental infections.

Description

Filmet is a hyperosmolar laxative formulated to alleviate constipation. It works as a non-absorbable disaccharide that attracts water into the bowel, promoting fluid retention and stool softening to enhance bowel movements.

Pharmacology

The active ingredient, Metronidazole, belongs to the imidazole class of antibiotics. It is an antiprotozoal agent that gets reduced by anaerobes in the colon, interacting with DNA to exert its bactericidal effects.

Dosage & Administration

• Tablets and Suspension: Dosages vary by condition and patient age, including specific regimens for trichomoniasis, amoebiasis, giardiasis, bacterial vaginosis, and surgical prophylaxis.
• Vaginal Gel: Apply one applicator full intravaginally once or twice daily for 5 days.
• Suppositories: Administered for anaerobic infections and surgical prophylaxis with specific dosing schedules.
• IV Infusion: Administer 500 mg every 8 hours for adults and children over 12, with a maximum of 4 g daily. Adjust dosage for children under 12.

Interaction

• Disulfiram: Risk of psychotic reactions when combined.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol during and after treatment to prevent disulfiram-like reactions.
• Warfarin: May enhance anticoagulant effects; monitor prothrombin time closely.
• Lithium: May increase lithium plasma levels.
• Cyclosporin: Monitor serum levels and creatinine.
• Phenytoin/Phenobarbital: May reduce Filmet levels.
• 5-Fluorouracil/Bsulfan: Filmet may affect toxicity levels.

Contraindications

Not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to Metronidazole or other Nitroimidazole derivatives. Avoid use in those with galactose or lactose intolerance.

Side Effects

Common side effects include a metallic taste, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, and rashes. Overdose may result in gastrointestinal symptoms and electrolyte imbalances.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Category B; use only if clearly needed.
• Lactation: Caution advised as Metronidazole is excreted in breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

• Monitor blood cell counts and watch for signs of neuropathy with extended use.
• Caution in patients with hepatic encephalopathy; Filmet may darken urine.
• Adjust dosages for hepatic or renal impairment as necessary.

Overdose Effects

High doses may cause vomiting, ataxia, and disorientation. There is no specific antidote; symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended.

Therapeutic Class

Amoebicides, Anti-diarrhoeal Antiprotozoal

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, protected from light, and out of reach of children. Do not use past the expiry date.