Stopayne Capsules:Uses, Safety,Instructions And Side Effects

Stopayne Capsules are classified as Schedule 5 medication in South Africa, which means they require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Stopayne is a trusted combination medicine formulated to manage pain, fever, and related discomfort. Manufactured by Adcock Ingram Limited, it is designed to offer relief for mild to moderate pain conditions, especially those accompanied by tension or fever.

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COMPOSITION

Each capsule contains a carefully balanced mix of four active ingredients to provide comprehensive relief:

Active Ingredient	Quantity per Capsule	Purpose
Paracetamol	320 mg	Pain reliever and fever reducer
Codeine Phosphate	8 mg	Mild opioid analgesic
Caffeine Anhydrous	48 mg	Central nervous system stimulant
Meprobamate	150 mg	Tranquilizer and muscle relaxant

Other ingredients: Contains Tartrazine, a synthetic yellow dye which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

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PHARMACOLOGICAL CLASSIFICATION

A 2.8 – Analgesic Combinations

This classification covers medications that combine multiple active ingredients to address pain with additional effects such as sedation or stimulation.

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PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTION

Stopayne Capsules deliver multiple therapeutic effects:

• Paracetamol provides effective pain and fever relief.
• Codeine enhances the analgesic action through its mild opioid effect.
• Caffeine acts as a stimulant and supports pain relief by increasing the effectiveness of paracetamol and codeine.
• Meprobamate contributes a calming, anti-anxiety effect, particularly helpful in tension-related pain.

This unique combination allows Stopayne to address both the physical sensation of pain and the mental tension often associated with it.

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INDICATIONS

Stopayne Capsules are indicated for the relief of:

• Mild to moderate pain
• Fever
• Pain associated with tension or stress
• Situations where a combination of analgesic, calming, and stimulating effects are beneficial

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CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Do not use Stopayne if you:

• Are allergic to paracetamol, codeine, caffeine, meprobamate, tartrazine, or any other component of the capsule
• Suffer from acute intermittent porphyria
• Have a history of epilepsy
• Experience respiratory depression, cyanosis, or excessive bronchial secretions
• Recently underwent surgery on the biliary tract
• Have acute alcoholism or head injuries
• Are experiencing increased intracranial pressure
• Are having an asthma attack
• Have heart failure due to chronic lung disease
• Are currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the last 14 days

Always consult your doctor if you’re unsure whether any of these apply to you.

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WARNINGS

• Not recommended for use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Overdose of paracetamol can lead to severe liver damage, which may be fatal.
• Contains tartrazine, a dye that may cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to aspirin.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use without consulting your doctor.

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DOSAGE AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Age Group	Recommended Dose
Adults	2 capsules, 3 to 4 times daily

• Do not use continuously for more than 10 days without medical advice.
• If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare provider.
• Do not exceed the maximum daily dosage.

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SIDE-EFFECTS AND SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Stopayne contains multiple ingredients, each with its own potential side effects. Below is a comprehensive breakdown:

General Advice:

• Stop usage if no relief is observed within the recommended dose range.
• Do not use for more than 10 days without medical supervision.

Common Side Effects by Ingredient:

Component	Possible Side Effects
Paracetamol	Rarely causes side effects. Allergic reactions and blood disorders may occur in sensitive individuals.
Codeine	Nausea, constipation, drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, facial flushing, low blood pressure, mood changes, difficulty urinating, rash, increased intracranial pressure.
Meprobamate	Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, vision changes, skin reactions, blood disorders, and risk of dependence.
Caffeine	Restlessness, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, tremors, increased stomach acid, potential ulcer irritation.

Special Precautions:

• May cause drowsiness—avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Alcohol and other CNS depressants (sleep aids, sedatives) may intensify side effects.
• Individuals with liver or kidney disease should use only under medical supervision.
• Codeine should be avoided or used with caution in patients with:
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Prostatic hypertrophy
  • Shock
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Elderly or debilitated conditions

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KNOWN SYMPTOMS OF OVERDOSAGE AND PARTICULARS OF ITS TREATMENT

In case of overdose:
Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Possible Symptoms:

Ingredient	Overdose Symptoms
Paracetamol	Nausea, vomiting, liver damage (may appear after a few days), kidney failure
Meprobamate	Drowsiness, coma, convulsions, respiratory or circulatory collapse
Codeine	Respiratory depression, dizziness, confusion
Caffeine	Restlessness, tremors, heart palpitations

Treatment Overview:

• Gastric lavage (stomach pump) for recent ingestion, especially in meprobamate overdose
• Activated charcoal and specific antidotes like N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol toxicity
• Supportive care and monitoring of vital functions is essential

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IDENTIFICATION

Stopayne Capsules are green and white, with “RIO” printed on both halves of each capsule.

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PRESENTATION

• Available in blister packs of 100 capsules
• Packaged for hospital or prescription use only

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STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Store below 25°C
• Keep in original packaging
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children

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NAME AND BUSINESS ADDRESS OF THE APPLICANT

Adcock Ingram Limited
17 Harrison Avenue,
Bryanston, 2021
Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021
South Africa

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Conclusion: Responsible Use of Stopayne Capsules

Stopayne Capsules offer a powerful solution for pain and tension relief, combining multiple active ingredients to deliver synergistic effects. While effective, their use requires careful adherence to medical guidelines due to the potential for side effects, interactions, and dependence with prolonged use—especially due to codeine and meprobamate content.

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting Stopayne, and never exceed the recommended dosage or duration. Understanding the benefits and risks ensures you get the relief you need—safely and effectively.

Sources: SAHPRA

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