Halcion

Halcion is used for:

Treating insomnia (trouble sleeping). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Halcion is a benzodiazepine. It works by depressing the central nervous system (brain), causing drowsiness to aid in falling asleep.

Do NOT use Halcion if:

* you are allergic to any ingredient in Halcion or to other benzodiazepines (eg, temazepam)

* you are pregnant

* you have a severe mental disorder, angle-closure glaucoma, or severe liver disease

* you are taking clozapine, delavirdine, efavirenz, an HIV protease inhibitor (eg, ritonavir), itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, or sodium oxybate (GHB)

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

Some medical conditions may interact with Halcion . 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 or have ever had alcoholism or substance abuse or dependence, or if you drink alcohol

* if you have depression, mental or mood problems, or a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior

* if you have myasthenia gravis (a condition in which the muscles become progressively paralyzed)

* if you have liver or kidney problems, the blood disease porphyria, or glaucoma, or if you are at risk for glaucoma

* if you have chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, difficulty breathing while asleep (sleep apnea), or other breathing problems

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

* Rifampin or St. John's wort because they may decrease Halcion 's effectiveness

* Clozapine because the risk of side effects, such as confusion; sedation; excess salivation; unsteady movements; lightheadedness, especially upon standing; difficult or slow breathing; or drowsiness leading to unresponsiveness or coma, may be increased

* Sodium oxybate (GHB) because an increase in sleep duration and decrease in the ability to breathe may occur

* Amiodarone, azole antifungals (eg, ketoconazole, itraconazole), calcium channel blockers (eg, diltiazem, nifedipine), cimetidine, cyclosporine, delavirdine, efavirenz, ergot alkaloids (eg, ergotamine), fluvoxamine, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), hormonal contraceptives (eg, birth control pills), isoniazid, ketolides (eg, telithromycin), macrolides (eg, erythromycin), nefazodone, omeprazole, ranitidine, or valproic acid because they may increase the risk of Halcion 's side effects

* Anticonvulsants (eg, phenytoin, phenobarbital) or antihistamines (eg, diphenhydramine) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Halcion

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

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

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

* Take Halcion by mouth with or without food.

* Take Halcion before bedtime.

* Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice may increase the actions and side effects of Halcion . Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit in your diet.

* If you miss a dose of Halcion , take it as soon as possible. If you no longer have time for a full night's sleep or you do not remember until the next day, 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 Halcion .

* Halcion may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or difficulty with coordination. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Halcion with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

* Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Halcion ; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.

* Halcion can cause memory loss. Take Halcion only when you are able to get a full night's sleep (7 to 8 hours). Be sure to talk with your doctor if you are experiencing memory problems.

* Some patients taking Halcion have performed certain activities while they were not fully awake. These have included sleep-driving, making and eating food, making phone calls, and having sex. Patients often do not remember these events after they happen. Such an event may be more likely to occur if you use a high dose of Halcion . It may also be more likely if you drink alcohol or take other medicines that may cause drowsiness while you use Halcion . Tell your doctor right away if such an event happens to you.

* If your symptoms do not get better within 7 to 10 days or if they get worse, check with your doctor.

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

* If you notice any unusual or disturbing thoughts or behavior while taking Halcion , contact your doctor at once.

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

* Use Halcion with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially oversedation, dizziness, memory loss, or confusion.

* Use Halcion with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 18 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Halcion if you are pregnant. It may cause harm to the fetus. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. It is not known if Halcion is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while you are taking Halcion .

When sleep medicines are used every night for more than a few weeks, they may lose their effectiveness to help you sleep. This is known as TOLERANCE. Sleep medicines should usually be used only for short periods of time, such as a few days and generally no longer than 1 or 2 weeks. If your sleep problems continue, contact your doctor.

When used for longer than a few weeks or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Halcion . This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.

WITHDRAWAL symptoms may occur when Halcion is stopped suddenly after being used daily for a long time. But these symptoms can occur even if Halcion has been used for only a week or two. In mild cases, WITHDRAWAL symptoms may include unpleasant feelings. Although uncommon, in more severe cases, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, shakiness, and, rarely, seizures may occur. Another problem that may occur is "rebound insomnia," that is, more trouble sleeping the first few nights after the medicine is stopped than before starting the medicine. This usually goes away after 1 or 2 nights. If you have been taking Halcion for more than 1 or 2 weeks, do not stop taking it on your own. Your doctor may give you special directions on how to gradually decrease your dose before stopping the medicine. Always follow your doctor's directions.

Store Halcion at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Halcion out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Gadoteridol

This information applies to the following medicines:

1. Gadodiamide (gad-oh-DYE-a-mide)

2. Gadopentetate (gad-o-PEN-te-tate)†

3. Gadoteridol (gad-oh-TER-i-dol)†

4. Gadoversetamide (gad-oh-ver-SET-a-mide)†

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) contrast agents (also called paramagnetic agents) are used to help provide a clear picture during MRI. MRI is a special kind of diagnostic procedure. It uses magnets and computers to create images or ``pictures'' of certain areas inside the body. Unlike x-rays, it does not involve ionizing radiation.

MRI contrast agents are given by injection before or during MRI to help diagnose problems or diseases of the brain or the spine. In addition, gadopentetate is used to help diagnose problems in other parts of the body, such as the bones and joints, breast, liver, soft tissues, and uterus. Gadoversetamide is also used to help diagnose problems in the liver.

MRI contrast agents may also be used to diagnose other conditions as determined by your doctor.

MRI contrast agents are injected into a vein. The doses of these agents will be different for different patients depending on the weight of the person.

These agents are to be used only by or under the supervision of a doctor.

In deciding to use a diagnostic test, any risks of the test must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. Also, test results may be affected by other things. For MRI contrast agents, the following should be considered:

Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to contrast agents such as gadodiamide, gadopentetate, gadoteridol, or gadoversetamide. Also, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Pregnancy—Studies have not been done in pregnant women. However, in animal studies, MRI contrast agents caused a delay in development of the animal fetus, increased the risk of losing the fetus, and caused birth defects and other side effects in the offspring when these agents were given to the mother in doses many times the human dose. Also, it is not known yet what effect the magnetic field used in MRI might have on the development of the fetus. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.

Breast-feeding—It is not known what amount of MRI contrast agents passes into the breast milk. However, your doctor may want you to stop breast-feeding for some time after you receive an MRI contrast agent. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.

Children—Although there is no specific information comparing use of MRI contrast agents in children with use in other age groups, these agents are not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than they do in adults.

Older adults—These contrast agents have been tested and have not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in older people than they do in younger adults.

Other medical problems—The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of MRI contrast agents. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

* Allergies or asthma (history of)—If you have a history of allergies or asthma, you may be at greater risk of having an allergic reaction to the contrast agent

* Anemia or

* Low blood pressure—MRI contrast agents may make these conditions worse

* Epilepsy—There may be an increased chance of seizures

* Heart disease—There may be an increased chance of developing an irregular heart beat

* Kidney disease (severe)—Kidney disease can cause the MRI agent to stay in the body longer than usual, which may increase the chance of side effects

* Sickle cell disease—There may be a greater risk of blockage of the blood vessels in patients with this condition

Fareston for breast cancer treatment

Fareston is used for:

Treating breast cancer in women past menopause with estrogen-dependent tumors or unknown tumors. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Fareston is an antiestrogen. It works by blocking the effects of estrogen on certain body tissues, including breast tissue. This helps block the growth of estrogen-activated tumors.

                      Some medical conditions may interact with Fareston . 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 bone cancer or a growth of the endometrium

    * if you have a history of blood clots, cancer, or decreased blood platelets or white blood cells

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

    * Ketoconazole or macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin) because the actions and side effects of Fareston may be increased

    * Fluorouracil, mitomycin C, or thiazide diuretics (eg, hydrochlorothiazide) because the risk of side effects may be increased

    * Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or rifampin because the effectiveness of Fareston may be decreased

    * Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) or hydantoins (eg, phenytoin) because the actions and side effects of these medicines may be increased

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

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

    * Fareston may be taken with or without food.

    * If you miss a dose of Fareston , 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 Fareston .

                        * Fareston may cause dizziness or changes in vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Fareston . Using Fareston alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

    * If Fareston causes nausea or vomiting, ask your doctor or pharmacist about ways to minimize this effect.

    * LAB TESTS, including complete blood cell counts, calcium levels, and liver function tests, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

    * Fareston is not recommended for use in CHILDREN. Safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed.

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

                          Store Fareston at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Fareston out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Econopred Plus Drops

Econopred Plus Drops is used for:

Treating inflammation of the eyes and eyelids due to certain conditions. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Econopred Plus Drops is an ophthalmic corticosteroid. Exactly how Econopred Plus Drops works is not known.

                   Do NOT use Econopred Plus Drops if:

    * you are allergic to any ingredient in Econopred Plus Drops or to other corticosteroids (eg, prednisone)

    * you have certain eye infections (eg, herpes, tuberculosis, fungal, or viral infections), chickenpox, or an infection due to smallpox vaccination (vaccinia)

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

                   Some medical conditions may interact with Econopred Plus Drops. 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, glaucoma, optic nerve damage, or thinning of the cornea or other eye tissues

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Econopred Plus Drops. Because little, if any, of Econopred Plus Drops is absorbed into the blood, the risk of it interacting with another medicine is low.

Ask your health care provider if Econopred Plus Drops 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.

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

    * Shake well before each use.

    * To use Econopred Plus Drops in the eye, first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back. Using your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Immediately use your finger to apply pressure to the inside corner of the eyelid for 1 to 2 minutes. Do not blink. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean, dry tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.

    * To prevent germs from contaminating your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including the eye. Keep the container tightly closed.

    * If your doctor prescribed more than 1 eye medicine, ask the best order for using each medicine.

    * Do not wear contact lenses while you are using Econopred Plus Drops. Take care of your contact lenses as directed by the manufacturer. Check with your doctor before you use them.

    * If you miss a dose of Econopred Plus Drops, 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 Econopred Plus Drops.

                          * Econopred Plus Drops may cause blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Econopred Plus Drops with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

    * Some of these products contain sulfites. Sulfites may cause an allergic reaction in some patients (eg, asthma patients). If you have ever had an allergic reaction to sulfites, ask your pharmacist if your product has sulfites in it.

    * Do NOT use more than the recommended dose or use for future eye problems without checking with your doctor.

    * Lab tests, including eye exams, may be performed while you use Econopred Plus Drops. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

    * Econopred Plus Drops should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in 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 Econopred Plus Drops while you are pregnant. It is not known if Econopred Plus Drops is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Econopred Plus Drops.

                       Store Econopred Plus Drops at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Econopred Plus Drops out of the reach of children and away from pets.

                  

Dalmane, treats sleep disorders

Dalmane is used for:

Treating sleep disorders. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Dalmane is a benzodiazepine. It works by depressing the central nervous system (brain), causing drowsiness to aid in falling asleep.

Do NOT use Dalmane if:

* you are allergic to any ingredient in Dalmane

* you are pregnant

* you have acute narrow-angle glaucoma, severe liver disease, or a mental state in which contact with reality is lost (psychosis)

* you are taking an HIV protease inhibitor (eg, ritonavir) or sodium oxybate (GHB)

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

Some medical conditions may interact with Dalmane . 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 glaucoma or a predisposition for glaucoma, kidney or liver problems, lung problems or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), muscle problems, poor health, depression, suicidal tendencies, the blood disorder porphyria, or a history of substance abuse or dependence

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

* Aprepitant, clozapine, disulfiram, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), kava, nefazodone, omeprazole, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), sodium oxybate (GHB), or valproic acid because they may increase the risk of Dalmane 's side effects * Hydantoins (eg, phenytoin) or rifampin because they may decrease Dalmane 's effectiveness

* Clozapine, digoxin, hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), or nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg, vecuronium) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Dalmane

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

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

* Take Dalmane by mouth with or without food.

* Take Dalmane at bedtime with a full glass of water (8 oz/240 mL).

* If you miss a dose of Dalmane , take it when you remember if you are still able to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. If you are no longer able to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep when you remember, 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 Dalmane .

* Dalmane may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Dalmane with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

* Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Dalmane ; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.

* If your symptoms do not get better within 7 to 10 days or if they get worse, check with your doctor.

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

* Some patients taking Dalmane have performed certain activities while they were not fully awake. These have included sleep driving, making and eating food, making phone calls, and having sex. Patients often do not remember these events after they happen. Such an event may be more likely to occur if you use a high dose of Dalmane . It may also be more likely if you drink alcohol or take other medicines that may cause drowsiness while you use Dalmane . Tell your doctor right away if such an event happens to you.

* Use Dalmane with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially confusion, daytime drowsiness, dizziness, falling, and staggering.

* Dalmane should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 15 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Dalmane if you are pregnant. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are taking it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Dalmane is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Dalmane .

When sleep medicines are used every night for more than a few weeks, they may lose their effectiveness to help you sleep. This is known as TOLERANCE. Sleep medicines should usually be used only for short periods of time, such as a few days and generally no longer than 1 or 2 weeks. If your sleep problems continue, contact your doctor.

When used for longer than a few weeks or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Dalmane . This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.

If you stop taking Dalmane suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. This may include unpleasant feelings. In more severe cases, you may have stomach and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating, and shakiness. Seizures may rarely occur. If you take Dalmane for more than 1 to 2 weeks, do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.

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

Cafergot, migraine curer

Serious and sometimes life-threatening decreases in the blood supply to the extremities (eg, hands, feet) or brain may occur if Cafergot is taken with certain other medicines, including HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir) and macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin). Do not use Cafergot if you are also taking these other medicines. Inform your doctor of all the medicines that you are taking.

                     Cafergot is used for:

Preventing and treating certain kinds of headaches (eg, migraines, migraine variants, "histaminic cephalalgia"). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Cafergot is a combination of 2 vasoconstrictors. It works by constricting blood vessels in the lining of the brain, which helps to decrease the pain from migraine headaches.

                      Do NOT use Cafergot if:

    * you are allergic to any ingredient in Cafergot

    * you are pregnant or may become pregnant

    * you are in labor

    * you have blood vessel problems (eg, peripheral vascular disease), coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, or severe infection (eg, sepsis)

    * you are taking an azole antifungal (eg, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole), delavirdine, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir), efavirenz, a ketolide antibiotic (eg, telithromycin), a macrolide antibiotic (eg, clarithromycin, erythromycin), or selective 5-HT agonists (eg, sumatriptan, eletriptan)

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

                      Some medical conditions may interact with Cafergot . 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 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 a history of blood problems (eg, porphyria), stroke, anxiety, trouble sleeping, or heart problems

    * if you smoke

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

    * Clotrimazole, fluconazole, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, , metronidazole, nefazodone, saquinavir, or zileuton because side effects of Cafergot may be increased

    * Azole antifungals (eg, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole), beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), delavirdine, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, delavirdine, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir), efavirenz, ketolide antibiotics (eg, telithromycin), macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin, clarithromycin), or selective 5-HT agonists (eg, sumatriptan , eletriptan) because the risk of severe side effects, including irregular heartbeat or decreased oxygen to the extremities (eg, hands, feet) or brain, may be increased

    * Pressor agents (eg, norepinephrine) or sympathomimetics (eg, pseudoephedrine, albuterol) because risk of side effects, including severe high blood pressure, may be increased

    * Quinolones (eg, levofloxacin) because risk of side effects, such as nervousness, sleeplessness, and fast heartbeat, may be increased

    * Theophylline because actions and side effects may be increased by Cafergot

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

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

    * Cafergot may be taken with or without food.

    * Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice may affect the amount of Cafergot in your blood. Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet.

    * Cafergot is only to be used as needed for a migraine attack.

    * Take Cafergot at the first sign of a headache. If the initial dose does not relieve your headache, additional doses may be needed according to your doctor's instructions. Do not take a dose of Cafergot within 30 minutes of your last dose.

    * Do not take more than 6 tablets for a single migraine headache or more than 10 tablets during any 7-day period without first checking with your doctor.

    * If you miss a dose of Cafergot and you still have a headache, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take a dose of Cafergot within 30 minutes of your last dose. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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

                           * Do NOT exceed the recommended dose or take Cafergot for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. Cafergot is not for long-term daily use.

    * Do not take Cafergot for any other kind of headaches. Cafergot is not effective in treating other types of headaches.

    * Use of nicotine may increase the risk of severe side effects with Cafergot . Talk to you doctor before using Cafergot if you smoke or use any other kind of nicotine.

    * Use Cafergot with extreme caution in CHILDREN. Safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed.

    * PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Cafergot if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. Cafergot should not be taken during labor and delivery. Cafergot is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Cafergot , check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

When used for long periods of time or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Cafergot . This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction. It is important that you take Cafergot as instructed by your doctor. Cafergot is not for long-term daily use.

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

                         

                     

bactocill, an antibiotic

Oxacillin is an antibiotic in the penicillin group of drugs. It fights bacteria in your body.

Oxacillin is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such as a staphylococcal (also called "staph") infection.

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

                        Do not use this medication if you are allergic to oxacillin or to any other penicillin antibiotic, such as amoxicillin (Amoxil), ampicillin (Omnipen, Principen), carbenicillin (Geocillin), dicloxacillin (Dycill, Dynapen), penicillin (Beepen-VK, Ledercillin VK, Pen-V, Pen-Vee K, Pfizerpen, V-Cillin K, Veetids), and others.

Before using oxacillin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to cephalosporins such as Ceclor, Ceftin, Duricef, Keflex, and others, or if you have asthma, liver disease, kidney disease, or a history of any type of allergy.

Oxacillin can make birth control pills less effective, which may result in pregnancy. Before taking oxacillin, tell your doctor if you use birth control pills. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Oxacillin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, call your doctor. Do not use any medicine to stop the diarrhea unless your doctor has told you to.

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

Take the medicine with a full glass of water. Oxacillin should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating a meal.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Oxacillin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Do not share oxacillin with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using oxacillin.

Store oxacillin at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

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

      methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall); or

      probenecid (Benemid).

A-Methapred

Methylprednisolone is in a class of drugs called steroids. Methylprednisolone prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Methylprednisolone is used to treat many different conditions such as allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or breathing disorders.

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

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to methylprednisolone, or if you have a fungal infection anywhere in your body.

Before taking methylprednisolone, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, and about all other medicines you are using. There are many other diseases that can be affected by steroid use, and many other medicines that can interact with steroids.

Your steroid medication needs may change if you have any unusual stress such as a serious illness, fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Tell your doctor about any such situation that affects you during treatment.

Steroid medication can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to get an infection or worsening an infection you already have or have recently had. Tell your doctor about any illness or infection you have had within the past several weeks.

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Call your doctor for preventive treatment if you are exposed to chicken pox or measles. These conditions can be serious or even fatal in people who are using steroid medication.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are taking methylprednisolone. Vaccines may not work as well while you are taking a steroid.

Do not stop using methylprednisolone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking a steroid, in case of emergency.

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

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Your steroid medication needs may change if you have unusual stress such as a serious illness, fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Tell your doctor about any such situation that affects you.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using methylprednisolone.

Do not stop using methylprednisolone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking a steroid, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking steroid medication. Store methylprednisolone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

There are many other medicines that can interact with steroids. Below is only a partial list of these medicines:

aspirin (taken on a daily basis or at high doses);

a diuretic (water pill);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune);

insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth;

antibiotics such as ketoconazole (Nizoral), rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane), or troleandomycin (Tao); or

seizure medications such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton).

bacteria fighter

Sparfloxacin has been withdrawn from the U.S. market.

Sparfloxacin is an antibiotic in a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones. It fights bacteria in the body.

Sparfloxacin is used to treat various types of bacterial infections.

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

                  Sparfloxacin has been withdrawn from the U.S. market.

Take all of the sparfloxacin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Take sparfloxacin with a full glass of water (8 ounces). Drink several extra glasses of fluid each day to prevent sparfloxacin crystals from forming in the urine. Do not take antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum (e.g., Tums or Rolaids), the ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate), or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain iron or zinc for a minimum of 4 hours after a dose of sparfloxacin. Taking antacids, sucralfate, or vitamin or mineral supplements too close to a dose of sparfloxacin can greatly decrease the effects of the antibiotic.

                Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

    * kidney disease;

      any kind of heart disease or heart problem; or

      seizures or epilepsy.

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

Sparfloxacin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether sparfloxacin will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Sparfloxacin passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. It may affect bone development. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Sparfloxacin is not approved for use by children younger than 12 years of age. Sparfloxacin may interfere with bone development.

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

Take each dose with a full glass of water (8 ounces). Drink several extra glasses of fluid each day to prevent the formation of sparfloxacin crystals in your urine.

Sparfloxacin may be taken with or without food.

Take sparfloxacin at evenly spaced intervals. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not take antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum (e.g., Tums or Rolaids), the ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate), or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain iron or zinc for a minimum of 4 hours after a dose of sparfloxacin. Taking antacids, sucralfate, or vitamin or mineral supplements too close to a dose of sparfloxacin can greatly decrease the effects of the antibiotic. Take all of the sparfloxacin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

                      Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Sparfloxacin increases the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, and a severe sunburn may result. If sun exposure is unavoidable, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Call your doctor if you experience severe burning, redness, itching, rash, or swelling after exposure to the sun. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Sparfloxacin may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.

                      Do not take antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum (e.g., Tums or Rolaids), the ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate), or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain iron or zinc for a minimum of 4 hours after a dose of sparfloxacin. Taking antacids, sucralfate, or vitamin or mineral supplements too close to a dose of sparfloxacin can greatly decrease the effects of the antibiotic. Do not take sparfloxacin without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs:

      the heart medicines amiodarone (Cordarone), disopyramide (Norpace), quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute, others), procainamide (Procan SR, Pronestyl), sotalol (Betapace), and bepridil (Vascor);

      terfenadine (Seldane, Seldane-D) or astemizole (Hismanal);

      a tricyclic antidepressant including amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep), amoxapine (Asendin), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), doxepin (Sinequan), and others;

      a phenothiazine including chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), mesoridazine (Serentil), thioridazine (Mellaril), and others;

      erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S., others); or

      cisapride (Propulsid).

Sparfloxacin and the drugs listed above may affect the rhythm of your heartbeats. You may not be able to take sparfloxacin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

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

Cancer therapy with Xeloda

Xeloda is a cancer (chemotherapeutic) medication. Xeloda interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Xeloda is used in the treatment of some types of breast and colorectal cancers.

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

                        Xeloda should only be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Talk to your doctor if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin). In some cases, severe bleeding and death have resulted when these medications were taken together, or when treatment with warfarin (Coumadin) was started in the month following treatment with Xeloda. If treatment with both medications is determined by your doctor to be necessary, special monitoring will be required.

If the dose of Xeloda prescribed for you requires a combination of different strength tablets, it is very important that you correctly identify the tablets to ensure the correct dose. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions regarding a dose.

Stop taking Xeloda and notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects: more than 4 bowel movements per day or diarrhea at night; vomiting more than once in a 24-hour period; the amount of food you eat each day is much less than usual or if you are only able to eat at certain times; pain, redness, swelling, or sores in or around the mouth; tingling, numbness, pain, swelling, or redness of the hands and/or feet (hand-and-foot syndrome); or fever (temperature greater than 100.5 degrees) or other evidence of infection.

                      Do not take Xeloda without first talking to your doctor if you are allergic to fluorouracil (Adrucil).

Before taking Xeloda, tell your doctor if you

    * have liver disease or a history of liver problems;

    * have kidney disease;

      have heart or coronary artery disease; or

      are taking any other medicines especially warfarin (Coumadin), phenytoin (Dilantin), folic acid (found in some vitamins), or leucovorin (Wellcovorin).

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

Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Xeloda is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Contraceptive measures are recommended for both men and women during treatment with Xeloda. It is not known whether Xeloda will harm a nursing infant. Do not take Xeloda without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding. The safety and effectiveness of Xeloda in patients younger than 18 years of age have not been established. If you are over the age of 80, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Xeloda.

                         Xeloda should only be prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

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

Each dose of Xeloda should be swallowed with water. Take Xeloda within 30 minutes after the end of a meal (usually breakfast and dinner).

If the dose of Xeloda prescribed for you requires a combination of different strength tablets, it is very important that you correctly identify the tablets to ensure the correct dose. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions regarding a dose.

Xeloda is usually taken for 14 days followed by a 7 day rest period (no drug given), in a 21 day cycle. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Take all of the Xeloda that has been prescribed for you. Store Xeloda at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

                              Capecitabine is available with a prescription under the brand name Xeloda. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

      Xeloda 150 mg - oblong light peach-colored tablets

      Xeloda 500 mg - oblong peach-colored tablets

Cure for depression

Wellbutrin is an antidepressant medication. It works in the brain to treat depression.

Wellbutrin is used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. At least one brand of bupropion (Zyban) is used to help people stop smoking by reducing cravings and other withdrawal effects.

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

                        Do not take Wellbutrin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. You should not take Wellbutrin if you have seizures, an eating disorder, if you are using a second form of bupropion, or if you have suddenly stopped using alcohol or sedatives.

Wellbutrin may cause seizures, especially in people with certain medical conditions or when using certain drugs. Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and the drugs you use.

You may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. Alcohol may increase your risk of a seizure while you are taking Wellbutrin.

                        Do not take Wellbutrin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. You should not take Wellbutrin if you have:

      epilepsy or a seizure disorder;

      an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia;

      if you are using a second form of bupropion; or

      if you have suddenly stopped using alcohol or sedatives (such as Valium).

Wellbutrin may cause seizures, especially in people with certain medical conditions or when using certain drugs. Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and the drugs you use.

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

      heart disease, high blood pressure, history of heart attack;

      a history of head injury, seizures, or brain or spinal cord tumor;

    * kidney disease;

    * liver disease (especially cirrhosis);

      bipolar disorder (manic depression);

You may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, such as Wellbutrin, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Tell your doctor if you have worsening symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

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

Do not give this medication to anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

                           Take Wellbutrin exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Wellbutrin can be taken with or without food.

Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. Breaking the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

Do not stop taking Wellbutrin without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly.

If you use the Wellbutrin extended-release tablet, the tablet shell may pass into your stools (bowel movements). This is normal and does not mean that you are not receiving enough of the medicine.

Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

                         Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. Alcohol may increase your risk of a seizure while you are taking this medicine. If you drink alcohol regularly, talk with your doctor before changing the amount you drink. Wellbutrin can cause seizures in people who drink a lot of alcohol and then suddenly quit drinking when they start using the medication.

Avoid using bupropion to treat more than one condition at a time. If you take Wellbutrin for depression, do not also take Zyban to quit smoking. Too much of this medicine can increase your risk of a seizure.

Bupropion 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.