Tavipec

Tavipec is available in gastro-resistant soft capsules, each containing 150 mg of Lavandula latifolia essential oil. The gastro-resistant formulation ensures protection of the gastric mucosa and controlled release of the active ingredient in the intestine, promoting optimal absorption and reducing the risk of gastric irritation. 

Tavipec Forte is also available, with each gastro-resistant soft capsule containing 300 mg of essential oil, a concentration that guarantees an enhanced secretolytic and expectorant effect.

Tavipec capsules are indicated as a secretolytic and expectorant, and are used as an adjunct in the treatment of:

• acute and chronic rhinitis;
• acute or chronic rhinosinusitis;
• acute and chronic bronchitis;
• other respiratory conditions characterised by hypersecretion of viscous mucus and impaired mucociliary clearance.

By liquefying mucus and increasing the frequency of ciliary beats, Tavipec facilitates the elimination of secretions through coughing, helping to relieve clinical symptoms such as nasal congestion, sinus pressure and productive cough.

For adults and adolescents over 12 years of age, the recommended dose is 1–2 capsules three times daily. The capsules should be taken orally, swallowed whole without chewing, approximately 30 minutes before meals, to optimise the secretolytic effect.

Tavipec is not recommended for children under 12 years of age without the advice of a paediatrician, due to a lack of clinical data on safety and efficacy in this age group.

The use of Tavipec is contraindicated in cases of:

• known hypersensitivity to the essential oil of Lavandula latifolia or to any of the excipients;
• previous allergic reactions to the colourings Sunset Yellow FCF (E110) or Quinoline Yellow (E104)
• children under 6 years of age

When used at the recommended doses, Tavipec has a favourable safety profile and does not require any special precautions. However, patients are advised to consult their doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment, particularly when used in combination with other respiratory therapies.

Although it does not significantly affect the ability to drive, the mildly sedative properties of the essential oil require caution in patients performing activities that require increased attention.

Like any medicine, Tavipec may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. The most commonly reported include:

• mild gastrointestinal disturbances, such as belching or mild nausea;
• allergic reactions, which are very rare and manifest as skin rashes or itching;
• the appearance of a pleasant scent of essential oil on the breath.

To date, no significant drug interactions with Tavipec are known. However, it is recommended to avoid taking it at the same time as alcoholic drinks, as alcohol may alter the perception of symptoms and gastrointestinal tolerability. Taking it before meals is preferable to maximise therapeutic efficacy.

No cases of Tavipec poisoning have been reported. If doses higher than those recommended are taken and unusual symptoms occur, contact your doctor for assessment and appropriate management. It is not advisable to double the dose to make up for a missed dose.

Tavipec must be stored at temperatures below 25 °C, in the original packaging, protected from light and moisture. The medicine must be kept out of the reach of children and must not be used after the expiry date stated on the packaging. Unused capsules must be disposed of in accordance with the pharmacist’s recommendations, in order to protect the environment.

• PubMed, Effect of lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia) on the acute inflammatory response
• PubMed, Effects of essential oils in the treatment of acute rhinosinusitis: a systematic review
• Rhinology Journal, Tavipec in acute rhinosinusitis: a multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial
• Thieme, A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentre, multinational study evaluating the efficacy and safety of Tavipec® capsules in acute bronchitis.