alcofast 500mg tablet - Metadoxine (500mg) medicine

Alcoliv Tablet (Metadoxine 500mg): Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety

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🏭 Zoic Lifesciences 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before use. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for alcohol-related liver disease; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is alcofast 500mg tablet used for?

Alcoliv tablet contains Metadoxine 500mg, used to treat alcohol-related liver disease and acute alcohol intoxication. It works by speeding up alcohol breakdown and protecting liver cells. It is taken orally, usually 1-2 times daily, and alcohol must be avoided during treatment.

  • Generic Name: Metadoxine
  • Manufacturer: Zoic Lifesciences
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 alcofast 500mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मेटाडॉक्सिन 500mg युक्त एक ओरल टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग शराब से होने वाली लिवर बीमारी, फैटी लिवर और शराब के नशे को कम करने में किया जाता है। यह लिवर कोशिकाओं की रक्षा करती है और शराब के जहरीले पदार्थ को तेजी से बाहर निकालने में मदद करती है। यह दवा शराब की लत का इलाज नहीं है, बल्कि लिवर की सुरक्षा और सुधार के लिए दी जाती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें और शराब का सेवन पूरी तरह बंद करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्की मतली, पेट में असहजता, सिरदर्द और चक्कर आना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको त्वचा पर चकत्ते, खुजली, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से डोज न बढ़ाएं या घटाएं। टैबलेट को पानी के साथ पूरा निगलें, चबाएं नहीं। इसे भोजन के साथ या बिना भोजन के लिया जा सकता है, लेकिन पेट की परेशानी से बचने के लिए भोजन के साथ लेना बेहतर है। इस दवा के सेवन के दौरान शराब का सेवन पूरी तरह बंद कर दें। अगर आपको किडनी या लिवर की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 alcofast 500mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Alcohol-related liver disease","description":"Helps improve liver function tests and reduces fatty changes in the liver caused by chronic alcohol use.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Acute alcohol intoxication","description":"Accelerates the elimination of alcohol and acetaldehyde from the blood, reducing intoxication symptoms.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)","description":"May help reduce liver fat and inflammation as an adjunct to lifestyle changes.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chronic hepatitis","description":"Used as supportive therapy to improve liver enzyme levels in some chronic hepatitis patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Hangover prevention","description":"Sometimes used before or after drinking to reduce hangover symptoms, but this is not an approved indication.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"General liver detox","description":"Marketed for general liver cleansing, but evidence for this use is weak.","evidence":"Insufficient"}]

Primary treatment for: Alcohol-related liver disease

Also treats: Acute alcohol intoxication, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Chronic hepatitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Metadoxine
Brand NameAlcoliv Tablet
ManufacturerZoic Lifesciences
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassHepatoprotectives
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
3
Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
4
Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease.
5
Report any unusual symptoms like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing immediately.
6
Take at the same time each day for best results.
7
Do not drive if you feel dizzy after taking this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Alcohol-related liver disease
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Acute alcohol intoxication
This medicine helps speed up alcohol clearance.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a primary headache treatment.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMetadoxine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma levels are typically reached within 1 to 2 hours.
DistributionIt is widely distributed in body tissues, with the highest concentrations found in the liver and kidneys.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismMetadoxine is metabolized in the liver, primarily through oxidation and conjugation pathways.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of Metadoxine is approximately 1 to 2 hours.
ExcretionMetadoxine and its metabolites are mainly excreted through the urine.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of Metadoxine is approximately 60 to 70%.
Onset of ActionThe effects on alcohol clearance can begin within 30 to 60 minutes after oral intake.
Peak Plasma Time1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe effects last for about 4 to 6 hours, depending on the dose and individual factors.

How It Works

Metadoxine works by increasing the activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase, the enzyme that breaks down acetaldehyde, a toxic metabolite of alcohol. It also helps restore glutathione levels in the liver, which protects liver cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, it reduces the accumulation of fat in the liver by improving lipid metabolism. This dual action helps protect the liver and speed up alcohol clearance.

Mechanism Steps

1
Enhanced acetaldehyde breakdown: Metadoxine increases the activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase, which converts toxic acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid.
2
Glutathione restoration: It replenishes glutathione, a key antioxidant in the liver, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce cell damage.
3
Improved lipid metabolism: Metadoxine helps reduce fat accumulation in liver cells by promoting normal lipid breakdown and transport.
4
Reduced oxidative stress: By lowering oxidative stress, it protects liver cells from inflammation and scarring.

💡 How to Take alcofast 500mg tablet

Strength: Metadoxine 500mg immediate-release tablet

1Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
2Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
3Take it with or without food, but with food if it upsets your stomach.
4Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 500mg taken orally 1 to 2 times daily, or as directed by your doctor. The dose may be adjusted based on your liver function, kidney function, and the condition being treated. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-adjust the dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Dose adjustment may be needed based on kidney and liver function. Consult your doctor.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with kidney impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Consult your doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with severe liver impairment, dose adjustment may be needed. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 1000mg, but this may vary based on medical advice. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid completely
Counteracts the medicine and worsens liver damage.
High-fat meals
Limit intake
May increase liver fat and reduce effectiveness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of alcofast 500mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Stomach discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take after meals. Avoid spicy foods. Consult doctor if severe.
Headache (Uncommon (1-5%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Dizziness (Uncommon (1-5%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel normal. Lie down if needed.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine immediately and seek emergency medical help.
Severe abdominal pain (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult a doctor immediately.
Kidney function impairment (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any decrease in urine output or swelling to your doctor.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Liver enzyme elevation
Regular monitoring of liver function is advised. Consult doctor if levels rise.
Low blood pressure
Sit or lie down if you feel faint. Seek medical attention if persistent.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Disulfiram Major
Warfarin Major
Paracetamol Moderate
Isoniazid Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Disulfiram
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Paracetamol
  • Isoniazid

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. Drinking alcohol can worsen liver damage, reduce the effectiveness of Metadoxine, and increase the risk of side effects. If you are unable to stop drinking, seek help from a healthcare provider.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to Metadoxine or any component of the tablet","Severe kidney impairment","Pregnancy and breastfeeding (unless clearly needed and advised by doctor)","Children (safety and efficacy not established)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy after taking this medicine.","Avoid alcohol completely during treatment.","Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease.","Do not exceed the prescribed dose.","Keep out of reach of children.","Use with caution in elderly patients."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether Metadoxine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of Metadoxine may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. Avoid alcohol completely while on this medicine, as it can worsen liver damage and reduce the medicine's effectiveness. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or any other medical condition. Do not share this medicine with others. Keep it out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Dose adjustment may be needed based on kidney and liver function. Regular monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Safety during pregnancy is not established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may need to be stopped temporarily.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. No specific precautions are known, but it is important for your dentist to be aware.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid alcohol completely to allow your liver to heal.
🥗
Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
💧
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
🧘
Get regular exercise, but avoid strenuous activity if you feel unwell.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to support liver recovery.
🚭
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe, but avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy or fatigued. Listen to your body and rest when needed. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains over refined grains.
Limit high-fat and fried foods.
Avoid alcohol completely.
Stay well hydrated.
Include lean proteins like fish, chicken, and legumes.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It is generally safe to continue your daily activities, but take precautions if you feel unwell.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or allergic reactions, stop immediately and seek medical help. Your doctor will advise when it is safe to discontinue based on your condition.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally well tolerated. However, periodic monitoring of liver and kidney function is advised. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes alcohol abstinence and lifestyle changes. Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Alcohol counseling and rehabilitation

Essential for long-term recovery from alcohol-related liver disease.

Evidence: Well-established
Lifestyle modifications

Diet, exercise, and weight management can improve liver health.

Evidence: Well-established
Other hepatoprotective agents

Silymarin or ursodeoxycholic acid may be used in some cases.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule gradually under your doctor&#039;s guidance. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Always keep enough supply for your trip and carry it in your hand luggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with a history of chronic alcohol use and elevated liver enzymes.
He was prescribed this medicine along with counseling to quit alcohol. After 4 weeks, his liver enzymes improved significantly and he reported feeling more energetic. He emphasized that taking the medicine regularly and avoiding alcohol was key to his recovery.
💡 Lesson: Consistency with the medicine and complete alcohol abstinence are essential for liver recovery.
👤 A 38-year-old woman with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
She was advised this medicine as an add-on to diet and exercise. After 3 months, her liver fat reduced and her energy levels improved. She noted that taking the medicine with meals helped prevent nausea.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can be beneficial in fatty liver disease when combined with lifestyle changes.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 30 to 60 minutes for alcohol clearance, but improvement in liver function may take several weeks of regular use.

Q: Can I take it with other medicines?

A: Inform your doctor about all medicines you take, as this medicine can interact with drugs like warfarin, disulfiram, and paracetamol.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Safety during pregnancy is not established. Consult your doctor before use.

Q: What if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but skip if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for alcofast 500mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Alcoliv can cure alcohol addiction.
    Fact: Alcoliv helps manage liver damage and alcohol intoxication but is not a cure for addiction. Counseling and lifestyle changes are essential.
  • Myth: You can drink alcohol while taking Alcoliv.
    Fact: Alcohol must be completely avoided as it counteracts the medicine and worsens liver damage.
  • Myth: Alcoliv is a general liver tonic for everyone.
    Fact: It is a prescription medicine for specific liver conditions and should only be used under medical supervision.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Metadoxine 500mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Alcoliv
  • Metadoxine
  • Liveril
  • Metadoxil

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Metadoxine","class":"Hepatoprotective","main_use":"Alcohol-related liver disease","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Silymarin","class":"Hepatoprotective","main_use":"Liver protection","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Ursodeoxycholic acid","class":"Bile acid","main_use":"Cholestatic liver disease","route":"Oral"}]

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