Hot PLR Articles Directory Illinois: June 2012

Saturday, 30 June 2012

More Glytone Clarifying Gel resources

Glytone Clarifying Gel Side Effects (in more detail)
Glytone Clarifying Gel Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
0 Reviews for Glytone Clarifying - Add your own review/rating

Compare Glytone Clarifying Gel with other medications

Dermatological Disorders

Wednesday, 27 June 2012

cytarabine

Generic Name: cytarabine (sye TAR a been)

Brand names: Cytosar-U, Tarabine PFS, Cytosar

What is cytarabine?

Cytarabine is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Cytarabine is used to treat certain types of leukemia (blood cancers). Cytarabine is also used to treat leukemia associated with meningitis.

Cytarabine will not treat an active meningitis infection that has already developed in the body.

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

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

Cytarabine can cause serious side effects on your brain or central nervous system that may not be reversible. Cytarabine is usually given together with a steroid medication to help lessen these side effects. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication. Do not use cytarabine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby.

Before you receive cytarabine, tell your doctor if you have a seizure disorder or a history of head injury or brain tumor.

Cytarabine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. Your blood may need to be tested often. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding injury. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection. Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with cytarabine. The live vaccine may not work as well during this time, and may not fully protect you from disease.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving cytarabine?

Cytarabine can cause serious side effects on your brain or central nervous system that may not be reversible. Cytarabine is usually given together with a steroid medication to help lessen these side effects. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication. You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to cytarabine.

To make sure you can safely receive cytarabine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

epilepsy or other seizure disorder; or

a history of head injury or brain tumor.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not receive cytarabine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether cytarabine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are receiving cytarabine.

How is cytarabine given?

Cytarabine is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein, under the skin, or into the space around the spinal cord. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

Cytarabine is usually given once every 2 to 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when cytarabine is injected.

After receiving an injection in the space around your spinal cord, you will need to lie flat for at least 1 hour. You will be watched closely during this time to make sure you do not have serious side effects.

Cytarabine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. Your blood may need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your cytarabine injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include severe forms of some of the side effects listed in this medication guide.

What should I avoid while receiving cytarabine?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while receiving cytarabine. The vaccine may not work as well during this time, and may not fully protect you from disease. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), oral polio, rotavirus, smallpox, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), H1N1 influenza, and nasal flu vaccine.

Cytarabine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Tell your caregivers at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

fever with nausea, vomiting, and headache;

problems with your vision or hearing;

loss of movement in any part of your body;

loss of bowel or bladder control;

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, sores in your mouth and throat;

pale skin, feeling light-headed or short of breath, rapid heart rate, trouble concentrating;

confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior;

trouble standing or walking,

seizure (convulsions);

pain or burning when you urinate;

feeling like you might pass out; or

feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin.

Less serious side effects may include:

drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, memory problems;

constipation, diarrhea, mild nausea;

back pain, pain in your arms or legs;

headache; or

trouble sleeping (insomnia).

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.

Cytarabine Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukemia:

As a part of a combination chemotherapy:
100 mg/m2/day by continuous IV infusion (days 1 to 7) or 100 mg/m2 IV every 12 hours (days 1 to 7) with an anthracycline.

Usual Adult Dose for non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma:

Acute Leukemia Induction:
100 to 200 mg/m2/day or 2 to 6 mg/kg/day as a continuous IV infusion over 24 hours or in divided doses by rapid injection for 5 to 10 days. This course may be repeated approximately every 2 weeks.

For refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and acute myeloid leukemia:
2 to 3 g/m2 IV every twelve hours for up to 12 doses. The IV infusion generally takes place over 1 to 3 hours. The dose of cytarabine should be suspended or modified if the ANC is below 1000/mm3 or the platelet count is below 50,000/mm3.

For chronic granulocytic leukemia / chronic myelogenous leukemia:
20 mg/m2 subcutaneously for 10 days per month for 6 months with interferon alfa.

Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia:

Usual Adult Dose for Acute Myeloid Leukemia:

Usual Adult Dose for Leukemia:

Usual Adult Dose for Meningeal Leukemia:

The manufacturer has stated that doses ranging from 5 mg/m2 to 75 mg/m2 has been used intrathecally and the frequency of administration has varied from once a day for 4 days to once every 4 days. The manufacturer has further stated that 30 mg/m2 every 4 days until cerebrospinal fluid findings were normal, followed by one additional treatment was the therapy most frequently used.

Some clinicians today recommend 10 to 30 mg intrathecally up to 3 times a week.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukemia:

As a part of a combination chemotherapy:
100 mg/m2/day by continuous IV infusion (days 1 to 7) or 100 mg/m2 IV every 12 hours (days 1 to 7) with an anthracycline.

Usual Pediatric Dose for non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma:

For refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and acute myeloid leukemia:
1 to 3 g/m2 IV every twelve hours for up to 12 doses The IV infusion generally takes place over 1 to 3 hours. The dose of cytarabine should be suspended or modified if the ANC is below 1000/mm3 or the platelet count is below 50,000/mm3.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Acute Myeloid Leukemia:

Usual Pediatric Dose for Meningeal Leukemia:

The manufacturer has stated that doses ranging from 5 mg/m2 to 75 mg/m2 has been used intrathecally and the frequency of administration has varied from once a day for 4 days to once every 4 days. The manufacturer has further stated that 30 mg/m2 every 4 days until cerebrospinal fluid findings were normal, followed by one additional treatment was the therapy most frequently used.

However, some clinicians recommend the following age based dosing:
1 to 2 years: 30 mg
2 to 3 years: 50 mg
>3 years: 70 to 75 mg

What other drugs will affect cytarabine?

Tell your doctor if you take digoxin (Lanoxin).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with cytarabine. 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 cytarabine resources

Cytarabine Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Cytarabine Drug Interactions
Cytarabine Support Group
0 Reviews for Cytarabine - Add your own review/rating

cytarabine Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

Cytarabine Prescribing Information (FDA)

Cytarabine Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

Cytarabine Monograph (AHFS DI)

Cytarabine MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare cytarabine with other medications

Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukemia
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Leukemia
Meningeal Leukemia
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about cytarabine.

Saturday, 23 June 2012

Kolnatal DHA

Generic Name: prenatal multivitamins (PRE nay tal VYE ta mins)

Brand Names: Advance Care Plus, Bright Beginnings, Cavan Folate, Cavan One, Cavan-Heme OB, Cenogen Ultra, CitraNatal Rx, Co Natal FA, Complete Natal DHA, Complete-RF, CompleteNate, Concept OB, Docosavit, Dualvit OB, Duet, Edge OB, Elite OB 400, Femecal OB, Folbecal, Folcaps Care One, Folivan-OB, Foltabs, Gesticare, Icar Prenatal, Icare Prenatal Rx, Inatal Advance, Infanate DHA, Kolnatal DHA, Lactocal-F, Marnatal-F, Maternity, Maxinate, Mission Prenatal, Multi-Nate 30, Multinatal Plus, Nata 29 Prenatal, Natachew, Natafort, Natelle, Neevo, Nestabs, Nexa Select with DHA, Novanatal, NovaStart, O-Cal Prenatal, OB Complete, OB Natal One, Ob-20, Obtrex DHA, OptiNate, Paire OB Plus DHA, PNV Select, PNV-Total, PR Natal 400, Pre-H-Cal, Precare, PreferaOB, Premesis Rx, PrenaCare, PrenaFirst, PrenaPlus, Prenatabs OBN, Prenatabs Rx, Prenatal 1 Plus 1, Prenatal Elite, Prenatal Multivitamins, Prenatal Plus, Prenatal S, Prenatal-U, Prenate Advanced Formula, Prenate DHA, Prenate Elite, Prenavite FC, PreNexa, PreQue 10, Previte Rx, PrimaCare, Pruet DHA, RE OB Plus DHA, Renate, RightStep, Rovin-NV, Se-Care, Se-Natal One, Se-Plete DHA, Se-Tan DHA, Select-OB, Seton ET, Strongstart, Stuart Prenatal with Beta Carotene, Tandem OB, Taron-BC, Tri Rx, TriAdvance, TriCare, Trimesis Rx, Trinate, Triveen-PRx RNF, UltimateCare Advance, Ultra-Natal, Vemavite PRX 2, VeNatal FA, Verotin-BY, Verotin-GR, Vinacal OR, Vinatal Forte, Vinate Advanced (New Formula), Vinate AZ, Vinate Care, Vinate Good Start, Vinate II (New Formula), Vinate III, Vinate One, Vitafol-OB, VitaNatal OB plus DHA, Vitaphil, Vitaphil Aide, Vitaphil Plus DHA, Vitaspire, Viva DHA, Vol-Nate, Vol-Plus, Vol-Tab Rx, Vynatal F.A., Zatean-CH, Zatean-PN

What are Kolnatal DHA (prenatal multivitamins)?

There are many brands and forms of prenatal vitamin available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Prenatal vitamins are a combination of many different vitamins that are normally found in foods and other natural sources.

Prenatal vitamins are used to provide the additional vitamins needed during pregnancy. Minerals may also be contained in prenatal multivitamins.

Prenatal vitamins may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about prenatal vitamins?

There are many brands and forms of prenatal vitamin available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Never take more than the recommended dose of a multivitamin. Avoid taking any other multivitamin product within 2 hours before or after you take your prenatal vitamins. Taking similar vitamin products together at the same time can result in a vitamin overdose or serious side effects.

Many multivitamin products also contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Minerals (especially taken in large doses) can cause side effects such as tooth staining, increased urination, stomach bleeding, uneven heart rate, confusion, and muscle weakness or limp feeling. Read the label of any multivitamin product you take to make sure you are aware of what it contains.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of vitamins A, D, E, or K can cause serious or life-threatening side effects and can also harm your unborn baby. Certain minerals contained in a prenatal multivitamin may also cause serious overdose symptoms or harm to the baby if you take too much.

Overdose symptoms may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, hair loss, peeling skin, tingly feeling in or around your mouth, changes in menstrual periods, weight loss, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, severe back pain, blood in your urine, pale skin, and easy bruising or bleeding.

Do not take this medication with milk, other dairy products, calcium supplements, or antacids that contain calcium. Calcium may make it harder for your body to absorb certain ingredients of the multivitamin.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking prenatal vitamins?

Many vitamins can cause serious or life-threatening side effects if taken in large doses. Do not take more of this medication than directed on the label or prescribed by your doctor.

Before taking prenatal vitamins, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.

You may need to continue taking prenatal vitamins if you breast-feed your baby. Ask your doctor about taking this medication while breast-feeding.

How should I take prenatal vitamins?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Never take more than the recommended dose of prenatal vitamins.

Take your prenatal vitamin with a full glass of water.

Swallow the regular tablet or capsule whole. Do not break, chew, crush, or open it.

The chewable tablet must be chewed or allowed to dissolve in your mouth before swallowing. You may also allow the chewable tablet to dissolve in drinking water, fruit juice, or infant formula (but not milk or other dairy products). Drink this mixture right away.

Use prenatal vitamins regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep prenatal vitamins in their original container. Storing vitamins in a glass container can ruin the medication.

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.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking prenatal vitamins?

Avoid taking any other multivitamin product within 2 hours before or after you take your prenatal vitamins. Taking similar vitamin products together at the same time can result in a vitamin overdose or serious side effects.

Avoid the regular use of salt substitutes in your diet if your multivitamin contains potassium. If you are on a low-salt diet, ask your doctor before taking a vitamin or mineral supplement.

Prenatal vitamins 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.

When taken as directed, prenatal vitamins are not expected to cause serious side effects. Less serious side effects may include:

upset stomach;

headache; or

unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

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 prenatal vitamins?

Vitamin and mineral supplements can interact with certain medications, or affect how medications work in your body. Before taking a prenatal vitamin, tell your doctor if you also use:

diuretics (water pills);

heart or blood pressure medications;

tretinoin (Vesanoid);

isotretinoin (Accutane, Amnesteen, Clavaris, Sotret);

trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Cotrim, Bactrim, Gantanol, Gantrisin, Septra, TMP/SMX); or

an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Treximet), celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), and others.

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with prenatal vitamins. 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 Kolnatal DHA resources

Kolnatal DHA Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Kolnatal DHA Drug Interactions
0 Reviews for Kolnatal DHA - Add your own review/rating

Cal-Nate MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

CareNatal DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

CitraNatal 90 DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

CitraNatal Assure Prescribing Information (FDA)

CitraNatal Harmony Prescribing Information (FDA)

Concept DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Docosavit Prescribing Information (FDA)

Duet DHA with Ferrazone MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Folbecal MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Folcal DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Folcaps Care One Prescribing Information (FDA)

Gesticare DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Gesticare DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Inatal Advance Prescribing Information (FDA)

Inatal Ultra Prescribing Information (FDA)

Multi-Nate DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Multi-Nate DHA Extra Prescribing Information (FDA)

MultiNatal Plus MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Natelle One Prescribing Information (FDA)

Neevo Caplets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Neevo DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

OB Complete 400 MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Paire OB Plus DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

PreNexa MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

PreNexa Prescribing Information (FDA)

PreferaOB Prescribing Information (FDA)

Prenatal Plus Prescribing Information (FDA)

Prenatal Plus Iron Prescribing Information (FDA)

Prenate Elite Prescribing Information (FDA)

Prenate Elite MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Prenate Elite tablets

Prenate Essential Prescribing Information (FDA)

PrimaCare Advantage MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

PrimaCare ONE capsules

PrimaCare One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Renate DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Se-Natal 19 Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Se-Natal 19 Prescribing Information (FDA)

Tandem DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)

Tandem OB Prescribing Information (FDA)

TriAdvance Prescribing Information (FDA)

Triveen-One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Triveen-PRx RNF Prescribing Information (FDA)

UltimateCare ONE NF Prescribing Information (FDA)

Ultra NatalCare MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Vinate AZ Prescribing Information (FDA)

Vitafol-One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Zatean-CH Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare Kolnatal DHA with other medications

Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation during Pregnancy/Lactation

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about prenatal vitamins.

Monday, 18 June 2012

Eulexin

Generic Name: flutamide (oral) (FLEW ta mide)

Brand Names: Eulexin

What is flutamide?

Flutamide is an antiandrogen. It works in the body to prevent the actions of androgens (male hormones).

Flutamide is used in the treatment of prostate cancer.

Flutamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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

In rare cases, flutamide has caused severe liver damage resulting in death or hospitalization. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, "flu-like" symptoms, yellow skin or eyes, itching, clay-colored stools, or dark urine. These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage.

Your doctor will need to monitor your liver function with blood tests before starting treatment with flutamide, every month for the first 4 months of treatment, and periodically thereafter.

Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking flutamide?

Before taking flutamide, tell your doctor if you

smoke,

have liver disease,

have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, or

have hemoglobin M deficiency.

You may not be able to take flutamide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Flutamide is not indicated for use by women. Flutamide is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to harm an unborn baby. Do not take flutamide if you are pregnant. Flutamide is not indicated for use by women. It is not known whether flutamide passes into breast milk. Do not take flutamide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

How should I take flutamide?

Take flutamide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Flutamide is usually taken three times a day (every 8 hours). Follow your doctor's instructions.

Your doctor will need to monitor your liver function with blood tests before starting treatment with flutamide, every month for the first 4 months of treatment, and periodically thereafter.

Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. Store flutamide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

See also: Eulexin dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a flutamide overdose include decreased activity, slow breathing, dizziness, watering eyes, upraised body hair, decreased appetite, vomiting, and sedation.

What should I avoid while taking flutamide?

There are no restrictions on foods, beverages, or activities while taking flutamide. Follow any special instructions given by your doctor.

Flutamide side effects

Stop taking flutamide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take flutamide and talk to your doctor if you experience

hot flashes,

diarrhea,

skin rash,

increased skin sensitivity to sunlight,

loss of sex drive,

impotence,

lowered sperm count,

enlarged breasts,

amber or greenish discoloration of the urine,

rectal bleeding or inflammation, or

blood in the urine.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect flutamide?

Before taking flutamide, tell your doctor if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin). Flutamide may interact with warfarin, and the interaction could lead to bleeding.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with flutamide. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

More Eulexin resources

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

Eulexin Prescribing Information (FDA)

Eulexin Monograph (AHFS DI)

Eulexin Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

Flutamide Prescribing Information (FDA)

Flutamide Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

Flutamide MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Eulexin with other medications

Hirsutism
Prostate Cancer

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about flutamide written for health professionals that you may read.

See also: Eulexin side effects (in more detail)

Sunday, 17 June 2012

Alavert Syrup

Pronunciation: lor-A-ta-deen
Generic Name: Loratadine
Brand Name: Examples include Alavert and Claritin

Alavert Syrup is used for:

Relieving symptoms of seasonal allergies such as runny nose; sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; or itching of the nose and throat. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Alavert Syrup is an antihistamine. It works by blocking a substance in the body called histamine. This helps to decrease allergy symptoms.

Do NOT use Alavert Syrup if:

you are allergic to any ingredient in Alavert Syrup

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

Before using Alavert Syrup:

Some medical conditions may interact with Alavert Syrup. 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 kidney or liver problems, or you are on a low-sodium diet

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

Amiodarone because the risk of severe irregular heartbeat may be increased

Ask your health care provider if Alavert Syrup 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 Alavert Syrup:

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

Take Alavert Syrup by mouth with or without food.

Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure your dose.

If you miss a dose of Alavert Syrup, 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 Alavert Syrup.

Important safety information:

Taking Alavert Syrup in high doses may cause drowsiness. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.

Alavert Syrup may interfere with skin allergy tests. If you are scheduled for a skin test, talk to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Alavert Syrup for a few days before the tests.

Alavert Syrup has sodium in it. If you are on a low sodium diet, include this when you count your daily intake of sodium.

Alavert Syrup should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 2 years old without checking with the child's doctor; 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 Alavert Syrup while you are pregnant. Alavert Syrup is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Alavert Syrup, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Alavert Syrup:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. No COMMON side effects have been reported with this product. 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); severe or persistent dizziness.

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: Alavert 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 fast or irregular heartbeat; severe drowsiness or headache.

Proper storage of Alavert Syrup:

Store Alavert Syrup 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. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Alavert Syrup out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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

Alavert Syrup 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 Alavert Syrup. 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

More Alavert resources

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

Compare Alavert with other medications

Hay Fever
Urticaria

Ventmax SR 4mg & 8mg capsules

Ventmax SR 4 mg & 8 mg Capsules

salbutamol

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.

Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.

In this leaflet:

1. What Ventmax is and what it is used for

2. Before you take Ventmax

3. How to take Ventmax

4. Possible side effects

5. How to store Ventmax

6. Further information

What Ventmax is and what it is used for

Ventmax SR Capsules are used to help relieve the symptoms of asthma and other conditions that cause breathing problems. The active ingredient, salbutamol, is one of a group of medicines called bronchodilators or ‘relievers’. Salbutamol relaxes the muscles in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs. This helps to open up the airways and so helps to relieve chest tightness, wheezing and cough so that you can breathe more easily.

The capsules are manufactured in a way that allows the salbutamol to be released and slowly absorbed by your body so that you get relief over a period of several hours.

Taking Ventmax at the same time as other prescribed anti-inflammatory medicines, such as steroids, will help you to breathe more easily.

Before you take Ventmax

Do not take Ventmax:

if you are allergic to salbutamol or any of the other ingredients contained in Ventmax.

Take special care with Ventmax and always tell your doctor if:

you suffer from an over active thyroid gland

you suffer from high blood pressure

you suffer from any disease of the heart

you suffer from an irregular heart beat

you are diabetic

you suffer from low levels of potassium in your blood

your asthma seems to be getting worse. Perhaps you are more wheezy and short of breath than usual, your capsules or ‘reliever’ inhaler seems to be less effective, you require more capsules or more puffs from your ‘reliever’ inhaler than usual, or you do not seem to be getting better. Your doctor may reassess your asthma and may change your treatment or give you an extra medicine.

If you experience breathing difficulties while taking Ventmax, you may need to use a quick-acting ‘reliever’ inhaler to help relieve your symptoms.

If you are an athlete it is important that you know that the salbutamol in these capsules may produce a positive dope test reaction.

Taking other medicines

Before starting treatment, please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription. Remember to take these medicines and your inhalers with you if you have to go into hospital.

In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking:

beta-blockers (such as propanolol) or water tablets (diuretics), used to treat high blood pressure or a heart condition

theophylline, aminophylline or steroids, used to treat asthma.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or could become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking your capsules.

Important information about some of the ingredients of Ventmax

Ventmax contains sucrose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

How to take Ventmax

Always take your capsules exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

The label on the carton will tell you how many capsules you should take and when. It is very important that you take your capsules regularly. Do not stop treatment even if you feel better unless told to do so by your doctor.

While you are taking Ventmax your doctor will want to check your asthma regularly by carrying out simple breathing tests and may need to carry out blood tests from time to time (see also: Section 4 - Possible side effects).

Dosage

Ventmax is formulated so that you only have to take your capsules twice a day. It is important that you take your capsules 12 hours apart, preferably one in the morning when you get up and one in the evening. Your capsules must be swallowed whole with a glass of water while you are sitting or standing. Do not break or chew your capsules.

For Adults, the elderly and children over the age of 12 years

The usual dose is one 8 mg capsule twice a day.

For Children aged 3 to 12 years

The usual dose is one 4 mg capsule twice a day.

If you take more Ventmax than you should

If you take more Ventmax than you should, contact your nearest casualty department or tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If you take too much
Ventmax it will cause your heart to beat faster than normal, affect your blood pressure and make you feel shaky, nervous and mentally calm or peaceful.

If you forget to take Ventmax

If you forget to take Ventmax, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until this dose is due. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, Ventmax can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Very rare allergic reactions, including nettle rash or hives, wheezing, fall in blood pressure, collapse or painless swelling of the skin on the face, neck, hands, feet and lips have been reported. If you experience any of these, contact your doctor or casualty department immediately.

Abnormally low levels of potassium in the blood (hypokalaemia) can be caused by the regular taking of salbutamol, such as Ventmax. The low levels of potassium, which can cause you to feel weak and thirsty, can worsen during an acute asthma attack. Therefore, while you are taking Ventmax your doctor may need to carry out blood tests from time to time.

The following side effects have been reported. Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you suffer from any of these side effects but do not stop treatment unless told to do so:

rapid heart beats with or without flushing, may occur at high doses

irregular heart beats or an extra beat of the heart

feeling shaky

nausea

vomiting

headaches

very rare reports of muscle cramps

rare reports of hyperactivity in children

If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Ventmax

Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Do not use Ventmax after the expiry date which is stated on the blister and carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

Do not store above 30ºC.

Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These
measures will help protect the environment.

Further information

What Ventmax contains:

The active substance in your capsules is salbutamol. Each capsule contains 4 mg or 8 mg of salbutamol.

The other ingredients are sucrose, maize starch, colloidal anhydrous silica, methacrylic copolymer, ethylcellulose, dibutyl sebacate, talc, gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), black iron oxide (E172), yellow iron oxide (E172), erythrosine (E127), patent blue V (E131), shellac, isopropyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, water, ammonium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide.

What Ventmax looks like and the contents of the pack:

Ventmax SR 4 mg capsules are opaque grey and pale green, marked ‘4 mg’.

Ventmax SR 8 mg capsules are opaque white, marked ‘8 mg’. They are packed in blister packs of 28, 30, 56 and 60 capsules. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer:

The Marketing Authorisation Holder and manufacturer of Ventmax is

Chiesi Limited

Cheadle Royal Business Park

Highfield

Cheadle

SK8 3GY

Is this leaflet hard to see or read? Phone 0161 488 5555 for help.

This leaflet was last approved in 02/2010

00265 V4 / CP0009/2

Saturday, 16 June 2012

Anemia, Posthemorrhagic Medications

There are currently no drugs listed for "Anemia, Posthemorrhagic".

Learn more about Anemia, Posthemorrhagic

Medical Encyclopedia:

Anemia

Drug List:

Zodryl AC 40

Generic Name: chlorpheniramine and codeine (KLOR fen IR a meed and KOE deen)

Brand Names: Cotab A, Cotab AX, Notuss-AC, Z-Tuss AC, Zodryl AC 25, Zodryl AC 30, Zodryl AC 35, Zodryl AC 40, Zodryl AC 50, Zodryl AC 60, Zodryl AC 80

What is Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Codeine is a narcotic cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

The combination of chlorpheniramine and codeine is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and cough caused by allergies or the common cold.

Chlorpheniramine and codeine will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Chlorpheniramine and codeine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

Do not take a cough and cold if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take a cough and cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. You should not take this medication if you are allergic to chlorpheniramine or codeine, or if you have severe high blood pressure or coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, a stomach ulcer, narrow-angle glaucoma, if you are having an asthma attack, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you are unable to urinate.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have asthma or other breathing disorder, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, a thyroid disorder, diabetes, urination problems, stomach problems, liver or kidney disease, Addison's disease, mental illness, or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

Codeine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medication should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;

severe coronary artery disease;

ischemic heart disease;

a stomach ulcer;

narrow-angle glaucoma;

if you are having an asthma attack;

if you are unable to urinate; or

if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

asthma, COPD, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;

glaucoma;

heart disease, high blood pressure;

a history of head injury or brain tumor;

epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

a thyroid disorder;

diabetes;

enlarged prostate or urination problems;

stomach or intestinal problems;

liver or kidney disease;

Addison's disease;

mental illness; or

a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether chlorpheniramine and codeine is harmful to an unborn baby. Codeine can cause breathing problems or addiction/withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Codeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. The use of codeine by some nursing mothers may lead to life-threatening side effects in the baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults are more likely to have side effects from this medicine.

Do not give chlorpheniramine and codeine to a child younger than 6 years old. Codeine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medication should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

How should I take Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Do not take this medication more often than you doctor has prescribed. An overdose of chlorpheniramine and codeine can cause life-threatening side effects. Take chlorpheniramine and codeine with a full glass of water.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Chlorpheniramine and codeine can be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you also have a fever, headache, or skin rash.

Store chlorpheniramine and codeine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of how much of this medicine has been used from each new bottle. Codeine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Cough or cold medicine is usually taken only as needed, so you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. 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. An overdose of chlorpheniramine and codeine can be fatal, especially to a child.

Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous, sleep problems, extreme drowsiness, weak or limp feeling, confusion, hallucinations, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, pinpoint pupils, cold and clammy skin, fainting, seizure (convulsions), weak pulse, shallow breathing, or breathing that stops.

What should I avoid while taking Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

This medication 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.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Avoid drinking alcohol while using chlorpheniramine and codeine. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness.

Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine) 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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

weak or shallow breathing;

chest tightness, fast heart rate;

painful urination;

urinating less than usual or not at all; or

confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.

Less serious side effects may include:

feeling restless or excited (especially in children);

dizziness, drowsiness, loss of coordination;

ringing in your ears;

constipation or diarrhea;

nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;

dry mouth, nose, or throat; or

mild itching or skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Zodryl AC 40 (chlorpheniramine and codeine)?

Narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by chlorpheniramine and codeine. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other cold or allergy medicine.

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

atropine (Donnatal, and others), benztropine (Cogentin), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), methscopolamine (Pamine), or scopolamine (Transderm-Scop);

bronchodilators such as ipratroprium (Atrovent) or tiotropium (Spiriva);

glycopyrrolate (Robinul);

mepenzolate (Cantil);

bladder or urinary medications such as darifenacin (Enablex), flavoxate (Urispas), oxybutynin (Ditropan, Oxytrol), tolterodine (Detrol), or solifenacin (Vesicare);

irritable bowel medications such as dicyclomine (Bentyl), hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Cystospaz, Levsin, and others), or propantheline (Pro-Banthine); or

an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with chlorpheniramine and codeine. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

More Zodryl AC 40 resources

Zodryl AC 40 Side Effects (in more detail)
Zodryl AC 40 Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Zodryl AC 40 Drug Interactions
Zodryl AC 40 Support Group
0 Reviews for Zodryl AC 40 - Add your own review/rating

Codeprex Prescribing Information (FDA)

Codeprex Consumer Overview

Cotab A MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

EndaCof-C Prescribing Information (FDA)

Notuss-AC Liquid MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Zodryl AC 40 with other medications

Cough and Nasal Congestion
Hay Fever

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about chlorpheniramine and codeine.

See also: Zodryl AC 40 side effects (in more detail)

Thursday, 14 June 2012

Glucovance

Pronunciation: GLYE-bure-ide/met-FOR-min
Generic Name: Glyburide/Metformin
Brand Name: Glucovance

The metformin in this combination medicine may rarely cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called lactic acidosis. Most of these cases have occurred in diabetic patients who also have certain kidney problems. The risk of lactic acidosis may be greater if you have liver problems, kidney problems, or heart failure. The risk may also be greater in patients who are elderly or drink alcohol. Lab tests, including kidney function, may be performed while you take Glucovance.

Do not begin to take Glucovance if you are 80 years old or older, unless lab tests show that you do not have decreased kidney function. Do not take it if you have a severe infection, have low blood oxygen levels, or are dehydrated. Tell your doctor you take Glucovance before you have any surgery or lab procedures.

Contact your doctor right away if you notice symptoms such as fast or difficult breathing; muscle pain or tenderness; slow or irregular heartbeat; unusual drowsiness, dizziness, or light-headedness; unusual stomach discomfort; or unusual weakness or tiredness. Contact your doctor right away if you start to feel unusually cold or if you have a general feeling of being unwell.

Glucovance is used for:

Treating type 2 diabetes. It is used along with diet and exercise. It may be used alone or with other antidiabetic medicines.

Glucovance is a sulfonylurea and biguanide antidiabetic combination. The sulfonylurea works by causing the pancreas to release insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. The biguanide works by decreasing the amount of sugar that the liver produces and the intestines absorb. It also helps to make your body more sensitive to the insulin that you naturally produce.

Do NOT use Glucovance if:

you are allergic to any ingredient in Glucovance

you have a severe infection, low blood oxygen levels, kidney or liver problems, type 1 diabetes, or high blood ketone or acid levels (eg, diabetic ketoacidosis), or you are dehydrated

you have had a stroke or a recent heart attack, or you are in shock

you are 80 years old or older, unless lab tests show that you do not have decreased kidney function

you are pregnant and are within 2 weeks of the expected delivery date

you will be having surgery or certain lab procedures

you are taking bosentan

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

Before using Glucovance:

Some medical conditions may interact with Glucovance. 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 had a severe allergic reactions (eg, a severe rash, hives, itching, breathing difficulties, dizziness) to any other sulfonamide medicine, such as acetazolamide, celecoxib, certain diuretics (eg, hydrochlorothiazide), glipizide, probenecid, sulfamethoxazole, or zonisamide

if you have heart failure, especially heart failure that is treated by medicine

if you have a history of heart problems (eg, a heart attack, heart failure), blood vessel problems, lung or breathing problems, thyroid problems, stomach or bowel problems (eg, a blockage, paralysis), adrenal gland or pituitary problems, or lactic acidosis

if you have vomiting, diarrhea, poor health or nutrition, low blood calcium or vitamin B₁₂ levels, or anemia

if you or a family member have a condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

if you have an infection, fever, recent injury, or moderate to severe burns

if you drink alcohol or have a history of alcohol abuse

if you will be having surgery or certain lab procedures

if you take a beta-blocker (eg, propranolol)

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

Bosentan because liver problems may occur; the effectiveness of both medicines also may be decreased

Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol) because the risk of low blood sugar may be increased. They may also hide certain signs of low blood sugar and make it more difficult to notice

Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), azole antifungals (eg, miconazole), chloramphenicol, clarithromycin, clofibrate, fenfluramine, insulin, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (eg, phenelzine), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen), phenylbutazone, probenecid, quinolones (eg, ciprofloxacin), salicylates (eg, aspirin), sulfonamides (eg, sulfamethoxazole), or thiazolidinediones (eg, pioglitazone) because the risk of low blood sugar may be increased

Calcium channel blockers (eg, nifedipine), corticosteroids (eg, prednisone), diazoxide, diuretics (eg, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), estrogen, hormonal contraceptives (eg, birth control pills), hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), isoniazid, nicotinic acid, phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine), rifamycins (eg, rifampin), sympathomimetics (eg, albuterol, pseudoephedrine), or thyroid hormones (eg, levothyroxine) because they may decrease Glucovance's effectiveness, resulting in high blood sugar

Gemfibrozil because blood sugar may be increased or decreased

Amiloride, cimetidine, digoxin, morphine, procainamide, quinidine, quinine, ranitidine, triamterene, trimethoprim, vancomycin, or medicines that may harm the kidney (eg, aminoglycoside antibiotics [eg, gentamicin], amphotericin B, tacrolimus) because they may increase the risk of Glucovance's side effects. Ask your doctor if you are unsure if any of your medicines might harm the kidney

Cyclosporine because the risk of its side effects may be increased by Glucovance

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Glucovance 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 Glucovance:

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

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

Take Glucovance by mouth with meals.

High amounts of dietary fiber may decrease Glucovance's effectiveness, resulting in high blood sugar. If you have questions about including fiber in your diet while you are taking Glucovance, talk with your doctor.

Take Glucovance on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Glucovance at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.

Continue to take Glucovance even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

If you miss a dose of Glucovance, 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 Glucovance.

Important safety information:

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

Follow the diet and exercise program given to you by your health care provider.

Do NOT take more than the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.

Do not drink large amounts of alcohol while you take Glucovance. Alcohol may increase the risk of Glucovance's side effects. Also, alcohol may rarely interact with Glucovance and cause a serious reaction with symptoms such as flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or stomach pain. Talk with your doctor or health care provider before you drink alcohol while you take Glucovance.

Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Glucovance before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

Be careful not to become dehydrated, especially during hot weather, while you are being active, or if you have vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration may increase your risk of side effects from Glucovance.

Glucovance contains a sulfonylurea. It may increase the risk of death from heart disease. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of this or other therapies to treat your condition.

Carry an ID card at all times that says you have diabetes. Check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor. If they are often higher than they should be and you take Glucovance exactly as prescribed, tell your doctor.

Glucovance may cause low blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar may make you anxious, sweaty, weak, dizzy, drowsy, or faint. It may also make your heart beat faster; make your vision change; give you a headache, chills, or tremors; or make you more hungry. It is a good idea to carry a reliable source of glucose (eg, tablets or gel) to treat low blood sugar. If this is not available, you should eat or drink a quick source of sugar like table sugar, honey, candy, orange juice, or non-diet soda. This will raise your blood sugar level quickly. Tell your doctor right away if this happens. To prevent low blood sugar, eat meals at the same time each day and do not skip meals.

The risk of low blood sugar may be increased by heavy or prolonged exercise, drinking alcohol, or skipping meals.

Fever, infection, injury, or surgery may increase your risk of high or low blood sugar levels. If any of these occur, check your blood sugar levels closely and tell your doctor right away.

Glucovance may commonly cause stomach upset, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea at the beginning of treatment. If you develop unusual or unexpected stomach problems, or if you develop stomach problems later during treatment, contact your doctor at once. This may be a sign of lactic acidosis.

Lab tests, including kidney and liver function, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A_1c, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed while you take Glucovance. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Use Glucovance with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects. Low blood sugar levels may also be more difficult to recognize in the elderly.

Glucovance should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 9 years; 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 taking Glucovance while you are pregnant. If you take Glucovance during pregnancy, do not take it within 2 weeks of the expected delivery date without first checking with your doctor. It is not known if Glucovance is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Glucovance.

Possible side effects of Glucovance:

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; headache; indigestion; mild stomach pain; nausea; stomach upset; 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; unusual hoarseness); back pain; chest pain or discomfort; confusion; dizziness or light-headedness; fainting; fast or difficult breathing; feeling of being unusually cold; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; general feeling of being unwell; low blood sugar symptoms (eg, anxiety, dizziness, fast heartbeat, headache, tremors, unusual sweating); muscle pain or weakness; severe or persistent blurred vision or other vision problems; slow or irregular heartbeat; symptoms of liver problems (eg, dark urine, loss of appetite, pale stools, stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin); unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual drowsiness; unusual or persistent nausea, or stomach or back pain or discomfort; unusual tiredness or weakness.

See also: Glucovance 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 coma; confusion; dizziness or light-headedness; fainting; fast or difficult breathing; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; feeling of being unusually cold; general feeling of being unwell; muscle pain or tenderness; seizures; tremor; unusual drowsiness; unusual stomach discomfort; unusual weakness or tiredness.

Proper storage of Glucovance:

Store Glucovance at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Glucovance out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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

Glucovance 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 Glucovance. 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

More Glucovance resources

Glucovance Side Effects (in more detail)
Glucovance Dosage
Glucovance Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Drug Images
Glucovance Drug Interactions
Glucovance Support Group
2 Reviews for Glucovance - Add your own review/rating

Glucovance Prescribing Information (FDA)

Glucovance Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

Glucovance Consumer Overview

Compare Glucovance with other medications

Diabetes, Type 2

Tuesday, 12 June 2012

zidovudine

zye-DOE-vue-deen

Oral route(Capsule;Tablet;Syrup)

Zidovudine has been associated with hematologic toxicity, including neutropenia and severe anemia, particularly in patients with advanced HIV disease. Prolonged use of zidovudine has been associated with symptomatic myopathy. Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported; suspend treatment if clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity occur .

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

Retrovir

Available Dosage Forms:

Capsule

Syrup

Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Antiretroviral Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor

Uses For zidovudine

Zidovudine (also known as AZT) is used in combination with other anti-virus medicines for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. HIV is the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Zidovudine is used to slow the progression of disease in patients infected with HIV who have advanced symptoms, early symptoms, or no symptoms at all. zidovudine also is used to help prevent pregnant women who have HIV from passing the virus to their babies during pregnancy and at birth.

Zidovudine will not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS. It helps keep HIV from reproducing and appears to slow down the destruction of the immune system. This may help delay the development of problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease. Zidovudine will not keep you from spreading HIV to other people. People who receive zidovudine may continue to have the problems usually related to AIDS or HIV disease.

zidovudine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although this use is not included in product labeling, zidovudine is used in certain patients with the following medical condition:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection due to occupational exposure (possible prevention of).

T-cell leukemia (cancer of the blood) or lymphoma (cancer of the lymph system) in adult patients, in combination with interferon alfa.

Before Using zidovudine

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 zidovudine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to zidovudine 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

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of zidovudine in children.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of zidovudine in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving zidovudine.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal 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.

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 zidovudine, 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 zidovudine 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.

Clarithromycin

Dapsone

Doxorubicin Hydrochloride

Flucytosine

Ganciclovir

Interferon Alfa

Pyrazinamide

Pyrimethamine

Ribavirin

Stavudine

Vinblastine

Vincristine

Vincristine Liposome

Using zidovudine 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.

Acetaminophen

Interferon Beta-1a

Methadone

Nelfinavir

Probenecid

Rifabutin

Rifampin

Rifapentine

Tipranavir

Valproic Acid

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.

Proper Use of zidovudine

Take zidovudine exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. Also, do not stop taking zidovudine without checking with your doctor first.

zidovudine comes with a patient information sheet. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Keep taking zidovudine for the full time of treatment, even if you begin to feel better. Only take medicine that your doctor has prescribed specifically for you. Do not share your medicine with other people.

For patients using zidovudine oral solution:

Shake the oral solution before use. Use a specially marked measuring spoon or other device to measure each dose accurately. The average household teaspoon may not hold the right amount of liquid.

zidovudine works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep the amount constant, do not miss any doses. If you need help in planning the best times to take your medicine, check with your doctor.

Dosing

The dose of zidovudine 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 zidovudine. 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 HIV infection:
- For oral dosage forms (capsules, solution, and tablets):
  - Adults—600 milligrams (mg) a day in divided doses in combination with other anti-virus medicine.
  - Children and infants 4 weeks of age and older—Dose is based on body weight or body size and must be determined by your child's doctor. The recommended dose is 18 to 24 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) per day of body weight or 600 mg per day or 480 milligrams per square meter of body surface area (mg/m²) a day in divided doses.

To help prevent pregnant women from passing HIV to their babies during pregnancy and at birth:
- For oral dosage form (capsules):
  - Pregnant women (after 14 weeks of pregnancy, up to the start of labor)—100 milligrams (mg) five times a day, 200 mg every eight hours, or 300 mg every twelve hours until the start of labor.
- For oral dosage form (solution):
  - Pregnant women (after 14 weeks of pregnancy, up to the start of labor)—100 milligrams (mg) five times a day, 200 mg every eight hours, or 300 mg every twelve hours until the start of labor.
  - Newborn infants—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) (0.9 mg per pound) of body weight every six hours starting within eight to twelve hours of birth and continuing through 6 weeks of age.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of zidovudine, 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.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using zidovudine

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that zidovudine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Zidovudine may cause blood problems. These problems may result in a greater chance of certain infections and slow healing. Therefore, you should be careful when using regular toothbrushes, dental floss, and toothpicks not to damage your gums. Check with your medical doctor or dentist if you have any questions about proper oral hygiene (mouth care) during treatment.

Zidovudine may cause some serious side effects, including bone marrow problems. Symptoms of bone marrow problems include fever, chills, or sore throat; pale skin; and unusual tiredness or weakness. These problems may require blood transfusions or temporarily stopping treatment with zidovudine. Check with your doctor if any new health problems or symptoms occur while you or your child are taking zidovudine.

HIV may be acquired from or spread to other people through infected body fluids, including blood, vaginal fluid, or semen. If you are infected, it is best to avoid any sexual activity involving an exchange of body fluids with other people. If you do have sex, always wear (or have your partner wear) a condom (“rubber”). Only use condoms made of latex, and use them every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. The use of a spermicide (such as nonoxynol-9) may also help prevent the spread of HIV if it is not irritating to the vagina, rectum, or mouth. Spermicides have been shown to kill HIV in lab tests. Do not use oil-based jelly, cold cream, baby oil, or shortening as a lubricant—these products can cause the condom to break. Lubricants without oil, such as K-Y Jelly, are recommended. Women may wish to carry their own condoms. Birth control pills and diaphragms will help protect against pregnancy, but they will not prevent someone from giving or getting the AIDS virus. If you inject drugs, get help to stop. Do not share needles with anyone. In some cities, more than half of the drug users are infected, and sharing even one needle can spread the virus. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Two rare but serious reactions to zidovudine are lactic acidosis (too much acid in the blood) and liver toxicity, which includes an enlarged liver. These are more common if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking anti-HIV medicines for a long time. Call your doctor right away if you or your child have more than one of these symptoms: abdominal discomfort or cramping; dark urine; decreased appetite; diarrhea; general feeling of discomfort; light-colored stools; muscle cramping or pain; nausea; unusual tiredness or weakness; trouble breathing; vomiting; or yellow eyes or skin.

When you or your child start taking HIV medicines, your immune system may get stronger. If you have infections that are hidden in your body (e.g., pneumonia or tuberculosis), you may notice new symptoms when your body tries to fight them. If this occurs, tell your doctor right away.

zidovudine may cause you or your child to have excess body fat. Tell your doctor right away if you notice changes in your body shape, including an increased amount of body fat in the neck or upper back, face, around the chest, or stomach area. You might also lose fat from your legs, arms, or face.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

zidovudine Side Effects

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 immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Fever, chills, or sore throat

pale skin

unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

Abdominal or stomach discomfort

confusion

convulsions (seizures)

diarrhea

fast, shallow breathing

general feeling of discomfort

loss of appetite

mood or mental changes

muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramping

nausea

shortness of breath

sleepiness

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:

More common

Difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache (severe)

lack or loss of strength

muscle soreness

trouble with sleeping

vomiting

weight loss

Less common

Bluish-brown colored bands on nails

changes in skin color

Incidence not known

Acid or sour stomach

belching

burning, tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs

heartburn

indigestion

muscle or bone pain

sensation of pins and needles, stabbing pain

stomach cramps

stomach pain

yellow eyes or skin

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: zidovudine side effects (in more detail)

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More zidovudine resources

Zidovudine Side Effects (in more detail)
Zidovudine Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
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Zidovudine Drug Interactions
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HIV Infection
Nonoccupational Exposure
Occupational Exposure
Reduction of Perinatal Transmission of HIV

Marketing Information
Marketing Category	Application Number or Monograph Citation	Marketing Start Date	Marketing End Date
OTC monograph not final	part358A	11/09/2010

Establishment
Name	Address	ID/FEI	Operations
Genesis Pharmaceutical		117196928	manufacture