Starcad 12.5 mg Tablet

Introduction

Starcad is a prescription medication that contains two active ingredients: Amlodipine and Atorvastatin. It is available under the brand name Starcad. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker, while Atorvastatin is a statin. This combination medication is primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and lower high cholesterol levels.

Uses

Starcad is prescribed to treat two common health conditions: hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. Hypercholesterolemia refers to high levels of cholesterol in the blood, which can contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Dosage and Administration

Starcad should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. The recommended dosage may vary depending on the severity of your condition and your individual response to treatment. Typically, the initial dose is one tablet per day, which can be adjusted as needed. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

Starcad is taken orally with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as it may affect the way the medication is released in your body.

Mechanism of Action

Amlodipine, one of the active ingredients in Starcad, works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure by reducing the resistance to blood flow in the arteries. By improving blood flow, it helps to decrease the workload on the heart and reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure.

Atorvastatin, the other active ingredient in Starcad, belongs to a class of medications known as statins. It works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver that is responsible for producing cholesterol. By lowering cholesterol levels, Atorvastatin helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, flushing, swelling in the ankles, and stomach upset. These side effects are generally mild and should subside as your body adjusts to the medication.

However, if you experience any serious side effects such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. These may be signs of a rare but serious allergic reaction or other complications that require immediate medical intervention.

Drug Interactions

inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with Starcad and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Some common drug interactions include:

• Other calcium channel blockers: Taking Amlodipine with other calcium channel blockers may increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Grapefruit juice: Consuming grapefruit juice while taking Atorvastatin can increase the levels of the medication in your body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
• Certain antibiotics: Some antibiotics, such as erythromycin and clarithromycin, can increase the levels of Atorvastatin in the body, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.

Discuss all potential drug interactions with your healthcare professional before starting Starcad.

Precautions

Before taking Starcad, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of allergic reactions to medications.

Starcad is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to Amlodipine, Atorvastatin, or any other components of the medication. It is also not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the developing fetus or nursing baby.

Certain substances, such as alcohol and grapefruit juice, may interact with Starcad and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. It is advisable to avoid or limit the consumption of these substances while taking this medication.

Storage

Store Starcad at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not use the medication if it has expired or if the packaging is damaged.

Patient Tips

• Take Starcad at the same time each day to help you remember.
• Follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to maximize the benefits of this medication.
• Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare professional to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

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• Amlodipine (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 24 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• van Zwieten PA. Amlodipine: an overview of its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. Clin Cardiol. 1994 Sep;17(9 Suppl 3):III3-6. [Accessed 6 Jun. 2024] Available at: