Phlebodia

Phlebodia is available as film-coated tablets, packaged in boxes of 15 or 30 tablets. Each tablet contains 600 mg of diosmin as the active substance, and the excipients include microcrystalline cellulose, talc, colloidal anhydrous silica, micronised stearic acid, hypromellose, macrogol 8 stearate type I, propylene glycol, titanium dioxide (E171), cochineal red A – aluminium lake (E124), iron oxides (E172), carnauba wax, white beeswax, shellac and anhydrous ethanol.

The film-coated tablet is light pink in colour, slightly oval in shape and allows for optimal absorption of the active substance in the intestine, with increased bioavailability and prolonged duration of action.

Phlebodia is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, a condition characterised by decreased venous elasticity and blood stagnation in the lower limbs. Clinical manifestations that justify its use include:

• heavy and tired legs, accentuated at the end of the day;
• pain or venous tension in the calves;
• oedema (swelling) in the ankles;
• the appearance of varicose veins or trophic skin changes.

Phlebodia is also used as an adjuvant in the treatment of lymphatic circulation disorders and, in some situations, in acute haemorrhoidal crises, to reduce inflammation and associated pain.

The recommended dose for adults is 1 film-coated tablet (600 mg) taken once a day with a glass of water during a meal. 

The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Phlebodia should not be administered in the following situations:

• hypersensitivity to diosmin or any of the tablet's excipients;
• breastfeeding women, as it is not known whether diosmin is excreted in breast milk;
• children and adolescents under 18 years of age, due to a lack of data on the safety of administration.

The effectiveness of treatment with Phlebodia is enhanced by adopting appropriate preventive measures. It is recommended to avoid exposure to excessive heat (hot baths, prolonged sun exposure), reduce the time spent standing, maintain a dynamic posture and walk daily.

Caution is also advised in patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders, as diosmin may rarely cause abdominal discomfort.

Like all medicines, Phlebodia can cause side effects, which are usually mild and temporary.

• epigastric pain or gastric discomfort
• nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, indigestion
• allergic skin reactions (rash, itching, hives)
• headache, dizziness

Digestive reactions can be avoided by taking the tablet with food. In general, these symptoms do not require discontinuation of treatment.

No significant interactions between diosmin and other medicines have been reported. However, caution is advised when Phlebodia is taken concomitantly with anticoagulants or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Food does not affect the absorption or bioavailability of diosmin. Moderate alcohol consumption does not appear to affect the efficacy of the product, but should be avoided in cases of severe venous insufficiency.

To date, no cases of overdose with Phlebodia have been reported. In the event of accidental ingestion of a large dose, it is recommended to contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, with no specific antidote.

Phlebodia should be stored at room temperature, below 25°C, in a dry place, protected from light and moisture and out of the reach of children. It is not recommended to use the medicine after the expiry date stated on the package.

• WebMD, Diosmin
• Healthline, Diosmin
• PubMed, The potential and therapeutic roles of diosmin in human diseases
• PubMed, Metabolism and pharmacological activities of the natural health-promoting compound diosmin