Thursday, August 27, 2009

Ultiva

Ultiva is used for:
Preventing and treating pain during and after procedures and surgery.
Ultiva is a narcotic pain reliever. It works by dulling the pain perception center in the brain.
  Do NOT use Ultiva if:
you are allergic to any ingredient in Ultiva or to similar medicines (eg, fentanyl)
you are taking 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 Ultiva . 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 heart or breathing problems
if you have a history of substance abuse or dependence problems
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Ultiva . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Alcohol, amiodarone, benzodiazepines (eg, alprazolam), cimetidine, or sodium oxybate (GHB) because the side effects of Ultiva may be increased
Naltrexone because the effectiveness of Ultiva may be decreased
  Use Ultiva as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Ultiva is usually administered as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. Ask your doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have about Ultiva .
If you miss a dose of Ultiva , contact your doctor immediately.
  Ultiva may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Ultiva . Using Ultiva alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness (eg, sedatives, tranquilizers) while taking Ultiva . Ultiva will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants.
Use Ultiva with caution in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to its effects.
PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Ultiva during pregnancy. It is unknown if Ultiva is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Ultiva , check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
When used for long periods of time or at high doses, Ultiva may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Ultiva stops working well. Do not take more then prescribed.
When used for long periods of time or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Ultiva . This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.
If you suddenly stop taking Ultiva , you may experience WITHDRAWAL symptoms, including anxiety; diarrhea; fever, runny nose, or sneezing; goose bumps and abnormal skin sensations; nausea; vomiting; pain; rigid muscles; rapid heartbeat; seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there; shivering or tremors; sweating; and trouble sleeping.
  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:
Changes in vision; chills; dizziness; drowsiness; fever; headache; itching; nausea; shivering; sweating; 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); fast or slow heartbeat; interrupted breathing; lightheadedness; muscle tightness; pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site; seizures.
  Ultiva is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using Ultiva at home, store Ultiva as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider. Keep Ultiva , as well as needles and syringes, out of the reach of children and away from pets.
   


Sunday, August 9, 2009

Tace

Chlorotrianisene is a form of estrogen. Estrogen is a female sex hormone necessary for many processes in the body.
Chlorotrianisene is used to treat symptoms of menopause, deficiencies in ovary function (including underdevelopment of female sexual characteristics and some types of infertility), and prostate cancer.
Chlorotrianisene may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Have yearly physical exams and examine your breasts for lumps on a monthly basis while taking chlorotrianisene.
Take chlorotrianisene with food or milk to lessen stomach upset. Do not take chlorotrianisene if you are pregnant.
Do not take chlorotrianisene if you
have breast cancer. Tell your doctor if you have (or have ever had) breast cancer.
have vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed. It will be necessary to determine if any abnormal bleeding has a hormonal cause.
have a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder. Chlorotrianisene may increase the risk that a blood clot will form.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
* have any type of liver or gallbladder disease,
are diabetic,
* suffer from migraines,
have epilepsy or seizures,
have heart disease, or
have kidney disease.
You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Chlorotrianisene is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that chlortrianisene will cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy. Chlorotrianisene may decrease milk flow and have other effects on milk composition. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take chlorotrianisene with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.
Try to take each dose at the same time each day, preferably in the morning. You may be taking it every day, or you may be taking it every day for 3 weeks with 1 week off each month to mimic your body's natural cycle. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
If you are taking chlorotrianisene to treat cancer, you may be taking it several times a day in very large doses.
Store chlorotrianisene at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Chlorotrianisene may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking chlorotrianisene and seek emergency medical attention:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
a blood clot (pain, redness, and swelling in an arm or leg, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, blurred vision, or confusion);
a lump in a breast; or
liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chlorotrianisene and talk to your doctor if you experience
decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting;
swollen breasts;
acné or skin color changes;
decreased sex drive;
migraine headaches or dizziness;
water retention (swollen hands, feet, or ankles);
depression; or
changes in your menstrual cycle or breakthrough bleeding.
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.
Chlorotrianisene may decrease the effects of the following drugs:
anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin). This could lead to blood clots. Your doctor will want to monitor your anticoagulant therapy.
thyroid medications. A larger dose of thyroid medication may be needed.
insulin. Monitor your blood sugar levels and discuss any unusual changes with your doctor.
tamoxifen. Chlorotrianisene should not be taken during therapy with tamoxifen.
Chlorotrianisene may also increase the effects of some medications. The following drugs may have increased or dangerous side effects if taken with chlorotrianisene:
* tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and doxepin (Sinequan);
* other commonly used tricyclic antidepressants, including amoxapine (Ascendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and protriptyline (Vivactil); and
didanosine (Videx).
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Other drugs may also affect chlorotrianisene. The effects of chlorotrianisene are decreased by
phenytoin (Dilantin) and ethotoin (Peganone),
carbamazepine (Tegretol),
phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal),
primidone (Mysoline), and
rifampin (Rifadin).
You may need larger doses of chlorotrianisene if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chlorotrianisene. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Chlorotrianisene is available with a prescription under the brand name Tace. 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.
Tace 12 mg--green, hard-gelatin capsules

Friday, August 7, 2009

Salmeterol


Long-acting beta-agonists such as Salmeterol have been rarely associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death. Salmeterol should only be used by certain patients with severe asthma or by patients who cannot get adequate control of asthma symptoms by using other asthma-controller medicines (eg, inhaled corticosteroids).
Salmeterol is used for:
Long-term treatment of asthma. It may be used to prevent breathing problems in certain patients, including patients with nighttime asthma, or breathing problems caused by exercise. It may be used for long-term treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator. It widens the airways in the lungs, which helps you breathe more easily.
Do NOT use Salmeterol if:
* you are allergic to any ingredient in Salmeterol
* you are using another medicine that has a long-acting beta-agonist (eg, fluticasone/salmeterol, formoterol) in it
* you are taking an azole antifungal (eg, ketoconazole), an HIV protease inhibitor (eg, ritonavir), a macrolide antibiotic (eg, clarithromycin), nefazodone, or telithromycin
* you are having an asthma attack (eg, sudden severe onset or worsening of asthma symptoms such as chest tightness, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing)
Some medical conditions may interact with Salmeterol . 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 reaction to milk protein
* if you have a history of liver problems, diabetes, heart problems (eg, fast or irregular heartbeat, heart blood vessel problems), high blood pressure, low blood potassium levels, seizures, an adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma), or an overactive thyroid
* if you have recently been to an emergency room for asthma, have a history of frequent hospitalizations for asthma, or have ever had a life-threatening asthma attack
* if you have had an unusual reaction to a sympathomimetic medicine (eg, albuterol, pseudoephedrine), such as fast or irregular heartbeat, overexcitement, or severe trouble sleeping
* if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) or a tricyclic antidepressant (eg, amitriptyline), or you have taken any of these medicines within the last 14 days
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Salmeterol . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
* Azole antifungals (eg, ketoconazole), HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), macrolide antibiotics (eg, clarithromycin), nefazodone, or telithromycin because the risk of fast or irregular heartbeat may be increased
* Diuretics (eg, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) because the risk of low blood potassium or irregular heartbeat may be increased
* Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors (eg, entacapone), long-acting beta-agonists (eg, fluticasone/salmeterol, formoterol), MAOIs (eg, phenelzine), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because they may increase the risk of Salmeterol 's side effects
* Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol) because they may decrease Salmeterol 's effectiveness or worsen your condition
Use Salmeterol as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
* Salmeterol comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Salmeterol refilled.
* Always activate and use this device in a level, horizontal position. Do NOT try to use a spacer device with Salmeterol .
* To prepare the device for use, open the protective foil pouch and remove the inhaler device. Hold the device in one hand. Use the thumb of the opposite hand to push the thumbgrip as far away from you as it will go. The mouthpiece will appear and snap into position.
* Hold the device in a level, flat position with the mouthpiece towards you. Use your thumb to slide the lever away from you as far as it will go. You should hear a click. The device is now ready for use.
* Do NOT close or tilt the device, play with the lever, or move the lever more than once. You may accidentally release or waste a dose.
* To use a dose of Salmeterol , hold the inhaler level and away from your mouth. Breathe out fully. Do NOT exhale into the device for any reason. Put the mouthpiece to your lips. Breathe in quickly and deeply through your mouth and hold your breath. Remove the inhaler from your mouth. Continue to hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as possible. Then, breathe out slowly.
* Close the device when you are finished taking a dose. Slide the thumbgrip back towards you as far as it will go. The device will click shut, and the lever will return to its original position.
* Salmeterol delivers your dose as a very fine powder. Most, but not all, patients can taste or feel it. Even if you cannot feel it, do not use more than the recommended dose. If you are not sure if you are receiving your dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
* If you are using Salmeterol to prevent breathing problems caused by exercise, use it at least 30 minutes before you start to exercise. Do not use another dose for at least 12 hours. If you already use Salmeterol twice daily on a regular basis, do NOT take an extra dose before you exercise.
* Discard the inhaler 6 weeks after removing it from the protective foil pouch or after all the blisters have been used, whichever comes first.
* The dose indicator on the device will tell you how many doses are left. The dose indicator will read "0" when all the blisters have been used.
* Never wash the mouthpiece or any other part of the inhaler. Keep it dry and always store it in a dry place.
* Do NOT try to take the unit apart.
* Continue to use Salmeterol even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
* If you miss a dose of Salmeterol , skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.
* Salmeterol may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Salmeterol with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
* Salmeterol will not stop an asthma attack once it has already started. Be sure to carry a short-acting bronchodilator with you at all times to treat any breathing problems that may occur between doses of Salmeterol (eg, severe or sudden onset of wheezing or shortness of breath). If you have any questions about which medicines stop asthma attacks, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
* If you have been regularly using a short-acting bronchodilator inhaler (eg, albuterol), talk with your doctor about how to use it with Salmeterol . Short-acting bronchodilators are normally only used with Salmeterol to treat breathing problems that may occur between doses.
* The risk of serious heart problems (eg, irregular heartbeat) may be greater if you use Salmeterol in high doses. Do NOT use more than the recommended dose or use more often than prescribed.
* If your symptoms do not get better within 1 week of starting Salmeterol , or if they get worse, contact your doctor right away.
* Tell your doctor at once if you notice that your short-acting bronchodilator inhaler does not work as well, if you need to use it often (eg, 4 or more times a day for more than 2 days in a row; more than 1 canister in 8 weeks), or if you have a decrease in your peak flow meter results.
* Contact your doctor or seek medical care right away if you have breathing problems that worsen quickly, or if you use your short-acting bronchodilator and do not get relief.
* Salmeterol is not to be used in place of a corticosteroid. If you are using a corticosteroid medicine for asthma, do not stop or reduce the dose unless your doctor tells you to.
* Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about all of your asthma medicines and how to use them. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any asthma medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
* Salmeterol may sometimes cause severe breathing problems right after you use a dose. If this happens, use your short-acting bronchodilator. Contact your doctor or seek other medical care at once.
* Diabetes patients - Salmeterol may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
* Lab tests, including lung function tests and blood pressure, may be performed while you use Salmeterol . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
* Use Salmeterol with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially effects on the heart.
* Salmeterol should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 4 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Salmeterol while you are pregnant. It is not known if Salmeterol is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Salmeterol , check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.
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:
Headache; nasal or sinus congestion; nervousness; stuffy nose; throat irritation; tremor.
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, tongue, or throat; unusual hoarseness); chest pain; choking; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; new or worsening asthma symptoms (eg, coughing, increased chest tightness, shortness of breath, or wheezing); overexcitement; severe or persistent headache or dizziness; severe or persistent muscle pain or cramps.
Store Salmeterol at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store Salmeterol away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Throw Salmeterol away 6 weeks after it is removed from the foil pouch. Keep Salmeterol out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Raloxifene


Raloxifene may increase the risk of serious blood clots. Do not take Raloxifene if you have a history of serious blood clots (eg, in the lung, leg, or eye).
Raloxifene may increase the risk of death from stroke in patients who have coronary heart disease or who are at risk for certain serious heart problems. If you have heart problems or are at risk for a serious heart problem, talk with your doctor to be sure that the benefits of using Raloxifene outweigh the risks.
Raloxifene is used for:
Treating and preventing osteoporosis (bone thinning) in women who are past menopause. It is also used to reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer in certain women who are past menopause. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Raloxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It works in osteoporosis by decreasing bone breakdown and thinning that may occur in women after menopause. It works to decrease the risk of invasive breast cancer by blocking estrogen in breast and uterine tissue.
Do NOT use Raloxifene if:
* you are allergic to any ingredient in Raloxifene
* you are pregnant, could become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
* you have not yet gone through menopause
* you have a history of blood clots in your legs, lungs, or eyes
* you are taking an anion exchange resin (eg, cholestyramine, colestipol) or estrogen
Some medical conditions may interact with Raloxifene . 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 a history of liver problems, kidney problems, breast cancer, or any other type of cancer
* if you have a history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), blood vessel problems, heart problems, (eg, heart failure, irregular heartbeat), or high blood pressure
* if you are at risk for stroke or heart problems
* if you will be having surgery, you smoke or drink alcohol, you are not able to absorb nutrients properly (gastrointestinal malabsorption syndrome), or you have very poor health
* if you are taking an estrogen or have a history of high triglyceride levels while taking an estrogen
* if anyone in your family has a history of serious blood clots
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Raloxifene . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
* Anion exchange resins (eg, cholestyramine) because they may decrease Raloxifene 's effectiveness
* Diazepam, diazoxide, or lidocaine because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Raloxifene .
* Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Raloxifene
Use Raloxifene as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
* Raloxifene comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Raloxifene refilled.
* Take Raloxifene by mouth with or without food.
* Take Raloxifene on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Raloxifene at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
* Continue to take Raloxifene even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
* If you miss a dose of Raloxifene , 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 Raloxifene .
* Follow the diet and exercise program given to you by your health care provider. Talk with your doctor about whether you should take a calcium and vitamin D supplement while you use Raloxifene .
* Talk with your doctor about the use of weight-bearing exercises to help prevent weak bones.
* Raloxifene should be stopped at least 72 hours before surgery or any time you will be confined to a bed or chair for a long period of time (eg, long car ride, long plane flight, bedrest, illness). Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Raloxifene before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. Tell your doctor if you will be traveling, or any other time you may be confined to a bed or chair.
* If you are traveling (eg, long car ride or plane ride), try to avoid sitting in one place for a long time. Be sure to get up and move around as often as possible to help avoid the risk of blood clots.
* Raloxifene is not recommended for use in men.
* Lab tests and medical exams, including bone density, breast exams, and mammograms, may be performed while you use Raloxifene . They may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
* Raloxifene should not be used in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Raloxifene 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 Raloxifene is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Raloxifene .
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:
Hot flashes; increased sweating; joint aches; leg cramps.
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); abnormal vaginal bleeding; back or side pain; blurred vision, loss of vision, or other vision changes; breast pain, tenderness, swelling, lump or discharge; chest pain; coughing up blood; confusion; flu-like symptoms; leg or calf pain, warmth, or swelling; one-sided weakness; shortness of breath; slurred speech; swelling of the hands, arms, legs or feet; unexplained bleeding.
Store Raloxifene at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Raloxifene out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Questran


Questran Powder is used for:
Lowering blood cholesterol levels. It is used along with changes in diet. It is used to relieve itching caused by partial biliary obstruction. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Questran Powder is a bile acid sequestrant/anion-exchange resin. It works by increasing the removal of bile acids from the body. As the body loses bile acids, it replaces them by converting cholesterol from the blood to bile acids. This causes the blood level of cholesterol to decrease.
Do NOT use Questran Powder if:
* you are allergic to any ingredient in Questran Powder
* you have a complete obstruction of your biliary tract, severe constipation (eg, impacted feces), high blood chloride levels, or certain types of elevated blood lipid levels (type III, IV, or V hyperlipidemia)
* if you are taking mycophenolate
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Some medical conditions may interact with Questran Powder. 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 heart disease; constipation; hemorrhoids; gallbladder problems; blood, bleeding, or clotting problems; high blood levels of triglycerides; poor absorption from the intestinal tract or other intestinal problems; kidney problems; or phenylketonuria (PKU)
* if you are dehydrated
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Questran Powder. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
* Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), digoxin, digitoxin, estrogens, hormonal contraceptives (eg, birth control pills), mycophenolate, penicillins (eg, amoxicillin), phenobarbital, phenylbutazone, phosphate supplements, progestins (eg, medroxyprogesterone), tetracyclines (eg, doxycycline), thiazide diuretics (eg, hydrochlorothiazide), or thyroid hormones (eg, levothyroxine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Questran Powder
* Spironolactone because the risk of high blood chloride levels may be increased
Use Questran Powder as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
* Questran Powder is usually taken by mouth with meals.
* Questran Powder may decrease the absorption of other medicines. All other medicines should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after taking Questran Powder. Check with your doctor if you have any questions about taking your other medicines along with Questran Powder.
* If you are also taking anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), take Questran Powder at least 6 hours after you take the anticoagulant unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
* Do not take Questran Powder in its dry form. Always mix with water or other fluids before taking.
* If you are taking Questran Powder with a beverage, add the prescribed amount of medicine to 2 to 6 ounces/60 to 180 mL of water or other noncarbonated liquid before taking. Stir until well mixed (it will not dissolve) before drinking. After drinking all the liquid, rinse the glass with more liquid and drink it to ensure that all medicine is received.
* Questran Powder may also be mixed with soups (chicken noodle, tomato) or fruits (eg, applesauce, crushed pineapple) containing plenty of fluid.
* Do not sip Questran Powder or hold it in your mouth for a long period of time because this may cause tooth changes such as discoloration, decay, or erosion of enamel. Maintain good oral hygiene while you are using Questran Powder.
* Drink several glasses (8 ounces/240 mL) of water or other liquid daily, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
* If you miss a dose of Questran Powder, 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 Questran Powder.
* Questran Powder may cause dizziness or drowsiness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Questran Powder with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
* If you experience constipation while taking Questran Powder, talk to your doctor about increased fiber intake and use of a stool softener to help relieve this side effect.
* Phenylketonuria patients - Some of these products contain phenylalanine. If you must have a diet that is low in phenylalanine, ask your pharmacist if it is in your product.
* The color of the powder may vary from batch to batch. This is normal and does not change the effect.
* Hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using Questran Powder. To prevent pregnancy, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms).
* Lab tests, including lipid and cholesterol levels and prothrombin times, may be performed while you use Questran Powder. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
* Use Questran Powder with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially constipation.
* Caution is advised when using Questran Powder in CHILDREN; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially high blood chloride levels.
* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Questran Powder while you are pregnant. It is not known if Questran Powder is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Questran Powder, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Constipation.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black or bloody stools; irritation of the skin, tongue, or anal area; severe constipation; severe or persistent nausea; shortness of breath; stomach pain; unusual bruising or bleeding; vomiting.
Store Questran Powder at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage 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 Questran Powder out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Pamelor


Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions in children, teenagers, and young adults. However, depression and certain other mental problems may also increase the risk of suicide. Talk with the patient's doctor to be sure that the benefits of using Pamelor outweigh the risks.
Family and caregivers must closely watch patients who take Pamelor . It is important to keep in close contact with the patient's doctor. Tell the doctor right away if the patient has symptoms like worsened depression, suicidal thoughts, or changes in behavior. Discuss any questions with the patient's doctor.
                 Pamelor is used for:
Treating depression. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Pamelor is a tricyclic antidepressant. It works by increasing the activity of certain chemicals in the brain that help elevate mood.
                   Do NOT use Pamelor if:
    * you are allergic to any ingredient in Pamelor or to similar medicines
    * you have taken furazolidone or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) within the last 14 days, or you are taking astemizole, droperidol, or terfenadine
    * you are recovering from a recent heart attack
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
                  Some medical conditions may interact with Pamelor . 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 drink alcohol-containing beverages daily or you have a history of alcohol abuse
    * if you take thyroid medicine or you have a history of overactive thyroid, glaucoma, heart problems, kidney or liver problems, diabetes, seizures, the blood disease porphyria, or difficulty urinating
    * if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior, bipolar disorder, or any other mental disorders; you are undergoing electroshock therapy; or you are scheduled to have any surgery
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Pamelor . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
    * Azole antifungals (eg, fluconazole), cimetidine, duloxetine, flecainide, methylphenidate, mibefradil, phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine), propafenone, quinidine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (eg, fluoxetine), or terbinafine because they may increase the risk of Pamelor 's side effects
    * Arsenic, astemizole, droperidol, furazolidone, MAOIs (eg, phenelzine), pimozide, quinolone antibiotics (eg, ciprofloxacin), streptogramins (eg, dalfopristin), terfenadine, or tramadol because the risk of high blood pressure, serious heart problems (eg, irregular heartbeat), or seizures may be increased
    * Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital) or phenytoin because they may decrease Pamelor 's effectiveness
    * Anticholinergics (eg, benztropine), carbamazepine, chlorpropamide, or sympathomimetics (eg, phenylephrine) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Pamelor
    * Clonidine, guanethidine, or guanfacine because their effectiveness may be decreased by Pamelor
                    Use Pamelor as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
    * Pamelor comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get Pamelor refilled.
    * Take Pamelor by mouth with or without food.
    * If you miss a dose of Pamelor , 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. If you take 1 dose daily at bedtime, do not take the missed dose the next morning.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Pamelor .
                       * Pamelor may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Pamelor 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 Pamelor ; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.
    * Pamelor may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.
    * Do not become overheated in hot weather or while you are being active; heatstroke may occur.
    * Children, teenagers, and young adults who take Pamelor may be at increased risk for suicidal thoughts or actions. Watch all patients who take Pamelor closely. Contact the doctor at once if new, worsened, or sudden symptoms such as depressed mood; anxious, restless, or irritable behavior; panic attacks; or any unusual change in mood or behavior occur. Contact the doctor right away if any signs of suicidal thoughts or actions occur.
    * Pamelor may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Pamelor . Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
    * Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Pamelor before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
    * Lab tests, including blood cell counts, may be performed while you use Pamelor . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
    * Use Pamelor with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially confusion, blood pressure changes, and irregular heartbeat.
    * Pamelor should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
    * PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: It is not known if Pamelor can cause harm to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Pamelor while you are pregnant. It is not known if Pamelor is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Pamelor .
If you stop taking Pamelor suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. These may include headache, nausea, and tiredness.
                     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:
    Dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; excitement; headache; impotence; nausea; nightmares; pupil dilation; sensitivity to sunlight; sweating; tiredness; upset stomach; vomiting; weakness; weight loss or gain.
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); blurred vision or other vision changes; changes in sex drive; chest pain; confusion; constipation; fainting; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever; frequent or difficult urination; hallucinations; impulsive behavior or other unusual changes in behavior; jaw, neck, or muscle spasms; mental or mood changes (eg, increased anxiety, mood swings, agitation, irritability, nervousness, restlessness); panic attacks; ringing in the ears; seizures; severe dizziness or drowsiness; sore throat; stomach pain; suicidal thinking or behavior; swelling of the testicles; tremor; trouble sleeping; trouble walking or keeping your balance; twitching of the face or tongue; uncontrolled movements of arms and legs or stiffness; unusual bleeding or bruising; worsening of depression; yellowing of the skin or eyes.
                       Store Pamelor 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 Pamelor out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Ocuflox Eye Drops


Ocuflox Drops is used for:
Treating and preventing eye infections associated with conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers caused by certain bacteria in patients 1 year of age and older.
Ocuflox Drops is an ophthalmic fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It stops or prevents bacterial infections of the eyeball by either killing susceptible bacteria or inhibiting their growth.
                       Use Ocuflox Drops as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
    * To use Ocuflox 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.
    * Do not wear contact lenses while you are using Ocuflox Drops. Take care of your contact lenses as directed by the manufacturer. Check with your doctor before you use them.
    * Ocuflox Drops works best if used at the same time each day.
    * To clear up your infection completely, use Ocuflox Drops for the full course of treatment. Keep using it even if you feel better in a few days.
    * If you miss a dose of Ocuflox 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 Ocuflox Drops.
                             * Ocuflox Drops may cause blurred vision. Use Ocuflox Drops with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks if you cannot see clearly.
    * Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Ocuflox Drops before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
    * Be sure to use Ocuflox Drops for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.
    * Do not use Ocuflox Drops for future eye problems unless directed by your doctor.
    * Ocuflox Drops should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 1 year old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
    * PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Ocuflox Drops while you are pregnant. It is not known if Ocuflox Drops is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Ocuflox Drops.
                        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:
    Blurred vision; burning or discomfort in the eye, including stinging, redness, and itching; dry eyes; eye pain; foreign body sensation; sensitivity to sunlight; tearing.
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); infection (fever, chills, sore throat); itching; loss of consciousness; redness; unusual sensitivity to light.
                         Store Ocuflox Drops at room temperature, between 59 degrees and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C). Store in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Ocuflox Drops out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Nafarelin


Nafarelin is used for:
Treating endometriosis, including relieving pain and reducing lesions. It is also used to treat early puberty (central precocious puberty [CPP]) in children of both sexes. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Nafarelin is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist analog. It works by decreasing production of certain steroids in the body, which decreases the symptoms of endometriosis or early puberty.
Some medical conditions may interact with Nafarelin . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
* you are planning to become pregnant
* if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
* if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
* if you have a runny or stuffy nose, osteoporosis (weak bones), or a family history of osteoporosis
* if you regularly use alcohol or tobacco
* if the patient is a child with endometriosis
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Nafarelin . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
* Anticonvulsants (eg, phenytoin) or corticosteroids (eg, prednisone) because the risk of decreased bone density (weak bones) may be increased
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Nafarelin 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 Nafarelin as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
* An extra patient leaflet is available with Nafarelin . Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.
* To use a nose spray, gently blow your nose. Sit down and tilt your head back slightly. Place the tip of the spray container into the nose. Using a finger from your other hand, press against the opposite nostril to close it off. Breathe gently through the open nostril and squeeze the spray container. If you are using more than 1 spray, wait for at least 30 seconds between sprays.
* After using the medicine, rinse the tip of the spray unit in hot water and dry with a clean tissue to prevent contamination.
* If you are also using a decongestant nasal spray, do not use it within 2 hours after using Nafarelin . Check with your doctor if you have questions about using Nafarelin along with your other medicines.
* It may take 4 to 8 weeks for Nafarelin to work. Continue to use Nafarelin even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
* If you miss a dose of Nafarelin , 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 take 2 doses at once.
* If you miss more than 1 dose of Nafarelin , contact your doctor.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Nafarelin .
* Avoid sneezing during or immediately after using Nafarelin , if possible, because Nafarelin 's effectiveness may be decreased.
* Do not exceed the recommended dose or use Nafarelin for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.
* If you are using Nafarelin for CPP, you may experience some signs of puberty (eg, vaginal bleeding, breast enlargement, increased pubic hair) or temporary body odor during the first month of treatment. This is normal. If these side effects persist or are severe, contact your doctor.
* If you are using Nafarelin for endometriosis, you may experience irregular or unusual vaginal bleeding during the first 2 months you use Nafarelin . This is normal. If you experience severe or persistent vaginal bleeding or if you have unusual vaginal bleeding that lasts longer than 2 months after you start Nafarelin , contact your doctor.
* If you are using Nafarelin for endometriosis, your menstrual period should stop while you use Nafarelin . Contact your doctor if your regular menstrual period continues while you are using Nafarelin .
* Women who may become pregnant must have a negative pregnancy test before beginning treatment with Nafarelin .
* Women of childbearing age should avoid becoming pregnant while using Nafarelin . To prevent pregnancy, use a nonhormonal form of birth control (eg, condoms) while using Nafarelin .
* Women who miss more than one dose of Nafarelin in a row may experience breakthrough vaginal bleeding and ovulation, with the possibility of pregnancy. Contact your doctor if you miss more than one dose of Nafarelin .
* Nafarelin may interfere with certain lab tests, including diagnostic tests of pituitary gonadotropic and gonadal function. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are using Nafarelin .
* Lab tests, including gonadal sex steroid levels and growth rate, may be performed while you use Nafarelin . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
* Nafarelin should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 18 years old who have endometriosis; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
* PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not use Nafarelin 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 Nafarelin is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Nafarelin .
Store Nafarelin upright 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. Keep Nafarelin out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Magnevist


Magnevist is a contrast agent. Magnevist produces magnetic effects. It is used in combination with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to allow blood vessels, organs, and other non-bony tissues to be seen more clearly on the MRI.
Magnevist is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the heart, brain, blood vessels, and spinal tissues.
Magnevist may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Magnevist can cause a life-threatening condition in people with advanced kidney disease who are undergoing an MRI. The symptoms of this condition include:
burning, itching, swelling, and tightening or hardening of your skin;
muscle weakness;
pain or stiffness in your arms, hands, legs, or feet;
deep bone pain in your ribs or your hips;
yellow patches on the whites of your eyes; or
skin redness or discoloration.
Before receiving Magnevist, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may not be able to receive an MRI with gadopentetate dimeglumine.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, a seizure disorder, sickle cell or hemolytic anemia, a history of stroke or blood clots, a recent head or brain injury, asthma or allergies, or if you are on dialysis. Your doctor or other healthcare provider may want to watch you for a short time after your test is over. This is to make sure you do not have any unwanted side effects or delayed reactions.
Some of the side effects of Magnevist can occur up to 24 hours after you have received the medication.
Magnevist is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting during your MRI.
Your doctor or other healthcare provider may want to watch you for a short time after your test is over. This is to make sure you do not have any unwanted side effects or delayed reactions.