SERMION ® Nicergoline

SERMION ® is a drug based on Nicergoline.

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Peripheral vasodilators.

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications SERMION ® Nicergoline

SERMION ® is indicated in the treatment of cerebral vascular manifestations (acute and chronic metabolic-vascular disorders) on an atherosclerotic, thrombotic, embolic and ischemic basis.

SERMION ® can also be effectively used for disorders of the peripheral circulation, which can be observed in the case of organic and functional limb arteriopathies, in Raynaud's pathology and in case of headaches.

In the treatment of arterial hypertension, SERMION ® is generally used as an adjunct to classical therapy.

Mechanism of action SERMION ® Nicergoline

Nicergoline, the active ingredient of the drug SERMION ® is an alkaloid derivative introduced in clinical practice since 1970. Taken orally, it is absorbed at the gastrointestinal level and rapidly metabolized in the liver, mainly by the cytochromial enzyme CYP2D6.

The therapeutic effects of this active ingredient, and more specifically of its metabolites, seem to be associated with the important pleiotropic activity, which makes it indicated in different types of disorders. In particular, the wide spectrum of action of nicergoline and its derivatives is expressed in a series of therapeutic effects:

Vasodilator effect, mediated by antagonism on alpha 1 receptors expressed on the surface of the smooth muscle of peripheral arterioles, useful for the treatment of hypertension;
Antiplatelet effect platelet, useful in atherosclerotic pathologies;
Metabolic effect, promoting the use of oxygen and glucose;
Antioxidant effect.

After its action, the nicergoline metabolites are eliminated, following glomerular filtration, directly in the urine.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

THERAPEUTIC USES OF NICERGOLINE

The multiplicity of biological effects of nicergoline allows its use in various pathological conditions. The careful examination of the literature shows the efficacy of this drug in the treatment of dementia and related diseases, with an increase in cognitive abilities in 89% of patients treated, and in the treatment of metabolic disorders, vascular disorders, glaucoma and of peripheral arteriopathies.

NICERGOLINE: NOT ONLY VASCULAR EFFECTS

The importance of nicergoline in the treatment of neurological disorders does not seem to be exclusively linked to hemodynamic effects. This study highlights the direct protective effect of this active ingredient on neurons subjected to inflammatory damage. Furthermore, nicergoline seems to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, potentially involved in neuronal degeneration, in an in vitro model.

IPERSENSIBILITY TO NICERGOLIN

Although nicergoline is very well tolerated, there are individuals who are particularly sensitive to this active ingredient. This case-report, in fact, reports a case of acute interstitial nephritis accompanied by fever in a patient who is hypersensitive to nicergoline.

Method of use and dosage

SERMION ® 5/10 mg nicergoline confetti: in the treatment of the aforementioned pathological conditions, the recommended dosage is 1 sugar 3 times a day, at regular intervals and preferably between meals.

SERMION ® nicergoline coated tablets / soluble tablets of 30 mg: the recommended dose is 60 mg a day, taken at regular intervals in two different administrations.

The choice of dosage and duration of treatment must be made by the doctor following a careful evaluation of the patient's physio-pathological picture, and the related therapeutic goals.

The vial format, administered by intravenous infusion or intra-artery, is of exclusive hospital relevance, and can be followed by an oral maintenance period.

IN EVERY CASE, BEFORE TAKING SERMION ® Nicergolina - THE REQUIREMENT AND CHECK OF YOUR DOCTOR IS NECESSARY.

Warnings SERMION ® Nicergoline

The excellent tolerability of SERMION ® minimizes the necessary warnings before and during its intake. In fact, at therapeutic doses, the antihypertensive effect appears to be exclusively applied to hypertensive patients, minimizing episodes of evident hypotension. These have been described more frequently following parenteral administration.

The administration should be carried out with care in case of patients suffering from gout, hyperuricemia or subjected to relative pharmacological treatment. Although the drug does not appear to alter the patient's normal reactive and perceptual properties, side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness or hypotension, could make the use of machinery or driving vehicles dangerous.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

Despite the few studies in the literature did not show teratogenic and mutagenic effects of nicergoline on the fetus, it would be advisable to avoid taking them during the first trimester of pregnancy, and in any case establish the risk ratio with your doctor and gynecologist benefits.

Interactions

Also in this case the literature does not describe potentially dangerous interactions with other active ingredients.

Certainly given the increase in hypotensive efficacy in case of concomitant use of nicergoline and other antihypertensive drugs; effect that can also be used appropriately for therapeutic purposes.

CYP2D6 enzyme inhibitors and inducers do not appear to significantly alter the normal pharmacokinetics of nicergoline.

Contraindications SERMION ® Nicergoline

SERMION ® appears to be well tolerated, therefore it is not recommended to take it exclusively in case of hypersensitivity to nicergoline or to one of the components present in the drug.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

The modest amount of work published in this regard and the good tolerability of the drug, do not allow defining clinically relevant side effects attributable to SERMION ® therapy

The most frequently observed were: hypotension, vertigo, gastro-intestinal disorders, skin redness and sense of heat (induced by vasodilation), drowsiness or insomnia.