Alevian Duo (Pinaverium Bromide, Dimethicone)

Active Ingredient: Pinaverium Bromide, Dimethicone
Dosage: 100 mg/300 mg
Route of Administration: Oral
Dosage Form: Soft gel capsules
Quantity per package: 32
Availability: Out of stock

Why is Alevian Duo Not Used in the United States?

Alevian Duo is not sold in the USA likely because it contains components that are not approved by the FDA for the treatment of IBS or because better-studied alternatives are available which meet the stringent safety and efficacy standards required by US regulators.

Alternative Drugs Used in the USA for Similar Conditions

Here are some drugs that are used in the United States for the treatment of similar symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome or similar gastrointestinal conditions:

For IBS and Colitis

For Diarrhea Predominant IBS

Each listed alternative focuses on addressing symptoms of IBS and related disorders in compliance with U.S. healthcare standards.

What is Alevian Duo?

Alevian Duo is a drug with a triple mechanism of action (antispasmodic, regulator of intestinal and antiflatulent transit) indicated for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort (visceral hyperalgesia and allodynia) associated with disorders in frequency or consistency of bowel movement in any of its variants (predominant constipation, predominant diarrhea or alternating constipation-diarrhea), irritable bowel, nervous colitis. Alevian Duo also treats nonspecific intestinal dysfunctions of intestinal motility and other functional conditions associated with meteorism such as functional abdominal distension.

Indications

Alevian Duo is comprehensive treatment with triple mechanism of action (antispasmodic, intestinal transit regulator and antiflatulent) indicated in Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort (visceral hyperalgesia and allodynia) associated with disorders in frequency or consistency of intestinal evacuation in any of its variants (predominant constipation, predominant diarrhea or alternating constipation-diarrhea), irritable bowel, nervous colitis, functional collopathy. It is also applied for nonspecific intestinal dysfunctions of intestinal motility and other functional conditions associated with meteorism such as functional abdominal distention.

Popularity and Use in Specific Countries

Alevian Duo is particularly popular in Latin American countries for several reasons:

1. Availability: Alevian Duo is widely available in pharmacies across Latin American countries, making it easily accessible to individuals seeking relief from gastrointestinal symptoms. Its widespread availability contributes to its popularity among consumers.
2. Marketing and Promotion: Pharmaceutical companies often invest in marketing and promoting their products in Latin American markets. Alevian Duo may benefit from effective marketing strategies that increase awareness and familiarity with the brand among consumers.
3. Cultural Factors: Latin American cultures often place importance on home remedies and traditional treatments for health issues. Alevian Duo, as a pharmaceutical product, aligns with modern healthcare practices while offering a convenient and effective solution to gastrointestinal problems.
4. Affordability: While pharmaceutical pricing can vary, Alevian Duo may be relatively affordable compared to alternative treatments or imported medications, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking relief from gastrointestinal discomfort.

Dosage and mode of application

The typical dosages of Alevian Duo will vary based on the specific formulation and the severity of the symptoms, generally guided by medical advice.

A typical dose regimen: 1 capsule of Alevian Duo twice a day; 10 to 15 minutes before breakfast and lunch. Some severe or difficult-to-control cases may require a dose increase to 1 Alevian Duo capsule 3 times a day. Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have altered gastrointestinal motility regulatory mechanisms in the presence of lipid components of the diet. This results in a state of hypersensitivity and dysfunction in the propulsion of intraluminal gas, so it is advisable to instruct the patient on the advantages of restricting the consumption of dietary fat to no more than 20% of the daily dietary composition. The convenient size of capsules is designed to facilitate the swallowing process in practically any type of patient (e.g. adolescents and elderly patients). It is applied orally.

Contraindications

Here are the contraindications for Alevian Duo:

1. Hypersensitivity to the drug components: Contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to pinaverium bromide, dimethicone, or any of the other ingredients present in the combination formulation.
2. Intestinal Obstruction: Contraindicated in patients with mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction due to the potential risk of exacerbating obstruction.
3. Severe Ulcerative Colitis: Not recommended in patients with severe ulcerative colitis due to limited efficacy and potential risk of worsening symptoms.
4. Infants with Premature Birth: Avoid use in premature infants, particularly those born before 37 weeks of gestation, due to the risk of complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis.
5. Intestinal Perforation: Contraindicated in patients with suspected or confirmed intestinal perforation due to the potential risk of exacerbating the condition.
6. Pregnancy and Lactation: Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established; therefore, use should be avoided unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Side effects

Side effects of Alevian Duo can vary, with allergic reactions being one possibility. Here’s a list starting with allergic reactions:

1. Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or tightness in the chest.
2. Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, or flatulence.
3. Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
4. Headache: Headaches are a potential side effect that may occur during treatment with this medication.
5. Dry Mouth: Dimethicone may cause dryness of the mouth, leading to discomfort or difficulty in swallowing.
6. Skin Reactions: Rarely, skin reactions such as dermatitis or erythema may occur as a side effect of pinaverium bromide or dimethicone.
7. Fatigue: Some individuals may experience fatigue or weakness while taking this medication.
8. Urinary Retention: In rare cases, urinary retention, characterized by difficulty urinating or incomplete emptying of the bladder, may occur.
9. Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances may occur, though this is less common.
10. Palpitations: Some individuals may experience palpitations or irregular heartbeat as a side effect of pinaverium bromide.

It’s essential to promptly report any unusual or severe side effects to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

Interactions

Interactions can occur when Alevian Duo (Pinaverium Bromide + Dimethicone) is taken with other medications, substances, or herbal supplements. Here are some potential interactions:

1. Anticholinergic Medications: Concurrent use with other anticholinergic medications may increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
2. Antidiarrheal Medications: Combining with other antidiarrheal medications may potentiate the effects, leading to excessive constipation or bowel motility suppression.
3. Antispasmodic Drugs: Concurrent use with other antispasmodic medications may enhance the therapeutic effects but also increase the risk of adverse effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
4. Gastrointestinal Medications: Dimethicone may interfere with the absorption of certain gastrointestinal medications, such as fat-soluble vitamins or minerals. It is advisable to administer these medications at least two hours apart from pinaverium bromide + dimethicone.
5. Herbal Supplements: Some herbal supplements may have interactions with pinaverium bromide + dimethicone, particularly those with gastrointestinal effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining herbal supplements with prescription medications.
6. Central Nervous System Depressants: Concurrent use with central nervous system depressants such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids may potentiate sedative effects, leading to increased drowsiness and impaired cognitive function.
7. Potassium Supplements or Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Dimethicone may inhibit gastric motility and delay gastric emptying, potentially affecting the absorption of oral potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics, leading to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels).
8. MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors): There may be an increased risk of adverse effects when pinaverium bromide + dimethicone is taken concomitantly with MAOIs, such as hypertensive crisis or serotonin syndrome.
9. Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of pinaverium bromide + dimethicone during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

Always inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken to prevent potential interactions and ensure safe and effective treatment.