Epalrestat is an aldose reductase inhibitor that was first approved in Japan in 1992. It is mainly used for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting aldose reductase to reduce the accumulation of sorbitol in nerve cells, thereby improving nerve function.
Procurement Channels for Epalrestat
Overseas Procurement
Patients may choose to consult and purchase Epalrestat at hospital pharmacies or licensed drugstores in countries or regions where the drug has been launched.
Since drug prices may be affected by factors such as regional differences and exchange rate fluctuations, patients need to make budgeting and planning in advance before purchasing.
Procurement via Medical Service Institutions
Patients may consult domestic overseas medical service institutions that cooperate with international pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies.
These institutions usually provide legal import channels and offer professional consultation and guidance.
Precautions for Epalrestat Procurement
Prescription and Medication Evaluation
Strictly follow the doctor’s prescription; do not adjust the dosage or medication duration on your own.
If no significant therapeutic effect is observed after 12 consecutive weeks of medication, you should return for a follow-up visit in a timely manner and switch to an alternative treatment plan.
Before using the drug, confirm that you have no history of allergy to the main ingredients of the drug.
Medication Warnings for Special Populations
Pregnant women should use this drug only when the therapeutic benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Lactating women need to weigh the necessity of treatment; animal studies have shown that the drug can be excreted in breast milk.
The safety of this drug in children has not been established, and the dosage for elderly patients should be adjusted according to their age.
Packaging and Storage Specifications
Genuine Epalrestat is packaged in PTP (Press-Through Package) aluminum foil. When taking the drug, the tablets must be removed from the aluminum foil to avoid accidental ingestion of the foil, which may cause damage to the esophageal mucosa.
The drug should be stored at room temperature, with a shelf life of 36 months. Upon receipt, check the integrity of the packaging.
Methods to Identify Genuine Epalrestat (Genuine vs. Counterfeit)
Verification of Appearance and Markings
Appearance: White film-coated tablets with a smooth surface, engraved with the clear code "NF611".
Specifications: 6.7 mm in diameter, 3.9 mm in thickness, and approximately 120 mg in weight per tablet.
Packaging: The package insert must clearly state the ingredients, indications, and information about the manufacturer.
Verification of Traceability Documents
Request the seller to provide the drug import filing certificate, production batch number, and quality inspection report.
Query the drug approval number on the official website of the national drug regulatory authority to verify the consistency of information.
Observation of Clinical Reactions
For genuine Epalrestat, the peak plasma concentration is reached 1 hour after oral administration.
If known side effects specified in the package insert (such as yellowish-brown urine) occur after taking the drug, it may be consistent with the characteristics of genuine products.
If there is no response at all or severe discomfort occurs, discontinue the drug immediately and send it for inspection.
