Alcerine Capsules

Alcerine Capsule is a slow-acting medicine used for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis affecting the hip or knee. It contains diacerein as its active ingredient. It belongs to the class of medicine known as anthraquinones.

Alcerine Capsule should not be used by children below 18 years of age. Take this medicine as advised by your doctor for the prescribed duration. It is advised to take Alcerine Capsule at the same time every day to gain optimum benefits.

Dosage

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhoea. It is advised to have plenty of fluids and contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital. Also, carry the package of the tablet along with you for easy assessment of the severity of an overdose.

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose when you remember but if it is time for the next dose then skip the missed dose. Do not overdose to compensate for the missed dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Diacerin has anti-inflammatory properties and works by blocking chemicals causing inflammation and slowing down the breakdown of cartilage. Thus, relieves pain and swelling and improves joint function in osteoarthritis patients.

Directions for Use

• It should be taken with or after meals, as per the doctor's prescription.
• Prefer to take the medicine at the same time every day for maximum results.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Alcerine Capsule during pregnancy?

There is limited information available about the effect of Alcerine Capsule during pregnancy. Hence it is recommended to avoid the use of this medicine during pregnancy unless prescribed by your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan a pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Alcerine Capsule while breastfeeding?

There is limited information available about the effect of Alcerine Capsule on breastfeeding. Hence it is recommended to avoid the use of this medicine during breastfeeding unless prescribed by your doctor.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Alcerine Capsule?

There is limited information available on the effect of the medicine on the driving ability of an individual. So it is advised not to drive until you know how the medicine affects you.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Alcerine Capsule?

Drinking alcohol along with Alcerine Capsule can increase the risk of liver damage. So it is important to consult your physician if you drink too often. It may be best to hold off on drinking alcohol until you have finished treatment.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You have or have a history of liver disease.
• You experience diarrhoea after taking this medicine.
• You are above 65 years of age, as old age can make you more prone to develop diarrhoea during the treatment. So it may require dose adjustment.
• You are already taking any other medicines such as laxatives, diuretics etc.
• You experience any symptoms associated with the liver. As it may cause an increase in liver enzymes and hepatitis. The doctor might ask you for liver tests.
• You have an intolerance to any sugar.
• You are pregnant or a breastfeeding woman.
• You should avoid alcohol intake during the treatment as it may increase the risk of liver damage.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to diacerein or any other ingredient of Alcerine Capsule.
• If you have liver problems or undiagnosed stomach disorders.
• If you are suffering from diseases of the intestine such as blockage in the intestine or ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
• If you are giving it to a child.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects

• Diarrhoea
• Stomach ache
• Discolouration of urine

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way the Alcerine Capsule works or Alcerine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction. Also, you should inform your doctor if you have a planned surgery or vaccination scheduled.
• Especially, if you are taking any heart-related medicines like digoxin or diuretics (or water pills). Simultaneous use of these medicines along with Alcerine, can increase the risk of heart rhythm disorder.
• Avoid taking Alcerine along with antacids, as it may affect the activity of Alcerine. Keep a gap of at least 2 hours between these two medicines.

Storage and disposal

• Store it at a temperature below 30°C in a cool and dry place.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I take Alcerine Capsule with omeprazole?

No, avoid taking Alcerine along with antacids, as it may affect the activity of Alcerine. Keep a gap of at least 2 hours between these two medicines.

Is Alcerine Capsule a steroid?

No, It is not a steroid. Alcerine Capsule contains diacerein as its active ingredient that belongs to the class of medicine known as anthraquinones.

What is the use of Alcerine Capsule?

Alcerine Capsule is used to relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. It decreases pain, improves joint function and reduce cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis patients.

Can I stop taking Alcerine Capsule if I feel improvement in symptoms?

No. Abruptly discontinuing the treatment with Alcerine Capsule may worsen the osteoarthritis condition. You should continue the treatment even if you do not have symptoms and still complete the prescribed duration.

How long can I use Alcerine Capsule?

You need to take Alcerine Capsule for as long as a doctor has prescribed it to you. It is usually prescribed for a long duration in order to get maximum benefit.