Meldonium, also known as Mildronate, contains the active ingredient meldonium dihydrate. It is sometimes referred to by the alternative name MET-88. This medication is used to improve blood flow, mainly for heart-related conditions such as angina and heart failure. It helps to increase physical capacity and endurance.
The Meldonium price is approximately £0.62 – £0.98 per pills. It depends on the size of the pack and the amount of active ingredient (40 or 360 mg).
Meldonium, also known as Mildronate or THP (trimethylhydrazinium propionate), is a compound comprising of C6H14N2O2. It is a quaternary ammonium salt with properties that include being a structural analog of gamma-butyrobetaine, which is a precursor in the biosynthesis of carnitine.
Meldonium is absorbed rapidly and completely following oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically reached within 1 to 2 hours post-administration. The bioavailability of the oral dose ranges from 78% to 80%. It undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver, with half-life elimination observed around 3 to 6 hours.
Meldonium inhibits gamma-butyrobetaine dioxygenase, an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of carnitine. By reducing carnitine levels, it subsequently reduces the fatty acid oxidation within mitochondria. This shift encourages glucose metabolism over fatty acid metabolism, which is more oxygen-efficient, thus potentially boosting energy levels and improving endurance.
Meldonium is predominantly utilized in the management of ischemic heart disease, angina pectoris, heart failure, and myocardial infarction. It is also applied in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and aiding physical and mental performance enhancement, particularly in cases of physical overexertion and rehabilitation post-surgery.
Meldonium is available in several forms: oral capsules, tablets, and injectable solutions. The oral capsule form is typically found in strengths of 250mg and 500mg. The injectable form is generally provided in 100mg/mL strength for ease of intravenous or intramuscular administration.
The standard oral dosage for treating ischemic heart diseases is 500mg to 1000mg daily, usually divided into two doses. For physical and mental performance enhancement, a typical dosage ranges from 500mg to 750mg per day. The injectable form is often administered at a dosage of 500mg once daily.
Meldonium usage can lead to potential side effects including headache, dizziness, nausea, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Rarely, allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, may occur. In some cases, transient hypotension has been reported. Always monitor patients for adverse reactions.
Meldonium is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It’s also advised against usage in severe renal and hepatic insufficiency. Not recommended for individuals diagnosed with chronic epilepsy and those with intracranial hypertension.
Meldonium can interact with anticoagulants and other medications influencing blood viscosity. Caution is advised when used alongside drugs metabolized via the same pathways or impacting cardiovascular function, as this can potentiate or diminish the effects of either drug.
Meldonium should be stored in its original packaging, kept at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be stored out of reach of children and protected from light exposure to maintain its integrity and effectiveness.
In elderly patients, dosage adjustments might be necessary due to the possible decline in renal function. In patients with hepatic impairment, careful monitoring is advised due to altered drug metabolism. The safety and efficacy in children have not been established, hence its use in pediatric populations should be avoided.
Patients should be regularly monitored for signs of cardiovascular anomalies, blood pressure variations, and liver function tests. Continuous assessment of renal function is crucial in long-term use. Patient’s adherence and response to therapy should be monitored to determine efficacy and safety.
Meldonium may influence certain laboratory tests by altering parameters like lactate and glucose levels. It could also potentially affect cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These variations should be considered when interpreting results in patients undergoing meldonium therapy.
Meldonium falls under the pharmacological category of metabolic modulators. It is identified as a cardioprotective medication, with properties enhancing physical performance, often classified as an anti-ischemic drug.
Meldonium is not approved by the U.S. FDA but is registered for medical use in several European countries and in Russia. It was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of banned substances in 2016 due to its performance-enhancing properties.
Meldonium should be handled with care, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures. Use personal protective equipment to prevent inhalation or contact with skin or eyes. Proper disposal methods should be used to avoid environmental contamination.