Agiolax PICO

Agiolax PICO is known in pharmaceuticals under the name Sodium picosulfate. The drug belongs to a large group of drugs that have the ability to specifically affect the processes of the digestive system and metabolic processes. More precisely, Agiolax PICO can be attributed to the group of laxatives that facilitate the work of the intestines, as a result of which there is a soft removal of feces.

Sodium picosulfate is considered a laxative drug that acts by contact, that is, when it enters the intestine. Such drugs are not recommended for use over a long period of time, because constant help to the intestine can lead to its hypofunction. As a result, without laxatives, it will not be able to cope with its main task in the future.

Agiolax PICO can be taken in a short course or even once if necessary. If there is a need for daily use of a laxative, then it is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the cause of intestinal dysfunction.

Indications Agiolax PICO

Due to the fact that the drug is a laxative, therefore, indications for the use of Agiolax PICO include conditions in which there is a disruption of the intestine. However, do not forget about other pathologies that require regular cleansing of the body from waste products.

Thus, all indications for the use of Agiolax PICO can be divided into two groups: with intestinal dysfunction and concomitant pathology. The first group should include intestinal atony, various types of constipation, except for spastic. Such conditions can be provoked by changes in food and diet, diseases that require prolonged bed rest, vascular and heart pathology, various severe conditions, as well as due to metabolic disorders in the body.

The second group of indications for the use of Agiolax PICO consists of conditions that cause instability of bowel movements. The drug is widely used in the periods before and after surgery in surgical and obstetric-gynecological practice.

This laxative is recommended for use in order to facilitate the process of bowel movement in the presence of anal fissures, enlarged hemorrhoids, myocardial infarction, hernias that are not amenable to surgical treatment, severe arterial hypertension, and also to prepare the intestines for instrumental examination.

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Release form

The release form largely ensures the effectiveness and superiority over other drugs of a certain group of action. Due to the fact that Aniolacs PICO is a laxative, its point of application is considered to be the intestinal wall itself. Thus, to reach the intestine, the drug must pass through the strong environments of the stomach and duodenum and not be subject to splitting.

Based on this information, the form of the laxative Agiolax PICO is lozenges. They have a yellowish tint. They resemble a rectangle in shape with slightly convex tops on both sides. In order to be able to divide the lozenge more easily if a smaller dosage is needed, a dividing line is marked in the middle.

Since the drug is approved for use in children from 4 years of age, the lozenges have a pleasant fruity aroma, reminiscent of plum.

Agiolax PICO contains 5 mg of the main active ingredient - sodium picosulfate in each lozenge. In addition, it is worth paying attention to additional components such as gelatin, lecithin, glycerin, potassium acesulfame, corn starch, guar gum and plum flavoring.

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Pharmacodynamics

Pharmacodynamics Agiolax PICO provides the laxative property of this drug due to the direct effect of the main component of the drug on the intestinal walls. Thus, the active ingredient is sodium picosulfate. In fact, it is a laxative that has a local effect and belongs to the triarylmethane group.

The activation of this element occurs under the influence of certain bacterial enzymes called sulfatases. This process is observed in the large intestine. Then, substances are released that have an irritating effect on the nerve fibers in the intestinal mucosa, resulting in its stimulation. Thus, intestinal motility is restored.

However, the pharmacodynamics of Agiolax PICO will not have the necessary effect in children under one year of age, since their intestinal microflora is not yet developed. Because of this, bacteria have not fully "populated" it, so specific enzymes that activate peristalsis also cannot perform their main function.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of Agiolax PICO is determined by the direct action in the large intestine, since as it moves through the digestive tract, the drug is practically not digested and not absorbed. As a result, this laxative does not undergo a transformation stage in the liver.

Once the preparation has reached the large intestine, it begins to be broken down by special enzymes of bacteria, which are part of the permanent normal intestinal microflora. As a result of the reactions, the active form of Agiolax PICO is converted with the release of free diphenol.

Pharmacokinetics Agiolax PICO takes up to 6 hours of drug breakdown processes, so the effect should be expected no earlier than 6-12 hours after taking it. This period of time is due to the release of the active components of the laxative.

Thus, as a result of only partial absorption of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract, only a small portion of it is detected in the plasma.

Due to the fact that Agiolax PICO reduces the reabsorption of fluid and increases its release into the intestinal lumen, the load on the urinary system is reduced.

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Dosing and administration

The method of administration and dosage depend on the severity of the condition, the person's age and the presence of concomitant intestinal pathology. The dosage must be strictly observed to avoid the development of side effects from overdose.

Agiolax PICO is taken orally, that is, through the oral cavity and the gastrointestinal tract. It is most rational to use this laxative in the evening. This is due to its onset of action and the effect that manifests itself only after 6-12 hours. Thus, bowel movement will presumably occur in the morning.

The lozenge can be taken in any way that is most acceptable to the person. It must be sucked, chewed, swallowed in whole form and washed down with a sufficient amount of liquid.

The method of administration and dosage should correspond to the age. Thus, an adult can take one or two lozenges once a day. Do not forget that one lozenge contains 5 mg of the main active ingredient - sodium picosulfate. In this regard, the maximum daily dosage should not exceed 10 mg. At the age of 4 years, 2.5 mg of sodium picosulfate should be taken, which is half a lozenge.

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Use Agiolax PICO during pregnancy

Independent use of Agiolax PICO during pregnancy is not recommended, since each drug that enters the body during this period should be prescribed only by a doctor.

During pregnancy, bowel dysfunctions are quite common, particularly in the form of constipation. This occurs due to pressure on some areas of the intestines by the enlarged uterus. As the fetus grows, the bowel movement process may not be complete and regular, so it is necessary to use laxatives. As a result, toxic metabolic products are retained in the body, which leads to additional intoxication.

The use of Agiolax PICO during pregnancy is permitted due to the absence of registration of cases of adverse reactions. However, the drug should be taken after the harm to the pregnant woman and the need for this drug are considered.

It is not advisable to use the drug during lactation, as there is no data regarding its penetration into breast milk.

Contraindications

Contraindications to the use of Agiolax PICO include its use at the age of up to 4 years. In addition, all contraindications can be divided into pathology related to the intestines and the whole body.

The laxative medicine should not be used in the presence of intestinal obstruction of various origins, obstructive processes in the intestine, when loops of the intestine itself, tumor-like formations or other objects block the lumen, as well as in acute conditions in the abdominal cavity that require surgical intervention, such as appendicitis. Also, this group should include intestinal diseases with inflammatory genesis, which are in the acute stage.

Contraindications to the use of Agiolax PICO, which concern the whole body, include conditions accompanied by severe dehydration, since this drug increases the excretion of fluid, as well as individual reactions of the body to the action of the main active substance or auxiliary components of the drug.

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Side effects Agiolax PICO

Side effects of Agiolax PICO can manifest themselves from various systems. Thus, in the presence of individual intolerance, the immune system can provoke the development of various hypersensitivity reactions. This condition is characterized by the appearance of rashes on the skin, nausea, dizziness and even the development of angioedema. Skin manifestations in addition to the appearance of rash elements can be bothered by itching and swelling in the area of the rash. In some cases, urticaria is observed.

From the digestive system, pain syndrome of a spasmodic nature is possible, especially in the abdominal area, intestinal dysfunction, in particular, diarrhea, as well as the appearance of flatulence and discomfort.

Since the mechanism of action of the drug involves the effect on the volume of fluid in the body, therefore, the side effects of Agiolax PICO with prolonged use of this drug can manifest themselves in a violation of the ratio of the liquid part of the body and the electrolyte composition. In this regard, the amount of potassium in the body may decrease, which in turn leads to a slowdown in peristalsis.

Overdose

An overdose involves taking the drug in a higher dose over a long period of time. However, these symptoms may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body.

If an overdose has occurred, the following symptoms may appear: disruption of bowel function with the appearance of loose stools and intestinal pains of a spasmodic nature. In addition, as electrolytes (potassium and others) are lost, characteristic symptoms develop, including convulsions.

Long-term use of Agiolax PICO, like other laxatives, contributes to the development of chronic diarrhea, constant pain along the intestines, and hyperkalemia.

In order to stop the effect of the drug on the human body, it is advisable to artificially induce vomiting or, if possible, wash out the stomach. In addition, if necessary, it is necessary to replenish lost electrolytes, especially if the overdose is observed in childhood or old age. In some cases, it is possible to use antispasmodics.

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Interactions with other drugs

The interaction of Agiolax PICO with other drugs is due to its ability to activate the excretion of potassium and other vital electrolytes with feces. Based on this, it is necessary to control the intake of other drugs, the action of which can also lead to the loss of microelements. These may be drugs that affect the urinary system or hormonal.

Among the most active drugs, it is necessary to highlight diuretics, the side effect of which is a decrease in the amount of potassium in the body, as well as corticosteroids.

Adverse interactions of Agiolax PICO with other drugs may manifest as disturbances in heart rhythm, impulse conduction through the heart muscle, resulting in arrhythmia. In addition, potassium deficiency contributes to the development of muscle weakness.

In case of simultaneous use of Agiolax PICO with cardiac glycosides, the main action of which is to increase the work of the heart, an increase in sensitivity to their effects may be observed. As a result, it is necessary to review the dosage of both this laxative and cardiac glycosides.

In turn, antibacterial agents can reduce the activity of Agiolax PICO. This occurs due to the pharmacokinetics of the laxative, which implies activation of the drug by bacteria in the intestine.

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Storage conditions

The storage conditions of Agiolax PICO must be strictly observed to avoid the loss of the medicinal laxative's therapeutic activity. In addition, during improper storage, the drug may acquire additional properties that will manifest in the body as side effects.

Thus, the storage conditions of Agiolax PICO imply compliance with a certain temperature and humidity regime. The drug retains its medicinal properties throughout the expiration date specified by the manufacturer.

If the required conditions are not met, Agiolax PICO may become toxic to the body before the expiration date. This laxative is recommended to be stored at a temperature of no more than 25 degrees in a dark place without direct sunlight.

Also, do not forget about the inaccessibility of the drug to children to avoid overdose, poisoning or getting the lozenge into the respiratory tract. It is necessary to keep the packaging of each lozenge hermetically sealed to preserve the medicinal properties throughout the specified period.

Shelf life

The expiration date assumes a certain period of time during which the manufacturer of the drug guarantees the preservation of the therapeutic properties specified in the instructions. However, it should be taken into account that the expiration date implies mandatory compliance with recommendations for storage conditions.

The shelf life of Agiolax PICO is 3 years from the date of manufacture of this medicine. After the specified period, taking any medication is contraindicated.

The date of manufacture and the last date of use of the drug are indicated on the outside of the package. Since one package may contain several blisters with 10 lozenges each, the blisters also have the date of last use on one side.