PIQ-PHARMA launches Odechol – branded hymecromone in two dosages, including 400 mg

PIQ-PHARMA introduces a new choleretic drug, Odechol, in tablet form. We are pleased to share the results of this development with the professional community and consumers: for the first time, a Russian manufacturer is launching hymecromone under its own brand in two dosages simultaneously – 200 mg and 400 mg.

What this means for the patient

Heaviness and discomfort in the right hypochondrium, particularly postprandial, as well as paroxysmal pain that intensifies at night, are symptoms familiar to many. They are frequently underlying indicators of impaired bile outflow. Odechol is a selective antispasmodic: it relaxes the bile ducts and the sphincter of Oddi, helping to restore normal bile outflow and reduce pain associated with biliary tract spasms. Crucially, it does not affect intestinal motility or arterial blood pressure. The drug also mitigates bile stasis in the gallbladder and inhibits cholesterol crystallization.

Indications

Odechol is indicated for adults aged 18 and older for the management of:

• Impaired gallbladder and bile duct motility accompanied by obstructed bile outflow and severe paroxysmal pain in the right hypochondrium that intensifies at night and postprandial (hyperkinetic biliary dyskinesia and dysfunction of the sphincter of Oddi);
• Inflammation of the gallbladder mucosa associated with bile thickening in the absence of gallstones (chronic acalculous cholecystitis);
• Inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis);
• Biliary tract dysfunction in the absence of gallstones;
• Post-surgical conditions following gallbladder and biliary tract interventions;
• Decreased appetite, nausea, constipation, and vomiting.

What this means for the physician and pharmacist

The availability of two dosages provides therapeutic flexibility. The 400 mg dosage allows for the administration of the full daily dose of 1200 mg on a "1 tablet 3 times daily" regimen instead of taking two tablets per dose. Fewer tablets per day enhances patient compliance, which is particularly vital in chronic biliary system disorders and recurrent symptoms. The 200 mg formulation maintains the option for a gentler initiation of therapy and precise dose titration.

Odechol is manufactured at our proprietary production site, PIQ-PHARMA LEK LLC, and is already entering pharmacies. It is available over-the-counter (OTC).

Contraindications apply. Prior to use, it is necessary to review the patient information leaflet and consult a healthcare professional.