Natrilix SR Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Indapamide is a sulphonamide derivative with an indole ring, pharmacologically related to thiazide diuretics, which acts by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium in the cortical diluting segment. It increases the urinary excretion of sodium and chlorides and, to a lesser extent, the excretion of potassium and magnesium, thereby increasing urine output and having an antihypertensive action.
Pharmacodynamics: Phase II and III studies using monotherapy have demonstrated an antihypertensive effect lasting 24 hours. This was present at doses where the diuretic effect was of mild intensity. The antihypertensive activity of indapamide is related to an improvement in arterial compliance and a reduction in arteriolar and total peripheral resistance. Indapamide reduces left ventricular hypertrophy. Thiazide and related diuretics have a plateau therapeutic effect beyond a certain dose, while adverse effects continue to increase. The dose should not be increased if treatment is ineffective.
It has also been shown, in the short-, mid- and long-term in hypertensive patients, that indapamide: does not interfere with lipid metabolism: triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol; does not interfere with carbohydrate metabolism, even in diabetic hypertensive patients.
Pharmacokinetics: Indapamide (Natrilix SR) is supplied in a prolonged release dosage form based on a matrix system in which the drug substance is dispersed within a support which allows sustained release of indapamide.
Absorption: The fraction of indapamide released is rapidly and totally absorbed via the gastrointestinal digestive tract. Eating slightly increases the rapidity of absorption but has no influence on the amount of the drug absorbed. Peak serum level following a single dose occurs about 12 hours after ingestion; repeated administration reduces the variation in serum levels between 2 doses. Intra-individual variability exists.
Distribution: Binding of indapamide to plasma proteins is 79%. The plasma elimination half-life is 14 to 24 hours (mean 18 hours). Steady state is achieved after 7 days. Repeated administration does not lead to accumulation.
Metabolism: Elimination is essentially urinary (70% of the dose) and fecal (22%) in the form of inactive metabolites.
High risk populations: Pharmacokinetic parameters are unchanged in renal failure patients.