Sunday, 30 September 2012

Epinephrine Aerosol



Pronunciation: ep-i-NEF-rin
Generic Name: Epinephrine
Brand Name: Examples include Asthmahaler and Primatene Mist


Epinephrine Aerosol is used for:

Treating shortness of breath, chest tightness, and wheezing associated with asthma, emphysema, and other breathing problems. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Epinephrine Aerosol is an alpha- and beta-receptor stimulant. It works by widening the airway, which makes it easier to breathe.


Do NOT use Epinephrine Aerosol if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Epinephrine Aerosol

  • you have taken furazolidone or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) within the past 14 days

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Epinephrine Aerosol:


Some medical conditions may interact with Epinephrine Aerosol. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have an overactive thyroid, urinary problems, an enlarged prostate, diabetes, high blood pressure, ischemic heart disease, irregular heartbeat, or other heart problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Epinephrine Aerosol. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), droxidopa, or phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine) because the risk of high or low blood pressure and fast or slow heartbeat may be increased

  • Bromocriptine, furazolidone, MAOIs (eg, phenelzine), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because the risk of side effects, such as headache, high temperature, and high blood pressure, may be increased

  • Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors (eg, entacapone), digoxin, or medicines for irregular heartbeat (eg, quinidine) because they may increase the risk of Epinephrine Aerosol's side effects

  • Guanethidine because its effectiveness may be decreased by Epinephrine Aerosol

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Epinephrine Aerosol may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Epinephrine Aerosol:


Use Epinephrine Aerosol as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • An extra patient leaflet is available with Epinephrine Aerosol. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.

  • Before using Epinephrine Aerosol, be sure that the canister is properly placed in the inhaler unit. Shake well. Breathe out slowly and completely. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and try to rest your tongue flat, unless your doctor has told you otherwise. Your doctor may have told you to hold the inhaler 1 or 2 inches (2 or 3 centimeters) away from the open mouth or to use a special spacing device. As you start to take a slow deep breath, press the canister and mouthpiece together at exactly the same time. This will release a dose of Epinephrine Aerosol. Continue breathing in slowly and deeply and hold for as long as comfortable, then breathe out slowly through pursed lips or your nose. If more than 1 inhalation is to be used, wait a few minutes and repeat the above steps. Keep the spray away from your eyes.

  • If you miss a dose of Epinephrine Aerosol, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Epinephrine Aerosol.



Important safety information:


  • Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.

  • If your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse, check with your doctor.

  • Epinephrine Aerosol may cause dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Rinsing your mouth with water after each dose may help relieve these effects.

  • Epinephrine Aerosol should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 4 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Epinephrine Aerosol while you are pregnant. Epinephrine Aerosol is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Epinephrine Aerosol, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Epinephrine Aerosol:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Difficulty sleeping; fast heartbeat; headache; loss of appetite; nausea; nervousness; tremors.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); wheezing.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.



If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include headache; irregular heartbeat; nausea; tremor; vomiting; weakness.


Proper storage of Epinephrine Aerosol:

Store Epinephrine Aerosol at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not puncture, break, or burn the canister even if it appears to be empty. Keep Epinephrine Aerosol out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Epinephrine Aerosol, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Epinephrine Aerosol is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Epinephrine Aerosol. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Epinephrine resources


  • Epinephrine Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Epinephrine Drug Interactions
  • Epinephrine Support Group
  • 11 Reviews for Epinephrine - Add your own review/rating


Compare Epinephrine with other medications


  • Adams-Stokes Syndrome
  • Allergic Reactions
  • Asthma, acute
  • Asystole
  • AV Heart Block
  • COPD, Acute
  • Electromechanical Dissociation
  • Shock

Tuesday, 25 September 2012

Estradiol Emulsion


Pronunciation: ES-tra-DYE-ol
Generic Name: Estradiol
Brand Name: Estrasorb

Estradiol Emulsion should not be used to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, or dementia. Estrogens with or without progestins have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease (including heart attack), stroke, dementia, serious blood clots (eg, in the lungs or legs), cancer of the uterus, and breast cancer in some women. Tell your doctor right away if you have unusual vaginal bleeding while you use Estradiol Emulsion. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the benefits and risks of using Estradiol Emulsion.


Estradiol Emulsion should be used for the shortest possible time at the lowest effective dose to minimize the risk of these side effects. Talk with your doctor regularly about your need to use Estradiol Emulsion.





Estradiol Emulsion is used for:

Treating certain conditions caused by menopause (eg, hot flashes; vaginal itching, burning, or dryness).


Estradiol Emulsion is an estrogen hormone used to provide the female hormone when the body no longer produces enough.


Do NOT use Estradiol Emulsion if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Estradiol Emulsion

  • you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant

  • you have abnormal vaginal bleeding of unknown cause

  • you have known, suspected, or a history of breast cancer

  • you have known or suspected cancers that are estrogen-dependent

  • you have blood clots (eg, in the legs or lungs) or a history of blood clots

  • you have had a recent (within the past year) heart attack or stroke

  • you have liver problems

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Estradiol Emulsion:


Some medical conditions may interact with Estradiol Emulsion. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are planning to become pregnant

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have had yellowing of the eyes or skin during pregnancy or with past estrogen use

  • if you have asthma, cancer, certain blood disorder (porphyria), depression, diabetes, epilepsy (seizures), eye or vision problems, fluid retention or swelling (edema), gallbladder disease, heart disease or other heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, high or low calcium levels in the blood, kidney problems, a certain type of liver growth (hemangioma), migraine headaches, pancreatitis, or thyroid problems

  • if you have a history of an abnormal mammogram or breast lumps, endometriosis, ovarian cancer, or a family history of breast cancer

  • if you or a family member have a history of blood clots (eg, in the legs or lungs) or lupus, or have been very overweight

  • if you smoke or use tobacco products, you will be having surgery, or you will be on bedrest

  • if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy)

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Estradiol Emulsion. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), corticosteroids (eg, prednisone), succinylcholine, or tacrine because their actions and the risk of their side effects may be increased by Estradiol Emulsion

  • Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) or thyroid hormones (eg, levothyroxine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Estradiol Emulsion

  • Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), or rifampin because they may decrease Estradiol Emulsion's effectiveness

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Estradiol Emulsion may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Estradiol Emulsion:


Use Estradiol Emulsion as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • An extra patient leaflet is available with Estradiol Emulsion. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.

  • If you are switching from oral estrogen to Estradiol Emulsion, stop taking the oral estrogen and wait 1 week before using Estradiol Emulsion. However, if symptoms return, you may start using Estradiol Emulsion sooner.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water both before and after using Estradiol Emulsion.

  • Sit in a comfortable sitting position and apply Estradiol Emulsion to clean, dry skin of the leg. Cut or tear the pouch of medicine and empty the entire contents of the pouch onto the top of the thigh. Rub the medicine in well into the thigh and calf of the leg for 3 minutes until it is completely absorbed. Rub any medicine remaining on the hands onto the buttocks. If you are using two pouches of Estradiol Emulsion, apply the second pouch of medicine to the opposite leg in the same way.

  • Allow the medicine to dry completely before covering with clothing to avoid transfer to other people.

  • Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase the risk of Estradiol Emulsion's side effects. Talk to your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking Estradiol Emulsion.

  • If you miss a dose of Estradiol Emulsion, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Estradiol Emulsion.



Important safety information:


  • Estradiol Emulsion may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Estradiol Emulsion with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

  • Estradiol Emulsion may cause dark skin patches on your face (melasma). Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker and you may need to avoid prolonged sun exposure and sunlamps. Consult your doctor regarding the use of sunscreens and protective clothing.

  • Do NOT apply sunscreen to the application site for at least 25 minutes after applying Estradiol Emulsion.

  • Estradiol Emulsion may increase the risk of blood clots. The risk may be greater if you smoke (especially in women older than 35 years).

  • Contact your doctor if vaginal bleeding of unknown cause occurs. This could be a sign of a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

  • Contact your doctor if vaginal discomfort occurs or if you suspect you have developed an infection while taking Estradiol Emulsion.

  • Follow your doctor's instructions for examining your breasts, and report any lumps immediately.

  • If you wear contact lenses and you develop problems with them, contact your doctor.

  • If you will be having surgery or will be confined to a chair or bed for a long period of time (eg, a long plane flight), notify your doctor beforehand. You may need to stop taking Estradiol Emulsion at least 4 to 6 weeks beforehand as directed by your doctor.

  • Nonprescription therapy to help prevent bone loss includes a weight-bearing exercise plan, as well as adequate daily calcium and vitamin D intake. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

  • Estradiol Emulsion may increase the risk of breast and endometrial cancer.

  • Diabetes patients - Estradiol Emulsion may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

  • Estradiol Emulsion may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are using Estradiol Emulsion.

  • Lab tests, including physical exams and blood pressure, may be performed while you use Estradiol Emulsion. You should have breast and pelvic exams, and a Pap test at least once a year. You should also have periodic mammograms as determined by your doctor. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Estradiol Emulsion with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • Estradiol Emulsion should not be used in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Estradiol Emulsion if you are pregnant. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Estradiol Emulsion may be found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Estradiol Emulsion, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Estradiol Emulsion:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Breast pain or tenderness; headache; hair loss; mild irritation or redness at the application site; mild nausea or vomiting; spotting or breakthrough bleeding; stomach cramps or bloating.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); back pain; breast discharge or lump in the breast; calf or leg pain or swelling; chest pain; confusion; coughing up blood; dark urine; depression; dizziness; fainting; fever; memory problems; mental or mood changes; migraine; muscle pain; one-sided weakness; nipple discharge; painful or difficult urination; persistent or severe breast pain or tenderness; persistent or severe headache, nausea, or vomiting; severe stomach pain or swelling; slurred speech; sudden shortness of breath; swelling of the hands, legs, or feet; unusual vaginal bleeding, discharge, itching, or odor; vision changes (eg, double vision, loss of vision); weakness or numbness of an arm or leg; yellowing of the skin or eyes.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.



If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include excessive vaginal bleeding; severe nausea; vomiting.


Proper storage of Estradiol Emulsion:

Store Estradiol Emulsion at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store in original packaging until just before use. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Estradiol Emulsion out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Estradiol Emulsion, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Estradiol Emulsion is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Estradiol Emulsion. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

Friday, 21 September 2012

estradiol and norgestimate


Generic Name: estradiol and norgestimate (ess tra DYE all and nor JESS tih mate)

Brand names: Ortho-Prefest, Prefest


What is estradiol and norgestimate?

Estradiol is a form of estrogen, a female sex hormone produced by the ovaries. Estrogen is necessary for many processes in the body.


Norgestimate is a form of progesterone, a female sex hormone important for the regulation of ovulation and menstruation.


The combination of estradiol and norgestimate is used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, and vaginal dryness, burning, and irritation. It is also used to prevent osteoporosis.


Estradiol and norgestimate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about estradiol and norgestimate?


This medication can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use estradiol and norgestimate if you are pregnant. You should not take estrogens if you have liver disease, circulation problems, a recent stroke or heart attack, unusual vaginal bleeding, a history of breast or uterine cancer, if you have ever had a blood clot, or if you are pregnant.

Before taking estradiol and norgestimate, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, kidney disease, a seizure disorder, migraines, lupus, gallbladder disease, underactive thyroid, high levels of calcium in your blood, endometriosis, or if you have had a hysterectomy.


Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, if you smoke, or if you are overweight.

Long-term estrogen treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using estradiol and norgestimate long-term.


Estradiol and norgestimate should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.


Have regular physical exams and mammograms, and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while taking this medication.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking estradiol and norgestimate?


You should not take estradiol and norgestimate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
  • liver disease;


  • circulation problems;




  • a recent history of heart attack or stroke;




  • unusual vaginal bleeding that a doctor has not checked;




  • a history of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer;




  • if you have ever had a blood clot (especially in your lung or your lower body); or




  • if you are pregnant.




Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you have risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglycerides, smoking, or being overweight.

To make sure you can safely take this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:



  • heart disease, high blood pressure;




  • asthma;



  • kidney disease;


  • epilepsy or other seizure disorder;




  • migraines;




  • lupus;




  • gallbladder disease;




  • endometriosis;




  • underactive thyroid;




  • high levels of calcium in your blood; or




  • if you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy).



Long-term estrogen treatment may increase your risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or uterine cancer. Talk with your doctor about your individual risks before using this medication long-term. Taking progestin while using estradiol may lower your risk of uterine cancer. If your uterus has not been removed, your doctor may prescribe a progestin for you to take while you are using estradiol and norgestimate.


FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use estradiol and norgestimate if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Estradiol and norgestimate can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Estrogens may also slow breast milk production. You should not breast-feed while you are taking this medication. Estradiol and norgestimate should not be used to prevent heart disease, stroke, or dementia, because this medication may actually increase your risk of developing these conditions.

How should I take estradiol and norgestimate?


Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Take the medicine at the same time each day.


Estradiol and norgestimate usually comes in a pack of pills that are different colors. In most cases, you will take a pill of one color for three days in a row, followed by taking a pill of the other color for the next three days. This cycle is then repeated throughout your treatment.


Each time you start a new pack, start with the first tablet in the first row of pills. Your medication may come with stickers to mark your weekday schedule on the pack.


Be sure to have a new pack of this medication ready to start on the day after you have finished an entire pill pack.


Have regular physical exams and mammograms, and self-examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while using estradiol and norgestimate. Your doctor should check your progress every 3 to 6 months to determine whether you should continue this treatment.


If you need medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are taking estradiol and norgestimate. Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

See also: Estradiol and norgestimate dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


If you miss 2 doses in a row, take the next tablet in order and keep taking only one pill per day. Call your doctor if you miss more than 2 doses of this medication.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, or vaginal bleeding.

What should I avoid while taking estradiol and norgestimate?


Do not smoke while using this medication. Smoking can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack caused by estradiol and norgestimate.

Estradiol and norgestimate side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • unusual vaginal bleeding (especially if you are past menopause);




  • chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;




  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;




  • sudden severe headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;




  • stabbing chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing up blood;




  • pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs;




  • nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless;




  • pain in your upper stomach, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);




  • swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; or




  • a lump in your breast.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • mild stomach pain, bloating;




  • back pain, joint pain;




  • flu symptoms;




  • headache;




  • breast pain;




  • loss of scalp hair;




  • vaginal itching or discharge; or




  • cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Estradiol and norgestimate Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Atrophic Urethritis:

1 tablet orally once a day.

Usual Adult Dose for Atrophic Vaginitis:

1 tablet orally once a day.

Usual Adult Dose for Postmenopausal Symptoms:

1 tablet orally once a day.

Usual Adult Dose for Prevention of Osteoporosis:

1 tablet orally once a day. In addition to hormonal therapy, adequate calcium intake is important for postmenopausal women who require treatment or prevention of osteoporosis. The average diet of older American women contains 400 to 600 mg of calcium per day. A suggested optimal intake is 1500 mg per day. If dietary intake is insufficient to achieve 1500 mg per day, supplementation may be useful in women who have no contraindication to calcium supplementation.


What other drugs will affect estradiol and norgestimate?


Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:



  • St. John's wort;




  • an antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., EryPed, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), rifabutin (Mycobutin), rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate), rifapentine (Priftin), or telithromycin (Ketek);




  • an antidepressant such as nefazodone;




  • antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Extina, Ketozole, Nizoral, Xolegal), or voriconazole (Vfend);




  • a barbiturate such as phenobarbital (Solfoton);




  • heart or blood pressure medication such as diltiazem (Cartia, Cardizem), felodipine (Plendil), nifedipine (Nifedical, Procardia), verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan), and others;




  • HIV/AIDS medicine such as atazanavir (Reyataz), delavirdine (Rescriptor), efavirenz (Sustiva), etravirine (Intelence), fosamprenavir (Lexiva), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), nevirapine (Viramune), saquinavir (Invirase), or ritonavir (Norvir, Kaletra); or




  • seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol), felbamate (Felbatol), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), phenytoin (Dilantin), or primidone (Mysoline).



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with estradiol and norgestimate. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More estradiol and norgestimate resources


  • Estradiol and norgestimate Dosage
  • Estradiol and norgestimate Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Estradiol and norgestimate Drug Interactions
  • Estradiol and norgestimate Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Estradiol and norgestimate - Add your own review/rating


Compare estradiol and norgestimate with other medications


  • Atrophic Urethritis
  • Atrophic Vaginitis
  • Postmenopausal Symptoms
  • Prevention of Osteoporosis


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about estradiol and norgestimate.


Thursday, 20 September 2012

Ethionamide


Pronunciation: e-THYE-on-am-ide
Generic Name: Ethionamide
Brand Name: Trecator


Ethionamide is used for:

Treating tuberculosis (TB) infections in combination with other medicines. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Ethionamide is an antibacterial agent. It works by inhibiting or stopping the growth of TB cells, which results in cell death.


Do NOT use Ethionamide if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Ethionamide

  • you have severe liver disease

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Ethionamide:


Some medical conditions may interact with Ethionamide. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have diabetes, liver problems, or vision problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Ethionamide. However, no specific interactions with Ethionamide are known at this time.


This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Ethionamide may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Ethionamide:


Use Ethionamide as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Ethionamide may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

  • Ethionamide should be taken in combination with other medicines.

  • If you miss a dose of Ethionamide and you are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Ethionamide.



Important safety information:


  • Ethionamide may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Alcohol, hot weather, exercise, and fever can increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Also, sit or lie down at the first sign of dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness.

  • Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness (eg, sedatives, tranquilizers) while taking Ethionamide. Ethionamide will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants.

  • Ethionamide may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Ethionamide. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.

  • Ethionamide is effective only against bacteria. It is not effective for treating viral infections (eg, the common cold).

  • It is important to use Ethionamide for the full course of treatment. Failure to do so may decrease the effectiveness of Ethionamide and may increase the risk that the bacteria will no longer be sensitive to Ethionamide and will not be able to be treated by this or certain other antibiotics in the future.

  • You may be required to take a vitamin B supplement while taking Ethionamide.

  • Diabetes patients - Ethionamide may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely and ask your doctor before adjusting the dose of your diabetes medicine.

  • LAB TESTS, including blood sugar, thyroid function tests, liver function tests, and vision tests, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Ethionamide should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 12 years of age. Safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed. In some cases, use in children may be warranted if other medicines are not effective or are not tolerated.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Ethionamide during pregnancy. It is unknown if Ethionamide is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Ethionamide, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Ethionamide:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; increased salivation; loss of appetite; metallic taste; mouth sores; nausea; restlessness; stomach pain; vomiting; weight loss.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); change in sense of smell; depression; easy bruising or bleeding; low blood sugar (eg, increased heartbeat, headache, chills, sweating, tremor, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, fainting); tingling of hands or feet; vision changes (eg, loss of vision); yellowing of the skin or eyes.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Ethionamide side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately.


Proper storage of Ethionamide:

Store Ethionamide at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C), in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Ethionamide out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Ethionamide, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Ethionamide is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Ethionamide. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Ethionamide resources


  • Ethionamide Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Ethionamide Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Ethionamide Drug Interactions
  • Ethionamide Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Ethionamide - Add your own review/rating


  • Ethionamide Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Ethionamide Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • ethionamide Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • ethionamide Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Trecator Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Ethionamide with other medications


  • Tuberculosis, Active

Wednesday, 19 September 2012

ED Cyte F


Pronunciation: DOK-yoo-sate SO-dee-um/FER-us FYOO-mar-rate/FOE-lik AS-id
Generic Name: Docusate Sodium/Ferrous Fumarate/Folic Acid
Brand Name: ED Cyte F


ED Cyte F is used for:

Treating anemia caused by low levels of iron or folate in the blood. It is also used in pregnancy for the prevention and treatment of low blood levels of iron and to supply folic acid to the body. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


ED Cyte F is an iron and folic acid combination plus a stool softener. It works by replacing or adding iron and folic acid when the body does not produce enough of its own. The stool softener is used to relieve constipation caused by iron.


Do NOT use ED Cyte F if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in ED Cyte F

  • you have pernicious anemia or you have too much iron in the body

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using ED Cyte F:


Some medical conditions may interact with ED Cyte F. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have stomach or intestinal problems (eg, ulcer, intestinal irritation or inflammation, Crohn disease, diverticulitis)

  • if you have had multiple blood transfusions, anemia, or a blood disorder (eg, thalassemia, porphyria)

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with ED Cyte F. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Doxycycline, hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), mycophenolate, penicillamine, tetracyclines, or thyroid hormones (eg, levothyroxine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by ED Cyte F

  • Fluorouracil because the risk of its side effects may be increased by ED Cyte F

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if ED Cyte F may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use ED Cyte F:


Use ED Cyte F as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take ED Cyte F by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

  • If you also take a bisphosphonate (eg, alendronate), a cephalosporin (eg, cephalexin), methyldopa, penicillamine, a quinolone (eg, ciprofloxacin), or a tetracycline (eg, minocycline), you may need to space the doses several hours apart. Check with your doctor if you have questions about how much time is needed between doses of ED Cyte F and your other medicines.

  • Do not take an antacid within 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take ED Cyte F.

  • Avoid eggs, whole grain breads or cereal, milk, milk products, coffee, or tea within 2 hours before or after taking ED Cyte F. These foods may reduce absorption of ED Cyte F.

  • Take ED Cyte F with a full glass of water (8 oz/240 mL). Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking ED Cyte F.

  • If you miss a dose of ED Cyte F, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use ED Cyte F.



Important safety information:


  • ED Cyte F has iron in it. Iron overdose is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children younger than 6 years of age. In case of an overdose, call a doctor or poison control center right away.

  • Do not take large doses of vitamins while you use ED Cyte F unless your doctor tells you to.

  • Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than 6 months without checking with your doctor.

  • ED Cyte F may darken the stools. This is normal and not a cause for concern.

  • Lab tests, including complete blood cell counts, may be performed while you use ED Cyte F. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using ED Cyte F while you are pregnant. ED Cyte F is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use ED Cyte F, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of ED Cyte F:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Constipation; darkened or green stools; diarrhea; indigestion; nausea; stomach cramps; vomiting.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; blood or streaks of blood in the stool; fever; vomiting with continuing stomach pain.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: ED Cyte F side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include bloody stools; blue or pale skin; loss of consciousness; severe drowsiness; severe or persistent nausea or vomiting.


Proper storage of ED Cyte F:

Store ED Cyte F at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep ED Cyte F out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about ED Cyte F, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • ED Cyte F is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about ED Cyte F. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More ED Cyte F resources


  • ED Cyte F Side Effects (in more detail)
  • ED Cyte F Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • ED Cyte F Drug Interactions
  • ED Cyte F Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for ED Cyte F - Add your own review/rating


  • Ed Cyte F Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)



Compare ED Cyte F with other medications


  • Anemia Associated with Iron Deficiency
  • Iron Deficiency Anemia

Eldepryl


Generic Name: selegiline (oral) (se LE ji leen)

Brand Names: Eldepryl, Zelapar


What is selegiline?

Selegiline prevents the breakdown of a chemical in your brain called dopamine (DO pa meen). Low levels of this chemical are associated with Parkinson's disease.


Selegiline is used together with other medicines to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease.


Selegiline may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about selegiline?


There are many other medicines that can cause serious medical problems if you take them together with selegiline. Tell your doctor about all other prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.


While taking selegiline, do not drink alcohol or eat foods that are high in tyramine, listed in the "What should I avoid while using selegiline?" section of this leaflet. Eating tyramine while you are using selegiline can raise your blood pressure to dangerous levels and cause life-threatening symptoms.

You should become very familiar with the list of foods to avoid while you are using selegiline.



Video: Treatment for Depression







Treatments for depression are getting better everyday and there are things you can start doing right away.





Do not stop taking selegiline suddenly or you may have harmful side effects. Keep taking the medicine as prescribed. Talk with your doctor before stopping the medication.

You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking this medication. Talk with your doctor if you believe you have any intense or unusual urges while taking selegiline.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using selegiline?


Do not use this medication if you are allergic to selegiline, or if you have used any of the following drugs within the past 14 days:

  • cough or cold medicine that contains dextromethorphan;




  • meperidine (Demerol), propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet), or tramadol (Ultram, Ultracet);




  • methadone (Dolophine, Methadose); or




  • other MAO inhibitors such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), or transdermal selegiline (Emsam).



After you stop taking selegiline, you must wait at least 14 days before taking any of the medications listed above.


Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, high or low blood pressure, or a seizure disorder. If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take selegiline.


You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking selegiline. It is not known whether the medicine actually causes this effect. Talk with your doctor if you believe you have any intense or unusual urges while taking selegiline.


FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you take selegiline, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether selegiline passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take selegiline without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

The selegiline disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of selegiline if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).


How should I take selegiline?


Take selegiline exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Larger doses will not have any greater effect, but serious side effects could result. Follow the directions on your prescription label.


While you are using selegiline and for 14 days after you stop, you must not eat foods listed in the "What should I avoid while using selegiline?" section of this leaflet. Eating these foods while you are using selegiline can raise your blood pressure to dangerous levels.

Foods that you MAY eat include:



  • fresh meat, poultry, or fish (including lunch meat, hot dogs, breakfast sausage, and cooked sliced ham);




  • any vegetables except broad bean pods (fava beans);




  • processed cheese, mozzarella, ricotta, cottage cheese;




  • pizza made with cheeses low in tyramine;




  • soy milk, yogurt; or




  • Brewer's or baker's yeast.




Selegiline capsules are usually taken twice a day, at breakfast and lunch. Follow your doctor's instructions. The disintegrating tablet form of selegiline (Zelapar) should be taken once a day before breakfast and without any liquid.

To take selegiline orally disintegrating tablets (Zelapar):



  • Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel back the foil from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.




  • Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.




  • Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves.




  • Do not drink or eat anything for at least 5 minutes after taking a Zelapar orally disintegrating tablet.



Parkinson's disease is often treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. When you start taking selegiline, your doses of the other medications may need to change. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor.


Do not stop taking selegiline suddenly or you may have harmful side effects. For best results, keep taking the medicine as prescribed. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include severe headache, hallucinations, vision problems, sweating, cool or clammy skin, fast or uneven heart rate, feeling light-headed, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).


What should I avoid while using selegiline?


You must NOT eat foods that are high in tyramine, including:

  • air dried meats, aged or fermented meats, sausage or salami (including cacciatore and mortadella), pickled herring, and any spoiled or improperly stored beef, poultry, fish, or liver;




  • beer from a tap, beer that has not been pasteurized;




  • aged cheeses, including blue, boursault, brick, brie, camembert, cheddar, emmenthaler, gruyere, parmesan, romano, roquefort, stilton, and swiss;




  • over-the-counter supplements or cough and cold medicines that contain tyramine;




  • sauerkraut, soy beans, soy sauce, tofu, miso soup, bean curd, fava beans; or




  • yeast extracts (such as Marmite).



Eating tyramine while you are taking selegiline can raise your blood pressure to dangerous levels which could cause life-threatening side effects.


You should become very familiar with the list of foods to avoid while you are taking selegiline.


Avoid drinking alcohol while taking selegiline. Selegiline can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Selegiline side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking selegiline and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • sudden and severe headache, confusion, blurred vision, problems with speech or balance, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, seizure (convulsions), and sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body);




  • feeling light-headed, fainting;




  • hallucinations;




  • feeling restless, agitated, or irritable;




  • twitching muscle movements; or




  • painful or difficult urination.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • dizziness, weakness;




  • sleep problems (insomnia);




  • runny or stuffy nose;




  • back pain;




  • constipation; or




  • mouth sores or ulcers, pain with swallowing (while using Zelapar).



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect selegiline?


Before taking selegiline, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:



  • carbamazepine (Tegretol);




  • diet pills or cold medicines that contain ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylephrine;




  • nafcillin (Unipen);




  • phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);




  • rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane); or




  • an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Ascendin), bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban), citalopram (Celexa), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), duloxetine (Cymbalta), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), paroxetine (Paxil), protriptyline (Vivactil), sertraline (Zoloft), venlafaxine (Effexor), or trimipramine (Surmontil).



This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can cause serious medical problems if you take them together with selegiline. Do not take selegiline before telling your doctor about all other prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor, dentist, or other healthcare provider who treats you.



More Eldepryl resources


  • Eldepryl Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Eldepryl Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Eldepryl Drug Interactions
  • Eldepryl Support Group
  • 1 Review for Eldepryl - Add your own review/rating


  • Eldepryl Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Eldepryl Consumer Overview

  • Eldepryl MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Eldepryl Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Selegiline Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Emsam Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Emsam Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Emsam System MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Emsam Consumer Overview

  • Zelapar Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zelapar Orally Disintegrating Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Zelapar Consumer Overview



Compare Eldepryl with other medications


  • ADHD
  • Depression
  • Parkinson's Disease


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about selegiline.

See also: Eldepryl side effects (in more detail)


Thursday, 13 September 2012

eprosartan


ep-roe-SAR-tan


Oral route(Tablet)

Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury or death to the developing fetus when used during the second and third trimesters. Stop therapy as soon as possible when pregnancy is detected .



Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Teveten

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Cardiovascular Agent


Pharmacologic Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist


Uses For eprosartan


Eprosartan belongs to the class of medicines called angiotensin II inhibitors. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).


High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.


Eprosartan works by blocking the action of a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, eprosartan relaxes blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure.


eprosartan is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Before Using eprosartan


In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For eprosartan, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to eprosartan or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Studies on eprosartan have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of eprosartan in children with use in other age groups.


Geriatric


eprosartan has been tested in patients 65 years of age or older and has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.


Pregnancy














Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
1st TrimesterCAnimal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.
2nd TrimesterDStudies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy in a life threatening situation or a serious disease, may outweigh the potential risk.
3rd TrimesterDStudies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy in a life threatening situation or a serious disease, may outweigh the potential risk.

Breast Feeding


There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking eprosartan, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using eprosartan with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Benazepril

  • Enalapril

  • Enalaprilat

  • Lisinopril

  • Moexipril

  • Perindopril

  • Quinapril

  • Ramipril

  • Trandolapril

Using eprosartan with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Bromfenac

  • Celecoxib

  • Diclofenac

  • Diflunisal

  • Etodolac

  • Fenoprofen

  • Flurbiprofen

  • Ibuprofen

  • Indomethacin

  • Ketoprofen

  • Ketorolac

  • Magnesium Salicylate

  • Meclofenamate

  • Mefenamic Acid

  • Meloxicam

  • Nabumetone

  • Naproxen

  • Nepafenac

  • Oxaprozin

  • Piroxicam

  • Salsalate

  • Sulindac

  • Tolmetin

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.


Other Medical Problems


The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of eprosartan. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


  • Congestive heart failure (severe)—Lowering of blood pressure by eprosartan may make this condition worse

  • Dehydration or salt depletion—Blood pressure–lowering effects of eprosartan may be increased

  • Kidney disease—Effects of eprosartan may make this condition worse

Proper Use of eprosartan


Take eprosartan only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than your doctor ordered. eprosartan also works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep the amount constant, do not miss any doses. Also, it is best to take the doses at the same time each day.


Dosing


The dose of eprosartan will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of eprosartan. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.


The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.


  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For high blood pressure:
      • Adults— 400 to 800 milligrams (mg) a day. The dose may be taken once a day or divided into two doses.

      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.



Missed Dose


If you miss a dose of eprosartan, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.


Storage


Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.


Keep out of the reach of children.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


Precautions While Using eprosartan


It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that eprosartan is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.


Check with your doctor immediately if you think that you may be pregnant. Eprosartan may cause birth defects or other problems in the baby if taken during pregnancy.


Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This especially includes over-the-counter (nonprescription) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems, since they may increase your blood pressure.


Dizziness or light-headedness may occur, especially if you have been taking a diuretic (water pill). Make sure you know how you react to eprosartan before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you experience these effects.


Check with your doctor right away if you become sick while taking eprosartan, especially with severe or continuing nausea and vomiting or diarrhea. These conditions may cause you to lose too much water and lead to low blood pressure.


Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting also may occur if you exercise or if the weather is hot. Heavy sweating can cause loss of too much water and result in low blood pressure. Use extra care during exercise or hot weather.


eprosartan Side Effects


Side Effects of eprosartan

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.


Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:


Less common
  • Burning or painful urination or changes in urinary frequency

  • cough, fever, or sore throat

Rare
  • Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting

  • swollen face, lips, limbs, or tongue

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:


Less common or rare
  • Abdominal pain

  • joint pain

  • unusual tiredness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.


Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: eprosartan side effects (in more detail)



The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.


The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.


More eprosartan resources


  • Eprosartan Side Effects (in more detail)
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  • Eprosartan Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
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  • Eprosartan Drug Interactions
  • Eprosartan Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Eprosartan - Add your own review/rating


  • eprosartan Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • Eprosartan Prescribing Information (FDA)

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Compare eprosartan with other medications


  • High Blood Pressure

Floxapen Capsules 500mg (Actavis UK Ltd)





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Floxapen Capsules 500mg


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Floxapen Capsules (Flucloxacillin Capsules BP) containing 500 mg flucloxacillin as Flucloxacillin Sodium BP.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Capsule, hard



Caramel coloured hard gelatin capsules printed with '



4. Clinical Particulars



Flucloxacillin is an isoxazolyl penicillin of the β-lactam group of antibiotics which exerts a bactericidal effect upon many Gram-positive organisms including β-lactamase-producing staphylococci and streptococci.



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Floxapen is indicated for the treatment of infections due to sensitive Gram-positive organisms, including β-lactamase-producing staphylococci and streptococci. Typical indications include:











































Skin and soft tissue infections:


  


Boils




Cellulitis




Infected burns




Abscesses




Infected skin conditions




Protection for skin grafts




Carbuncles




e.g. ulcer, eczema, and acne




Impetigo




Furunculosis




Infected wounds



 


Respiratory tract infections:


  


Pneumonia




Lung abscess




Empyema




Sinusitis




Pharyngitis




Otitis media and externa




Tonsillitis




Quinsy



 


Other infections caused by Floxapen-sensitive organisms:


  


Osteomyelitis




Urinary tract infection



 


Enteritis




Meningitis



 


Endocarditis




Septicaemia



 


Floxapen is also indicated for use as a prophylactic agent during major surgical procedures when appropriate; for example cardiothoracic and orthopaedic surgery.



Parenteral usage is indicated where oral dosage is inappropriate.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Depends on the age, weight and renal function of the patient, as well as the severity of the infection.



Usual adult dosage (including elderly patients)



Oral - 250 mg four times a day.



Osteomyelitis, endocarditis - Up to 8 g daily, in divided doses six to eight hourly.



Surgical prophylaxis - 1 to 2 g IV at induction of anaesthesia followed by 500 mg six hourly IV, IM or orally for up to 72 hours.



Usual children's dosage



2-10 years: half adult dose.



Under 2 years: quarter adult dose.



Abnormal renal function: In common with other penicillins, Floxapen usage in patients with renal impairment does not usually require dosage reduction. However, in the presence of severe renal failure (creatinine clearance < 10 ml/min) a reduction in dose or an extension of dose interval should be considered. Floxapen is not significantly removed by dialysis and hence no supplementary dosages need to be administered either during, or at the end of the dialysis period.



Administration



Oral: Oral doses should be administered half to one hour before meals.



4.3 Contraindications



Flucloxacillin should not be given to patients with a history of hypersensitivity to β-lactam antibiotics (e.g. penicillins, cephalosporins) or excipients.



Flucloxacillin is contra-indicated in patients with a previous history of flucloxacillin-associated jaundice/hepatic dysfunction.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Before initiating therapy with flucloxacillin, careful enquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions to β-lactams.



Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis) have been reported in patients receiving β-lactam antibiotics. Although anaphylaxis is more frequent following parenteral therapy, it has occurred in patients on oral therapy. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of β-lactam hypersensitivity.



If anaphylaxis occurs flucloxacillin should be discontinued and the appropriate therapy instituted. Serious anaphylactic reactions may require immediate emergency treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine). Ensure adequate airway and ventilation and give 100% oxygen. IV crystalloids, hydrocortisone, antihistamine and nebulised bronchodilators may also be required.



Flucloxacillin should be used with caution in patients with evidence of hepatic dysfunction, patients



The use of flucloxacillin (like other penicillins) in patients with renal impairment does not usually require dosage reduction. In the presence of severe renal failure (creatinine clearance less than 10ml/min), however, a reduction in dose or an extension of dose interval should be considered because of the risk of neurotoxicity (see section 4.2).



During prolonged treatments (e.g. osteomyelitis, endocarditis), regular monitoring of hepatic and renal functions is recommended.



Prolonged use may occasionally result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.



Floxapen capsules contain 51 mg sodium per g. This should be included in the daily allowance of patients on sodium restricted diets.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Probenecid decreases the renal tubular secretion of flucloxacillin. Concurrent administration of probenecid delays the renal excretion of flucloxacillin.



In common with other antibiotics, flucloxacillin may affect the gut flora, leading to lower oestrogen reabsorption and reduced efficacy of combined oral contraceptives



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy: Animal studies with flucloxacillin have shown no teratogenic effects. The product has been in clinical use since 1970 and the limited number of reported cases of use in human pregnancy have shown no evidence of untoward effects. The decision to administer any drug during pregnancy should be taken with the utmost care. Therefore flucloxacillin should only be used in pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks associated with treatment.



Lactation: Trace quantities of flucloxacillin can be detected in breast milk. The possibility of hypersensitivity reactions must be considered in breast-feeding infants. Therefore flucloxacillin should only be administered to a breast-feeding mother when the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks associated with the treatment.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Adverse effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery have not been observed.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The following convention has been utilised for the classification of undesirable effects:- Very common (>1/10), common (>1/100, <1/10), uncommon (>1/1000, <1/100), rare (>1/10,000, <1/1000), very rare ( <1/10,000).



Unless otherwise stated, the frequency of the adverse events has been derived from more than 30 years of post-marketing reports.



Blood and lymphatic system disorders



Very rare: Neutropenia (including agranulocytosis) and thrombocytopenia. These are reversible when treatment is discontinued. Haemolytic anaemia.



Immune system disorders



Very rare: Anaphylactic shock (exceptional with oral administration) (see Item 4.4 Warnings), angioneurotic oedema.



If any hypersensitivity reaction occurs, the treatment should be discontinued. (See also Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders).



Gastrointestinal disorders



*Common: Minor gastrointestinal disturbances.



Very rare: Pseudomembranous colitis.



If pseudomembranous colitis develops, flucloxacillin treatment should be discontinued and appropriate therapy, e.g. oral vancomycin should be initiated.



Hepato-biliary disorders



Very rare: Hepatitis and cholestatic jaundice. (See Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Special Precautions for Use). Changes in liver function laboratory test results (reversible when treatment is discontinued).



These reactions are related neither to the dose nor to the route of administration. The onset of these effects may be delayed for up to two months post-treatment; in several cases the course of the reactions has been protracted and lasted for some months. Hepatic events may be severe and in very rare circumstances a fatal outcome has been reported. Most reports of deaths have been in patients



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders



*Uncommon: Rash, urticaria and purpura.



Very rare: Erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.



(See also Immune system disorders).



Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders



Very rare: Arthralgia and myalgia sometimes develop more than 48 hours after the start of the treatment.



Renal and urinary disorders



Very rare: Interstitial nephritis.



This is reversible when treatment is discontinued.



General disorders and administration site conditions



Very rare: Fever sometimes develops more than 48 hours after the start of the treatment.



*The incidence of these AEs was derived from clinical studies involving a total of approximately 929 adult and paediatric patients taking flucloxacillin.



4.9 Overdose



Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may be evident and should be treated symptomatically.



Flucloxacillin is not removed from the circulation by haemodialysis.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Properties: Flucloxacillin is a narrow-spectrum antibiotic of the group of isoxazolyl penicillins; it is not inactivated by staphylococcal β-lactamases.



Activity: Flucloxacillin, by its action on the synthesis of the bacterial wall, exerts a bactericidal effect on streptococci except those of group D (Enterococcus faecalis) staphylococci. It is not active against methicillin-resistant staphylococci.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption: Flucloxacillin is stable in acid media and can therefore be administered either by the oral or parenteral route. The peak serum levels of flucloxacillin reached after one hour are as follows.



- After 250 mg by the oral route (in fasting subjects): Approximately 8.8 mg/l.



- After 500 mg by the oral route (in fasting subjects): Approximately 14.5mg/l.



- After 500 mg by the IM route: Approximately 16.5 mg/l.



The total quantity absorbed by the oral route represents approximately 79% of the quantity administered.



Distribution: Flucloxacillin diffuses well into most tissue. Specifically, active concentrations of flucloxacillin have been recovered in bones: 11.6 mg/l (compact bone) and 15.6 mg/l (spongy bone), with a mean serum level of 8.9 mg/l.



Crossing the meningeal barrier: Flucloxacillin diffuses in only small proportion into the cerebrospinal fluid of subjects whose meninges are not inflamed.



Crossing into mother's milk: Flucloxacillin is excreted in small quantities in mother's milk.



Metabolism: In normal subjects approximately 10% of the flucloxacillin administered is metabolised to penicilloic acid. The elimination half-life of flucloxacillin is in the order of 53 minutes.



Excretion: Excretion occurs mainly through the kidney. Between 65.5% (oral route) and 76.1% (parenteral route) of the dose administered is recovered in unaltered active form in the urine within 8 hours. A small portion of the dose administered is excreted in the bile. The excretion of flucloxacillin is slowed in cases of renal failure.



Protein binding: The serum protein-binding rate is 95%.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



No further information of relevance to add.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Capsule content:



Magnesium stearate



Capsule shell:



Gelatin



Titanium dioxide (E171)



Black iron oxide (E172)



Yellow iron oxide (E172)



Red iron oxide (E172)



Printing ink:



Shellac (E904)



Propylene glycol (E1520)



Sodium hydroxide (E524)



Povidone



Titanium dioxide (E171)



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



Tray foil blister: 24 months



Other Packaging: 12 months



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Floxapen Capsules in Original Packs should be stored in a dry place. Floxapen Capsules in reclosable containers should be stored in a cool, dry place.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Floxapen Capsules 500 mg: Aluminium canister - 50 and 100; Glass bottle with screwcap - 50 and 100; Polypropylene tube with polyethylene closure - 50 and 100; Aluminium foil - 12; Aluminium/PVC Blister with an aluminium overseal (tray foil blister pack) -28



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None stated.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Actavis Group PTC ehf



Reykjavíkurvegi 76-78



220 Hafnarfjordur



Iceland.



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 30306/0016



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



12th October 2007



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



12/05/2010



11 DOSIMETRY (IF APPLICABLE)


12 INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARATION OF RADIOPHARMACEUTICALS (IF APPLICABLE)