Lycopid

Lycopid is the trade name of a drug whose active ingredient is glucosaminylmuramyl dipeptide glycodipeptide (GMDP). This drug has an immunomodulatory effect and is often used to increase the body's defense functions.

The drug is used in the complex therapy of various infectious and inflammatory diseases, as well as for the prevention of relapses of these diseases. It can be prescribed for bacterial, viral and fungal infections, as well as for immunodeficiency states.

The drug is available in various forms for internal and external use such as tablets, capsules, powder for preparation of solution for injection, etc.

It is important to note that Lycopid may have side effects and contraindications, so it should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor and under his supervision. Before starting to use the drug, you should consult a medical specialist, especially if you have chronic diseases or are taking other medications.

Indications Lycopid

1. Infectious diseases: Lycopid can be prescribed in the complex therapy of various infectious diseases, such as respiratory viral infections (influenza, ARVI), bacterial infections (bronchitis, pneumonia), fungal infections (candidiasis, etc.), as well as in the prevention of recurrence of these diseases.
2. Immunodeficiency conditions: The drug can be used to improve immunity and prevent infections in patients with immunodeficiency conditions such as HIV infection, autoimmune diseases, etc.
3. Inflammatory diseases: The drug can be used in the complex therapy of various inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus etc., to reduce inflammation and decrease disease activity.
4. Postoperative period: Lycopid can be prescribed to stimulate immunity and improve tissue regeneration after surgery.

Release form

1. Oral tablets: Lycopid is most often produced in the form of tablets intended for oral administration. These tablets can have different dosage of the active substance, most often 1 mg and 10 mg, which allows the doctor to select the necessary dose depending on the disease and the age of the patient.
2. Granules for preparation of suspension for oral administration: In some cases, the drug may be available in the form of granules from which a suspension is prepared. This form may be preferred for children or adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Immune system stimulation: Lycopid is able to activate various cells of the immune system such as monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes. This leads to increased phagocytosis (absorption of bacteria and viruses by immune system cells) and enhanced production of cytokines.
2. Modulation of cytokines: The drug is able to regulate the production and release of cytokines such as interleukins, interferons and other signaling molecules. This may help in balancing the immune response, for example, by reducing excessive inflammatory response or enhancing the immune response to infection.
3. Antioxidant Properties: Lycopid has antioxidant properties, which means that it may help in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. This may help reduce inflammation and tissue damage.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties: The drug is able to reduce inflammation in various tissues and organs by modulating the immune response and reducing the release of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators.
5. Immunomodulation in infections: Lycopid may be useful in the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, as it can activate the defense mechanisms of the immune system and improve the body's resistance to infections.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Absorption: Lycopid may be administered orally, after which the active ingredients are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Distribution: After absorption, the drug is distributed in organs and tissues of the body. Detailed information on the distribution of Lycopid in the body may be limited as data may be insufficient.
3. Metabolism: Information on the metabolism of Lycopid may also be limited. Usually, this process may involve various biochemical reactions in the body leading to the transformation of the active components of the drug.
4. Excretion: Lycopid and its metabolites may be excreted from the body through the kidneys or through bile.
5. Half-life: There may be limited or no information on the half-life of the drug.

Dosing and administration

General recommendations for use and dosage, which can be adapted by the physician according to the individual needs of the patient:

Lycopid 1 mg (for adults and children):

• For adults and children with skin diseases (e.g. Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis): Usually prescribed 1 mg (1 tablet) per day. The course of treatment and the exact regimen are determined by the doctor depending on the clinical picture and severity of the disease.
• In the complex therapy of chronic infectious-inflammatory diseases: Dosage and duration of the course of treatment is set individually.

Lycopid 10 mg (mostly for adults):

• For treatment of acute and chronic infectious-inflammatory diseases: The drug is prescribed 10 mg (1 tablet) per day. Course duration and dosage regimen may vary depending on the specifics of the disease and its severity.
• To increase the effectiveness of vaccination: The specific regimen to be used will depend on the type of vaccination and the physician's recommendations.

General application guidelines:

• Lycopid tablets are taken 30 minutes before meals, without chewing and drink a small amount of water.
• It is important to strictly follow the doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and duration of the course of treatment.
• Do not stop taking the drug or change the prescribed dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel an improvement.
• Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, as Lycopid may interact with other medications.

Use Lycopid during pregnancy

There is limited information on the use of Lycopid during pregnancy, and its safety in pregnant women has not been adequately investigated.

The available data are insufficient to determine the risks and benefits of using the drug during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to discuss the possible use of Lycopid during pregnancy with your doctor or obstetrician-gynecologist.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: Patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or other components of the drug should not use Lycopid due to the risk of allergic reactions.
2. Autoimmune diseases: The drug may increase the immune response, so it should be used with caution in patients with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Acute infectious diseases: It is not recommended to use Lycopid during the acute phase of infectious disease.
4. Acute liver and kidney diseases: Patients with acute liver or kidney diseases should use the drug with caution due to possible increase of adverse effects on these organs.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient data on the safety of use of Lycopid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, therefore it should be used with caution during these periods.
6. Children: Safety and efficacy of the drug in children under 18 years of age have not been established, therefore its use in this age group may be limited.

Side effects Lycopid

1. Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to the components of the drug, manifested as skin rash, itching, facial swelling or difficulty breathing. In case of allergic reactions you should immediately stop taking the drug and consult a doctor.
2. Dyspeptic disorders: Gastric and intestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia, etc. May occur.
3. Liver function disorders: Some patients may experience increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood, indicating possible liver damage.
4. Hyperthrombocythemia: Lycopid may cause an increase in the number of platelets in the blood, which may lead to hypercoagulability and an increased risk of thrombosis.
5. Hypersensitivity to light: Some patients experience increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) when taking Lycopid.
6. Other rare side effects: Other rare side effects such as changes in blood composition (e.g. Leukopenia, agranulocytosis), headaches, arterial hypertension, etc. Are possible.

Overdose

Information on overdose with Lycopid is limited, and there is no precise data on possible consequences or symptoms of overdose with this drug. Such cases are probably rare due to good tolerability and safety of the drug at its standard dosages.

In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Appropriate measures will be taken there to assess the patient's condition and provide the necessary assistance.

Interactions with other drugs

At the time of the latest available data on interactions with other drugs, there is limited information on the interactions of Lycopid with other drugs. However, given its properties and use, there may be some general recommendations and limitations.

Interactions may occur with other drugs that affect the immune system or have immunomodulatory properties. In addition, there is a potential for interaction with drugs that affect the processing and excretion of drugs through the liver or kidneys.

Storage conditions

Storage conditions of Lycopid are usually indicated on the drug package and in the instructions for use. Usually it is recommended to store the drug in a dry place at room temperature (15 to 25 degrees Celsius), out of reach of children.

It is important to store Lycopid in its original packaging to prevent contact with moisture, light and other external factors that may affect the stability and efficacy of the drug.

It is necessary to avoid storing the preparation in the bathroom or in places with high humidity or temperature fluctuations, as this may adversely affect the quality of the preparation.

You should also take into account the expiration date of Lycopid, which is indicated on the drug package. After expiration date the drug may lose its effectiveness and safety.