Doxium Capsules 500 mg contain Calcium Dobesilate, a medication primarily used to treat conditions associated with chronic venous insufficiency, diabetic retinopathy, and other circulatory disorders. It works by improving blood vessel health and reducing capillary permeability. Here’s a detailed overview:

Active Ingredient:

• Calcium Dobesilate (500 mg): A venoactive drug that enhances blood flow and strengthens the walls of small blood vessels (capillaries), reducing leakage and improving circulation.

Uses:

1. Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI):
   • Doxium is commonly prescribed to treat symptoms of CVI, which occurs when veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood to the heart. This condition can cause swelling, pain, varicose veins, and skin ulcers.
2. Diabetic Retinopathy:
   • It is used to manage complications related to diabetes that affect the eyes (diabetic retinopathy), where high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems.
3. Hemorrhoids:
   • Doxium may also be prescribed for the treatment of hemorrhoids, as it helps reduce swelling and improve venous circulation in the rectal area.
4. Microangiopathy:
   • Treats conditions affecting the microcirculation (small blood vessels), which can cause damage in areas like the kidneys, eyes, and nerves, especially in people with diabetes or hypertension.
5. Capillary Fragility:
   • Used to prevent or manage conditions caused by fragile capillaries, such as abnormal bleeding, bruising, or excessive swelling.

Mechanism of Action:

• Vascular Protection: Calcium dobesilate works by improving the integrity of blood vessels, particularly the capillaries. It reduces capillary permeability, which decreases the leakage of fluids into surrounding tissues, preventing swelling (edema).
• Improved Blood Flow: It enhances microcirculation by reducing blood viscosity (thickness), improving blood flow in small vessels, and reducing the risk of blood clots.
• Anti-inflammatory Action: Doxium has mild anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing inflammation around affected veins or capillaries.

Dosage and Administration:

• The usual dosage is 500 mg (one capsule) 2-3 times daily, depending on the condition being treated and the severity of symptoms.
• It is typically recommended to take the capsule with food to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Duration of Treatment: Treatment duration can vary depending on the condition. For chronic conditions like venous insufficiency or diabetic retinopathy, long-term treatment may be necessary.

Side Effects:

Doxium is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause some side effects, particularly at higher doses or during long-term use:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • Skin reactions, like rash or itching.
  • Headache or dizziness.
  • Fatigue or general weakness.
• Rare but Serious Side Effects:
  • Allergic reactions, which may include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing (seek immediate medical attention).
  • Blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis), which affect the body’s ability to produce white blood cells, potentially increasing the risk of infection.
  • Fever or flu-like symptoms, which may require medical evaluation.

Precautions:

1. Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to calcium dobesilate or any of the ingredients in the capsule should avoid its use.
2. Kidney or Liver Impairment: Use Doxium with caution in patients with severe kidney or liver problems, as the body may have difficulty processing and eliminating the drug.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Doxium should be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding only if prescribed by a healthcare provider, as its safety in these situations has not been well established.
4. Surgical Procedures: Inform your doctor if you are planning to undergo any surgical procedures, as Doxium may affect blood clotting and circulation.

Drug Interactions:

• Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Since Doxium can influence blood viscosity and circulation, it may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners such as warfarin.
• NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with Doxium.
• Other Vascular Agents: Caution is required when combining Doxium with other medications that affect the blood vessels or circulation.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the capsules out of reach of children.

Key Benefits:

1. Improves Venous Circulation: Doxium helps enhance blood flow, particularly in conditions where circulation is impaired, such as CVI or hemorrhoids.
2. Prevents Capillary Damage: By strengthening capillary walls and reducing permeability, it helps prevent complications from diabetes, hypertension, or fragile blood vessels.
3. Reduces Swelling and Inflammation: Doxium’s anti-edema and anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for conditions involving swelling and inflammation, such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
4. Protects Eyes in Diabetics: It plays a significant role in managing diabetic retinopathy, helping protect the delicate blood vessels in the retina.

Indications for Use:

• People with chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, or hemorrhoids.
• Diabetic patients at risk of or suffering from diabetic retinopathy.
• Individuals experiencing capillary fragility, who are prone to bruising, bleeding, or swelling due to weakened blood vessels.

In conclusion, Doxium 500 mg (Calcium Dobesilate) is an effective medication for managing venous insufficiency, microvascular disorders, and conditions involving fragile blood vessels. However, it should be used under medical supervision, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other vascular-related medications.