New publications
Preparations
Blemaren
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Blemaren is a medicinal product designed to dissolve urate (uric acid) stones in the kidneys and urinary tract, as well as to prevent their formation in conditions where it is necessary to shift the pH of the urine to the alkaline side. It is also used to maintain the right balance of acid-base state of the body (e.g. In gout).
Indications Blemarena
Blemaren is used in the following cases:
- Dissolutionof urate stones in the kidneys and urinary tract: The drug is effective for dissolving stones consisting mainly of urates (uric acid salts) by shifting the pH of urine to alkaline side.
- Prevention of urate stone formation: Blemarin is used to prevent the formation of new stones in people at increased risk of stone formation, including patients with gout or those with a history of urate stones.
- Treatment and prevention of gout recurrences: Because gout is associated with high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can crystallize in the joints, the use of Blemarin helps control urate levels, preventing exacerbations of the disease.
- Alkalinization of urine: In some cases, the treatment and prevention of various urolithiasis requires a change in theacid-alkaline balance of the urine. Blemarin is effective in achieving this goal, especially in conditions where it is necessary to increase the alkalinity of the urine.
- Metabolic acidosis: Sometimes Blemarin is used to correct metabolic acidosis, a condition in which the concentration of acids in the blood is increased, including due to disturbances in metabolic processes.
The use of Blemarin should be under the supervision of a physician who can adequately assess the indications, possible contraindications and risks of using the drug in each specific case.
Release form
Blemaren is available in several forms:
- In the form of effervescent tablets, packed 20 pieces each in a plastic tube. Four such tubes, together with indicator paper, control calendar and instructions for use, are placed in a cardboard pack.
- In the form of granules for preparation of solution for oral administration, which are packed 200 g each in a polyethylene bag. The bag is accompanied by a bag clip, measuring spoon, control calendar, indicator paper.
- In a package of 300 g with dosing spoon, control calendar attached.
- In the form of powder with granular composition or white effervescent tablets for oral administration. Tablets are available in packs of 80 pcs.
These various forms of release provide convenience of choice for patients depending on their preferences and circumstances.
Pharmacodynamics
Blemarin is a medication commonly used to dissolve kidney and urinary tract stones. The pharmacodynamics of Blemarin lies in its ability to change the pH of the urine to a more alkaline side, which helps dissolve urate, oxalate, and cystine stones.
The active ingredients of Blemarin include potassium citrate and sodium citrate, which, when ingested, are converted into bicarbonates, increasing the alkaline reserves of the blood and changing the pH of the urine. This alkaline state of the urine not only helps dissolve existing stones, but also prevents the formation of new stones by creating an unfavorable environment for their formation.
In addition, alkaline urine helps to reduce the pain associated with the passage of stones and reduces the risk of inflammation in the urinary tract. It is important to note that a doctor should be consulted before using Blemarin, as there are certain contraindications and possible side effects such as gastrointestinal irritation, allergic reactions and changes in electrolyte balance.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of Blemarin is related to the processes that occur with the drug after it enters the body: absorption (absorption), distribution to tissues and organs, metabolism (transformations that substances undergo in the body) and excretion (excretion).
Blemaren is an effervescent (effervescent) tablet containing potassium citrate, sodium citrate and citric acid. When the tablet is dissolved in water, a solution is formed, which is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract when taken orally.
Absorption: Active components of Blemarin are rapidly and almost completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Absorption occurs mainly in the small intestine.
Distribution: After absorption, citrates enter the systemic bloodstream and are distributed throughout the body. They can easily penetrate into various tissues, including the kidneys, where they exert their therapeutic effects.
Metabolism: In the body, citrates are metabolized to bicarbonate, which leads to alkalization of urine. This process not only helps dissolve kidney stones, but also reduces the risk of new stone formation.
Excretion: Blemarin metabolites, mainly bicarbonates, are excreted from the body through the kidneys with urine. This increases the alkaline reserve of the blood and changes the pH of the urine to a more alkaline side, which is important for dissolving urate, oxalate and other types of stones.
The pharmacokinetics of Blemarin ensures its efficacy in the treatment and prevention of kidney stone formation by alkalizing the urine.
Dosing and administration
The method of use and dosage of Blemarin may vary depending on the specific treatment goals, individual patient characteristics, and doctor's recommendations. In general terms, here is how Blemarin is usually used:
General recommendations
- Determination of urine pH: Before starting Blemarin and during treatment, it is important to measure urine pH regularly using special test strips. This will help to adapt the dosage to achieve the desired effect.
- Dissolution of tablets: Blemarin effervescent tablets should be dissolved in a glass of water. The fully dissolved solution is taken orally.
- Frequency of administration: Blemarin is usually taken 2-3 times a day after meals, but the exact dosage and frequency of administration should be determined by a physician.
Dosage
- To dissolve stones: Individual dosage is set by a doctor based on urine pH measurements to maintain it at 6.2-7.0. Usually the initial dose is 2-3 tablets per day.
- For prevention of stone formation and gout: The recommended dosage may be lower at 1-2 tablets per day, with regular monitoring of urine pH to adjust the dosage.
Duration of treatment
- Dissolution ofstones: The length of treatment depends on the size of the stones and the rate at which they dissolve, which can take from several weeks to several months.
- Prophylaxis: Taking Blemarin for prophylactic purposes may be recommended for a longer period of time, depending on the individual risk of stone formation and associated conditions.
Important tips
- During treatment with Blemaren, it is important to maintain adequate hydration by consuming enough fluids throughout the day to help dissolve stones and eliminate them.
- Patients should have regular medical follow-up to monitor the efficacy and safety of treatment.
Before starting to take Blemarin, as well as when changing the dosage or treatment regimen, it is necessary to consult a doctor. This will help to avoid possible side effects and achieve the best results of treatment.
Use Blemarena during pregnancy
The use of Blemarin during pregnancy requires special caution and should only take place by prescription and under the strict supervision of a doctor. Safety studies on the use of this drug in pregnant women are limited, so the risk of possible side effects or influence on fetal development should be carefully evaluated in each individual case.
During pregnancy, significant changes occur in a woman's body, including changes in metabolism and kidney function, which can affect the dynamics of kidney and urinary tract stone formation and dissolution. At the same time, the balance of acids and bases in a pregnant woman's body may also change, making the use of products that affect acid-base balance particularly important to monitor closely.
When a doctor considers the use of Blemarin necessary during pregnancy, it is usually to treat or prevent conditions that may pose a greater risk to the health of the mother or fetus than the potential risk from the drug. For example, in cases where the risk of kidney stones is high and could lead to serious complications.
Important:
- Discuss with your doctor all the potential risks and benefits of using Blemarin during pregnancy.
- Strictly follow the prescribed dosage and regimen.
- Have regular medical check-ups and monitor your health while taking the drug.
Pregnant women should avoid self-administration of any medication, including Blemarin, without consulting a physician.
Contraindications
Blemarin has a number of contraindications for use, including:
- Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
- Severe renal insufficiency (with an ICF of less than 30 ml/min).
- Alkalosis.
- Hyperkalemia.
- Hypernatremia.
- Hypercalcemia.
- Hypocalciuria (e.g., in idiopathic hypercalciuria).
- Children under 12 years ofage.
In the presence of chronic diseases or the use of other medications, consultation with a physician is necessary before starting to take Blemarin, as certain adjustments to treatment or dosage may be required, as well as consideration of possible interactions with other drugs.
Side effects Blemarena
Blemarin, like any other medicine, can cause side effects, although they do not occur in all people taking the drug. It is important to remember that a doctor prescribes Blemarin by assessing that the benefits of taking it for the patient outweigh the risk of possible side effects. Some of the possible side effects of taking Blemarin are listed below:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. These symptoms may occur due to the alkaline effect of the drug on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Metabolic disorders: The use of Blemarin may lead to alkalosis - a shift in the acid-base balance of the body towards an increase in blood pH.
- Electrolyte balance disorders: Changes in the levels of potassium, sodium and other electrolytes in the blood may occur, which may require correction.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, skin rashes, itching, urticaria or more serious allergic reactions may occur.
- Elevated blood urea: Some patients may experience an increase in blood urea levels, especially those with impaired kidney function.
- Thirst and increased urination: Due to changes in urine pH and the effect of diuresis, patients may experience thirst and increased urination.
Overdose
The following symptoms may occur if you overdose on Blemaren:
- Alkalosis is a condition in which the pH of the blood becomes too high due to an excess of alkaline.
- Hyperkalemia - elevated levels of potassium in the blood, which can lead to heart rhythm disturbances.
- Hypernatremia - increased sodium in the blood, which can cause thirst, kidney malfunction, and swelling.
- Gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, which may result from irritation of the GI mucosa.
Treatment of overdose consists of gastric lavage, administration of enterosorbents (e.g. Activated charcoal) and symptomatic therapy. It is important to seek medical attention immediately in case of suspected overdose to prevent possible complications.
Interactions with other drugs
Blemarin may interact with a number of other medicines, changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamin supplements, and herbal preparations. Below are some examples of interactions between Blemarin and other medicines:
- Tetracycline antibiotics: Blemarin may decrease the absorption of tetracyclines, which reduces their effectiveness. It is recommended to take these antibiotics 2-3 hours before or after taking Blemarin.
- Quinolone antibiotics: As with tetracyclines, Blemarin may affect the absorption of quinolones such as ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin, reducing their efficacy.
- Iron-containing drugs: Blemarin may decrease iron absorption, which is important to consider when treating anemia.
- Cardiac glycosides (e.g. Digoxin): Changes in blood potassium levels caused by Blemarin may affect the efficacy and toxicity of cardiac glycosides.
- Lithium: Blemarin may increase the concentration of lithium in the blood, which increases the risk of toxic effects. Careful monitoring of lithium levels is required during concomitant use.
- Salicylates: In concomitant use with Blemarin may increase alkalosis, which requires dosage adjustment.
- Drugs affecting urine acidity: Because Blemarin alters urine pH, its interaction with other drugs that also affect urine acidity (e.g., acetazolamide) may require dosage adjustments of these agents.
- Drugs for the treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease: Changes in electrolyte balance caused by taking Blemarin may affect the efficacy and safety of these drugs.
Storage conditions
Storage conditions of Blemarin are usually indicated on the drug package and in the enclosed instructions. To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the drug, the following recommendations should be observed:
- Storage temperature: Blemarin should be stored at room temperature, between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid storing the drug in places with high temperature or direct sunlight.
- Protection from moisture: The effervescent tablets should be stored in their original packaging to protect them from moisture. Do not transfer tablets to other containers as this may affect their stability and solubility.
- Availability to children: Keep Blemarin out of the reach of children to prevent accidental swallowing.
Shelf life
Do not use Blemarin after the expiration date stated on the package. Expired expiry date may indicate a decrease in the effectiveness and safety of the drug.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug " Blemaren" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.