cicletanine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

cicletanine is an antihypertensive medication that primarily acts as a peripheral vasodilator. Its action involves relaxing the smooth muscles of blood vessels, leading to the reduction in the blood vessel constriction or narrowing. By dilating blood vessels, cicletanine helps to lower blood pressure, making it useful in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). 

The spectrum of cicletanine’s action is primarily centered around its ability to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow by reducing the resistance in the peripheral blood vessels. This makes it effective in managing hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Electrolyte imbalance 

gout 

thirst 

muscle pain 

seizures 

GI disturbances 

sialadenitis 

Impotence 

hypersensitivity reactions 

pancreatitis 

glycosuria 

photosensitivity reactions 

paraesthesia 

Hyperglycaemia 

dry mouth 

Weakness 

Hypotension 

Anorexia 

headache 

cholestatic jaundice 

blood dyscrasias 

Dizziness 

postural hypotension 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There is no specific black box warning associated with cicletanine 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to cicletanine or any of its components should not use this medication. 
• Severe Liver or kidney disease: cicletanine is metabolized in the liver and excreted by kidneys. If you have severe liver or kidney dysfunction, the use of cicletanine may need to be avoided or adjusted under medical supervision. 
• Hypotension: cicletanine is a medication used to lower blood pressure. It may not be suitable for individuals with excessively low blood pressure. 
• Children: The safety and efficacy of cicletanine in children have not been well-established, so it is typically not prescribed to pediatric patients. 
• Certain Heart Conditions: cicletanine may not be recommended for individuals with specific heart conditions. Your healthcare provider will consider your specific heart condition and medical history before prescribing this medication.

Caution: 

• Hypotension Risk: cicletanine can cause a drop in blood pressure (hypotension). It is essential for individuals taking cicletanine to be cautious when standing up from a sitting or lying position, as this sudden change in position can lead to dizziness or fainting. Rising slowly can help minimize this risk. 
• Electrolyte Imbalances: cicletanine may affect electrolyte levels in the body, particularly potassium and sodium. Your healthcare provider may monitor your electrolyte levels periodically while you are taking this medication. 
• Salt Intake: Limiting salt (sodium) intake is often recommended when managing hypertension. Your healthcare provider may advise you on dietary modifications to support the effectiveness of cicletanine in lowering blood pressure. 
• Diuretics: cicletanine may be used in combination with diuretics to manage hypertension. If you are taking diuretics along with cicletanine, your healthcare provider will monitor your fluid and electrolyte balance closely. 
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of cicletanine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits of using cicletanine with their healthcare provider.

Comorbidities: 

• Diabetes Mellitus: Hypertension often coexists with diabetes, and many individuals with diabetes require antihypertensive treatment to manage their blood pressure effectively. cicletanine can be used in this population, but the choice of medication should consider the individual’s overall health status. 
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Hypertension is a common complication of CKD. cicletanine can be used in individuals with CKD, but careful monitoring of kidney function is essential, as the medication is excreted primarily through the kidneys. 
• Cardiovascular Disease: Individuals with hypertension are at increased risk of various cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. cicletanine may be prescribed in combination with other cardiovascular medications to manage these conditions effectively. 
• Obesity: It is a risk factor for hypertension. Weight management is often an essential component of hypertension treatment. cicletanine may be prescribed to individuals with obesity as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Some individuals with hypertension may also have COPD. cicletanine can be prescribed cautiously in these cases, as it is important to avoid drugs that may exacerbate respiratory symptoms. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: pregnancy category: not assigned 

Lactation: excreted into breast milk: unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• <b>Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

cicletanine is an antihypertensive medication primarily used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension). Its pharmacology involves several mechanisms of action. It functions as a vasodilator, relaxing blood vessels to reduce vascular resistance, which in turn decreases blood pressure.

cicletanine also has mild diuretic properties, promoting the removal of excess salt and water from the body. Additionally, it may enhance the release of nitric oxide, a compound that further aids in blood vessel relaxation. This combination of actions helps to improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure levels. cicletanine is typically administered orally and is considered safe and effective when used as prescribed by a healthcare provider in the management of hypertension.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Vasodilation: cicletanine primarily acts as a vasodilator. It relaxes and widens blood vessels, which reduces vascular resistance. This relaxation of blood vessels makes it easier for the heart to pump blood and, consequently, lowers blood pressure. 
• Diuretic Effect: cicletanine also has mild diuretic properties. It promotes the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, which can help reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure. 
• Nitric Oxide Release: It may enhance the release of nitric oxide that plays a crucial role in vasodilation. Nitric oxide helps in relaxation of smooth muscles of blood vessels, leading to further blood vessel dilation and improved blood flow. 
• Sympathetic Nervous System Modulation: cicletanine may also have some influence on the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates blood pressure. By modulating this system, it can contribute to blood pressure reduction.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

cicletanine is well-absorbed after oral administration. It is typically taken in tablet form, and its absorption occurs primarily in the gastrointestinal tract. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, cicletanine is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It can cross cell membranes and enter various tissues, including those in the vascular system. 

Metabolism 

cicletanine undergoes hepatic metabolism in the liver. The exact metabolic pathways are not extensively studied, but it is known to undergo some degree of biotransformation in the liver before elimination. 

Elimination and excretion 

The primary route of elimination for cicletanine and its metabolites is through the kidneys. It is excreted in urine, with a portion of the drug and its metabolites being filtered by the kidneys and subsequently eliminated from the body. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Dosage: The dosage of cicletanine will be determined based on condition, age, and other factors.  
• Frequency: cicletanine is usually taken once or twice daily. Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, and do not take more or less than the recommended amount. 
• Timing: Take cicletanine with or without food, as instructed by your healthcare provider. Some medications are best absorbed when taken with food, while others may be taken on an empty stomach. 
• Duration: Continue taking cicletanine for the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better. Stopping the medication prematurely may not fully treat your condition. 
• Storage: Store cicletanine as directed on the medication label, typically at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: cicletanine 

Pronounced: (si-klet-a-neen)  

Why do we use cicletanine? 

cicletanine is a medication used for the treatment of hypertension, which is high blood pressure. It is classified as an antihypertensive agent and is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure levels.  

• Hypertension: cicletanine is primarily prescribed to individuals with hypertension. It acts by relaxing and dilating blood vessels, which reduces the resistance to blood flow, leading to lower blood pressure. By controlling hypertension, it can help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, & kidney problems.