Impavido 50mg Capsule (Miltefosine): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe or persistent vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids or medicine down.
- Blood in vomit or black, tarry stools.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
- Decreased urine output, swelling of the legs, or sudden weight gain.
- Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or a widespread rash.
- Unusual bruising or bleeding from the gums or nose.
- Severe headache with confusion, seizures, or neck stiffness.
- Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or fainting.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is impavido 50mg capsule used for?
This medicine is an oral prescription antiprotozoal containing miltefosine 50 mg. It is used mainly to treat visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar), some forms of cutaneous leishmaniasis, and rare brain infections caused by free-living amoebae. It works by damaging the parasite's cell membrane and energy-producing machinery. It must be taken exactly as prescribed, usually with food, and requires regular blood tests to monitor kidney and liver function.
- Generic Name: Miltefosine (50mg)
- Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 impavido 50mg capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मिल्टेफोसिन 50 मिलीग्राम कैप्सूल के रूप में एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन दवा है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से विसरल लीशमैनियासिस (कालाजार), कुछ प्रकार के त्वचा लीशमैनियासिस, और मस्तिष्क में होने वाले दुर्लभ अमीबा संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह परजीवी की कोशिका झिल्ली और ऊर्जा उत्पादन प्रणाली को नष्ट करके काम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार, आमतौर पर भोजन के साथ लेना चाहिए। इलाज के दौरान गुर्दे और लिवर की जांच के लिए नियमित रक्त परीक्षण जरूरी होते हैं। गर्भवती महिलाओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सबसे आम दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट दर्द, भूख न लगना और मुंह में कड़वा स्वाद शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, नींद आना या थकान महसूस हो सकती है। कभी-कभी त्वचा पर दाने, खुजली, या गुर्दे और लिवर की रक्त जांच में अस्थायी बदलाव देखने को मिल सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन तेज बुखार, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, पेशाब कम आना, आंखों या त्वचा का पीला पड़ना, या असामान्य रक्तस्राव होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, आमतौर पर भोजन के साथ। कैप्सूल को पानी के साथ पूरा निगलें, चबाएं या तोड़ें नहीं। दिनभर पर्याप्त पानी पिएं, खासकर अगर उल्टी या दस्त हो रहे हों। इलाज के दौरान और आखिरी खुराक के बाद कम से कम पांच महीने तक गर्भनिरोधक का इस्तेमाल करें, क्योंकि यह दवा गर्भ में पल रहे बच्चे को नुकसान पहुंचा सकती है। शराब न पिएं। अपने डॉक्टर को सभी दूसरी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं और गुर्दे, लिवर और रक्त की जांच के लिए तय सभी अपॉइंटमेंट पर जाएं। यह दवा किसी और के साथ साझा न करें।
💊 impavido 50mg capsule Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar)","description":"This medicine is used as an oral treatment for visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani complex, including in regions where antimony resistance is common.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Cutaneous leishmaniasis","description":"This medicine is used to treat certain forms of cutaneous leishmaniasis, especially when other treatments are not suitable or have failed.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Mucosal leishmaniasis","description":"This medicine may be used for mucosal leishmaniasis in selected patients under specialist care.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (Naegleria fowleri)","description":"This medicine is used as part of combination therapy for this rare and severe brain infection, often together with other antimicrobials.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (Balamuthia, Acanthamoeba)","description":"This medicine is used in combination regimens for these rare brain infections caused by free-living amoebae.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Acanthamoeba keratitis","description":"Sometimes used off-label as part of systemic therapy for severe eye infections, though topical therapy is the mainstay.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Disseminated Acanthamoeba infection","description":"May be used off-label in combination with other drugs for disseminated disease in immunocompromised patients.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar)
Also treats: Cutaneous leishmaniasis, Mucosal leishmaniasis, Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, Granulomatous amoebic encephalitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Miltefosine (50mg) |
| Brand Name | impavido 50mg capsule |
| Manufacturer | Zydus Cadila |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Anti-Leishmaniasis |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the capsules in their original blister pack or container until it is time to take them. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization includes miltefosine as an oral treatment option for visceral leishmaniasis in certain regions and settings. The choice of treatment depends on local resistance patterns and patient factors. Always follow national and local guidelines. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. Follow national and local guidelines for the treatment of leishmaniasis and free-living amoeba infections. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by damaging the parasite's cell membrane and disrupting its internal signaling and energy production. It interferes with phospholipid metabolism and with the parasite's mitochondria, which are the energy factories of the cell. This leads to loss of membrane integrity, leakage of cell contents, and programmed cell death of the parasite. Because the drug targets pathways that are important for the parasite's survival, it is able to kill Leishmania species and free-living amoebae that cause serious human infections.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take impavido 50mg capsule
Strength: Miltefosine 50 mg immediate-release capsule for oral use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is determined by the treating doctor based on the infection being treated and the patient's weight. For visceral leishmaniasis, a common regimen is 2.5 mg per kilogram per day given orally in divided doses for 28 days, but the exact dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. For brain amoeba infections, higher doses and combination therapy may be used under specialist supervision. Always follow the prescription exactly and do not change the dose on your own. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information for all indications. Consult a pediatrician or infectious disease specialist for weight-based dosing and monitoring. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially kidney and liver effects. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician based on kidney and liver function, other medicines, and overall health. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine should be used with caution in people with kidney disease. Kidney function should be checked before and during treatment, and the dose may need to be reduced or the medicine stopped if kidney function worsens. Consult a specialist for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine should be used with caution in people with liver disease. Liver function should be checked before and during treatment, and the dose may need adjustment. Consult a specialist for individualized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is determined by the treating doctor based on the indication and patient factors. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of impavido 50mg capsule
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Amphotericin B | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| NSAIDs | Major | |
| Aminoglycosides | Major | |
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Antacids | Moderate | |
| Corticosteroids | Moderate | |
| Paracetamol | Minor | |
| Oral rehydration salts | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Amphotericin B
- Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, vancomycin, NSAIDs)
- Hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., methotrexate, isoniazid)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Warfarin
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors
- Corticosteroids
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of stomach upset, liver irritation, and dehydration. If you drink alcohol regularly, discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy to miltefosine or any component of this medicine","Pregnancy or pregnancy planning during treatment and for five months after","Breastfeeding during treatment and for five months after","Severe kidney disease unless specialist decides benefit outweighs risk","Severe liver disease unless specialist decides benefit outweighs risk","Use in children below the age approved by local regulations without specialist guidance"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor experienced in treating parasitic infections.","Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least five months after the last dose.","Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least five months after the last dose.","Report persistent vomiting or diarrhea, as dehydration can worsen kidney function.","Keep all scheduled blood tests for kidney, liver, and blood counts.","Avoid alcohol and other liver-toxic substances during treatment.","Tell your doctor about all other medicines, especially those that affect the kidneys or liver.","Do not share this medicine with anyone else.","Store this medicine in its original container away from moisture and heat."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk in significant amounts, but because of its long half-life and potential for serious side effects, breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment and for at least five months after the last dose. Discuss infant feeding options with your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no specific antidote for an overdose of this medicine. If you take too much, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include monitoring of vital signs, kidney and liver function, and management of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. Do not try to vomit unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not almost time for your next dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset. Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water, and do not crush, chew, or open it. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you have vomiting or diarrhea, to avoid dehydration. Do not start or stop this medicine on your own, because the full course is needed to cure the infection and prevent relapse. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can worsen stomach and liver problems. Use effective contraception during treatment and for at least five months after the last dose, because this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you take, and keep all scheduled blood tests for kidney function, liver function, and blood counts. Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults may be more prone to kidney and liver side effects and dehydration. Kidney and liver function should be checked carefully, and the dose may need adjustment. Watch for dizziness and falls.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can harm an unborn baby. Women who are planning pregnancy should discuss alternative treatments with their doctor. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for at least five months after the last dose. Men should also use effective contraception during treatment and for five months after, as the medicine may affect sperm.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may affect kidney and liver function, which can influence anesthesia and recovery. Do not stop the medicine without consulting your treating doctor.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, especially if you need dental surgery or extractions, because of the potential for bleeding or infection risk. Good oral hygiene is important during treatment.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue. Avoid heavy exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. Light activity is fine if you feel well, but rest if you are tired or dehydrated.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or tiredness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you. You may need to take time off work if you have severe vomiting or diarrhea. Discuss your work schedule with your doctor if you have physically demanding duties.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine on your own. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure or relapse. Your doctor may stop or change the medicine if you develop serious side effects such as severe kidney or liver problems, a severe allergic reaction, or if the infection is not responding. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term effects of this medicine are mainly related to its slow elimination and potential for kidney, liver, and blood-related side effects. Most side effects improve after the course is completed, but monitoring may continue for several weeks. There is no known risk of dependence. Long-term use should only be under specialist supervision, and any new symptoms should be evaluated promptly.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An intravenous antifungal used for leishmaniasis, often in liposomal form.
Evidence: Well-establishedAn antimony-based injection used for leishmaniasis in some regions.
Evidence: Well-establishedAn injectable or topical aminoglycoside used for leishmaniasis.
Evidence: ModerateUsing two or more antiprotozoal drugs together to improve efficacy and reduce resistance.
Evidence: Moderate to well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions reported with this medicine. However, live vaccines should generally be avoided during treatment for serious infections. Discuss any planned vaccinations with your doctor.
📦 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 and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you are crossing time zones, continue taking your doses at the same intervals as prescribed, but discuss any major schedule changes with your doctor. Check local customs rules for carrying prescription medicines, and carry a doctor's letter if required. Do not skip doses during travel, and plan refills in advance.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Clinical improvement usually begins within days to weeks, depending on the infection. You must complete the full course prescribed by your doctor.
A: Yes, taking this medicine with food improves absorption and reduces stomach upset.
A: If you remember within half the dosing interval, take the missed dose. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip it and continue your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
A: No, this medicine is not recommended during pregnancy because it can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and for five months after.
A: It is best to avoid alcohol because it can worsen stomach and liver side effects.
A: You will need regular blood tests to check kidney function, liver function, and blood counts.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine is a general antibiotic for any infection.
Fact: This medicine is an antiprotozoal used only for specific parasitic infections. It does not treat common bacterial infections. - Myth: You can stop this medicine once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed to cure the infection and prevent relapse. - Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: This medicine can harm the unborn baby and is not recommended during pregnancy. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for five months after. - Myth: This medicine has no serious side effects.
Fact: This medicine can cause kidney, liver, and blood-related side effects, so regular monitoring is needed.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Miltefosine 50 mg capsule
Brand Alternatives
- Impavido 50mg capsule