DRASTOP (Chondroitin Sulfate) 100 mg/ml, 2 ml x 10 ampoules (IM Injections)
- $43.90
What is Drastop?
Drastop is a medication used primarily to alleviate symptoms of pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis of the knee and hip joints and spinal osteochondrosis. It contains the active ingredient chondroitin sulfate, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
How is Drastop Administered?
Drastop is available as an injectable solution with a concentration of 100 mg/ml in 2 ml ampoules. The medication is administered intramuscularly, not intravenously. Adults and elderly patients typically start with a dose of 1 ml (100 mg) every other day. If well tolerated, the dose may be increased to 2 ml (200 mg) starting from the fourth injection. A full course of treatment usually consists of 25-30 injections, and if necessary, this course can be repeated after six months.
What Precautions Should Be Taken Before Using Drastop?
Before starting treatment with Drastop, it is crucial to be aware of several contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to chondroitin sulfate or any excipients in the formulation.
- Tendency to bleed or having conditions like thrombophlebitis.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding periods (breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment).
- Children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to unestablished safety and efficacy.
Caution is advised for individuals with blood clotting disorders, diabetes, obesity, those on low-sodium diets, or with kidney function impairment. Women planning pregnancy should also use this medication with caution.
Can Drastop Interact with Other Medications?
Drastop can interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potentially reducing the required dose of NSAIDs. It can also enhance the effects of indirect anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and fibrinolytics, necessitating more frequent blood coagulation monitoring.
What Should Be Done in Case of an Overdose?
Drastop is generally non-toxic, even in cases of significant overdose. However, symptoms such as allergic reactions or injection site hemorrhages may occur. In the event of an acute overdose, symptomatic treatment is recommended alongside discontinuation of Drastop. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for guidance on managing an overdose.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Drastop?
Though side effects are rare, they can occur. Some of the reported adverse reactions include:
- Nausea and vomiting (rare)
- Angioneurotic edema (very rare)
- Unknown frequency: erythema, urticaria, eczema, maculopapular rash, with or without itching and/or swelling, and hemorrhages at the injection site.
What Are the Storage Instructions for Drastop?
Drastop should be stored at temperatures not exceeding 25°C (77°F). It must be kept out of reach of children. The medication has a shelf life of 3 years, and it should not be used beyond its expiration date.
What is the Composition of Drastop?
Each ampoule of Drastop contains:
- Active ingredient: Sodium chondroitin sulfate (200 mg).
- Excipients: Benzyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide solution (1%), hydrochloric acid solution (0.1 M), and water for injection.
What Does Drastop Look Like?
Drastop is a clear, slightly yellowish solution. It is packaged in 2 ml ampoules made of dark glass. Each pack contains 10 ampoules, along with instructions for medical use.
