Benizep Capsule SR
Prescription Required
Marketer
La Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd
SALT COMPOSITION
Mebeverine (135mg) + Chlordiazepoxide (5mg)
Storage
Store below 30°C
Click here to view all substitutes
Product Introduction
Benizep Capsule SR is a specialized sustained-release formulation combining Mebeverine Hydrochloride 135mg and Chlordiazepoxide 5mg. This dual-action medication is designed to address the complex symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional gastrointestinal disorders that have both physiological and psychological components.
Mebeverine is an antispasmodic agent that works directly on the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract, effectively relieving painful spasms without affecting normal gut motility. This selective action helps alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort while maintaining digestive function. Unlike some other antispasmodics, Mebeverine does not produce anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, or urinary retention.
Chlordiazepoxide belongs to the benzodiazepine class and acts as an anxiolytic component in this formulation. It works by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural calming agent in the brain. This helps reduce anxiety and tension that often trigger or worsen gastrointestinal symptoms, addressing the significant psychological component of functional bowel disorders.
The sustained-release (SR) technology in Benizep Capsule provides extended relief throughout the day, reducing the frequency of dosing and improving patient compliance. This controlled delivery system ensures a steady release of both active ingredients, maintaining therapeutic levels for prolonged periods.
Benizep Capsule SR is primarily prescribed for patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, particularly when symptoms are exacerbated by stress and anxiety. It is also utilized in the management of other functional gastrointestinal disorders characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort, altered bowel habits, and associated anxiety.
This combination medication offers a comprehensive approach to treating gastrointestinal disorders by simultaneously addressing both the physical symptoms (through Mebeverine's antispasmodic action) and the psychological factors (through Chlordiazepoxide's anxiolytic effect) that contribute to these conditions. The balanced formula helps restore normal bowel function while reducing the anxiety that often accompanies and exacerbates these disorders.
Key Composition & Ingredients
- Mebeverine Hydrochloride (135mg): A direct-acting antispasmodic that selectively relaxes the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract
- Chlordiazepoxide (5mg): A benzodiazepine anxiolytic that enhances the effect of GABA in the central nervous system
- Sustained-release polymer matrix to control drug release
- May contain other inactive ingredients such as microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate, and capsule shell components
Uses of Benizep Capsule
- Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Management of spastic colon
- Relief of gastrointestinal spasms associated with anxiety
- Treatment of functional dyspepsia
- Management of abdominal pain and discomfort due to GI disorders
- Relief of symptoms in gastritis when associated with anxiety
- Adjunctive therapy in stress-induced gastrointestinal disorders
- Management of gastrointestinal symptoms during stressful periods
Benefits of Benizep Capsule
- Dual-action relief of both physical and psychological symptoms
- Sustained release formulation provides extended symptom control
- Reduces abdominal pain and discomfort effectively
- Relieves intestinal spasms without affecting normal gut motility
- Decreases anxiety that may trigger or worsen GI symptoms
- Fewer anticholinergic side effects compared to traditional antispasmodics
- Improves quality of life for IBS patients
- Reduces frequency and severity of IBS episodes
- Helps normalize bowel movements
- Improves patient compliance with once or twice daily dosing
How Benizep Capsule Works
How the Drug Works (Mechanism of Action)
Mebeverine (135mg):
- Acts directly on the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract
- Inhibits calcium influx into smooth muscle cells
- Blocks sodium channels, reducing muscle excitability
- Reduces intestinal motility and relieves spasms without affecting normal peristalsis
- Has no significant effect on the autonomic nervous system, minimizing anticholinergic side effects
- Normalizes intestinal contractions rather than causing complete relaxation
Chlordiazepoxide (5mg):
- Enhances the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain
- Binds to GABA-A receptors, increasing chloride ion flow into neurons
- Produces anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects
- Reduces central nervous system excitability
- Decreases the brain-gut axis hypersensitivity common in IBS
- Helps interrupt the cycle of anxiety and gastrointestinal symptoms
The sustained-release formulation ensures gradual release of both active ingredients, providing prolonged therapeutic effects.
Dosage of Benizep Capsule
Dosage (Daily Dose, Missed Dose, Overdose)
Standard Adult Dosage:
- Typical dosage is one capsule taken twice daily, preferably 20 minutes before meals
- In severe cases, dosage may be increased to one capsule three times daily as directed by a physician
- Duration of treatment usually ranges from 2-4 weeks initially, with periodic reassessment
Missed Dose:
- Take as soon as remembered if within a few hours of the scheduled time
- If closer to the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume regular schedule
- Do not double dose to make up for a missed dose
Overdose:
- Symptoms may include excessive drowsiness, confusion, reduced reflexes, hypotension, and respiratory depression
- Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected
- Treatment may include activated charcoal, gastric lavage, supportive care, and possibly flumazenil (a benzodiazepine antagonist) for severe cases
Mode of Action of Benizep Capsule
Benizep Capsule SR works through a dual mechanism targeting both the peripheral and central components of functional gastrointestinal disorders:
Peripherally, Mebeverine acts directly on the smooth muscle of the intestinal wall, reducing hypercontractility and spasms without completely inhibiting normal motility. It modulates calcium ion movement across cell membranes and blocks sodium channels, which helps normalize intestinal activity rather than causing complete relaxation.
Centrally, Chlordiazepoxide enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA in the brain, reducing anxiety and stress that can trigger or exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms through the brain-gut axis. By addressing this psychological component, it helps break the cycle of anxiety and GI symptoms that often reinforce each other.
The sustained-release formulation ensures a gradual and continuous release of both active ingredients, providing prolonged therapeutic effect and reducing dosing frequency.
How to Use Benizep Capsule
Directions for Use
- Take exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider
- Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water
- Do not crush, chew, or break the capsule as this will affect the sustained-release properties
- Best taken approximately 20 minutes before meals
- Take at regular intervals as directed
- Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve
- Treatment duration typically ranges from 2-4 weeks initially
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and light
Side Effects of Benizep Capsule
Side Effects & How to Manage Them
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness (avoid driving or operating machinery)
- Dizziness (rise slowly from sitting or lying position)
- Dry mouth (sip water frequently, chew sugar-free gum)
- Mild constipation (increase fiber and fluid intake)
- Fatigue (ensure adequate rest, avoid alcohol)
Less Common Side Effects:
- Skin rash or itching
- Headache
- Mild nausea
- Blurred vision
- Sleep disturbances
Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention immediately):
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness)
- Mental/mood changes (confusion, hallucinations, depression)
- Yellowing of eyes/skin (jaundice)
- Difficulty urinating
- Unusual weakness
- Signs of dependence or withdrawal symptoms
Safety Advice for Benizep Capsule
Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it enhances the sedative effect of chlordiazepoxide.
Pregnancy: Generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Category D - Evidence of risk to human fetus.
Breastfeeding: Not recommended during breastfeeding as chlordiazepoxide passes into breast milk.
Driving: May cause drowsiness and affect reactions. Avoid driving and operating machinery.
Kidney: Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Liver: Use with caution in patients with liver disease. Lower doses may be required.
Children: Not recommended for children under 18 years.
Older Patients: Lower doses are generally recommended due to increased sensitivity to side effects.
Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding.
Allergy: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mebeverine, chlordiazepoxide, or any benzodiazepines.
Warnings & Precautions of Benizep Capsule
- Risk of dependence with prolonged use due to chlordiazepoxide component
- Not recommended for long-term use (generally not exceeding 4 weeks)
- May cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of falls
- Not suitable for patients with myasthenia gravis
- Use with caution in patients with respiratory disorders
- May worsen symptoms in acute narrow-angle glaucoma
- Caution in patients with a history of substance abuse
- Abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms
- Not recommended for use in severe depression or psychosis
- May potentiate the effects of other CNS depressants
Interactions with Benizep Capsule
Drug-Drug & Drug-Food Interactions
Drug Interactions:
- CNS depressants (opioids, sleeping pills, other anxiolytics): Enhanced sedative effect
- Antidepressants (especially tricyclics): Increased sedation
- Antipsychotics: May enhance central effects
- Anticonvulsants: Potential altered effectiveness
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, erythromycin): May increase chlordiazepoxide levels
- CYP3A4 inducers (rifampicin, carbamazepine): May decrease effectiveness
- Cimetidine: May increase chlordiazepoxide levels
- Disulfiram: May increase chlordiazepoxide toxicity
- Digoxin: Possible increased digoxin levels
Food Interactions:
- Grapefruit juice may increase chlordiazepoxide levels
- High-fat meals may slightly delay absorption
- Caffeine may reduce the sedative effect of chlordiazepoxide
Contraindications of Benizep Capsule
- Hypersensitivity to mebeverine, chlordiazepoxide, or any component of the formulation
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Sleep apnea syndrome
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
- Myasthenia gravis
- Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe depression or suicidal tendencies
- Psychosis
- Acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, analgesics, or psychotropic drugs
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Breastfeeding
- Children under 18 years of age
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category
- FDA Pregnancy Category D: There is positive evidence of human fetal risk
- Schedule IV controlled substance (due to chlordiazepoxide component)
- Regular monitoring for signs of dependence or tolerance
- Gradual dose tapering recommended when discontinuing treatment
- Periodic liver function tests during long-term therapy
- Monitor for behavioral changes or paradoxical reactions
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use
- Consider drug holidays for patients on long-term therapy
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a regular eating schedule
- Identify and avoid food triggers that worsen symptoms
- Increase dietary fiber gradually to improve bowel regularity
- Ensure adequate hydration (at least 8 glasses of water daily)
- Practice stress management techniques (meditation, deep breathing)
- Regular moderate exercise can help reduce stress and improve bowel function
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods if they trigger symptoms
- Keep a symptom diary to identify patterns and triggers
- Consider incorporating probiotics into diet
- Maintain good sleep hygiene to reduce stress and anxiety
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine
Healthcare providers prescribe Benizep Capsule SR because:
- It addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of IBS
- The sustained-release formulation improves patient compliance
- It provides effective relief from abdominal pain and spasms
- It helps break the cycle of anxiety and GI symptoms
- It has fewer anticholinergic side effects than some alternatives
- It can improve quality of life for patients with functional GI disorders
- It allows for fewer daily doses than immediate-release alternatives
- It provides a comprehensive approach to managing complex GI disorders
Substitutes of Benizep Capsule & Alternative Medicines
Alternative combinations with similar ingredients include:
- Mebedaz (Mebeverine + Chlordiazepoxide)
- Colospa Retard (Mebeverine sustained release)
- Mebaspa (Mebeverine + Chlordiazepoxide)
Single-ingredient alternatives:
- Mebeverine alone: Colospa, Duspatalin
- Chlordiazepoxide alone: Librium
- Other antispasmodics: Dicyclomine, Hyoscine
- Other anxiolytics: Alprazolam, Buspirone (non-benzodiazepine)
Storage Guidelines
- Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F)
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Store in the original container or packaging
- Keep tightly closed when not in use
- Keep out of reach of children
- Do not store in the bathroom
- Do not use after the expiration date
- Dispose of unused medication properly according to local guidelines
User Feedback & Patient Concerns
Common patient questions include:
- How quickly will I notice improvement in my symptoms?
- Can I become dependent on this medication?
- How long should I continue taking this medication?
- Can I take this medicine for an extended period?
- What should I do if I experience drowsiness?
- Can I take antacids with this medication?
- Will this medication affect my ability to work?
- How does this compare to individual components taken separately?
Quick Tips for Benizep Capsule
- Take 20 minutes before meals for optimal effect
- Avoid alcohol completely during treatment
- Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medicine affects you
- Complete the full course as prescribed
- Do not stop taking abruptly after prolonged use
- Swallow capsules whole with water
- Store medication at room temperature away from children
- Keep a symptom diary to track improvements
- Practice stress reduction techniques to enhance medication effectiveness
- Report any unusual side effects to your doctor promptly
Fact Box
Chemical Class:
- Mebeverine: Musculotropic antispasmodic
- Chlordiazepoxide: Benzodiazepine
Habit Forming: Yes (Chlordiazepoxide component)
Therapeutic Class: Antispasmodic + Anxiolytic combination
Action Class: Direct-acting smooth muscle relaxant + GABA receptor modulator
Useful Diagnostic Tests
Before or during treatment, the following tests may be recommended:
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function tests
- Complete blood count
- Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (to rule out other conditions)
- Anxiety and depression screening
- Stool examination for parasites or infection
- Food intolerance tests
More Information & References
For more information, consult reputable medical resources such as:
- British National Formulary
- American Gastroenterological Association guidelines
- International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Rome Foundation criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders
- World Journal of Gastroenterology
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual responses to medication may vary. Due to the chlordiazepoxide component, this medication has potential for dependence and should be used exactly as prescribed.
"Benizep Capsule SR – Trusted relief for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Order online at RXDawa across India."
🟢 Benizep Capsule SR – Ease IBS symptoms with this slow-release formula. Available now at RXDawa.online for fast and secure delivery.