Let's learn about the medicine Dextromethorphan and Quinidine (Nuedexta)

Have you ever had a moment of uncontrollable laughter for no apparent reason, or a moment of uncontrollable crying, even though you're not sad? Maybe someone you know has had this experience. This is actually a condition that can occur with certain neurological conditions. In medical terms, we call this Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA) . So today we're going to talk about a special medication that can help control this abnormal laughing and crying.

What is this medicine?

Simply put, this is a combination of two medications. They are Dextromethorphan and Quinidine . These two medications are combined in capsules and are used to treat a condition called Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA). You may have seen this medication under the brand name Nuedexta . This medication works by controlling certain signals in the brain, helping to control those uncontrollable laughing and crying.

Your doctor may also prescribe this medication for other conditions, so if you have any questions, talk to your doctor about it.

Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before prescribing this medication to you, your doctor should be aware of your complete health history. Be sure to tell them about any of the conditions below, especially if you have any.

• Heart disease: If you have heart disease, such as an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).
• Liver or kidney disease: If there is any problem with the functioning of the liver or kidneys.
• Myasthenia Gravis: If you have a neuromuscular disease like Myasthenia Gravis.
• Low blood potassium or magnesium levels: If this has been detected in blood tests.
• Dementia: If you have memory problems or dementia.
• Drug or alcohol addiction: If you have previously been addicted to drugs or alcohol or if you currently have that problem.
• Allergies: If you have allergies to this medicine (Dextromethorphan, Quinidine), other medicines, foods, or dyes.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

By informing your doctor about these things, he will be able to provide you with safe treatment.

How do you use this medicine correctly?

Be aware of these points when using this medicine.

• Swallow this medicine with a glass of water.
• Take it exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the right time. Never take more than the prescribed dose.
• This can be taken before or after meals, but if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
• Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
• If you are giving this medicine to children, talk to a pediatrician about it and follow their advice.

What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) without delay. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time, including the one you missed.

Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)

This medicine may interact with other medications you are taking, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products).

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor. Go to the clinics on time and have your condition checked.
• You may feel dizzy. If you experience any dizziness or lightheadedness while taking this medicine, tell your doctor immediately.
• Avoid driving, operating machinery, and doing anything that requires alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Avoid standing up suddenly, especially if you are elderly. Get up slowly. This can reduce the risk of dizziness and fainting.
• Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can increase dizziness.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects.

How do you store medicine?

• Keep out of reach of children and pets. This medicine can be fatal if accidentally ingested by an adult, child, or pet.
• Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
• Do not use expired medicine.
• Mix any unused medicine with something like coffee grounds or cat litter, put it in a tightly sealed container, and discard it.

Nuedexta, Dextromethorphan, Quinidine, Pseudobulbar Affect, PBA, Side Effects, Medication, Neurological Disorders, Mental Health, Laughter, Crying