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May

30

Generic Drugs: Is There a Difference Between Generic Drugs and Brand?

May 30, 2011 | Leave a Comment

Before patients buy generic drugs online they want to know the answers to some of their questions, regarding generics. Why can one buy generic drugs cheap? Are generic drugs effective? Where can I buy generic drugs without a prescription cheap?

Today a lot of online pharmacies offer cheap generic drugs without a prescription and thousands of patients around the world take the opportunity to save on very expensive brand medications from a local pharmacy store. Generics are full analogues of brand ones, but are available to order online cheaper. Online pharmacies sell some drugs without a prescription which makes generic drugs purchase online even more convenient as you do not have to see a doctor.

Patients of all age groups and walks of life want to be treated effective and quality medicine. But here’s to suit all your medicines in different ways: some prefer to buy expensive original drugs, while others believe that lower-cost counterparts in no way inferior to well-known brands. In short, demand is there for any kind of drugs, as ill and eating a man does not stop never. What to and enjoy all kinds of pharmaceutical companies, letting the world market many drugs under various trade names.

According to recent statistics, the proportion of generic counterparts of drugs (generics) in the markets of many countries will only increase. Although the dynamics of growth is not the same: if the U.S. resorted to the use of generic drugs in approximately 15% of the treatment of diseases in Europe - 40-50%, in the post-Soviet countries - up to 80-90%. But do not be afraid of these numbers. Because generic - a quality product, which according to its pharmacological data of the original copies. The active substance in the analog and the original is absolutely identical. But the price of drugs is much different. And obviously for the benefit of generics. Why is this happening? To do this, to understand the differences in the production of both options medication.

When a pharmaceutical company synthesized a new drug, it is patent the name and performs a full spectrum of possible research - from clinical to experimental. Their progress is determined by: the exact formula, the effectiveness of the drug and all its side effects. At this preliminary stage can take up to 10 years. If we consider that a patent for the drug is given by an average of 20 years (sometimes 25), then for the remaining 10-15 years “exclusive use” producer has to invest heavily in the campaign, so with the help of massive purchases “recapture” the cost of wasted millions to test and make a profit. It is clear that the original price of such drugs will be essential.

What happens after the expiration of a patent? Right to manufacture the same drug, but under a different name may acquire any other company. Since emerging on the market, for example, not nootropil, and piracetam. This medicine is an exact copy of an analog, but since its production has already spent far less money, and it determines the selling price, which is an order of magnitude lower. So the generic - a kind of high-quality tracing paper once a patented drug, but at an affordable cost for a wide range of customers.

Dzhenericheskie drugs all over the world before they go on sale are thoroughly tested for compliance with the equivalence of the original drug. Such a study is conducted in three areas:

Pharmaceuticals - medicines should:
contain the same active ingredients;
introduced an identical manner;
be similar in concentration and its effect on the body.
Biological - the deviation between the analogs and copies are allowed no more than 15-20% of such parameters:
period of drug intake;
time to reach maximum concentration;
type and duration of excretion from the body.
Clinical - generic shall match the original for these indicators:
active substance;
security;
efficiency.

Thus, the generic is a quality drug, which contains the same active ingredient as the original drug, same adjuvants and production technology.

Summarizing the above, conclusions can be drawn: the use of generic drugs is absolutely justified, since it gives the doctor and patient choice; can treat almost all people from different walks of life, available in a price range, efficient and safe. In addition, taking a growing niche market of medicines, generic drugs stimulate the company’s original look promising new directions in drug development.

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May

24

Diflucan (Fluconazole) and Other Antifungals

May 24, 2011 | Leave a Comment

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Diflucan (Fluconazole) and Other Azole Antifungals

Type of Drug: Azole Antifungals (Diflucan, Fluconazole)

Brand Names: Diflucan

Generic Ingredient: Fluconazole Diflucan

Generic Ingredient: Itraconazole Sporanox Ketoconazole Extina Nizoral Ketozole Xolegel Posaconazole Noxafil Voriconazole Wend

Prescribed For: Fungal infections of the blood, mouth, throat, vagina, or central nervous system.

Fluconazole, posaconazole, and itraconazole can be used to treat opportunistic fungal infections that inflict many people with HIV or cancer whose immune systems have been compromised.

Generic Fluconazole is called Diflucan and it is an extremely popular and effective drug for yeast infection treatment today. Millions of patients buy Diflucan for yeast infection treatment and more and more people buy generic Diflucan online at a price much cheaper than in a regular pharmacy shop. Diflucan online is available to purchase without a prescription or visiting a doctor. Besides online pharmacy Diflucan cost is up to five time less, so you save serious money buying Diflucan without RX from the comfort of your home without the need to get a prescription or waiting in the line to see your doctor.

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General Information

Azole antifungals are used to treat a variety of fungal organisms, including Candida, aspergillus, cryptococcus, blastomycosis, fusarium, histoplasmosis, and Scedosporium. They work by inhibiting important enzyme systems in the organisms they attack. These drugs are broken down in the liver.

Cautions and Warnings

Do not take azole antifungals if you are allergic or sensitive to any of their ingredients. People who are allergic to similar antifungals may also be allergic to these drugs, but cross-reactions are not common and serious allergic reaction is rare.
Azole antifungals can affect heart rhythm and should be used with caution if you have a history of abnormal heart rhythms.
Rarely, azole antifungals can cause liver damage. The drugs should be used with caution in people with liver disease. At least one in every 10,000 people who take ketOGonazole develop liver inflammation. The inflammation generally subsides when the drug is discontinued.
Voriconazole tablets contain lactose. They should not be taken by patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, Lapp-lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
Rash may be an important sign of drug toxicity, especially in people with HIV or others with compromised immune function. Report any rashes, especially ones that do not heal readily, to your doctor.
These drugs can have very serious effects if combined with other medicines. See “Drug Interactions” for specific information.

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Possible Side Effects

Side effects are generally more common among people with HIV.

Generic Diflucan Fluconazole (Diflucan 100 mg, 150 mg and 250 mg)

Less common: liver toxicity, as measured by increases in specific lab tests. These changes in lab values are more common in people with HIV or cancer, who are more likely to be taking several drugs.

Rare: seizures and exfoliative skin disorders. People with
HIV or cancer who take fluconazole for fungal infections
may develop severe liver or skin problems. Contact your
doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Itraconazole
• Most common: nausea, vomiting, and rash.
Less common: diarrhea, abdominal pain, appetite loss, swelling in the legs or feet, fatigue, fever, feeling unwell, itching, headache, dizziness, reduced sex drive, tiredness, high blood pressure, liver or kidney function abnormalities, low blood potassium, and impotence.
Rare: gas, sleeplessness, depression, ringing or buzzing in the ears, bronchitis, chest pain, coughing, and swollen or painful breasts in men or women. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.

Usual Dose

Fluconazole (generic Diflucan)
Adult and Child (age 14 and over): Diflucan 100-400 mg once a day. Child: Diflucan 1.3-5.5 mg per lb. of body weight once a day; no more
than 400 mg Diflucan a day.

Overdosage
Overdose is likely to result in exaggerated drug side effects. Doses of posaconazole up to 1600 mg a day have been taken without any adverse reactions. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.

When taking generic Diflucan fluconazole, regular doctor visits are necessary to monitor liver function and general progress. Call your doctor if you develop severe diarrhea; vomiting; reddening, loosening, blistering, or peeling of the skin; darkening of the urine; jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes); loss of appetite; or abdominal pain, especially on the right side. Report other symptoms that are bothersome or persistent.
Itraconazole must be taken for at least 3 months to determine its effectiveness; otherwise, the infection may return.
If you forget a dose of one of these medicines, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Special Populations

Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Animal studies with Diflucan show effects on the fetus that have not been seen in humans. Pregnant women should not use azole antifungals unless the possible benefits outweigh the risks.
These drugs pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must these drugs should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may require a reduced dosage of fluconazole due to age-related loss of kidney function. No dosage adjustments are necessary with other azole antifungals.

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May

19

Strattera (Atomoxetine) 10, 25, 40 mg

May 19, 2011 | Leave a Comment

Atomoxetine (Generic Strattera) 10, 25, 40 mg

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Generic Strattera is available to buy online from our secure online pharmacy at a very affordable prices (under $1 cheap generic Strattera) without a prescription. Generic Strattera is 100% the same drug (chemical formula, active ingredients, highest quality, fully approved) as brand Strattera, buy it is possible to purchase it much cheaper (up to 80%). Your order will be delivered to you within several days. Strattera patient information leaflet is attached. No rx required, no doctor visits, no need to pay for overpriced drugs. There are discounts for all the further orders in case you want to buy refill in future. Go generic - buy cheap Strattera online without a prescription and save up to 80%. High quality, fast and secure delivery guaranteed. Just follow the banner above to enter the internet pharmacy where you can order your Strattera (Atomoxetine) pills. Dosages of 10, 25, 40 mg are available.
Generic for Strattera: Atomoxetine
Brand Name for Amoxetine: Strattera

Type of Drug: Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Prescribed For Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). General Information: Atomoxetine (generic Strattera) is used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This drug may be used by children, teenagers, and adults. Unlike most other medicines used for ADHD, Strattera is not a stimulant. Strattera is for sale on line at a low price and without a prescription.

Cautions and Warnings while taking Strattera:

Do not take atomoxetine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Suicidal thoughts and actions have occurred in children and teens taking generic Strattera atomoxetine. Warning signs to look for include agitation, irritability, and unusual behavior changes, especially during the first few months of drug therapy or when drug dosage is increased or decreased. Separate Strattera from any monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAGI) antidepressant by at least 2 weeks. Serious, sometimes fatal, symptoms including body temperature elevations, rigidity, muscle stiffness, or rapid changes of vital signs or mental status (including extreme agitation, progressing to delirium and coma) may occur. Strattera is not recommended for people with narrow-angle glaucoma. In rare cases, atomoxetine may cause severe liver injury. Strattera should be discontinued in patients with jaundice or evidence of liver dysfunction.
Atomoxetine can increase blood pressure and heart rate. People with high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, or cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease should use it with caution. People with liver disease may require a lower dosage of Strattera. People taking Strattera may feel dizzy or faint when rising quickly from a sitting or lying position.
Children taking atomoxetine grow more slowly and gain less weight than other children their age for the first 9-12 months they are taking the medicine. After that, they start growing more quickly and generally catch up with their peers after 3 years. People with bipolar disorder who take Strattera may be at risk for experiencing a manic reaction and should be carefully monitored. Strattera may cause an increase in aggression or hostility, which should be reported to a doctor immediately.

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Strattera Possible Side Effects

-Children
In clinical studies, drug side effects were similar to those reported by people taking an inactive placebo (sugar pill).
♦    Most common: headache, upper abdominal pain, vomiting, and coughing.
♦    Common: dizziness, tiredness, and irritability.
♦    Less common: constipation, upset stomach, runny nose, appetite loss, weight loss, crying, mood swings, and skin rash.
-Adults
♦    Most common: dry mouth, headache, nausea, and sleeplessness.
♦    Common: urinary hesitation or difficulty urinating, constipation, upset stomach, tiredness or fatigue, sinus infection, appetite loss, dizziness, sleeping problems, painful menstruation, erectile dysfunction, and reduced sex drive or other sexual concerns.
♦    Less common: heart palpitation, abdominal gas, fever and chills, weight loss, abnormal dreams, sinus headache, tingling in the hands or feet, muscle ache, delayed of menstruation, irregular or other menstrual issues, prostate irritation, skin rash, increased sweating, and hot flushes.
♦    Rare: chest pain and heart palpitations. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.

There is no difference between generic Strattera and brand Strattera in everything that concerns the chemical formula, quality, approval and certifications. Generics are cheaper because their produced by various companies after the company which had launched the drug lost the right to be a monopolist in the producton of it. Competition on the market causes natural price drop and generic drugs online get very good affordable price. You can buy Strattera online without a prescription approx. 5 times cheaper than at any US offline pharmacy. All the standard dosages of Strattera are available to order: generic Strattera 10 mg, 25 mg and 40 mg.

Strattera Interactions with Other Drugs:

• Strattera Atomoxetine should not be used 2 weeks before or after taking an MAGI antidepressant (see “Cautions and Warnings”).
• Generc Strattera Atomoxetine increases the effects of albuterol, causing high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat.
• Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine substantially increase the amount of atomoxetine in the blood. Atomoxetine dosages adjustments may be necessary.
• Atomoxetine raises blood pressure and should be given with caution to people who are already taking medicines that raise blood pressure. It may counter the effects of some drugs used to treat high blood pressure.

Food Interactions

Atomoxetine may be taken without regard to food or meals.

Usual Dose

Adult and Child (155 lbs. and over): 40-80 mg a day in a single or divided dose. Maximum dose is Strattera 100 mg a day. Divided doses should be taken in the morning and late afternoon or early evening. Strattera 40mg as well Strattera 10mg and 25 mg are available to buy n internet pharmacy without a prescrption.
Child (age 6 and over and less than 155 lbs.): starting dose-0.23 mg per lb. of body weight. Dose can be gradually increased up to 0.55 mg per lb. as a single dose in the morning or 2 doses of Strattera, one in the morning and the second in the late afternoon or early evening. The maximum daily dose is 100 mg.
People with moderate liver disease should take half of the regular dose and those with severe liver disease should take one-quarter of the regular dose.

Overdosage

Little is known about the effects of atomoxetine overdose. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
If you forget a dose of atomoxetine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.Use caution while driving or operating machinery when you start taking atomoxetine until you can determine how it will affect your abilities.

Special Populations

Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: while taking Strattera: Animal studies show that atomoxetine may affect a developing fetus. When Srattera is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks. Strattera Atomoxetine may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Atomoxetine has not been studied in older adults.

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May

18

Proscar (Finasteride)

May 18, 2011 | Leave a Comment

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Aug

13

Fenofibrate - Finasteride - Fioricet - Fiorinal - Fiorinal with Codeine

August 13, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Generic Name
Fenofibrate (fen-oe-Flli-brace) IM
Brand Names
Antara    TriCor
Lipoten    Triglide Lofibra
Type of Drug
Anti-hyperlipidemic (blood-fat reducer).
Prescribed For
High blood cholesterol and/or triglycerides; also prescribed for syndrome X, a condition which increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
General Information
Fenofibrate works by interfering with the body’s ability to make triglyceride and by increasing its breakdown by enzymes in the body. It also reduces levels of uric acid, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—the “bad” cholesterol—and other blood lipids. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol—the “good” cholesterol—levels are increased. This drug should only be used in people with very high triglyceride levels who are at risk for pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and have not responded to other treatments, including statin drugs. Generic fenofibrate is not equivalent to the TriCor brand because of a new product formulation and should not be substituted for the brand unless your doctor approves of the switch.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take fenofibrate if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
People taking fenofibrate and other triglyceride-lowering drugs are mate WOV to die from causes unrelated to triglyceride levels. Fenofibrate reduces the risk of a heart attack or other cardiac event in people with high triglyceride levels and low levels of HDL cholesterol, especially among people with diabetes. The evidence for this benefit is not as strong as it is for the statin drugs.
People taking fenofibrate and gemfibrozil may develop pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
People with liver or severe kidney disease should avoid fenofibrate. People with less severe kidney disease require reduced
dosage.
People taking fenofibrate are more likely to develop gallstones.
Fenofibrate can destroy muscle cells, leading to kidney failure, especially when combined with a statin cholesterol-lowering drug see “Drug Interactions”).
Possible Side Effects
•    Most common: abnormal liver function, abdominal pain, and respiratory disorders.
♦    Common: rash, headache, upset stomach, pain, weakness, tiredness, and flu-like symptoms.
♦    Less common: joint pain, abnormal heart rhythms, reduced sex drive, dizziness, increased appetite, sleeplessness, tingling in the hands or feet, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, stomach noise or gas, frequent urination, vaginal irritation, runny nose, cough, sinus irritation, eye irritation, blurred vision, conjunctivitis (pinkeye). earache, and tiny particles inside the eye (”floaters”).
♦    Rare: allergic reactions including severe rash, itching, liver inflammation or enlargement, gallstones, gallbladder disease, muscle aches, and increased sensitivity to the sun. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•    Combining fenofibrate and a statin cholesterol-lowering drug (atorvastatin, cerivastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, or simvastatin) can lead to severe muscle pain, muscle cell destruction, and kidney failure. If you have extremely high blood-fat levels, the potential benefits of this combination may outweigh the risks. In people taking this combination, the health of muscles and kidneys must be monitored regularly via blood tests.
•    Fenofibrate increases the effects of anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs. Your anticoagulant dosage may need an adjustment.
•    Combining fenofibrate and cyclosporine can increase the risk of kidney toxicity. This combination should only be used if it is absolutely necessary and the lowest possible dosage is
taken.
• If you are taking cholestyramine or colestipol (both are used
to reduce blood-fat levels) as well as fenofibrate, take the
fenofibrate at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after these
drugs.
Food Interactions
All forms of fenofibrate, except TriCor, should be taken with food to get the best effect. TriCor may be taken without regard to food or meals.
Usual Dose
These products may not be substituted for each other because of important dosage differences.
Antara
Adult: 43-130 mg a day with food.
Senior: Begin with 43 mg a day. This dosage also applies to people with kidney disease.
Child: not recommended.
Lofibra
Adult: 67-200 mg a day with food.
Senior: Begin with 67 mg a day. This beginning dosage also applies to people with kidney disease.
Child: not recommended.
Lipofen
Adult: 50-150 mg a day with food.
Senior: Begin with 50 mg a day. This dosage also applies to people with kidney disease.
Child: not recommended.
TriCor
Adult: 48-145 mg a day.
Senior: Begin with 48 mg a day. This dosage also applies to
people with kidney disease. Child; mk recommended.
Triglide
Adult: 50-160 mg a day.
Senior: Begin with 50 mg a day. This dosage also applies to
people with kidney disease. Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of fenofibrate overdose. Victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
People should take fenofibrate only after a triglyceride- lowering diet and other medications have failed. While taking fenofibrate, follow the diet recommended by your doctor.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and continue with your regular schedule.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Fenofibrate causes fetal injury and death in animal studies. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
This drug should not be taken by nursing mothers because of its potential to affect the nursing infant.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to experience side effects and should never start with more than the lowest recommended dosage.

Generic Name
Finasteride (fin-ASS-ter-ide) 19
Brand Names
Proscar    Propecia
The information in this profile also applies to the following drug:
Generic Ingredient: Dutasteride Avodart
Type of Drug
Alpha-reductase inhibitor and androgen hormone inhibitor.
Prescribed for
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and male-pattern baldness. May also play a role in preventing prostrate cancer.
General Information
Finasteride works by interfering with the action of the enzyme alphareductase, which converts testosterone into 5-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). By suppressing DHT levels, finasteride reduces the size of the prostate in most men who take the drug for BPH. You may need to take finasteride for 6-12 months before its effects can be
assessed.
Urine flow improves in about 60% of men taking finasteride for BPH and symptoms improve in about 30%. In one study, men experienced a significant regression in prostate size after 3 months, and the reduction was maintained through the 12-month study period: these men experienced a significant improvement in urine flow that could be maintained up to 36 months.
Studies of finasteride for hair loss on the top and back-middle of the scalp show new hair growth in 65-80% of men taking the drug continuously for 2 years. The drug must be taken for 3 months or more before it begins to have an effect and must be taken continuously to maintain hair growth. Once you stop taking this drug, any new hair you have grown is likely to fall out in the next 12 months. Between 14-17% of men taking the drug continued to lose hair throughout the study period.
Finasteride has been studied as therapy following radical prostatectomy surgery and in the prevention of first-stage prostate cancer, acne in women, and unusual hairiness.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take finasteride if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
This drug should not be used in women or children. Pregnant women must not handle the tablets and capsules because of the risk to the fetus.
People who do not respond to finasteride may have a condition that causes BPH-like symptoms, such as prostate cancer, bladder or nerve disorders, or physical obstruction of the urinary tubes. Finasteride cannot be used to treat these conditions.
Because it is broken down in the liver, finasteride must be used with caution by people with liver disease.
Finasteride may mask symptoms of prostate cancer by causing a reduction in the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), an increasingly acknowledged indicator of prostate cancer.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects are generally mild and often subside with continued use of the drug.
Drug Interactions
•    Finasteride may reduce the effectiveness of theophylline and aminophylline, although dosage adjustments usually are not required.
•    Finasteride affects the PSA blood test used for prostate cancer screening. Be sure your doctor knows you are taking this drug if you have a PSA test done or are being tested for prostate cancer.
•    Dustasteride blood levels may increase when mixed with ritonavir, ketoconazole, cimetidine, and ciprofloxacin, all of which are inhibitors of a liver enzyme called CYP3A4. Blood levels of dutasteride also increase with verapamil and diltiazem.
Food Interactions
You may take finasteride with food if it upsets your stomach.
Usual Dose
Outasteride
Adult: 0.5 mg (1 capsule) once a day. Child: not recommended.
Finasteride
Adult: BPH-5 mg once a day. Male-pattern baldness-1 mg once a day.
Child: not recommended.
Women should not take finasteride. Overdosage
S%’& Ptecls are unlikely. Doses of dutasteride as high as 400 mg a day have been taken with no adverse side effects. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Possible Side Effects (continued)
v Common: impotence, loss of sex semen, breast tenderness an
•    and drug sensitivity reaction
•    rash.
x drive, decreased amount nd enlargement, testicular ions including lip swelling Special Information
Women who are or might be pregnant should not handle crushed finasteride tablets because small amounts of the drug may be absorbed into the blood, possibly affecting the fetus.
If your sexual partner is or might be pregnant and you start taking finasteride, you must wear a condom during sex to avoid directly exposing her to finasteride in the semen.
Semen volume may decrease while on finasteride. Impotence or reduced sex drive is also a risk.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Call your doctor if you miss a dose for 2 or more days.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: This drug is not intended for women. Finasteride will harm the fetus if taken during pregnancy. It is not known if finasteride passes into breast milk.
Seniors: Seniors with liver disease should use this drug with caution.

Brand Name
Fioricet
Generic Ingredients
Acetaminophen + Butalbital + Caffeine 91
Other Brand Names
Americet    Femcet
Dolgic LQ    Margesic
Dolgic Plus    Medigesic
Esgic    Repan
Esgic-Plus    Triad
Type 101 Drug
Barbiturate and analgesic (pain reliever) combination.
Prescribed For
Symptom relief of tension headache.
General Information
Fioricet is one of many combination products containing a barbiturate—butalbital—and an analgesic—acetaminophen. Products of this kind also often contain a sedative or a narcotic. Other analgesic combinations, such as Rorinal, substitute aspirin for
acetaminophen.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take Fioricet if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Use this drug with caution if you have kidney or liver disease or a history of porphyria.
Chronic (long-term) use of Fioricet may lead to drug dependence or addiction. It is not recommended for multiple or recurrent headaches.
Butalbital is a respiratory depressant and affects the central nervous system (CNS), producing drowsiness, tiredness, and an inability to concentrate. Alcohol increases the CNS depression caused by this drug.
The safety and effectiveness of these medications have not been established in children under age 12.
For additional information see “Cautions and Warnings” in Acetaminophen (page 7).
Possible Side Effects
♦ Most common: lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach and a feeling of intoxication.
V Less common: weakness, headache, agitation, tremor, uncoordinated muscle movement, disorientation, dry mouth, constipation, facial flushing, changes in heart rate, palpitations, feeling faint, urinary difficulties, rash, and itching.
For additional information see “Possible Side Effects” in Acet-
aminophen (page 7).
Drug Interactions
• Combining Fioricet with alcohol, sedatives, barbiturates, sleeping pills, antihistamines, monoamine oxidase inhibitor antidepressants, or other CNS depressants may cause tiredness, drowsiness, and trouble concentrating.
These medications may reduce the effectiveness of corticosteroids, contraceptives containing estrogen, beta blockers (e.g. propranolol), doxycycline, felodipine, griseofulvin, nifedipine, phenylbutazone, quinine, theophylline, warfarin, and tricyclic antidepressants.
For additional information see “Drug Interactions” in Acetaminophen (page 7).
Food Interactions
Fioricet is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
Usual Dose
1-2 tablets or capsules every 4 hours or as needed; do not exceed 6 doses a day.
Overdosage
Symptoms include breathing difficulties, nervousness progressing to stupor or coma, pinpointed pupils, cold and clammy skin and lowered heart rate or blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, facial flushing, sweating, and thirst. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Fioricet may cause drowsiness. Be careful when driving or performing any task that requires concentration.
You should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Do not take Fioricet for longer or in amounts greater than prescribed.
If you have been taking this medication for more than a few weeks, do not stop taking it without your doctor’s instruction. Suddenly stopping Fioricet may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Call your doctor if your headache or pain persists or gets worse, or if you develop side effects that are bothersome or persistent.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one    and continue
W<tkh IV61    schedule. Do not take a double dose.
For additional information see “Special Information” in Acetaminophen (page 7).
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Fioricet should not be taken during pregnancy. It is associated with birth defects, prolonged labor and delayed delivery, and breathing problems in newborns. Regular use of Fioricet during the last 3 months of pregnancy may also cause drug dependency in the newborn.
Fioricet passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using Fioricet may cause babies to become tired, short of breath, or have a slow heartbeat. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Fioricet may have a greater depressant effect on seniors. Seniors are also more likely to experience stimulation and disorientation.

Brand Name
Fiorinal
Generic Ingredients
Aspirin + Butalbital + Caffeine &9
Other Brand Names
Butalgen    Fiorimor
Farbital    Fortabs
Fiorigen    Lanorinal
Type of Drug
Barbiturate and analgesic (pain reliever) combination. Prescribed For
Symptom relief of tension headache.
General Information
Pain relief products often combine an analgesic with a sedative. The analgesic ingredient in Fiorinal is aspirin; other brand-name products, such as Esgic and Fioricet, contain acetaminophen. The sedative ingredient in pain-relief combinations may be a barbiturate, narcotic, or other sedative. Fiorinal contains the barbiturate butalbital. Fiorinal also contains caffeine, which is ofte” \Ased in analgesic combinations that km,-M beadache because it enhances kkNt %m-relieving effect of aspirin.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take Fiorinal if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Do not give Fiorinal to children or teenagers with chickenpox or flu-like symptoms due to the aspirin content and danger of
Reye’s syndrome.
Use Fiorinal with extreme caution if you suffer from peptic ulcer,
problems with blood clotting or other bleeding disorders, or are
about to have surgery.
This drug should be used with caution if you have kidney or
liver disease, diabetes, or a history of porphyria.
Long-term use of this drug may cause drug dependence and addiction. It is not recommended for the treatment of multiple recurrent headaches.
Butalbital is a respiratory depressant and affects the central nervous system (CNS), producing drowsiness, tiredness, and an
inability to concentrate. Alcohol increases the CNS depression caused by butalbital.
The safety and efficacy of Fiorinal use in children under age 12 has not been established.
For additional information see “Cautions and Warnings” in Aspirin (page 110).
Possible Side Effects
✓    Most common: lightheadedness, dizziness, and sedation.
♦    Less common: nausea, vomiting, flatulence, and rash. For additional information see “Possible Side Effects” in Aspirin (page 110).
Drug Interactions
•    Combining Fiorinal with alcohol, sedatives, barbiturates, sleeping pills, antihistamines, monoamine oxidase inhibitor antidepressants, or other CNS depressants may cause tiredness, drowsiness, and trouble concentrating.
•    Fiorinal may enhance the effects of oral anticoagulants (blood thinners), oral antidiabetes drugs, insulin, and mmsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ~VASAYDs).
•    F10final may decrease the effectiveness of medications taken for gout, including probenicid and sulfinpyrazone.
For additional information see “Drug Interactions” in Aspirin (page 110).
Food Interactions
Fiorinal is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with
food if it upsets your stomach.
usual Dose
1-2 tablets or capsules every 4 hours or as needed. Do not exceed
6 doses a day. Overdosage
Symptoms include breathing difficulties, nervousness progressing to stupor or coma, pinpointed pupils, cold and clammy skin, lowered heart rate or blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, ringing in the ears, flushing, sweating, and thirst. Symptoms of mild overdose are rapid and deep breathing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing or buzzing in the ears, flushing, sweating, thirst, headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, and rapid heartbeat. Severe overdose may cause fever, excitement, confusion, convulsions, liver or kidney failure, coma, and bleeding. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Fiorinal may cause drowsiness. Be careful when driving or performing any task that requires concentration.
Avoid alcohol while taking Fiorinal.
If you have been taking this medication for more than a few weeks, do not stop taking it without your doctor’s instruction. Suddenly stopping this drug may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Do not take Fiorinal for longer or in amounts greater than prescribed.
Call your doctor if your headache pain persists or gets worse, or if you develop any bothersome or persistent side effect.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
For additional information see “Special Information” in Aspirin (page 110).
Special Populations
PregriancylBreast-feeding. Fiorinal should not be taken during pregnancy. Pregnant women taking it may experience prolonged labor, delayed delivery, and bleeding problems. Fiorinal increases the risk of birth defects and may cause breathing or bleeding prob-lems in newborns. Regular use of Fiorinal during the last 3 months of pregnancy may also cause drug dependency in the newborn.
Fiorinal passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using Fiorinal may cause tiredness, shortness of breath, or slowed heartbeat in the baby. Nursing mothers who must take Fiorinal should use infant formula.
Seniors: Fiorinal may have a greater depressant effect on seniors. Seniors are also more likely to experience stimulation and disorientation.

Brand Name
Fiorinal with Codeine
Generic Ingredients
Aspirin + Butalbital + Caffeine + Codeine Phosphate 19
Type of Drug
Barbiturate, narcotic, and analgesic (pain reliever) combination.
Prescribed For
Symptom relief of tension headache.
General Information
Fiorinal with Codeine is one of many combination products containing a barbiturate, an analgesic, and a narcotic. In Fiorinal with Codeine, butalbital is the barbiturate, aspirin is the analgesic, and codeine is the narcotic. These products often also contain a sedative, and acetaminophen may be substituted for aspirin.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take Fiorinal with Codeine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients. Even recommended doses of aspirin can cause severe allergic reaction in those with an aspirin allergy.
Do not take this medication if you suffer from peptic ulcer, bleeding disorders, or a history of porphyria.
Use this medication with cautiOi) 11 you have kidney or liver
disease of diabetes.
Fiorinal with Codeine may cause postural low blood pressure (symptoms include dizziness or fainting when rising from a sitting or lying position).
Long-term use of this drug may cause drug dependence or addiction.
It is not recommended for treatment of multiple, recurrent head-
aches.
Fiorinal with Codeine is a respiratory depressant and affects the
central nervous system (CNS), producing sleepiness, tiredness, or inability to concentrate. Alcohol increases the depression caused
by codeine and butalbital.
Do not give Fiorinal with Codeine to children or teenagers with
chickenpox or flu-like symptoms. The aspirin content presents the
danger of Reye’s syndrome.
For additional information see “Cautions and Warnings” in As-
pirin (page 110).
Possible Side Effects
✓    Most common: dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, and vomiting.
♦    Less common: dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, rapid heart rate, leg pain and muscle fatigue, urinary problems, rash, fever, earache, stuffy nose, and ringing in the ears. Narcotic analgesics may aggravate convulsions in those who have had them.
For additional information see “Possible Side Effects” in Aspirin (page 110).
Drug Interactions
•    Interaction with alcohol, sedatives, barbiturates, sleeping pills, antihistamines, or other drugs that produce sedation may cause tiredness, drowsiness, and trouble concentrating.
•    Taking Fiorinal with Codeine with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor antidepressant may cause increased central nervous system effects.
•    This medication may reduce the effectiveness of medications for the treatment of gout including probenicid and sulfapyrazone.
•    Fiorinal with Codeine may enhance the effects of blood thin- ners, oral antidiabetes drugs, insulin, and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
For additional information see “Drug Interactions” in Aspirin (page 110).
Food Interactions
Fiorinal with Codeine is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
Usual Dose
1-2 tablets or capsules every 4 hours or as needed; do not ex-
ceed 6 doses a day.
Overdosage
Usual overdose symptoms include breathing difficulties, nervousness progressing to stupor or coma, pinpointed pupils, cold clammy skin and lowered heart rate or blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, flushing, sweating, and thirst. Symptoms of mild overdose include rapid and deep breathing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing or buzzing in the ears, flushing, sweating, thirst, headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, and rapid heartbeat. Severe overdose may cause fever, excitement, confusion, convulsions, liver or kidney failure, coma, or bleeding. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
This drug may cause drowsiness. Be careful when driving or performing any task that requires concentration.
Avoid alcohol while taking this drug.
If you have been taking this medication for more than a few weeks, do not stop taking it without your doctor’s instruction. Suddenly stopping this drug may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Do not take this drug for longer or in amounts greater than prescribed.
Call your doctor if you experience breathing difficulties, or persistent nausea, vomiting, or constipation.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
For additional information see “Special Information” in Aspirin (page 110).
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-teeding-. Fiorinal with Codeine should not be used during pregnancy. Pregnant women taking it may experience prolonged labor, delayed delivery, and bleeding problems. This drug increases the risk of birth defects and may cause breathing or bleeding problems in newborns. Regular use of Fiorinal with Codeine during the last 3 months of pregnancy may also cause drug dependency in the newborn.
Fiorinal with Codeine passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this drug may cause tiredness, shortness of breath, or a slow heartbeat in the baby. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: This drug may have a greater depressant effect on seniors. Other effects that may be more prominent are stimulation, disorientation, lightheadedness, and dizziness or fainting when rising suddenly from a sitting or lying position.

Tags: addition, aminophylline, antihistamine, aspirin, bad cholesterol, Barbiturate, blood lipids, Brand Name, brand names, breakdown, breast feeding, Butalbital, cardiac event, cholesterol lowering drug, depressant, effectiveness, enzymes in the body, Esgic, fenofibrate, GENERIC, good cholesterol levels, high blood cholesterol, high density lipoprotein, high triglyceride levels, inflammation of the pancreas, information, Interactions, kidney disease, kidney failure, lofibra, low density lipoprotein, muscle cells, Prescribed, product formulation, statin drugs, stomach, tension, triglide, upset stomach

Aug

13

Ezetimibe - Famciclovir - Famotidine - Felbamate - Felodipine

August 13, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Ezetimibe (eh-HIHI-firri-ibe)
Brand Name Zetia
Combination Product
Generic Ingredients: Ezetimibe + Simvastatin Vytorin
Type of Drug
Cholesterol - lowering agent.
Prescribed For
High cholesterol, high LDL (”bad”) cholesterol, high triglycerides, and low HDL (”good”) cholesterol; also prescribed for two rare genetic disorders called homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and homozygous sitosterolemia.
General Information
Unlike statin drugs, ezetimibe interferes with the absorption of cholesterol through the intestine and into the bloodstream. Ezetimibe may be helpful for people whose LDL (”bad”) cholesterol remains high despite treatment with a statin drug. Cholesterol-lowering medicines should always be used together with appropriate diet and exercise.
Ezetimibe may be taken alone but is often taken in combination with a statin drug (generally simvastatin). Vytorin is a brand-name combination of these 2 medications. See Stalin Cholesterol-Lowering Agents, page 1052.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take this drug if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
People with liver disease or elevated liver enzyme measurements should not take ezetimibe because its effects on the liver are not known.
Ezetimibe does not slow hardening of the arteries.
There may be a risk of myopathy (skeletal muscle disorder) with ezetimibe; contact your doctor if you experience any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. Ezetimibe + simvastatin has the same effect as simvastatin alone; see Statin Cholesterol-Lowering Agents, page 1052.
Possible Side Effects
Ezetimibe side effects are similar to those reported by people taking a placebo (sugar pill).
V Most common: headache, back pain, joint pain, and abdominal pain.
C,Ibmrnon: muscle ache and respiratory infection.
V Less common: fatigue, chest pain, diarrhea, sore throat, and cough.
For additional information about ezetimibe + simvastatin, see Statin Cholesterol- Lowering Agents, page 1052.
Drug Interactions
•   Cholestyramine reduces the amount of ezetimibe absorbed
in the blood. Separate these drugs by 2 hours or more.
•   Cyclosporine (to prevent organ transplant rejection) may substantially increase the amount of ezetimibe in the blood. This combination must be monitored closely by your doctor.
•   Gemfibrozil (another blood-fat reducer) can increase the amount of ezetimibe in the blood.
•   Fenofibrate may increase the effects of ezetimibe. Fibrates
other than fenofibrate should not be used with ezetimibe due to
the risk of gallbladder complications. For additional informa-
tion about ezetimibe + simvastatin, see Statin Cholesterol-
Lowering Agents, page 1052.
Food Interactions
This drug can be taken without regard to food or meals.
Usual Dose
Ezetimibe
Adult and Child (age 10 and over): 10 mg once a day. Child (age 9 and under): not recommended.
Ezetimibe + Simvastatin
Adult: 10 mg ezetimibe plus 10-80 mg simvastatin once a day in the evening. The simavastatin dose depends on individual need.
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of ezetimibe overdose. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
If you are taking more than one drug to lower cholesterol or another blood fat, consider the side effects of all of those drugs combined.
,S’D'L’6a) Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Little is known about the effects of ezetimibe during pregnancy. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks. Statin drugs should never be taken by a pregnant woman or nursing mother.
It is not known if ezetimibe passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take it should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may use this drug without special precaution.

Generic Name
Famciclovir (fam-SYE-kloe-vere)
Brand Name Famvir
Type of Drug Antiviral.
Prescribed For
Herpes zoster (shingles), genital herpes, herpes labilalis (cold sores), and herpes simplex in HIV-infected people.
General Information
Famciclovir is absorbed into the body and converted to the antiviral penciclovir, the drug that actually works against shingles by interfering with the reproduction of DNA in the herpes virus. Famciclovir does not affect DNA in uninfected body cells. Famciclovir is broken down by the liver and eliminated from the body through the kidneys.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take famiciclovir if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Those with reduced kidney function should have their dosage adjusted accordingly.
Severe liver disease reduces the maximum possible concentration of Famciclovir in the blood and increases the time it takes to reach this maximum level; however, dosage adjustment is not normally required.
Possible Side Effer.%
♦   Most common: headache, nausea, and diarrhea.
♦   Less common: fever, fatigue, pain, vomiting, constipation, appetite loss, dizziness, tingling in the hands or feet, sleepiness, sore throat, sinus irritation, itching, gas, dysmemorrhea, and signs of shingles.
Possible Side Effects (continued)
Rare: chills, abdominal pain, back or joint pain, and upset stomach. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•   Probenecid, cimetidine, and theophylline interfere with the elimination of famciclovir from the body, possibly leading to higher levels of famciclovir in the blood.
•   People who took famciclovir and digoxin together experienced increased digoxin In their blood.
Food Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Shingles
Adult (age 18 and over): 500 mg every 8 hours for 1 week. People with reduced kidney function may require a reduced dose taken as infrequently as once a day.
Genital Herpes
Adult (age 18 and over): 1000 mg twice daily for 1 day; or 250 mg twice a day for up to 1 year for suppression; or 250 mg 3 times a day for 7 days for initial episode. People with reduced kidney function take the same dose but less often, as infrequently as once every 2 days. HIV-infected people should take 500 mg twice a day for 7 days.
Cold Sores
Adult (age 18 and over): 1500 mg as a single dose. Initiate therapy at the earliest sign or symptom of a cold sore (tingling, itching, or burning).
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of famciclovir ovecdose. Overdose victims should be %Mn to a hospital emergency room for treatment. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Famciclovir treatment should be started as soon as shingles is diagnosed. For maximum benefit, be sure to complete the full week of treatment.
Famciclovir is not a cure for genital herpes and it is not known if it will prevent the transmission of the herpes virus to another person. Avoid sexual intercourse when herpes lesions are present even while taking famciclovir for genital herpes.
Begin taking famciclovir at the first sign of a herpes attack (symptoms include pain, tenderness, burning, itching, tingling, ulcers, or scabs). The effectiveness of starting famciclovir 6 hours or more after symptoms or lesions appear has not been established.
Call your doctor if you experience any unusual or intolerable side effects.
If you forget a dose of famciclovir, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot. Do not take a double dose. Call your doctor if you forget more than 2 doses in a row.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Famciclovir should only be taken by a pregnant woman if it is absolutely necessary and the possible benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus.
In animal studies, penciclovir (the active form of famciclovir) passed into breast milk in high concentrations but it is not known if this holds true for humans. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors clear famciclovir from the bloodstream more slowly than younger people and should have their dosage adjusted according to their level of kidney function.

Generic Name
Famotidine (fam-OE-tih-dine) 91
Brand Names
Fluxid   Pepcid AC
Pepcid   Pepcid Complete
Type of Drug Histamine H2 antagonist.
Prescribed For
Ulcers of the stomach and duodenum (upper intestine). This drug is also used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD),
stress ulcer, and other conditions characterized by the production of large amounts of gastric fluids; to prevent stress ulcer and stomach and upper intestinal bleeding; and to stop the production of stomach acid during surgery. Pepcid AC is approved for heartburn.
General Information
Histamine H2 antagonists work by turning off the system that produces stomach acid and other secretions. Famotidine is effective in treating the symptoms of ulcer and preventing complications of the disease, although an ulcer that does not respond to another histamine H2 antagonist will probably not respond to famotidine. Histamine H2 antagonists differ only in their potency. Cimetidine is the least potent; 1000 mg are roughly equal to 300 mg of either nizatidine or ranitidine, or 40 mg of famotidine. All these drugs have roughly equivalent success rates in treating ulcer disease and comparable risk of side effects.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take famotidine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or to any histamine H2 antagonist.
People with kidney or liver disease should take famotidine with caution because 1/3 of each dose is broken down in the liver and the rest passes out of the body through the kidneys.
Do not self-treat with over-the-counter (OTC) forms of famotidine without the advice and supervision of your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
✓   Most common: headache.
✓   Less common: dizziness, mild diarrhea, and constipation.
✓   Rare: Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•   T-_Meat-coated tablets should not be taken with famotidine. The change in stomach acidity that famotidine produces causes the tablets to disintegrate prematurely in the stomach.
•   Antacids, anticholinergics, and metoclopramide may slightly reduce the amount of famotidine absorbed into the blood. No special precaution is needed.
Food Interactions
Famotidine may be taken without regard to food or meals.
Usual Dose
Adult 20-40 mg at bedtime, or 20 mg twice a day for 4-8 weeks. Dosage should be reduced in people with severe kidney disease.
Child (age 1-16): 0.23-0.45 mg per lb. of body weight, at bedtime or in 2 divided doses, up to 40 mg a day.
Child (under age 1): Consult your doctor.
Over-the-counter forms of famotidine such as Pepcid AC or Pepcid Complete should only be used for the temporary relief of heartburn, and are not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Do not take more than 2 capsules or chewable tablets in 24 hours.
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of famotidine overdose, but victims may experience exaggerated side effects. Your local poison control center may advise giving ipecac syrup—available at any pharmacy—to induce vomiting and remove any remaining drug from the stomach. Victims who have definite symptoms should be taken to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Take famotidine exactly as directed and follow your doctor’s instructions regarding diet and other treatment in order to get the maximum benefit from the drug. Antacids may be taken together with famotidine if needed.
Do not take the maximum dose continuously for more than 2 weeks without the consent and supervision of your doctor.
Cigarettes worsen stomach ulcers and may reduce famotidine’s effectiveness.
Call your doctor at once if you develop any unusual side eiiecls such as bleeding or bruising,’ iWness, diarrhea, dizziness, or rash. &’A&, tarry stools or vomiting material that resembles coffee grounds may indicate your ulcer is bleeding.
If you forget a dose of famotidine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations   revealed no Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Although animal studies
damage to the fetus, famotidine should be avoided by women who are or might be pregnant. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its possible benefits must be carefully weighed against
its risks.
Famotidine may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who
must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may need lower doses due to loss of kidney function and may be more susceptible to side effects.

Generic Name
Felbamate (FEL-bam-ate)
Brand Name Felbatol
Type of Drug Anticonvulsant.
Prescribed For
Partial seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in children.
General Information
Felbamate is related to the older sedative meprobamate. Exactly how felbamate works is not known, but it raises the seizure threshold and prevents the seizure impulse from spreading in the brain, as do other anticonvulsants. Felbamate should only be used when other seizure drugs have failed because of the risks associated with it. About half of each dose passes out of the body through the kidneys; the other half is broken down and eliminated by the liver.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take felbamate if you am allergic or sensitive to any of its ‘Irigredlents or to any related drugs such as meprobamate.
Felbamate is associated with an increase in the risk of aplastic anemia, a potentially fatal condition.
Possibly fatal liver failure occurs in people taking felbamate much more often than normal. Regular liver function tests are recommended. People with liver disease should not take felbamate.
Felbamate is not recommended as first-line epilepsy treatment. Felbamate should be used only by those with severe epilepsy for whom the benefits outweigh the risks. Doctors prescribing felbamate should be thoroughly familiar with the drug and must obtain written, informed consent from patients before prescribing.
Felbamate should never be suddenly stopped or seizures may become more frequent. Dosage should be gradually reduced or replaced by another anticonvulsant.
Felbamate may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen while taking this drug. People with kidney disease may require lower doses.
Possible Side Effects
Adult
♦   Most common: sleeplessness, sleepiness, fatigue, headache, dizziness, nervousness, upset stomach, vomiting, constipation, nausea, and appetite loss.
V Common: anxiety, tremors, walking unusually, depression, tingling in the hands or feet, diarrhea, liver inflammation, abdominal pains, respiratory infections, abnormal vision, and taste changes.
✓   Less common: weakness, dry mouth, stupor, abnormal thinking, rash, sinus irritation, sore throat, muscle aches, fever, and chest pain.
♦   Rare: Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Child
✓   Most common: abdominal pain, fever, respiratory infections, sleeplessness, sleepiness, nervousness, vomiting, constipation, and black-and-blue marks.
✓   Common: headache, appetite loss, hiccups, sore throat, coughing, middle ear infections, fatigue, weight loss, temporary loss of urine control, qak”,,NbNW)ng unusually, weak-))855, abnormal thinking, emotional instability, pinpoint pupils, rash, upset stomach, and low white-blood-cell count.
✓   Rare: Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if your child experiences any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•   Combining felbamate and other antiseizure drugs usually requires dosage adjustments due to the risk of drug interaction. Dosage of felbamate should be reduced by 20-33% to reduce the risks of associated side effects.
•   Combining felbamate and carbamazepine reduces blood levels of both drugs by roughly half. Dosage adjustments are necessary.
•   Combining phenobarbital and felbamate increases the amount of phenobarbital in the blood and decreases felbamate levels. Dosage adjustments are necessary.
•   If you combine felbamate and phenytoin, your phenytoin dosage may have to be reduced by as much as 40%. This combination also decreases felbamate blood levels by almost 50%.
•   Felbamate increases blood levels of valproic acid and methsuximide.
Food Interactions
Felbamate is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with food if it causes upset stomach.
Usual Dose
Adult and Child (age 14 and over): 1200-3600 mg a day, divided into 3-4 doses.
Child (age 2-13): 6.8-20.5 mg per lb. a day, divided into 3-4 doses.
Overdosage
Overdose symptoms may include upset stomach, increased heart rate, and felbamate side effects. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Do not take more felbamate than your doctor has prescribed. Felbamate can cause drowsiness; be careful when, driving perfQ(ft g
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun while taking felbamate. Call your doctor if you develop any bothersome or persistent side effect.
Maintain good dental hygiene while taking felbamate and use extra care when brushing or flossing because this drug can cause swollen gums. See your dentist regularly.
km ,s %2& nq6re concentration.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take 1 dose right away and another in 3 or 4 hours, then go back to your regular schedule. Do not take
a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: This drug may cross into fetal circulation. When the drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
Felbamate passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should consider using infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors, especially those with liver, kidney, or heart disease, may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and should receive lower doses.

Generic Name
Felodipine (feh-LOE-dih-pene) 91
Brand Name Plendil
Combination Product
Generic Ingredients: Enalapril + Felodipine Lexxel
Type of Drug
Calcium channel blocker.
Prescribed For High blood pressure.
General Information
Felodipine is one of many calcium channel blockers available in the U.S. Its once-daily dosage schedule makes it particularly stilted to treating high blood Felodipine blocks the passage of calcium, an essential factor in muscle contraction, into the heart and smooth muscles. Such blockage interferes with the contraction of these muscles, which in turn dilates (widens) the veins and vessels that supply blood to them. This dilating effect reduces blood pressure, the amount of oxygen used by the heart muscle, and the risk of blood vessel spasm. Felodipine is therefore useful in
treating not only high blood pressure but also angina pectoris (brief attacks of chest pain), a condition related to poor oxygen supply
to the heart muscles.
Felodipine only affects the movement of calcium into muscle cells-, it has no effect on calcium in the blood.
Lexxel is a combination of felodipine and enalapril, an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take felodipine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
On rare occasions, felodipine may cause very low blood pressure that may lead to stimulation of the heart and rapid heartbeat and can worsen angina. This reaction may happen when treatment is first started, when dosage is increased, or if the drug is rapidly withdrawn; it may be avoided by reducing dosage gradually.
Studies have shown that people taking calcium channel blockers—usually those taken several times a day, not those taken only once daily—have a greater chance of having a heart attack than do people taking beta blockers or other medications for the same purpose. Discuss this with your doctor to be sure you are receiving the best possible treatment.
Patients taking a beta-blocking drug who begin taking felodipine may develop heart failure or increased angina.
People with severe liver disease may require dosage adjustments.
People taking felodipine who have had a heart attack and have lung congestion may experience worsened heart failure, since this drug can actually reduce the force of each heartbeat.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects produced by calcium channel blockers are generally mild and rarely cause people to stop taking them. Side effects are more common with higher doses and in older patients.
I Most common: swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs; dizziness; lightheadedness; muscle weakness or cramps; facial flushing; and headache.
V Less common: respiratory infections, cough, tingling in the hands or feet, upset stomach, abdominal pains, chest pains,
stomach, , heart palpitations,
Drug Interactions
•   Felodipine may increase the amount of beta-blocking drugs in the bloodstream. This can lead to heart failure, very low blood pressure, or an increased incidence of angina. However, in many cases these drugs have been taken together with no problem.
•   Felodipine increases the effects of other blood-pressurelowering drugs. Such drug combinations are often used to treat hypertension.
•   Cimetidine, ranitidine, and azole antifungals such as ketoconazole and itraconazole increase the amount of felodipine in the blood and may account for a slight increase in the drug’s effect.
•   Phenytoin and other hydantoin antiseizure medicines, carbamazepine, and barbiturate sleeping pills and sedatives may decrease the amount of felodipine in the blood, reducing its effect on the body.
•   Erythromycin and cyclosporine may increase the side effects of felodipine.
•   Felodipine may increase the effects of digoxin, theophylline (prescribed for asthma and other respiratory problems), and oral anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs.
•   Felodipine may also interact with quinidine (prescribed for abnormal heart rhythm) to produce low blood pressure, very slow heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, and swelling in the arms or legs.
•   Qd(Gii= Channel blockers may cause bleeding when taken alone or combined with aspirin.
Food Interactions
You may take felodipine with food if it upsets your stomach. Avoid taking felodipine with grapefruit juice—it doubles the amount of drug absorbed.
Possible Side Effects (continued) nausea, constipation, diarrhea
throat, runny nose, back pain,   rash.
and
♦ Rare: Rare side effects can affect the heart,
blood, and joints. It can affect   and
your mood, sex drive,
urinary tract. Contact your do   you experience side effect not listed above.
ctor if   any Usual Dose
2.5-10 mg a day. No patient should take more than 20 mg a day. Do not stop taking felodipine abruptly. The dosage should be reduced gradually over a period of time.
Overdosage
Felodipine overdose can cause low blood pressure. If you think you have taken an overdose of felodipine, call your doctor or go to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Call your doctor if you develop constipation, nausea, very low blood pressure, breathing difficulties, increased heart pain, dizziness, or lightheadedness, or if other side effects are bothersome or persistent.
Swelling of the hands or feet may develop within 2 or 3 weeks of starting felodipine. The chances of this happening depend on age and dosage. It occurs in less than 10% of people under age 50 taking 5 mg a day and in more than 30% of those over age 60 taking 20 mg a day.
Be sure to continue taking your medication even if you feel well, and follow any instructions for diet restriction or other treatments to help maintain lower blood pressure.
Do not break or crush felodipine tablets.
It is important to maintain good dental hygiene while taking felodipine and to use extra care when using your toothbrush or dental floss because of the chance that the drug will make you more susceptible to certain infections.
If you forget to take a dose of felodipine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy1filreast-feeding. Animal studies of felodipk”e have shown that it crosses RAW the Zeta) circulation and causes birth iNlfEcls. Women who are or who might become pregnant while taking this drug should not take it without their doctor’s approval. The potential benefit of taking felodipine must be carefully weighed against its risks.
It is not known if felodipine passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who take felodipine should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors, especially those with liver disease, are more sensitive to the effects of this drug.

Tags: abdominal pain, anticonvulsant, appetite, appropriate diet, channel, cholesterol lowering agents, cholesterol lowering medicines, diarrhea, dizziness, drug interaction, elevated liver enzyme, epilepsy, erythromycin, exercise, ezetimibe, ezetimibe simvastatin, familial hypercholesterolemia, felbamate, function, GENERIC, generic ingredients, good cholesterol, hardening of the arteries, Headache, heart failure, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, information, Interactions, intercourse, Lennox-Gastaut, liver disease, maximum, muscle ache, muscle disorder, nervousness, placebo, pregnancy, rare genetic disorders, statin drugs, stomach, supervision, theophylline, upset stomach, vomiting

Aug

13

Entecavir - Guaifenesin - Epoetin - Sildenafil Citrate - Ergoloid Mesylates

August 13, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Generic Name
Entecavir (m-M-ah-veer)
Brand Name Baraclude
Information in this monograph also applies to:
Generic Ingredient: Telbivudine Tyzeka
Type of Drug Antiviral.
Prescribed For
Chronic hepatitis B infection in adults.
General Information
Entecavir is a prescription medicine for adults with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in which the virus is multiplying and damaging the liver. Entecavir can reduce the amount of virus in the body, make it harder for new liver cells to be infected by the virus, and improve the general condition of the liver. They work by attacking HBV polymerase, an enzyme essential to the reproduction of the hepatitis B virus inside an infected cell. These drugs are eliminated from the bodj,4kalbe kidney. Telbivudine does not wGCK alg4msl HIV infection and can be taken together with HIV drug therapy. These medicines do not cure HBV or stop you from spreading HBV to others, generally through sexual contact or exposure to infected blood. The HBV virus can live outside the body for one week.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take these medicines if you are allergic or sensitive to any
of their ingredients.
Entecavir should be used with caution in people who have both HIV and HBV because of possible HIV resistance developing after entecavir is taken.
Severe worsening of HBV has occurred in people who stopped taking this medication.
These drugs can lead to further liver damage. In rare cases, they have been associated with liver failure that resulted in death. The safety of this drug in people who have had a liver transplant is not known.
These drugs are eliminated through the kidneys. People with kidney disease may require lower doses.
Telbivudine has also been associated with lactic acidosis, a condition in which excess lactic acid in the body causes the blood to become acidic. Feeling very weak or tired, experiencing unusual Muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, feeling cold—especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and a fast or irregular heartbeat may be signs of lactic acidosis. It is a medical emergency and must be treated in the hospital. This has happened in some people taking these medications.
Possible Side Effects
Entecavir
♦    Most common: headache, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea.
✓    Less common: diarrhea, upset stomach, vomiting, tiredness, and sleeplessness.
✓    Rare: Rare side effects may affect almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Telbivudine
✓    Most common: upper respiratory infection, latigue, not feeling well, missO2 tenderness or weakness, abdominal pain, nasal irritation, and sore throat.
♦    Common: flu or flu-like symptoms, diarrhea or loose stools, and throat pain.
✓    Less common: fever, joint pain, rash, back pain, dizziness, muscle ache, sleeplessness, and upset stomach.
Drug Interactions     low in-
•    These drugs do not affect liver enzymes and have a
teraction potential.
•    Drugs that affect kidney function may affect blood concentrations of entecavir and telbivudine.
•    Other hepatitis B treatments (lamivudine, adefovir, cy-
closporine, and pegylated interferon-alpha 2a) do not affect
either entecavir or telbivudine and are not affected by them. Food Interactions
Take entecavir at least 2 hours after a meal and 2 hours before the next meal. Telbivudine may be taken without regard to food or meals. Usual Dose
Entecavir
Adult and Child (age 16 and over): 0.5-1 mg once daily. People with kidney failure may be treated with as little as 0.05-0.1 mg a day. Child (under age 16): not recommended.
Telbivudine
Adult and Child (age 16 and over): 600 mg once daily. People with moderate to severe kidney failure may be treated with a single 600 mg dose every 2, 3, or 4 days depending on the seriousness of kidney disease.
Child (under age 16): not recommended.
Overdosage
There are no reports of entecavir overdose. People taking single doses up to 40 mg or multiple doses up to 20 mg per day for up to 14 days had no unusual side effects. One person accidentally took an overdose with no consequences. People taking up to 1800 mg a day of telbivudine had no increase in side effects. Overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room for treatment, where dialysis may be necessary to remove the drug from the blood. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Call your doctor il you develop muscle aches, pains, or weakness; ‘it your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow; if your urine becomes dark; if your bowel movements turn light in color; if you don’t feeling like eating food for several days or longer; if you become nauseous; or if you have lower stomach pain. These can be signs of a serious liver problem called hepatotoxicity, which has occurred in some people taking these medications.
Your hepatitis B may get worse or become very serious if you stop taking these medications. Do not stop taking them or change your daily dose without talking to your doctor.
If you forget to take your daily entecavir dose, take it as soon as you remember but do not take a double dose. Call your doctor if you forget to take 2 or more doses in a row.
Entecavir oral solution is a ready-to-use product and should not be mixed with water or any other liquid product. Each bottle of the oral solution comes with a dosing spoon that is calibrated in 1 -mL increments, up to 10 mL. Hold the spoon upright and gradually fill it to the mark next to the prescribed dose. Drink the liquid directly from the dosing spoon. Your pharmacist can help you properly measure your medication dose. Rinse the dosing spoon with water after each daily dose and allow it to air dry.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Animal studies of entecavir revealed slowed development of the skeleton. Animal studies of telbivudine did not reveal any effects on the developing fetus. However, it is not known if either medicine is safe to use during pregnancy or if it helps prevent the hepatitis B virus from passing on to a developing fetus. If your doctor considers entecavir or telbivudine crucial for you, potential benefits must be carefully weighed against their risks. A data bank has been established to collect information from doctors on pregnant women who do take these medicines.
These medicines may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take these drugs should use infant formula.
Seniors: Dosage reduction may be needed in seniors because of normal declines in kidney function.

Brand Name
Entex PSE
Generic Ingredients
Guaifenesin + Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride M
Other Brand Names
Anatuss LA    Coldmist Jr.
Aquatab D Dosepack    Coldmist LA
Coldmist    Congess Jr.
Congess SR    Nasabid
Congestac    Nasabid-SR
Deconsal LA    Nasatab LA
D-Feda 11    PanMist
Durasal U    PanMist-Jr.
Duratuss AM/PM    PanMist LA
Dynex    Profen 11
Endal-SR    Pseudovent
Guaimax-D    Sudal 60/500
Guaipax PSE    SudaI120/600
Guaitab    Sudal SR
Guaituss PE    Syn-RX
Guai-Vent PSE    Touro LA
losal El    Tuss-LA
Maxifed    V-Dec-M
Maxifed G    Versacaps
Med-RX    Zephrex
Miraphen PSE    Zephrex LA
The information in this profile also applies to the following drugs:
Generic Ingredients: Guaifenesin + Ephedrine Hydrochloride 19 Broncholate    Bronkaid
Generic Ingredients: Guaifenesin + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 91
Deconsal Il    PhenaVent
Deconsal Pediatric    PhenaVent D
Endal    PhenaVent LA
Entex LA    PhenaVent PED
Liquibid D    Rescon GG
Liquibid-D 1200    Sinupan
Liquibid-PD    Sinuvent PE
Type of Drug
Decongestant and expectorant combination.
Prescribed For
Cold or allergy and for nasal congestion, runny nose and cough associated with other upper respiratory conditions.
General Information
The decongestant ingredient in Entex PSE, pseudoephedrine, dramatically reduces congestion and stuffiness. The decongestant ingredients ephedrine and phenylephrine act similarly. The expectorant, guaifenesin, is used to help loosen thick mucus that may contribute to chest congestion; the effectiveness of guaifenesin and other expectorants has not been established. There are other drugs on the market using this same general formula—an expectorant plus a decongestant—but they use different decongestant ingredients or a combination of decongestants plus guaifenesin. Nothing cures a cold or allergy, but Entex PSE may provide relief from symptoms.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take Entex PSE if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Entex PSE may cause anxiety or nervousness or interfere with sleep.
Do not use Entex PSE if you have ventricular tachycardia (quickened heartrate), or hypertension (high blood pressure).
Entex PSE should be used with extreme caution in those with heart disease, other heart rhythm disorders, thyroid disease, diabetes, glaucoma, stomach ulcer, urinary blockage, or a prostate condition.
Entex PSE should not be used over extended periods of time to treat persistent or chronic cough especially one that may be caused by cigarette smoking, asthma, or emphysema.
Possible Side Effects
Mritl common: anxiety, restlessness, sleeplessness, tension, excitation, dizziness, drowsiness, and headache.
♦ Less common: nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, low blood pressure, heart palpitations, chest pain, rapid or slow heartbeat, abnormal heart rhythms, irritability, euphoria (feeling Possible Side Effects (continued)
“high”), eye irritation and tearing, hysterical reaction, appetite loss, kidney stones, urinary difficulties in men with a prostate condition, weakness, loss of facial color, and breathing difficulties.
Drug Interactions
•    Entex PSE should be avoided if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAGI) antidepressant for depression or hypertension because the MAGI may cause a very rapid rise in blood pressure or increase side effects such as dry mouth or nose, blurred vision, and abnormal heart rhythms.
•    The decongestant in Entex PSE may interfere with bloodpressure-lowering medication.
Food Interactions
Take Entex PSE with food if it upsets your stomach.
Usual Dose
Adult and Child (age 12 and over): 1 tablet or capsule twice a day or 2 tsp. of liquid 4 times a day.
Child (age 6-11):1/2-1 tablet or 1 capsule twice a day or 1 tsp. of liquid 4 times a day.
Overdosage
Most cases of overdose are not severe. Symptoms include sedation, sleepiness, increased sweating, and increased blood pressure. Hallucinations, convulsions, nervous system depression, and breathing difficulties are more prominent in older adults. Most cases of overdose are not severe. Induce vomiting with ipecac syrup—available at any pharmacy. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room before doing this. If you lseey, treatment. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
-SIDt’dial Information
Call your doctor if your side effects are severe or gradually become intolerable.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Women who are or might be pregnant should avoid Entex PSE. When your doctor considers this drug crucial, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed
against its risks.
The decongestant in Entex PSE may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take Entex PSE should consider using in-
fant formula.
Seniors: Seniors are more sensitive to the effects of Entex PSE.

Generic Name
Epoetin (EE-poh-eh-tin)
Brand Names Epogen
Type of Drug
Red-blood-cell growth stimulator.
Prescribed For
Anemia; may also be used for reducing the need for blood or redblood-cell transfusions.
General Information
Epoetin is a natural hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. It is used for anemia that does not respond to iron supplements. In most cases of anemia, there are plenty of red blood cells circulating, but they lack iron. People who need epoetin do not have enough red blood cells. Epoetin stimulates the production of new red blood cells to carry needed oxygen.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use epoetin if you are allergic or sensitive to albumin or products manufactured from animal cells.
People with urtvaRtmliked high blood pressure should not use epoetin.
Some people with chronic kidney failure and severe anemia should not take epoetin. Epoetin is not a replacement for emergency blood transfusion.
Epoetin is not intended for anemia caused by folate or iron deficiency, hemolysis, or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Procrit People using epoetin may require anticoagulant medicine to prevent blood clotting during treatment. Tell your doctor it you have any blood-clotting disorders.
In rare cases, people taking epoetin may have seizures. Avoid driving or any other activities where a sudden seizure could be dangerous. Do not take epoetin if you have a history of seizures or strokes.
Epoetin should be avoided in patients with blood cancers such as lymphoma, because it can act as a growth factor for the tumor.
If your hemoglobin levels become too high, your chance of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, blood clots, and death is increased. It is important to have your blood tested and adjust dosage of epoetin accordingly throughout treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects reported in studies of epoetin were similar to those reported with an inactive placebo (sugar pill).
♦    Most common: high blood pressure, headache, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, joint pain, fever, fatigue, itching, rash, and difficulty breathing.
✓    Common: swelling, vomiting, chest pain, skin reactions at the site of injection, weakness, dizziness, urinary infections, diarrhea, upset stomach, blood clots, anxiety, tingling in the hands or feet, and trunk pain.
✓    Rare: stroke and heart attack. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Food and Drug Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Adult: starting dose-23-69 units per 1b. of body weight 3 times a week by intravenous or subcutaneous injection. Final dose is based on response and need. Surgery patients take 138 units per lb. for 10 days before Surgery or 276 units once a week for 3 weeks before surgery and another dose on the day of surgery. Dialysis patients take epoetin once a week.
Child (under age 12): 23 units per lb. of body weight 3 times a week by intravenous or subcutaneous injection. Final dose is based on response and need.
Child (under 1 month): not recommended.
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of epoetin overdose. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription container.
Special Information
People taking epoetin should have regular blood tests to assure the drug is working well. Your doctor may want to take blood samples twice a week for several weeks and then test your blood regularly.
Epoetin has been used by athletes to enhance physical performance. This is called blood doping and has resulted in several deaths because the percentage of red blood cells in a blood sample can reach hazardous levels.
Epoetin must be stored in a refrigerator.
Most patients will need to take iron supplements with this drug.
This drug can be given by injection under the skin. For more in-
formation on how to properly administer this drug, see page 1242.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Animal studies suggest that epoetin may enter fetal circulation. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
It is not known if epoetin passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take it should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may use this product without special precaution.

Type of Drug
Erectile Dysfunction Drugs
Generic Ingredient: Sildenafil Citrate
Viagra    Revatio
Generic Ingredient: Tadalafil Cialis
Generic Ingredient: Vardenafil Levitra
Prescribed For
Erectile dysfunction (ED). sildenafil is also prescribed for pulmonary
hypertension.
General Information
The chemical nitric oxide is released in the penis during sexual stimulation. Nitric oxide causes the release of an enzyme called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which increases blood flow into the penis, producing an erection. cGMP is broken down by the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). In men with low levels of cGMP, these medicines help achieve and maintain an erection by inhibiting PDE5, thus causing higher levels of cGMP. ED can be the result of nerve, blood vessel, or psychological problems. These drugs, which are effective in about 70% of men, only help when poor blood flow is the cause of the dysfunction. Women have reported some benefit from sildenafil, although it has been widely studied only in men. Vardenafil and tadalafil are intended only for men. These medicines start working in 30-60 minutes and their effects usually last from 2-4 hours, although some have noted an effect for 24 hours or more. Some drug interactions and kidney or liver diseases extend this time. Tadalafil begins working in 30-60 minutes and can remain in the body for more than 2 days, much longer than the other medicines in this group. Low-dose tadalafil may be taken every day for chronic ED.
Pulmonary hypertension, a rare disease in which high pressure in the blood vessels moves from the heart to the lungs, is sometimes treated with sildenafil.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take ED drugs if you are allergic or sensitive to any of their ingredients.
These medicines lower blood pressure and should be avoided if you have high (greater than 170/100) or low (less than 90/50) blood pressure. Several people have died from a sudden blood-pressure drop after combining erectile dysfunction medications with other medications that can reduce blood pressure.
These Medicines should never be taken by those taking heart medications called nitrates, as fatal reactions have occurred.
People with heart disease may experience heart problems with sildenafil or vardenafil, including a heart attack. These reactions can occur during or shortly after sexual activity.
Avoid these medicines if you have had a heart attack, stroke, or life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms in the past 6 months, or if you have heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, damage to the penis, or a progressive eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa. Blindness is a rare side effect of sildenafil and may be a problem with all of these medications.
People taking sildenafil or vardenafil have experienced difficulties seeing blue or green colors and may see things with a blue tinge surrounding them. This happens because they affect an enzyme in the eye. The effect clears up after the drug passes out of the body.
People with kidney or liver damage retain these medicines in their bodies longer than people whose kidneys and liver function normally. People with kidney or liver problems should always begin with the lowest possible dosage.
People with priapism (painful erection lasting more than 6 hours) or a condition that predisposes them to priapism—such as leukemia, multiple myeloma, or sickle cell anemia—should be cautious about taking these medicines.
Vardenatil and sildenafil should be avoided by people with stomach or bleeding ulcers because its effect on these conditions is not known.
Possible Side Effects
Sildenafil
✓    Most common: headache and flushing.
♦    Less common: upset stomach, stuffy nose, urinary tract infection, diarrhea, rash, dizziness, seizure, anxiety, prolonged and possibly painful erection, double vision, visual changes, bloodshot eyes, burning eyes, swelling in the eye, and blood vessel diseases in the retina.
✓    Rare: Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Tadalafil
I Most common: headache.
✓    Common: upset stomach. Back pain and muscle aches can develop 12-24 hours after taking tadalafil and go away on their own after 2 days.
Possible Side Effects (continued)
♦    Less common: flushing, nasal congestion, and arm or leg
pain.
♦    Rare-. prolonged or painful erections. Other rare side ef-
fects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact
your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed
above.
Vardenafil
✓    Most common: headache and flushing.
✓    Less common: upset stomach, sinus infection, flu-like symptoms, dizziness, and nausea.
♦    Rare: prolonged or painful erection. Other rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•    Do not combine any of these drugs with nitrates (such as nitroglycerin) and other drugs that lower blood pressure. The combination can cause a sudden, rapid drop in blood pressure.
•    Do not take vardenafil if you are taking an alpha blocker (such as alfuzosin, doxazosin, prazosin, tamsulosin, or terazosin). Tadalafil may be taken only with tamsulosin. You may take sildenafil at its lowest possible dose with an alpha blocker, but you must separate the doses by at least 4 hours.
•    Combining cimetidine and sildenafil leads to a substantial (more than 50%) increase in the amount of sildenafil in the blood.
•    Erythromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and protease inhibitors (used to combat HIV) can cause sildenafil blood levels to almost double. Vardenafil levels can increase by 400-1000% when combined with these medicines. It you are taking one of these medicines, do not take more than the %west possible dose of your ED drug. Do not take tadalafil more than once every 3 days if you are also taking one of these medicines.
•    Rifampin can be expected to reduce the effect of ED medicines by reducing the amount of drug in the blood. Other
drugs that may reduce the effects of these drugs are carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin.
•    Dihydrocodeine—a widely used prescription pain reliever—may increase the effects of sildenafil, yielding substantially prolonged erections, sometimes lasting for hours.
•    Do not combine sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil. The effects of combining these drugs are not known.
•    Do not take vardenafil if you are taking any medicine to treat an abnormal heartbeat, including amiodarone, procainamide, quinidine, and sotalol.
•    Combining sildenafil with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tacrolimus may increase the risk of sildenafil side effects.
•    Alcohol adds to the blood-pressure-lowering effects of these medicines.
Food Interactions
Grapefruit juice may increase the amount of these drugs in the blood. Taking sildenafil with a high-fat meal reduces the amount of drug absorbed. Tadalafil and vardenafil may be taken without regard to food or meals.
Usual Dose
Sildenafil
Adult: 50 mg taken about 1 hour before sexual activity. Individual doses can range from 25-100 mg. The maximum dosing frequency is once a day.
Senior: Begin with 25 mg and gradually increase dosage as needed.
Tadalafil
Adult: 10 mg taken about 1 hour before sexual activity. Individual doses can range from 2.5-20 mg. Do not take more than 1 dose of tadalafil a day.
Senior: Begin with 5 mg and gradually increase dosage as needed.
Adult: 10 mg taken about 1 hour before sexual activity. Individual doses can range from 5-20 mg.
Senior: Begin with 5 mg and gradually increase dosage as needed.
Overdosage
sildenafil and tadalafil overdose are likely to produce exaggerated drug side effects. Vardenafil overdose may cause neck pain, muscle aches, or vision changes. Call your local poison control center or hospital emergency room for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Call your doctor and do not engage in sexual activity if the erection produced by ED drugs is painful or lasts 4 or more hours, or if you experience dizziness, nausea, or chest pain after taking an ED drug. In rare cases, men taking ED drugs have reported a sudden decrease or loss of vision and/or hearing. Call your doctor right away if you experience this adverse side effect.
People who use organic nitrates for gardening or other purposes can experience a severe and dangerous blood pressure drop if they take sildenafil or vardenafil. It is not known how long you have to wait to resume nitrate use.
These drugs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: There is no evidence that sildenafil or vardenafil harm the fetus; however, they are not intended for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
Seniors: Men age 65 and over eliminate these drugs more slowly than younger men and should begin with the lowest possible dosage.

Generic Name
Ergoloid Mesylates (ER-goe-loid
MES-il-ates) (GI
Brand Names Caerimal
Hydergine
Type of Drug Psychotherapeutic agent.
Hydrogenated Ergot Alkaloids
Prescribed For
Age-related decline in mental capacity.
General Information
Ergoloid mesylates are used to treat decreased mental capacity of unknown cause in people over age 60. These drugs should not be used for any condition that is treatable with another drug or that may be reversible. People who respond to ergoloid mesylates are likely to have Alzheimer’s disease or some other cause of dementia. Nobody knows exactly how ergoloid mesylates produce their effect, but they improve the supply of blood to the brain in test animals, reduce their heart rate, and improve muscle tone in blood vessels. Some studies show the drugs to be very effective in relieving mild symptoms of mental impairment, while others find it to be only moderately effective. They are most beneficial in people whose symptoms are due to the effects of high blood pressure in the brain.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take ergoloid mesylates if you are allergic or sensitive to any of their ingredients or you have psychotic symptoms or psychosis.
Ergoloid mesylates should be used with caution in people with liver disease, low blood pressure, or slow heartbeat.
Possible Side Effects
Ergoloid mesylates do not produce serious side effects.
♦ Common: When taken under the tongue, these drugs may
cause irritation, nausea, or upset stomach. Other side ef-
fects are drowsiness, slow heartbeat, and rash.
Drug Interactions None known.
Food Interactions
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while you have an ergoloid mesylates pill under your tongue.
Usual Dose
Starting dose is 1-2 mg 3 times a day. Increase as needed. Do not exceed 12 mg a day.
Overdosage
Symptoms include blurred vision, dizziness, fainting, flushing, headache, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and stuffy nose. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
The effects of ergoloid mesylates are gradual and frequently not seen for up to 6 months. A 6-month period of treatment with ergoloid mesylates is recommended before your doctor can fully evaluate your response to the drug. Your doctor should periodically reevaluate your condition to determine if ergoloid mesylates treatment is still needed and that it is working for you.
Dissolve sublingual tablets under the tongue. Do not chew or crush them; they are not effective if swallowed whole.
If you forget a dose, skip it and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Call your doctor if you miss 2 or more consecutive doses.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Ergoloid mesylates may interfere with fetal development. When these drugs are considered crucial by your doctor, their potential benefits must be carefully weighed against their risks.
Ergoloid mesylates pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take these drugs should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to develop side effects, especially hypothermia (low body temperature).
Generic Name
Erythromycin (eh-rith-roe-MYE-sin) 10
Brand Names
Akre-mycin    Eryderm
Arr/S    Erygel
E-Base    Ery-Tab
E-Glades    Erythra-derm
E-Mycin    PCE Eryc
The information in this profile also applies to all forms of erythromycin:
Generic Ingredient: Erythromycin Estolate LN
Generic Ingredient: Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate E.E.S.    Pediamycin EryPed
Generic Ingredients: Erythromycin Ethylsuccinate + Sulfisoxasole
Eryzole    Pediazole
Generic Ingredient: Erythromycin Stearate Erythrocin Stearate
Type of Drug Macrolide antibiotic.
Prescribed For
Infections of virtually any part of the body: upper and lower respiratory tract infections; sexually transmitted diseases; urinary tract infections; infections of the mouth, gums, or teeth; and infections of the nose, ears, or sinuses. It is prescribed for acne and may be used for mild to moderate skin infections. Erythromycin is effective against diphtheria and dysentery. It is also prescribed for legionnaires’ disease, rheumatic fever, whooping cough, and bacterial endocarditis. It is prescribed to patients with pelvic inflammatory disease as an alternative to penicillin. The eye ointment is used to prevent newborn gonococcal or chlamydial eye infections.
General Information
Erythromycin and other macrolide antibiotics are either bactericidal (bacteria-killing) or bacteriostatic (inhibiting bacterial growth), depending on the organism in question and amount of antibiotic present. Erythromycin is deactivated by stomach acid, so the tablet form is made to bypass the stomach and dissolve in the intestine.
Since the action of this antibiotic depends on its concentration in the invading bacteria, kk is crucial that you follow your doctor’s ISNVKi10ns regarding the spacing of doses as well as the number of days you must take the medication—otherwise, this antibiotic may be much less effective.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take erythromycin if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients or to any macrolide antibiotic.
Erythromycin is excreted primarily through the liver. People with liver disease or damage should consult their doctors. Those on long-term therapy with erythromycin should have periodic blood tests. If you restart erythromycin after having experienced liver damage, it is likely that symptoms will recur within 48 hours.
Erythromycin estolate has occasionally produced liver problems (symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever). If you are susceptible to stomach problems, erythromycin may cause mild to moderate stomach upset; discontinuing the drug will reverse this condition.
Colitis (bowel inflammation) has been associated with all antibiotics and can range from mild to life-threatening (see “Possible Side Effects”),
Possible Side Effects
•    Most common: nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Colitis (symptoms include severe abdominal cramps and severe, persistent, and possibly bloody diarrhea) may develop. Side effects of the topical erythromycin include peeling, dryness, itching, and oiliness.
♦    Less common: hairy tongue, itching, irritation of the anal or vaginal region, eye irritation, and skin tenderness. If any of these symptoms appear, call your physician immediately.
♦    Rare: hearing loss—which reverses itself after the drug is stopped and occurs most often in people with liver and kidney problems—and abnormal heart rhythms. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•    Antacids may slightly affect the release of erythromycin from your body. This effect is not considered important.
•    Do not combine erythromycin with astemizole or terfenadine.
•    Erythromycin may slow the breakdown of carbamazepine (an anticonvulsant prescribed for seizures). Avoid this combination.
•    Mixing erythromycin with rifabutin or rifampin can interfere with the antibiotic’s effect and increase the risk of intestinal side effects.
•    Do not combine erythromycin and pimozide. Two people died after combining pimozide and a macrolide antibiotic.
•    Erythromycin may neutralize penicillin. It may also neutralize the antibiotics lincomycin and clindamycin.
•    Erythromycin interferes with the elimination of theophylline
from the body, possibly leading to theophylline overdose.
•    Mixing erythromycin with a statin cholesterol-lowering drug increases the risk of developing a potentially fatal condition involving severe muscle pain and destruction.
•    Do not mix erythromycin with sparfloxacin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, diltiazem, verapamil, troleandomycin, mibefradil, nefazodone, or clarithromycin. These mixtures can lead to severe, possibly fatal, abnormal heart rhythms. Grepafloxacin (another fluoroquinolone) should only be mixed with erythromycin in hospitalized patients whose hearts can be monitored during treatment.
•    Combining erythromycin and alfentanil (an injectable pain reliever), bromocriptine, buspirone, digoxin, disopyramide, ergotamine, cyclosporine, methylprednisolone (a corticosteroid), tacrolimus, vinblastine, or benzodiazepines (such as alprazolam, diazepam, midazolam, and triazolam) increases the risk of drug side effects.
•    Erythromycin estolate may increase the liver side effects of other drugs that affect the liver.
•    Erythromycin may increase the anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects of warfarin in people who take it regularly, especially older adults. People taking this combination should be tested regularly.
•    Erythromycin may increase the effects of caffeine.
Food Interactions
Grapefruit juice slows the breakdown of erythromycin, increasing the amount of drug in the blood. For optimum effectiveness, take erythromycin base and erythromycin stearate on an empty stomach with a 6-8 oz. glass of water 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Other forms of erythromycin can be taken without regard to food or meals.
\huall Dose
Tablet and Suspension
Adult: 250-400 mg every 6 hours, taken 1 hour before meals, or 500 mg every 12 hours. Maximum dose is 4 g a day.
Child: 15-25 mg per lb. of body weight a day in divided doses depending on age, weight, and severity of infection.
Eye Ointment 1/2 inch 2-6 times a day.
Topical Solution: Apply morning and night.
Doses of erythromycin ethylsuccinate are 60% higher due to differences in chemical composition.
Overdosage
Overdose may cause severe side effects, especially nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Mild hearing loss, ringing or buzzing in the ears, or fainting may also occur. Call your local poison control center or a hospital emergency room for more information. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Erythromycin is used instead of penicillin for mild to moderate infections in people who are allergic to penicillin. Erythromycin is not the antibiotic of choice for severe infections.
Erythromycin products should be stored at room temperature, except for oral and topical liquids, which should be kept in the refrigerator.
Call your doctor if you develop nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; stomach cramps; severe abdominal pain; rash, itching, or redness; dark or amber-colored urine; yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes; or any severe or persistent side effect.
If you forget a dose of oral erythromycin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, space the next 2 doses over 4-6 hours, then continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Remember to complete the full course of therapy prescribed even if you feel well before you finish the medication.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Erythromycin passes into the fetal circulation. Erythromycin estolate has caused mild liver inflammation in about 10% of pregnant women who took it and should not be used if you are or might be pregnant. Other forms of erythromycin have been used sale)y without difficulty.
Erythromycin passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take erythromycin should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors with liver disease should use caution. Seniors taking high doses of erythromycin may be at an increased risk of hearing loss.

Tags: Allergy, arms and legs, bacteria, baraclude, blood, chronic hepatitis, dizziness, entecavir, gastrointestinal, GENERIC, Headache, hepatitis b, hepatitis b virus, hiv drug, hiv infection, hiv resistance, hypertension, info, kidney disease, lactic acidosis, liver damage, liver transplant, lower respiratory tract, monoamine, nausea and vomiting, percentage, pregnancy, prescription medicine, priapism, rash, refrigerator, stomach, stomach pain, System, Tadalafil, upset stomach, vardenafil

Aug

13

Econazole - Efalizumab - Eflornithine - Enalapril - Enfuvirtide - Entacapone

August 13, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Generic Name
Econazole (ee-KON-uh-zole) 92
Brand Name Spectazole
Type of Drug Antifungal.
Prescribed For
Fungal infections of the skin, including athlete’s foot. jock itch, and ringworm.
General Information
Econazole nitrate can kill fungal organisms that may have penetrated to deep layers of the skin. Very small amounts of econazole are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use econazole if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Do not apply econazole cream in or near your eyes.
Long-term application of this product to large areas of skin may cause liver damage.
Possible Side Effects
♦ Most common: burning, itching, stinging, and redness in the areas to which the cream has been applied.
Drug Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Adult: Apply enough of the cream to cover affected areas with a thin layer 1-2 times a day.
Overdosage
Accidental ingestion may cause nausea, upset stomach, drowsiness, and liver inflammation or damage. Call your local poison control center for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription container.
Special Information
Clean the affected areas before applying econazole cream, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Dry the infected area thoroughly and wear loose-fitting clothes to keep the area cool and dry.
Call your doctor if the treated area burns, stings, or becomes red.
This product can be expected to relieve symptoms within 1 or 2 days after you begin using it. Follow your doctor’s directions for the complete 2-4-week course of treatment to gain maximum benefit. Stopping the drug too soon can lead to a relapse.
If you forget a dose of econazole, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: When given by mouth to pregnant animals in high doses, econazole was toxic to the fetus. It should be strictly avoided during the first 3 months of pregnancy. During the last 6 months of pregnancy, it should be used only if absolutely necessary.
Econazole may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should consider using infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may take this drug without special restriction.

Efalizumab (ef-ah-LIZ-u-mab)
Brand Name Raptiva
Type of Drug
Immune system suppressant.
Prescribed For
Chronic to severe plaque psoriasis.
General Information
Efalizumab is a manmade antibody that works by binding to specific areas of certain white blood cells called leukocytes. This prevents the leukocytes from interacting with other cells and interrupts inflammation that is involved in the development of patches of psoriatic skin. The molecule that efaluzimab interacts with is found on many other key cells found in the immune system, and this is the source of many of the drug’s more serious side effects.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use this drug if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
People taking efalizumab are at a greater risk of infection because it suppresses the immune system. Contact your doctor if you develop any kind of infection, including a common cold. Serious infections may require hospitalization.
The chances of malignancy may be increased by efalizumab because it suppresses the immune system. People with any type of cancer should not use this drug.
Efalizumab may lead to bleeding because it can cause a drastic reduction in blood-platelet counts. People with a history of low blood-platelet counts should be extremely cautious about using efalizumab.
Psoriasis can get worse or recur during or after efalizumab treatment in a small number of people. Call your doctor immediately if your condition worsens while you are taking efalizumab.
Possible Side Effects
Headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting are common alter taking the very first dose of elaki7umab. A “conditioning” dose of about 0.3 mg per lb. of body weight is often given to minimize these reactions.
V Most common: headache, infections, chills, nausea, and pain.
V Common: muscle aches, flu-like symptoms, itching, and fever.
Possible Side Effects (continued)
✓    Less common: back pain, arthritis, lung inflammation, and
acne.
♦    Rare: psoriasis, arthritis, joint pain, malignancy, low blood-platelet count, and drug allergy or sensitivity. Other rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•    Efalizumab is an immune system suppressant and should not be combined with other immune suppressant drugs because of the increased risk of infection and malignancy.
•    Combining vaccines (live and acellular) with efalizumab may exaggerate the body’s response to the vaccine and increase the risk of developing the disease against which the vaccination is being administered. People taking etalizurnab should not receive vaccines.
Food Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Adult: 0.3 mg per lb. of body weight to start. Then about 0.5 mg per lb. of body weight once a week on the same day. The maximum dose is 200 mg by subcutaneous injection. Mix your dose immediately before it is to be injected and throw away any unused medicine.
Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Doses up to 4 times the recommended dose have been taken for 10 weeks without additional side effects. However, overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room for observation. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special information
See your doctor regularly while you are taking efaluzima6. Regular blood tests are required to make sure your blood platelets are not unusually low.
Tell your doctor if you gain or lose weight, since doses of efaluzimab are based on how much you weigh.Tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking including other medicines for psoriasis, non-prescription drugs, vitamins,
and herbal supplements.
Store unused medicine in the refrigerator. Throw away medicine that has been mixed but not used.
Call your doctor immediately if you develop bleeding gums, black-and-blue marks, any kind of infection, begin to bruise easily, or if you are told by another doctor that you have any kind of cancer.
This drug is given by injection under the skin. For more information on how to properly administer this drug, see page 1242.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: It is not known how efaluzimab will affect a growing fetus. Animal studies using doses equal to 30 times the human dose showed no adverse effects. While animal studies of efaluzimab reveal no damage to the fetus, this drug should be used only during pregnancy after carefully weighing its potential benefits against its risks.
It is not known if efaluzimab passes into breast milk, although it might affect the nursing infant’s developing immune system. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors should be cautious about using efaluzimab because of the increased risk of infection.

Generic Name
Eflornithine (eh-FLOOR-nih-thene)
Brand Name
Vaniga,
Type of Drug
Hair growth retardant.
Prescribed For
Removal of unwanted facial hair by women.
General Information
This drug has only been studied for its ability to prevent hair growth on the face and chin and should not be used on other body areas. It works by interfering with enzymes in the skin necessary for hair growth, slowing the rate at which hair will grow. Improvement may be seen as soon as 4-8 weeks after you start using eflornithine, but the condition will return within 8 weeks after you stop using it.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use eflornithine if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
For external use only; do not ingest.
Possible Side Effects
Eflornithine side effects are similar to those of a placebo (sugar pill).
✓    Most common: acne, bumps, or small pustules on the skin. V -Common: stinging.
✓    Less common: headache, dizziness, burning, itching, redness, tingling, irritation, rash, hair loss, upset stomach, and appetite loss.
✓    Rare: fainting, ingrown hairs, inflamed hair follicles, facial swelling, nausea, bleeding, contact dermatitis, inflammation of one or both lips, herpes breakout, numbness, and dilated blood vessels and pores on the nose and cheeks. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Food and Drug Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Adult and Child Me 11 anti over): Apply a thin layer of cream to ai ected areas and rub in thoroughly 2 times a day at least 8 hours apart. Do not wash your face until at least 4 hours after you have applied eflornithine cream. Wait at least 5 minutes after hair removal to apply eflornithine.
Child (under age 12): not recommended.
Overdosage Little is    about the effects of eflornithine overdose or acci-
Li    known
dental ingestion. Call your local poison control center for more information. ALWAYS bring the prescription container.
Special Information
If you forget to apply a dose of eflornithine, apply it as soon as you remember. Bear in mind that at least 8 hours must elapse between doses and you cannot wash the area for another 4 hours after application. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule.
This product slows hair growth. It is not a depilatory. You will have to continue shaving, tweezing, or using another hair removal technique.
Wait several minutes after application of eflornithine before applying cosmetics or sunscreen.
Use only on your face and neck.
Call your doctor if your skin becomes irritated or if you develop other side effects. If skin irritation continues, you may have to stop using eflornithine.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Eflornithine cream may cause birth defects. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may use eflornithine without special restriction.

Generic Name
Enalapril (uh-NAL-uh-pril)
Brand Name
Vasotec
Combination Product
Ggner;c Ingredients: Enalapril + Hydrochlorothiazide RE Vaseretic
Type of Drug
Angiotensi n -converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
Prescribed For
Hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, diabetic kidney disease, and heart attack treatment when the function of the left ventricle has been affected. Also prescribed for kidney failure, kidney hypertension, managing people with a high risk of heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and preventing a second stroke.
General Information
Enalapril maleate and other ACE inhibitors work by preventing the conversion of a hormone called angiotensin I to another hormone called angiotensin II, a potent blood-vessel constrictor. Preventing this conversion relaxes blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure and relieving symptoms of heart failure. Enalapril also affects the production of other hormones and enzymes that participate in the regulation of blood-vessel dilation. Enalapril begins working about 1 hour after you take it and continues to work for 24 hours.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take enalapril if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients. Severe sensitivity reactions can occur in hemodialysis patients taking enalapril or those undergoing venom immunization.
Swelling of the face, extremities, or throat has been known to occur with enalapril, which can be dangerous (see “Special Information”).
Enalapril occasionally causes very low blood pressure.
Enalapril may affect your kidney function, especially if you have congestive heart failure. Your doctor should check your urine for protein content during the first few months of treatment. Dosage adjustment of enalapril is necessary if you have reduced kidney function.
Enalapril can affect white-blood-cell counts, possibly increasing your susceptibility to infection. Your doctor should monitor your blood counts periodically.
Enalapril may cause serious Injury or death to the fetus if taken duriRcA pregnancy. Pregnant women should not take enalapril.
ACE inhibitors may be less effective in some black patients with high blood pressure, especially when dietary salt intake is high. Nevertheless, they should still be considered useful blood pressure treatments. Swelling beneath the skin to form welts is more common among black patients.
Possible Side Effects
♦    Most common-. dizziness, fatigue, headache, and chronic cough. The cough usually goes away a few days after you stop taking the medication.
♦    Less common: chest tightness or pain, dizziness when rising from a sitting or lying position, fainting, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bronchitis, urinary tract infection, breathing difficulties, weakness, and rash.
♦    Rare: Rare side effects can occur in almost any part of the body. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
For additional information about enalapril + felodipine, see Felodipine, page 471.
Drug Interactions
•    The blood-pressure-lowering effect of enalapril is additive with diuretic drugs and beta blockers. Any other drug that causes a rapid drop in blood pressure should be used with caution if you are taking enalapril.
•    Enalapril may increase the effects of lithium; this combination should be used with caution.
•    Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effects of enalapril and other ACE inhibitors. The combination may cause reductions in kidney function.
•    Enalapril may increase blood-potassium levels, especially when taken with dyazide or other potassium-sparing diuretics.
•    Antacids and enalapril should be taken at least 2 hours apart.
•    Capsaicin may trigger or aggravate the cough associated with enalapril therapy.
•    Indomethacin may reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effects of enalapril.
•    Phenothiazine sedatives and antiemetics may increase the ef - feZIS of enalapril.
•    Rifampin may reduce the effects of enalapril.
•    The combination of allopurinol and enalapril increases the chance of side effects. Avoid this combination.
•    Enalapril affects blood levels of digoxin. More digoxin in the blood increases the chance of digoxin-related side effects, while less digoxin in the blood can compromise its effectiveness.
• Severe sensitivity reactions can occur in those taking allo-
purinol.
For additional information about enalapril + felodipine, see Felodipine, page 471.
Food Interactions
You may take enalapril with food if it upsets your stomach.
Usual Dose
Enalapril
Adult: 5-40 mg a day in 1 or 2 doses. People with poor kidney function need less medication.
Enalapril + Felodipine
Adult: 1-2 tablets a day.
Overdosage
The principal effect of enalapril overdose is a rapid drop in blood pressure, as evidenced by dizziness or fainting. Take the overdose victim to a hospital emergency room immediately. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Enalapril can cause swelling of the face, lips, hands, or feet. This swelling can also affect the larynx (throat) or tongue and interfere with breathing. If this happens, go to a hospital emergency room at once. Call your doctor if you develop a sore throat, mouth sores, abnormal heartbeat, chest pain, persistent rash, or loss of taste perception.
Some people who start taking enalapril after they are already on a diuretic (an agent that increases urination) experience a rapid drop in blood pressure after their first doses or when their dosage is increased. To prevent this from happening, your doctor may tell you to stop taking your diuretic 2 or 3 days before starting enalapril or to increase your salt intake during that time. The diuretic may then be restarted gradually.
You may gO dizzy if you rise to your feet too quickly from a sitting or lying position when taking enalapril.
Avoid strenuous exercise or very hot weather because heavy
sweating or dehydration can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure.
While taking enalapril, avoid over-the-counter diet pills, decon-
gestants, and other stimulants that can raise blood pressure. Also,
do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without consulting your doctor.
If you take enalapril once a day and forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 8 hours of your next dose, skip the one you forgot and continue with your regular schedule. If you take enalapril twice a day and miss a dose, take it right away. If it is within 4 hours of your next dose, take 1 dose immediately and another in 5 or 6 hours, then go back to your regular schedule. Never take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: ACE inhibitors can cause fetal injury or death. Women who are or might become pregnant should not take ACE inhibitors. Sexually active women of childbearing age who must take enalapril must use an effective contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop taking the medication and call your doctor immediately.
Small amounts of enalapril pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug due to age-related losses in kidney or liver function.

Generic Name
Enfuvirtide (en-M-ir-tide)
fusing to healthy CD4 cells, a key part of the human immune system. This helps fight HIV by having fewer HIV-infected cells as well as a healthier immune system to fight off the HIV virus. Enfuvirtide is always prescribed in combination with other antiviral medicines. It is possible for the HIV virus to become resistant to enfuvirtide, but this drug can work against types of the virus that have become resistant to other anti-HIV therapies.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take enfuvirtide if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients. Symptoms of drug allergy can include generalized itching, rash, severe chills, and low blood pressure. In rare cases, enfuvirtide triggers severe hypersensitivity. Patients experiencing symptoms (a combination of rash, fever, nausea, and/or respiratory distress) should stop using enfuvirtide and seek medical attention immediately.
People taking enfuvirtide may be more likely to develop bacterial pneumonia. See your doctor regularly and report any difficulty breathing or unusual respiratory reactions.
Enfuvirtide may raise blood sugar levels, worsen diabetes, or trigger latent diabetes. People with diabetes who take this drug may need to have the dosage of their anti-diabetes medication adjusted.
Possible Side Effects
✓    Most common: allergic skin reaction at the site of injection (symptoms include itching, rash, and swelling of tissue under the skin), diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and sleeplessness.
✓    Common: tingling in the hands or feet, depression, anxiety, cough, sinusitis, herpes infection, weight loss, appetite loss, weakness, itching, and muscle ache.
✓    Less common: taste changes, small skin tumors, flu infection, constipation, abdominal pain, pancreas inflammation, conjunctivitis    and lymph gland inflammation.
‘T Rare: Rare side effects can affect the blood, immune system, kidneys, urinary tract, and central nervous system. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
Enfuvirtide is not broken down in the liver and does not affect liver enzyme systems, so it is not likely to be involved in common drug
interactions.
Food Interactions
None known. Usual Dose
Adult and Child (age 17 and over): 90 mg injected under the skin into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen twice a day.
Child (age 6-16): 0.91 mg per lb. of body weight twice a day, up to 90 mg per injection. Be sure to increase enfuvirtide dosage as your child’s weight increases.
Child (under age 6): not recommended.
Overdosage
Little is known about the effects of enfuvirtide overdose. Take the victim to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Enfuvirtide is not a cure for HIV It will not prevent you from transmitting the HIV virus to another person; you must still practice safe sex. People taking this drug may still develop opportunistic infections and other complications associated with HIV infection.
This drug is given by injection under the skin. For information on how to properly administer this drug, see page 1242.
Do not use a vial of enfuvirtide if the final solution has particles floating in it. It should be completely clear, colorless, and have no bubbles in the vial.
You may keep solutions of enfuvirtide in the refrigerator and use them for up to 24 hours after they have been mixed. After that, they must be thrown away.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, become pregnant, os plan to become pregnant.
Do not stop taking this, or any other anti-HIV medicine, without first consulting your doctor.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: While animal studies of enfuvirtide reveal no damage to the fetus, this drug should only be used during pregnancy after carefully weighing its potential benefits against its risks. A national registry has been established to gather information on pregnant women who take this drug.
It is not known if enfuvirtide passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers with HIV should always use infant formula, regardless of whether they take this drug, to avoid transmitting the virus to their child.
Seniors: The effects of enfuvirtide in seniors is unknown.

Generic Name
Entacapone (in-TACK-a-pohn)
Brand Name Comtan
Type of Drug Antiparkinsonian.
Prescribed For
Parkinson’s disease patients for whom levodopa + carbidopa loses its effectiveness between doses.
General Information
Entacapone is always used in combination with levodopa + carbidopa. Some patients experience signs and symptoms of an end-of-dose “wearing-off” effect with these drugs. Entacapone enhances the effect of levodopa + carbidopa by reversing the action of an enzyme known as catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), which is primarily responsible for breaking down levodopa in the body.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take entacapone If yOU are allergic or sensitive to any of At *Ingredients.
Do not take entacapone with phenelzine or tranyleypromine, as a very serious reaction may occur.
People with liver disease should use entacapone with caution as they may accumulate twice as much of this drug in their blood as people with normal liver function.
Entacapone has been rarely associated with the formation of fibrous tissues in unusual places such as the urinary tract and lungs. It has also caused fluid in the lungs.
Entacapone may cause kidney toxicity.
Entacapone may increase the risk of dizziness or fainting when rising from a sitting or lying down position.
Hallucinations have been reported with other Parkinson’s disease drugs.
Possible Side Effects
♦    Most common: difficulty performing voluntary muscle functions, excessive muscle activity, nausea, urine discoloration, and diarrhea.
♦    Common: reduced muscle activity, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, and abdominal pain.
✓    Less common: low blood pressure and fainting when rising from a sitting or lying position, hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, gastritis or other stomach disorders, dry mouth, vomiting, increased sweating, back pain, taste changes, shortness of breath, easy bruising, weakness, and bacterial infection.
♦    Rare: muscle damage or death, high fever, and confusion. Contact your doctor if you experience any side effect not listed above.
Drug Interactions
•    Do not mix entacapone with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAGI) antidepressants phenelzine or tranylcypromine. Entacapone may be taken with the MAGI selegiline.
•    Other drugs broken down by COMT will also be affected by entacapone. Isoproterenol, epinephrine, ephedrine, norepinephrine, isoetharine, and others will interact with entacapone, even when taken by inhalation. The result may be increased heart rate, wybylh m ias, and excessive changes in Uwd pressure.
•    Cholestyramine, probenecid, erythromycin, rifampin, ampicillin, and chloramphenicol may interfere with the elimination of entacapone from the body.
•    Entacapone may enhance the effects of sedatives and other nervous system depressants.
Food Interactions
This drug may be taken with or without food.
Usual Dose
Adult: 200 mg with each levodopa + carbidopa dose, up to
1600 mg a day.
Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Theoretically, a massive entacapone overdose could prove lethal by completely inhibiting COMT throughout the body. There have been no reports of significant entacapone overdose. Doses up to 800 mg have been taken and side effects were mainly abdominal pain and loose stools. Other effects that might be expected include difficulty breathing, loss of muscle coordination, reduced level of activity, and convulsions. Overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room as soon as possible. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Always take your entacapone dose together with your levodopa + carbidopa dose. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the dose you forgot and continue with your regular schedule.
This drug can cause dizziness, nausea, sweating, or fainting when rising quickly from a sitting or lying position, especially at the beginning of treatment.
Increased body movements and twitching, twisting, or uncontrolled tongue, lip, face, arm, or leg movement may occur. If this happens, your doctor may need to adjust your dose of levodopa + carbidopa.
Exercise caution when performing tasks, such as driving, that require coordination and concentration until your body has become accustomed to the effects of entacapone.
Gradually reducing the dose of entacapone decreases some drug side effects.
Rapid withdrawal can cause high fever, sweating, unstable blood pressure, stupor, and muscular rigidity. Patients who stop using entacapone should be monitored.
Entacapone can cause your urine to turn a brownish-orange color. This change is harmless.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Entacapone causes birth defects, miscarriage and abortion in pregnant animals. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be weighed against its risks.
Entacapone passes into the breast milk of animals but no information on humans is available. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may take this drug without special precaution.

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Aug

1

Cilostazol

August 1, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Generic Name
Cilostazol (sil-oe-STAY-zol) Lq
Brand Name Pletal
Type of Drug Antiplatelet.
Prescribed For Intermittent claudication.
General Information
In intermittent claudication, leg muscles go into spasm due to reduced blood flow. This occurs when plaque buildup narrows blood vessels leading to the calf or other leg muscles. People with this condition often develop leg pain after walking only a short distance. Cilostazol prevents blood platelets from “clumping together” to begin the process of forming a blood clot, which can further obstruct arteries and worsen intermittent claudication. This drug is broken down in the liver.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not take this drug if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
?P,Ople with congestive heart failure (CHF) should not take cilostazol. Some studies indicate that long-term use of this drug may cause cardiovascular problems.
People with hemostatic disorders or active pathologic bleeding should not take cilostazil.
Drug Interactions
•    Avoid mixing cilostazol with ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, miconazole, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, nefazodone, or sertraline because this interaction may slow the breakdown of cilostazol, prolonging its effects. Cilostazol dosage is reduced by 50% when it is combined with any of these drugs.
•    Aspirin can increase the anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effect of cilostazol, but this combination has not caused serious bleeding problems. There is no information on the effect of combining cilostazol and other antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs. Cilostazol dosage is reduced by 50% when it is combined with any of these drugs.
•    Diltiazem increases cilostazol blood levels by about 50%. Cilostazol dosage is reduced by 50% when it is combined with diltiazem.
•    Erythromycin and similar antibiotics increase cilostazol blood levels. Take half the regular dose of cilostazol when combining it with any of these drugs.
•    Combining cilostazol and omeprazole increases the effects of cilostazol. Cilostazol dosage is reduced by 50% when it is combined with omeprazole.
•    Smoking reduces the Olectiveness of cilostazol by causing the liver to break it down faster.
Food Interactions
Take this drug on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after meals. Do not drink grapefruit juice at any time while
above.    with dosage.
dache, infection, abdominal pain, ab- arrhea.
pitations, rapid heartbeat. dizziness, sea, sore throat, runny nose, back pain, arms or legs.
cough, fainting, and muscle aches. cts can occur in almost any part of the doctor if you experience any side ef- e.
Possible Side Effects
The risk of side effects
♦    Most common: headache
•    stool, and diarrhea. • Common: heart palpitations
•    stomach, nausea
•    swelling in the
♦    Less common: gas,
♦    Rare: Rare side effects body. Contact your fect not listed taking cilostazol because it can interfere with the breakdown of the drug.
Usual Dose
Adult: 100 mg twice a day. 50 mg twice a day when combined with other drugs that may increase the effect of cilostazol. Child: not recommended.
Overdosage
Symptoms of overdose are likely to be the most common side effects. Overdose victims should be taken to a hospital emergency room. ALWAYS bring the prescription bottle or container.
Special Information
Several weeks of cilostazol treatment may be necessary before you notice any improvement in symptoms. Maximum benefit usually occurs after 12 weeks.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Special Populations
Pregnancy/Breast-feeding: Animal studies suggest that cilostazol may harm the fetus, but there is no information on the effect of cilostazol in pregnant women. When this drug is considered crucial by your doctor, its potential benefits must be carefully weighed against its risks.
cilostazol may pass into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must take this drug should use infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors can take this drug without special precaution.

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Aug

1

Ciclopirox

August 1, 2009 | Leave a Comment

Generic Name
Ciclopirox (sye-kloe-PERE-ox) &
Brand Names
Loprox Penlac
Type of Drug Antifungal,
Prescribed For
Fungus and yeast infections of the nails and skin, including athlete’s foot, candida, and dandruff.
General Information
Ciclopirox slows the growth of a variety of fungus organisms and yeasts and kills many others. The drug penetrates the skin, hair, hair follicles, and sweat glands. Ciclopirox nail lacquer is used for toenail and fingernail fungus infections. Ciclopirox shampoo is used for dandruff.
Cautions and Warnings
Do not use this product if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients.
Possible Side Effects
Common: burning, itching, stinging, or oozing at the application site.
Drug Interactions None known.
Usual Dose
Cream/Lotion
Adult and Child (age 10 and over): Massage into cleansed affected skin and surrounding area twice a day.
Nail Lacquer
Adult: Apply to infected nails once a day. Use in conjunction with monthly visits to a health care professional.
Child (under age 10): not recommended.
Shampoo
Adult: Wet hair and apply 1-2 tsp to the scalp. Lather and leave on hair and scalp for 3 minutes, then rinse. Avoid contact with eyes. Repeat twice weekly for 4 weeks.
Child (under age 16): not recommended.
Overdosage
Accidental ingestion may cause nausea and upset stomach. Call your local poison control center or hospital for more information. If you seek treatment, ALWAYS bring the prescription container.
Special Information
This product can be expected to relieve symptoms within the first week of use. Follow your doctor’s directions for the complete 2-4 week course of treatment with the cream or lotion to gain maximum benefit. The nail lacquer may be used for up to 48 weeks. Stopping the medication too soon can lead to a relapse.
When using ciclopirox nail lacquer, do not apply it to any skin other than that which surrounds the infected nails, because of possible irritation. Do not apply nail polish or any other nail lacquer to infected nails while you are using this product.
Avoid using ciclopirox nail lacquer near an open flame, since the product is flammable.
Do not cover cream or lotion with a bandage.
Call your doctor if the affected area burns, stings, or becomes red after you use this product, 13y i1 your symptoms do not clear Up aher 4 weeks of treatment; by then it is unlikely that this product will be effective.
If you forget a dose of ciclopirox, apply it as soon as you remember. Do not apply more than the amount prescribed to make up for the missed dose.
Special Populations
PregnancylBreast-feeding., ciclopirox may pass to the fetus in very small amounts. In animal studies, high doses of ciclopirox given by mouth did not harm the fetus. Caution should be exercised when using ciclopirox during pregnancy.
It is unknown if ciclopirox passes into breast milk. Nursing mothers who must use this drug should consider using infant formula.
Seniors: Seniors may use this drug without special restriction.

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