LuciElafib 80mg, Elafibranor Tablets
LuciElafib 80mg is a medication that contains Elafibranor, a novel investigational drug developed for treating chronic liver diseases, particularly nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH is a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can progress to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver failure. LuciElafib, by targeting key metabolic pathways, represents a promising therapeutic intervention for managing metabolic and inflammatory liver disorders.
What is LuciElafib 80mg (Elafibranor)?
Elafibranor, a dual peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) alpha/delta agonist, is present in LuciElafib 80mg.It is an orally administered drug designed to target both lipid metabolism and inflammation in the liver. Elafibranor is under investigation and not yet approved in many countries but has shown significant efficacy and safety in clinical trials for NASH.
How It Works / Mechanism of Action
Elafibranor acts by activating two nuclear hormone receptors:
PPAR-α (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha): Regulates fatty acid oxidation in the liver, promoting the breakdown of fats and reducing liver fat accumulation.
PPAR-δ (delta): Enhances glucose utilization in skeletal muscles and improves insulin sensitivity.
By targeting both receptors, Elafibranor:
- Reduces hepatic fat content
- Improves liver inflammation and fibrosis
- Enhances insulin sensitivity
- Lowers blood triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels
- This dual action makes it a promising candidate in treating metabolic syndrome-related disorders, especially NASH.
How to Use / Indications
LuciElafib 80mg is primarily used for:
- Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): A progressive liver disease characterized by fat accumulation, inflammation, and liver cell damage.
- Ongoing studies are evaluating its utility in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).
- Dyslipidemia and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (as an adjunct, under study)
- Cardiometabolic disorders associated with metabolic syndrome
Note: Use may vary based on clinical trial outcomes and regulatory approvals in different regions.
How to Take / Dosage
- Usual Adult Dose: One tablet of LuciElafib 80mg taken once daily, preferably with food to improve absorption.
- Route of Administration: Oral
- Treatment Duration: Depends on the condition being treated; long-term use is generally required for chronic diseases like NASH or PBC.
- Monitoring: Liver enzymes, lipid profile, and glucose levels should be monitored during treatment.
Always follow your physician’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency.
Other Dosages
While LuciElafib is commonly available in the 80mg dosage, other strengths (like 120mg or lower doses such as 40mg) may be used in clinical settings or trials for dose-ranging studies, pediatric use, or in cases of hepatic/renal impairment.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Elafibranor may cause side effects. Common and serious side effects include:
Common:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Increased liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
Less Common/Serious:
- Elevated creatinine
- Weight gain or edema
- Increased LDL cholesterol
- Myalgia (muscle pain)
- Hypoglycemia (when combined with other anti-diabetic agents)
Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience persistent or severe symptoms.
Storage
- Store at room temperature (15–30°C / 59–86°F)
- Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight
- Do not store in the bathroom
- Keep out of reach of children
- Do not use beyond expiry date printed on the label
Benefits
- Reduces Liver Inflammation: Helps resolve inflammation and halt disease progression in NASH.
- Improves Liver Histology: Studies show regression of fibrosis without worsening NASH.
- Metabolic Regulation: Aids in lowering triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and improving insulin resistance.
- Weight Neutral: Unlike some other PPAR agonists, Elafibranor does not promote weight gain.
- Non-invasive Therapy: Offers an oral alternative to invasive interventions like liver biopsy or surgery.
Prescription
LuciElafib 80mg should be used only under medical supervision and requires a prescription. It is typically prescribed by specialists such as hepatologists, endocrinologists, or gastroenterologists, particularly for chronic liver conditions.
Interactions
Though full interaction data is limited due to its investigational nature, the following are notable:
- Statins: Potential pharmacodynamic interaction due to lipid-lowering effects.
- CYP450 Metabolized Drugs: Elafibranor is minimally metabolized by CYP enzymes, lowering risk, but caution is advised.
- Insulin or Antidiabetics: May enhance glucose-lowering effect; monitor for hypoglycemia.
- Alcohol: Avoid concurrent alcohol consumption to prevent further liver strain.
Always consult a healthcare provider before combining it with any medications or supplements.
FAQs
Can it cure NASH?
It does not cure but may reverse liver damage and halt disease progression.
Is it safe for diabetic patients?
Yes, but blood sugar levels should be monitored.
Is this drug approved everywhere?
Approval status varies by region; consult your physician.
Is LuciElafib 80mg approved for NASH?
It is not yet FDA-approved but is available through clinical trials.
Can it be used in liver cirrhosis?
It is not recommended in decompensated cirrhosis; trials focus on pre-cirrhotic NASH.
Conclusion
LuciElafib 80mg (Elafibranor) emerges as a beacon of hope in the management of NASH—a complex and increasingly prevalent liver condition with limited approved therapies. Its dual action on lipid metabolism and inflammation makes it a unique and promising candidate. While it remains investigational, early clinical results are encouraging in terms of both efficacy and safety. As research progresses, LuciElafib may soon become a vital tool in combating liver disease and preventing its progression to end-stage complications. For now, it should only be used under specialist supervision in appropriate clinical settings.