fenoverine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

fenoverine is a smooth muscle relaxant primarily used for its antispasmodic action on the gastrointestinal tract. It acts by inhibiting the calcium influx into smooth muscle cells, leading to muscle relaxation.

This makes it useful in conditions associated with gastrointestinal spasms, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The spectrum of fenoverine’s action is focused on relieving spasms in the gastrointestinal tract. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Myalgias 

gastric upset 

reversible rhabdomyolysis 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There were no black box warnings associated with fenoverine. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to fenoverine or related compounds should avoid its use. 
• Gastrointestinal Obstruction: fenoverine may not be suitable for individuals with complete gastrointestinal obstruction as it primarily targets the gastrointestinal tract. In such cases, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the obstruction first. 
• Severe Liver or Kidney Dysfunction: Individuals with severe liver or kidney dysfunction may require dose adjustments or should avoid fenoverine because the drug is metabolized in the liver, and its elimination may be affected by impaired kidney function. 
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of fenoverine during pregnancy and lactation is not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before using fenoverine.

Caution: 

• Cardiovascular Conditions: fenoverine has mild anticholinergic effects, which could potentially affect individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions. Patients with heart conditions should use fenoverine with caution and under medical supervision. 
• Children: fenoverine’s safety and effectiveness in children and infants are not well-documented. Its use in this population should be carefully considered and guided by a pediatrician. 
• Elderly: Individuals are more sensitive to the effects of fenoverine, and lower doses or cautious use may be required.

Comorbidities: 

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): fenoverine is sometimes prescribed to individuals with IBS to help alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and spasms. 
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can cause symptoms like heartburn and discomfort. fenoverine may be used to provide relief from associated muscle spasms. 
• Diverticulitis: Inflammation of diverticula (small pouches that can form in the digestive tract) can lead to abdominal pain and spasms, and fenoverine may help manage these symptoms. 
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): While fenoverine is not typically used to treat IBD directly, it may be used cautiously to manage spasms in individuals with IBD when other therapies are insufficient. 
• Muscle Spasticity: fenoverine can be prescribed to individuals with various conditions characterized by muscle spasticity, such as musculoskeletal disorders or neurological conditions. 

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. 
• 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: 

fenoverine is a medication with pharmacological properties primarily focused on relieving smooth muscle spasms, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. It belongs to the class of drugs known as antispasmodics. fenoverine works by inhibiting the excessive contractions of smooth muscles, which can cause discomfort and pain.

It does this by blocking calcium ion channels in muscle cells, leading to muscle relaxation and relief from spasms. This pharmacological action makes fenoverine useful in treating conditions associated with gastrointestinal spasms, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia, and diverticulitis.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Smooth Muscle Relaxation: fenoverine inhibits excessive contractions of smooth muscles in the digestive system. It does this by blocking calcium ion channels in muscle cells. This blockade reduces the influx of calcium ions, which is necessary for muscle contraction. As a result, the smooth muscles relax, relieving spasms and pain. 
• Gastrointestinal Effects: fenoverine’s primary action is in the gastrointestinal tract, where it can help alleviate symptoms like irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and diverticulitis. By reducing gastrointestinal muscle spasms, it can ease abdominal discomfort and pain. 
• Vasodilation: Some studies suggest that fenoverine may have a mild vasodilatory effect, meaning it can relax blood vessels and potentially reduce blood pressure. This effect, if present, can be beneficial in conditions where blood vessel constriction plays a role in symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

fenoverine is typically administered orally in tablet form. After oral ingestion, it is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. The exact rate and extent of absorption may vary among individuals. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, fenoverine is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It may enter various tissues, including smooth muscle tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, where it exerts its pharmacological effects. 

Metabolism 

fenoverine undergoes metabolism primarily in the liver. The specific metabolic pathways and metabolites of fenoverine are not well-documented in available literature. It is important to note that individual variations in metabolism can occur. 

Elimination and excretion 

The elimination of fenoverine and its metabolites primarily occurs through the kidneys. They are excreted in the urine. The exact half-life and elimination rate of fenoverine may vary among individuals. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Dosage: The recommended dosage of fenoverine will depend on the condition being treated and the strength of the tablet. It is crucial to take the prescribed dosage as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose. 
• Timing: fenoverine tablets are usually taken with meals. This helps with the absorption of the medication and decreases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. 
• Duration: The duration of treatment with fenoverine will be determined by your healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before you finish the medication. 
• Swallowing: Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. 
• Storage: Store fenoverine tablets in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Follow any specific storage instructions provided with the medication. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: fenoverine 

Pronounced: (fen-OH-ver-een)  

Why do we use fenoverine? 

• Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: fenoverine is often prescribed for the relief of symptoms associated with functional gastrointestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome & functional dyspepsia. It can help alleviate abdominal pain, discomfort, bloating, and irregular bowel movements commonly experienced with these conditions. 
• Smooth Muscle Spasms: fenoverine’s muscle relaxant properties make it effective in reducing spasms and cramps in the gastrointestinal tract, urinary system, and other smooth muscles. It is used to alleviate muscle-related pain and discomfort. 
• Gallbladder Disorders: In some cases, fenoverine may be prescribed to ease symptoms associated with gallbladder disorders, such as biliary dyskinesia. It can help relax the gallbladder and reduce pain. 
• Menstrual Pain: fenoverine can be used to relieve uterine muscle spasms and alleviate the pain associated with dysmenorrhea, which is menstrual cramping. 
• Postoperative Pain: After certain types of abdominal surgery, fenoverine may be prescribed to reduce postoperative pain and discomfort related to smooth muscle contractions in the abdomen.