Meco-OD

Each orange flavoured sublingual tablet contains

Methylcobalamin     1500mcg

DESCRIPTION

MECO-OD contain Methylcobalamin as the active ingredient. Methylcobalamin is one of the two co-enzyme forms of vitamin B₁₂ that acts as a cofactor in the enzyme methionine synthase which functions to transfer methyl groups for regeneration of methionine from homocystine.

PHARMACODYNAMICS

Methylcobalamin transfers its methyl group to homocystine yielding methionine which is then converted to S-adenosylmethionine, a major donor of methyl groups in transmethylation reactions, including synthesis of basic myelin proteins. Methylcobalamin promotes the repair of damaged nerves by the following action:

·   Methylcobalamin is closely involved in folate metabolism which is essential for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines and therefore of DNA.

·   Promotes the conduction through the nerve cell bodies.

·   Improves excitanbility of nerve fibers thus improving neurotransmission.

·   Promotes the sythesis of lecithin, the main constituent of medullary sheath lipids and increases myelination of neurons.

PHARMACOKINETICS

MECO-OD is absorbed rapidly and directly absorbed into systemic circulation. Evidence indicates methylcobalamin is utilized more efficiently than cyanocobalamin to increase levels of one of the coenzyme forms of vitamin B₁₂. Methylcobalamin is well distributed to nerve cell organelles and promotes nucleic acid and protein synthesis. Human urinary excretion of methylcobalamin is about one-third that of a similar dose of cyanocobalamin, indicating substantially greater tissue retention.

INDICATIONS

1.        Peripheral neuropathies like diabetic neuropathy, alcoholic neuropathy, drug induced neuropathy

2.        Dementia

3.        Bell’s palsy

4.        Post herpetic neuralgia

5.        Trigeminal neuralgia

6.        Parkinson’s disease

7.        Alzheimer’s disease

8.        Sciatica

9.        Brain ageing

10.     Sleep Disturbances

11.     Sensory neural hearing loss

12.     Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency

DOSAGE

MECO-OD: 1 Tablet daily to be allowed to dissolve under the tongue.

The dosage may be adjusted depending on the patient’s age and symptoms.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Hypersensitivity to any of the components of this product, Leber’s disease (inherited eye problem), tobacco amblyopia and B₁₂ deficiency without confirmed diagnosis.

ADVERSE EFFECTS

Dyspnea, chest pain, skin hives, rashes, itchy or swollen skin, mild diarrhoea, anorexia, nausea and vomiting.

 

PRECAUTIONS

Regular monitoring of serum K⁺ is recommended during initial therapy as hypokalaemia can occur due to increased cellular K⁺ requirements when anemia corrects.

DRUG INTERACTION

1.        Neomycin, Aminosalicylic acid, H₂ receptor antagonists and Colchicine: Decreased GIT absorption.

2.        Oral Contraceptives: Reduced serum concentration.

3.        Tetracycline: Reduced absorption and efficacy of Methylcobalamin.

PATIENT INFORMATION                                                                                   

MECO-OD should be placed under the tongue and should not be swallowed.