Amlodipine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). Amlodipine is in a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It controls chest pain by increasing the supply of blood to the heart. If taken regularly, amlodipine controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it starts. Your doctor may prescribe a different medication to take when you have chest pain.
How should this medicine be used?
Amlodipine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. To help you remember to take amlodipine, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amlodipine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of amlodipine and gradually increase your dose.
Amlodipine controls high blood pressure and chest pain (angina) but does not cure them. Continue to take amlodipine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking amlodipine without talking to your doctor.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking amlodipine,
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amlodipine or any other medications.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking amlodipine, call your doctor.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Amlodipine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
headache
upset stomach
stomach pain
dizziness or lightheadedness
drowsiness
excessive tiredness
flushing (feeling of warmth)
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
more frequent or more severe chest pain
rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
fainting
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to amlodipine.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
This medicine () is an hmg-coa reductase inhibitor (also known as a “statin”) used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.Generic Mevacor is usually prescribed only if diet, exercise, and weight-loss fail to bring your cholesterol levels under control. It’s important to remember that Mevacor is a supplement–not a substitute–for these other measures. To get the full benefit of the medication, you need to stick to the diet and exercise program prescribed by your doctor.
Before using
Do not take this medicine if you are also taking gemfibrozil, hiv protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir, lopinavir, or nelfinavir), azole antifungals (such as itraconazole or ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or troleandomycin), or nefazodone. If you are currently taking any of these medicine (Lovastatin), tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting to take this medicine. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking amiodarone, “blood thinners” such as warfarin, bosentan, cyclosporine, diltiazem, fluconazole, imatinib, high doses of niacin (1 gram or more per day), fibrates (such as clofibrate or fenofibrate), verapamil, dalfopristin, quinupristin, voriconazole, or st. John’s wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, including muscle problems, alcohol use, allergies (especially to other “statins”), pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function test results. Certain medical conditions, including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may increase your risk for side effects that can result in kidney problems while taking this medicine. Contact your doctor if you develop one of these conditions. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin).
Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. If you take 1 dose daily, take it with your evening meal unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and use of certain interacting medicine. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice at the same time you take this medicine.
Store this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Laboratory and/or medical tests, including liver function tests and blood cholesterol levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Before having any kind of surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin). Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking this medicine may increase the amount of this medicine in your blood, which may increase your risk for serious side effects. Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet while you are taking this medicine.
Before you begin taking any new medicine (Mevacor), either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
For women: do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of childbearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this medicine since lovastatin may cause fetal harm. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
A side effect that may occur while taking this medicine Mevacor include constipation. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience rash, yellow skin or eyes, unusual bleeding or bruising, or sore throat. This medicine Mevacor may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis). Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness). An allergic reaction to this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Additional information
For best results, this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight. Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. Do not share this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) for other health conditions. Keep this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine (Mevacor – Lovastatin) for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
Why should this drug not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Generic Mevacor or similar anticholesterol drugs, you should not take this medication. Make sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced. Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you are being treated for liver disease. Do not take this drug if you are pregnant or nursing.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
You should take Generic Mevacor only if pregnancy is highly unlikely. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, discontinue using it and notify your physician immediately. There may be a potential hazard to the developing baby. This medication may appear in breast milk and may have an effect on nursing infants. If this medication is essential to your health, you should discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.
Mevacor is an Cholesterol medicine in the class of drugs called Lovastatin.You can buy cheap Mevacor from the reputed pharmacies approved by the FDA. The prices quoted here are the cheapest and impossible to find anywhere.Buy Mevacor online without a prescription from a FDA approved Online Pharmacy. Order Mevacor at lowest and cheap prices.
Treating high blood pressure, heart failure, and other heart problems. It may be used alone or with other medicines. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by helping to relax blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure.
Do NOT use Enalapril if:
you are allergic to any ingredient in Enalapril or similar medicines (eg, captopril, lisinopril)
you are pregnant
you are taking dextran sulfate or potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, amiloride)
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Before using Enalapril :
Some medical conditions may interact with Enalapril. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
if you have or have ever had liver or kidney problems or kidney transplantation
if you are receiving dialysis
if you have bone marrow suppression, low blood counts, low blood sodium, high blood potassium, porphyria (a blood disease), giant hives, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus), scleroderma, or a collagen vascular disease
if you have narrowing or hardening of the arteries of the brain or heart, chest pain, or discomfort known as angina
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Enalapril. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Diuretics (eg, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) because excessive decreases in blood pressure may occur, which may cause dizziness, especially upon standing, or fainting
Dextran sulfate because it may increase the risk of allergic reaction (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue) and lightheadedness upon standing
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, aspirin, indomethacin) because the effectiveness of Enalapril may be decreased and the risk of kidney damage may be increased
Lithium or thiopurines (eg, azathioprine) because the risk of serious side effects may be increased by Enalapril
Oral diabetes medicine (eg, glyburide) because side effects, including a low blood sugar level (eg, hunger, shakiness or weakness, dizziness, headache, sweating), may be increased by Enalapril
Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, amiloride) may cause high blood potassium levels (eg, listlessness, confusion, abnormal skin sensations of the arms and legs, heaviness of the limbs, slow or irregular heartbeat, or stopping of the heart) when used with Enalapril
This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Enalapril may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
How to use Enalapril :
Use Enalapril as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Enalapril may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.
If you miss a dose of Enalapril , take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Enalapril.
Important safety information:
Enalapril may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Enalapril with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it.
If vomiting or diarrhea occurs, you will need to take care not to become dehydrated. Contact your doctor for instructions.
Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel “normal.” Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms.
Enalapril may not work as well in black patients. They may also be at greater risk of side effects. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.
Enalapril may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Enalapril. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Enalapril before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
LAB TESTS, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood counts, may be performed while you use Enalapril. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not take Enalapril after the third month of pregnancy. It may cause injury or death to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Enalapril is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Enalapril , check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.
Possible side effects of Enalapril :
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome: Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Diarrhea; dizziness or lightheadedness when sitting up or standing; headache; nausea; persistent, dry cough; tiredness; vomiting.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; hoarseness; infection (fever, sore throat); irregular or slow heartbeat; unusual stomach pain; yellowing of the skin or eyes.
What is the shelf life of the pills?
The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and would differ from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.
Furosemide, a ‘water pill,’ is used to reduce the swelling and fluid retention caused by various medical problems, including heart or liver disease. It is also used to treat high blood pressure. It causes the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.
This medicine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How should this medicine be used?
Furosemide comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day in the morning or twice a day in the morning and afternoon. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take furosemide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Furosemide controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take furosemide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking furosemide without talking to your doctor.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking furosemide,
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to furosemide, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other medications for high blood pressure, aspirin, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), digoxin (Lanoxin), indomethacin (Indocin), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), medications for diabetes, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins. If you also are taking cholestyramine or colestipol, take it at least 1 hour after taking furosemide.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney or liver disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine. If you become pregnant while taking furosemide, call your doctor.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking furosemide.
plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Furosemide may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Follow your doctor’s directions. They may include a daily exercise program and a low-sodium or low-salt diet, potassium supplements, and increased amounts of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, prunes, raisins, and orange juice) in your diet.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Frequent urination may last for up to 6 hours after a dose and should decrease after you take furosemide for a few weeks. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
muscle cramps
weakness
dizziness
confusion
thirst
upset stomach
vomiting
blurred vision
headache
restlessness
constipation
If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
fever
sore throat
ringing in the ears
unusual bleeding or bruising
loss of hearing
severe rash with peeling skin
difficulty breathing or swallowing
rapid, excessive weight loss
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medicine in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away unused furosemide liquid after 60 days. Throw away any medicine that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medicine.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly, and blood tests should be done occasionally.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
tablets contain the active ingredient losartan potassium, which is a type of medicine called an angiotensin II antagonist. It works by preventing the action of a hormone in the body called angiotensin II.
Angiotensin II normally acts on special receptors in the body, with two main results. Firstly, it causes the peripheral blood vessels to narrow, and secondly, it stimulates the production of another hormone called aldosterone. Aldosterone causes salt and water to be retained by the kidneys, which increases the volume of fluid in the blood vessels.
Losartan blocks the receptors that angiotensin II acts on, and so prevents its actions. The main result of this is that the peripheral blood vessels are allowed to widen, which means that there is more space and less resistance in these blood vessels. This is the main mechanism by which the pressure in the blood vessels is lowered.
Blocking the actions of angiotensin II also reduces the action of aldosterone on the kidneys. The result of this is an increase in the amount of fluid removed from the blood by the kidneys. This decreases the amount of fluid in the blood vessels, which also lessens the resistance and pressure in the blood vessels.
The combined overall effect of these changes is to lower the blood pressure, hence losartan is used to treat high blood pressure.
Losartan has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke in people who have high blood pressure together with an enlargement in the left side of their heart (left ventricular hypertrophy). People with both these conditions may therefore be prescribed losartan to reduce their chances of experiencing a stroke. However, this medicine is not effective for this particular use in black patients.
Losartan has also been shown to delay the progression of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes who have related kidney complications. If you have diabetic kidney disease you may be prescribed losartan for this reason, regardless of whether or not you also have high blood pressure.
Use with caution in
Elderly people over 75 years of age
Decreased fluid volume in the body, eg due to diuretic therapy, low salt diet, kidney dialysis, diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration
History of decreased liver function
Moderate to severely decreased kidney function
Narrowing of the artery which supplies blood to the kidneys (renal artery stenosis)
People who have had a kidney transplant
Heart disease characterised by thickening of the internal heart muscle and a blockage inside the heart (hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy)
Narrowing of the main artery of the body (aortic stenosis)
History of swelling of the lips, face or tongue (angioedema) caused by an ACE inhibitor or other medicine.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the developing foetus. You should use adequate contraception to avoid getting pregnant while taking this medicine. Seek medical advice from your doctor. If you get pregnant during treatment you should stop taking this medicine immediately and consult your doctor.
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding mothers should either stop treatment during the time that they are breastfeeding, or not breastfeed and continue treatment. This will depend on how important the medicine is for the mother’s health. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Dizziness
Weakness or loss of strength (asthenia)
Fatigue
Balance problems involving the inner ear (vertigo)
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
High blood potassium level (hyperkalaemia)
Diarrhoea
Low red blood cell count (anaemia) or platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis)
Alteration in results of liver function tests
Migraine
Pain in the muscles and joints
Rash or itching
Cough
Severe swelling of lips, face or tongue (angioedema)
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM : Cardura is in a class of drugs called inhibitor of the alpha 1 adrenergic nervous system. This group also includes alfusosin (Uroxatral), terazosin (Hytrin), tamsulosin (Flomax), and prazosin (Minipress). Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) is lowered by the action of these nerves, which provoke narowwing of blood vessels. As the prostate gland is also under the influence of the alpha adrenergic portion nervous system Cardura also relax the muscles around it. This can makes urination easier for men suffered by enlarged prostate glands. STORAGE : Keep in a dry place at 30 degrees C (86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR : Cardura is applied for the control of elevated blood pressure (hypertension) and for non-malignant prostatic hyperplasia (noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland).
DOSING : The doses of Cardura should be directed by your physician. This can be accepted with meals or without them. Cardura should be taken the same time each day to support constant blood levels. If you are taking antacid drugs do not take Cardura within two hours after it. If stopped you must taper the dose.
DRUG INTERACTIONS : Do not use too much. First doses of Cardura or any Alpha 1 inhibitor should be accepted carefully. The first doses may cause strong lowering of the blood pressure and lead to dizziness and fainting, that’s why it is necessary to fallow the dose strictly. Usually it is correct to extend the dose slowly.
PREGNANCY : During pregnancy this drug should be accepted strictly under indications.
SIDE EFFECTS : An uncommon but dangerous side effect is a reduction of blood cells which normally take part in fighting with infection. Liver damage is uncommon. Dizziness and fainting can occur in case of fast redusing of the blood pressure. The acception of Cardura may lead to swelling of the ankles and fatigue. It is necessary to make periodic blood studies during taking Cardura. This drug may cause nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, nasal congestion and sexual dysfunction, but it happens seldom. You can find out all additional information about this drug at your doctor or pharmacist.
Aldactone flushes excess salt and water from the body and controls high blood pressure. It is used in the diagnosis and treatment of hyperaldosteronism, a condition in which the adrenal gland secretes too much aldosterone (a hormone that regulates the body’s salt and potassium levels). It is also used in treating other conditions that require the elimination of excess fluid from the body. These conditions include congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, cirrhosis of the liver, kidney disease, and unusually low potassium levels in the blood. When used for high blood pressure, Aldactone can be taken alone or with other high blood pressure medications.
Most important fact about Aldactone
If you have high blood pressure, you must take Aldactone regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Aldactone; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Aldactone does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Aldactone?
Take Aldactone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping Aldactone suddenly could cause your condition to worsen.
If you miss a dose…
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions…
Store at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Aldactone.
Side effects may include:
Abdominal cramps, breast development in males, change in potassium levels (leading to such symptoms as dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, and muscle pain or cramps), deepening of voice, diarrhea, drowsiness, excessive hairiness, fever, headache, hives, irregular menstruation, kidney problems, lack of coordination, lethargy, liver problems, mental confusion, postmenopausal bleeding, severe allergic reaction, sexual dysfunction, skin eruptions, stomach bleeding, stomach inflammation, ulcers, vomiting
Why should Aldactone not be prescribed?
You should not take Aldactone if you have kidney disease, an inability to urinate, difficulty urinating, or high potassium levels in your blood.
Special warnings about Aldactone
Potassium supplements or other diuretics that leave your potassium levels high, such as triamterene, should not be used while taking Aldactone, unless specifically indicated by your doctor. Symptoms of excess potassium include tingling sensations, fatigue, muscle weakness or paralysis, and a slow heartbeat. If you develop these problems, call your doctor immediately.
ACE inhibitors, used for blood pressure and heart failure, should not be taken while using Aldactone.
If you are taking Aldactone, your kidney function should be given a complete assessment and should continue to be monitored.
If you have liver disease, your doctor will be cautious about using this medication.
Excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could cause you to lose too much water and cause your blood pressure to become too low. Signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, weakness, drowsiness, muscle fatigue, muscle cramps, restlessness, reduced urination, and a rapid heartbeat. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids whenever dehydration threatens, and be careful when exercising in hot weather.
Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking Aldactone if you have a medical emergency, and before you have surgery or dental treatment.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Aldactone
If Aldactone is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aldactone with the following:
ACE inhibitors such as enalapril maleate and captoprilAlcoholBarbiturates such as phenobarbital and secobarbitalDigoxinIndomethacinLithiumNarcotic drugs such as those containing codeineNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodiumNorepinephrineOther water pills such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazideOther high blood pressure medications such as methyldopa and nifedipineSteroids such as prednisone
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Aldactone during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Aldactone appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.
Recommended dosage for Aldactone
Initial dosages of this medication are used to determine the presence of primary hyperaldosteronism (too much secretion of the adrenal hormone aldosterone). People can be tested with this medication over either a long or a short period of time.
In the long test, you take 400 milligrams per day for 3 to 4 weeks. If your potassium levels and blood pressure are corrected with this dosage in this time period, your physician may assume you have this condition.
In the short test, you receive 400 milligrams per day for 4 days. A laboratory test compares potassium levels while you are on Aldactone and after the medication is stopped. Your doctor may then make a diagnosis.
After the diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism is made and confirmed by more tests, the usual dose is 100 to 400 milligrams per day, prior to surgery. In those who are not good candidates for surgery, this drug is given over the long term at the lowest effective dose.
Fluid Retention (Congestive Heart Failure, Cirrhosis of the Liver, or Kidney Disorders)
The usual starting dosage is 100 milligrams daily either in a single dose or divided into smaller doses. However, your doctor may have you take daily doses as low as 25 milligrams or as high as 200 milligrams.
Your doctor may choose to adjust your dosage after an initial 5-day trial period or add another diuretic medication to this one.
Essential Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
The usual starting dosage is 50 to 100 milligrams daily in a single dose or divided into smaller doses. This medication may be given with another diuretic or with other high blood pressure medications.
It may be up to 2 weeks before the full effect of this medication is seen. Your doctor can then adjust the dosage according to your response.
Hypokalemia (Potassium Loss)
Your doctor may have you take daily dosages of 25 milligrams to 100 milligrams when potassium loss caused by the effects of a diuretic cannot be treated by a potassium supplement.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of Aldactone overdose may include:
Confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, patchy raised skin rash, vomiting
Lopressor, a type of medication known as a beta blocker, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain, usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries), and heart attack. When prescribed for high blood pressure, it is effective when used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications. Beta blockers decrease the force and rate of heart contractions, thereby reducing the demand for oxygen and lowering blood pressure.
Occasionally doctors prescribe Lopressor for the treatment of aggressive behavior, prevention of migraine headache, and relief of temporary anxiety.
An extended-release form of metoprolol, called Toprol-XL, is prescribed for high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure.
Most important fact about Toprol-XL
If you have high blood pressure, you must take Lopressor regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Lopressor; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Lopressor does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Toprol-XL?
Lopressor should be taken with food or immediately after you have eaten.
Take Lopressor exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have disappeared.
Try not to miss any doses. If Toprol-XL is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen.
–If you miss a dose…
If it is within 4 hours of your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
–Storage instructions…
Store Lopressor at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light. Protect from moisture. Store Toprol-XL at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Lopressor.
More common side effects may include:
Depression, diarrhea, dizziness, itching, rash, shortness of breath, slow heartbeat, tiredness
Why should Toprol-XL not be prescribed?
If you have a slow heartbeat, certain heart irregularities, low blood pressure, inadequate output from the heart, or heart failure, you should not take Toprol-XL.
Special warnings about Toprol-XL
If you have a history of congestive heart failure, Lopressor should be used with caution. If you are taking the extended release form of Toprol-XL, Toprol-XL, to relieve heart failure, the condition may temporarily be worsened as your dosage is increased. Be sure to alert your doctor to any signs of worsening heart failure such as weight gain or increasing shortness of breath. If you have peripheral vascular disease, use Toprol-XL with caution.
Do not stop Lopressor abruptly. This can cause increased chest pain and heart attack. Dosage should be gradually reduced.
If you suffer from asthma, seasonal allergies or other bronchial conditions, or liver disease, Toprol-XL should be used with caution.
Ask your doctor if you should check your pulse while taking Lopressor. This medication can cause your heartbeat to become too slow.
This medication may mask some symptoms of low blood sugar in diabetics or alter blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic, discuss this with your doctor.
If you have pheochromocytoma and your doctor prescribes Toprol-XL, you will first need to take an alpha-blocking drug (a different type of blood pressure medication).
Lopressor may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended until you know how you respond to Toprol-XL.
Notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking Lopressor if you have a medical emergency, or before you have surgery or dental treatment.
Notify your doctor if you have any difficulty in breathing.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Lopressor during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Lopressor appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Toprol-XL is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Toprol-XL is finished.
Recommended dosage
ADULTS
Dosages of Lopressor should be individualized by your doctor. It should be taken with or immediately following meals.
High Blood Pressure
The usual starting dosage of Lopressor is a total of 100 milligrams a day taken in 1 or 2 doses, whether taken alone or with a diuretic. The initial dosage of Toprol-XL ranges from 50 to 100 milligrams once a day. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage up to 400 milligrams a day. Generally, the effectiveness of each dosage increase will be seen within a week.
Angina Pectoris
The usual starting dosage is a total of 100 milligrams a day taken in 2 doses of Lopressor or a single dose of Toprol-XL. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage up to 400 milligrams a day.
Generally, the effectiveness of each dosage increase will be seen within a week. If treatment is to be discontinued, your doctor will withdraw the drug gradually over a period of 1 to 2 weeks.
Heart Attack
Lopressor can be used for treatment of heart attack both in the hospital during the early phases and after the individual’s condition has stabilized. Your doctor will determine the dosage according to your needs.
Heart Failure
The recommended starting dose of Toprol-XL is 25 milligrams once daily for 2 weeks (12.5 milligrams in severe cases). Your doctor will double the dose every 2 weeks up to the highest level that works without side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 200 milligrams daily.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Lopressor have not been established in children.
More Information !!!
Toprol XL is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
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