Apomorphine HCl Injection

APOVIT Hydrochloride Injection is primarily used for the management of Parkinson's disease, particularly to treat off episodes, where the patient experiences increased symptoms due to the waning effects of their regular Parkinson's medication. Below are the primary uses of Apomorphine HCl Injection:

 1. Management of Off Episodes in Parkinson s Disease

- Purpose: Apomorphine provides rapid relief from "off" episodes in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. These episodes are characterized by periods of immobility, slowness, and stiffness when the effects of oral Parkinson's medications diminish.

- Adjunct Therapy: It is used in conjunction with other Parkinson's medications such as levodopa/carbidopa to manage motor fluctuations and improve overall control of symptoms.

 Mechanism of Action

Apomorphine is a potent non-selective dopamine agonist. It stimulates dopamine receptors in the brain, mimicking the action of dopamine, which is deficient in Parkinson's disease. This helps improve motor function and reduces symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).

 Administration

- Subcutaneous Injection: Apomorphine is usually administered subcutaneously (under the skin). It can be given as an intermittent injection for quick relief of sudden "off" episodes or as a continuous subcutaneous infusion for more severe and frequent "off" episodes.

- Dosing: The dosage and administration schedule depend on the severity of symptoms and the patient™s response. Initial doses are often titrated to minimize side effects and optimize therapeutic effects.

Side Effects

- Common: Nausea, vomiting, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), drowsiness, dizziness, yawning, and injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or pain.

- Serious: Severe hypotension, syncope (fainting), hallucinations, confusion, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and allergic reactions.

- Nausea Management