Coughex

Gefapixant tablet is indicated in the treatment of-

• Refractory chronic cough or
• Unexplained chronic cough in adults.

Gefapixant is a selective antagonist of the P2X3 receptor. P2X3-containing receptors belong to the family of purinergic receptors and are ATP-dependent ion channels, which are also located on sensory C-fibers of the vagus nerve in the airways. C-fibers are activated in response to inflammation or chemical irritants. Under inflammatory conditions, ATP is released by mucosal cells of the respiratory tract. The binding of extracellular ATP to P2X3 receptors is recognized by C-fibers as a damage signal and is perceived as a coughing stimulus, which in turn triggers a cough reflex. Gefapixant blocks ATP-mediated activation of P2X3 receptors, which are thought to be responsible for chronic cough.

Effect of proton pump inhibitor: Concomitant use of the proton pump inhibitor omeprazole had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of gefapixant.

Potential influence of Gefapixant on other medicines: Based on in vitro studies, the potential of Gefapixant for CYP inhibition or induction is low.

Effect of Gefapixant on other medicines: No clinically dependent drug interactions have been identified.

Effect of other medicines on Gefapixant: No clinically meaningful drug interactions have been identified.

Very Common side effects are dysgeusia, ageusia, hypogeusia. Frequent side effects are upper respiratory tract infections, decreased appetite, taste disturbance, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, hypersalivation, epigastric pain, dyspepsia, oral hypoesthesia, oral paresthesia etc. Occasionally: Urinary stones, bladder stones, nephrolithiasis are seen

The use of Gefapixant in women during pregnancy has not been studied. As a precautionary measure, the use of Gefapixant during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential who do not use contraception is not recommended. It is not known whether gefapixant is present in human breast milk, affects milk formation, or has an effect on breastfed infants. Gefapixant has been detected in milk in animal studies.

Fertility: There are no clinical data on the effects of Gefapixant on fertility in humans. Animal studies showed no impairment of fertility.