Locastad®
introduction
Locastad® is a medicine that is often used to relieve the symptoms of sore throats in adults and adolescents (older than 12 years) in the context of bacterial and viral infections. It is taken in the form of lozenges (different flavors). Locastad® is a preparation that contains three active ingredients (lidocaine, amylmetacresol, dichlorobenzyl alcohol) that are responsible for the analgesic and antiseptic or slightly antibacterial effect.
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Indications for Locastad®
The drug is used in the context of bacterial and viral infections of the upper respiratory tract (Oral cavity, throat, pharynx). One speaks of one 'Classic cold'. This is often characterized by a Itching and burning in the throat such as Pain when swallowing and speaking out. It is often accompanied by symptoms that are not specific to the disease (including runny nose, hoarseness, headache, fever). The majority of these infections are caused by Viruses (Rhino viruses, corona viruses, parainfluenza viruses), secondary colonization and infection with bacteria is possible.
Colds are common Children and infants (on average 6 to 8 times a year). Colds are usually less common in adults. Nevertheless, the infections of the upper respiratory tract are among the most common infectious diseases of people worldwide.
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Locastad® for a sore throat
Through the pain relieving effect and at the same time local antiseptic or antibacterial effect Locastad® mainly relieves the sore throat caused by infections. Due to the fast pain-relieving effect of the active ingredient Lidocaine sore throats can be improved within a short period of time.
If symptoms resolve within 2 days do not improve or worsen, you should consult a doctor to rule out another cause. Amongst other things for larger wounds in the mouth and throat area should Locastad® not applied become.
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Active ingredients contained in Locastad®
The preparation Locastad® contains three active ingredients: Lidocaine, Amyl metacresol, Dichlorobenzyl alcohol.
Lidocaine is a Local anesthetic amide-type, which blocks voltage-dependent sodium channels in the body. This mechanism of action can suppress the transmission of pain along nerve fibers and thus alleviate the pain sensation.
The combination of Amyl metacresol and Dichlorobenzyl alcohol has a local antibacterial and antiviral effect. In the course of viral or bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract, this not only relieves the symptoms (including a sore throat), but also reduces the Pathogen and thus the Cause of the infections fights.
Side effects of Locastad®
It occurs rarely (less than 1 in 1,000 patients) with use mild immune system disorders.
Hypersensitivity reactions, which are noticeable by burning or itching, are possible, a painless one Swelling of the face (so called angioedema), a Stinging in the throat area and the Appearance of an unpleasant taste come.
In the event of a severe overdose or use in children under 12 years of age, the systemically high doses of the individual active ingredients can trigger different symptoms. High levels of lidocaine in the blood can cause discomfort in the area Central nervous system or des Heart come.
Seizures, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, low blood pressure (Hypotension) as well as a slow heartbeat (Bradycardia) are possible in exceptional cases. With prolonged use (more than 5 days), the antibacterial and antiviral effects of amylmetacresol and dichlorobenzyl alcohol can cause Destruction of the normal bacterial flora in the mouth and throat come, which is important for protection against pathogenic germs, among other things. As a result, further and sometimes more serious infections can occur.
Interactions of Locastad®
The possible interactions of Locastad® with other drugs are mainly due to the ingredient lidocaine. The content of lidocaine in Locastad® is only very low. Interactions can include the Combination with beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists (including 'beta blockers'), Cimetidine and Class III antiarrhythmics (including mexiletine, procaine) occur. Also one allergic reaction an allergy to other local anesthetics of the amide type is possible.
Simultaneous use with other antiseptics is also not recommended as it can lead to a Cancellation of the antiseptic effect can come.
Contraindications - when should Locastad® not be taken?
Locastad® is because of its lidocaine content not for children under 12 years suitable. Compared to adults it gets significantly in children more lidocaine in the bloodstreamcausing it to Central nervous system and heart symptoms can come.
At Allergies or hypersensitivity reactions to local anesthetics or other ingredients of Locastad® are also not recommended.
At Asthmatics The taking of Locastad® is indicated only under medical supervision, as the numbness of the throat creates the risk that the patient coughs while eating and the airways can be blocked.
Also is for Diabetes mellitus patient to take into account that the lozenges usually Sugar syrup contain. Precise information about the amount of ingredients can be found in the package insert.
Dosage of Locastad®
Locastad® comes in the form of Lozenges administered. Contains a lozenge 2mg lidocaine, 0.6 mg amyl metacresol and 1.2mg dichlorobenzyl alcohol.
A lozenge can every 2-3h to be consumed. The maximum should be for particularly severe infections no more than 8 tablets in adults or. 4 tablets in adolescents (older than 12 years) during the day be taken.
Care should be taken not to drink or eat directly after taking Locastad®. Due to the slightly numbing effect of lidocaine, it can difficulties swallowing come.
Locastad® should not in children and adolescents under 12 years of age be applied.
Price from Locastad®
Locastad® is no prescription required to purchase in the pharmacy. There are currently two different flavors in stores: Orange, honey / lemon.
A pack of 24 lozenges is available for a price between 5 to 10 € available.
Locastad® during pregnancy
The Security of Locastad® during the pregnancy and the Lactation is not used.
Lidocaine can both cross the placenta and also accumulate in breast milk in small doses. The data collected in recent years on the local use of Locastad® during pregnancy and breastfeeding suggest, however does not indicate an increased risk of congenital malformations or developmental disorders of the newborn.
Due to a lack of experience, a Use not recommended during pregnancy become. When used during breastfeeding, the doctor in charge should weigh up the benefits of breastfeeding for the infant and the benefits of the therapy for the woman.
