May
31st

Endep (Amitriptyline)

Endep (Amitriptyline) Endep (Amitriptyline)

Amitriptyline is in a group of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. Amitriptyline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced.

Amitriptyline is used to treat symptoms of depression.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Endep (Amitriptyline)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use amitriptyline if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days.

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Endep (Amitriptyline)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use amitriptyline if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take amitriptyline before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking amitriptyline, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

  • heart disease;
  • a history of heart attack, stroke, or seizures;
  • bipolar disorder (manic-depression);
  • schizophrenia or other mental illness;
  • diabetes (amitriptyline may raise or lower blood sugar);
  • overactive thyroid;
  • glaucoma; or
  • problems with urination.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take amitriptyline.

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

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

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Amitriptyline can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Endep (Amitriptyline)?

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

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking amitriptyline. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not stop using amitriptyline without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Stopping this medication suddenly could cause you to have unpleasant side effects. It may take up to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store amitriptyline at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of amitriptyline can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include uneven heartbeats, extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, vomiting, blurred vision, feeling hot or cold, sweating, muscle stiffness, feeling light-headed, fainting, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

Endep (Amitriptyline) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heart rate, chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
  • sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
  • hallucinations, or seizures (convulsions), feeling light-headed, fainting;
  • restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck, uncontrollable shaking or tremor;
  • skin rash, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
  • easy bruising or bleeding;
  • extreme thirst with headache, nausea, vomiting, and weakness; or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
  • dry mouth, unpleasant taste;
  • feeling dizzy, drowsy, or tired;
  • trouble concentrating;
  • nightmares;
  • blurred vision, headache, ringing in your ears;
  • breast swelling (in men or women); or
  • decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Endep (Amitriptyline)?

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, or other antidepressants).

Before taking amitriptyline, tell your doctor if you have used an “SSRI” antidepressant in the past 5 weeks, such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft).

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

  • cimetidine (Tagamet);
  • guanethidine (Ismelin);
  • disulfiram (Antabuse); or
  • heart rhythm medications such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), or quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute).

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with amitriptyline. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Popularity: 33% [?]

May
31st

Elavil (Amitriptyline)

Elavil (Amitriptyline) Elavil (Amitriptyline)

Elavil is in a group of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. Elavil affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced.

Elavil is used to treat symptoms of depression.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Elavil (Amitriptyline)?

Do not use Elavil if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use Elavil if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days.

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Elavil (Amitriptyline)?

Do not use Elavil if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use Elavil if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take Elavil before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking Elavil, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

  • heart disease;
  • a history of heart attack, stroke, or seizures;
  • bipolar disorder (manic-depression);
  • schizophrenia or other mental illness;
  • diabetes (Elavil may raise or lower blood sugar);
  • overactive thyroid;
  • glaucoma; or
  • problems with urination.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Elavil.

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

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

FDA pregnancy category C. Elavil may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Elavil can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give Elavil to anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Elavil?

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

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking Elavil. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not stop using Elavil without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Stopping this medication suddenly could cause you to have unpleasant side effects. It may take up to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store Elavil at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of Elavil can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include uneven heartbeats, extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, vomiting, blurred vision, feeling hot or cold, sweating, muscle stiffness, feeling light-headed, fainting, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

Elavil (Amitriptyline) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heart rate, chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
  • sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
  • hallucinations, or seizures (convulsions), feeling light-headed, fainting;
  • restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck, uncontrollable shaking or tremor;
  • skin rash, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
  • easy bruising or bleeding;
  • extreme thirst with headache, nausea, vomiting, and weakness; or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
  • dry mouth, unpleasant taste;
  • feeling dizzy, drowsy, or tired;
  • trouble concentrating;
  • nightmares;
  • blurred vision, headache, ringing in your ears;
  • breast swelling (in men or women); or
  • decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Elavil (Amitriptyline)?

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, or other antidepressants).

Before taking Elavil, tell your doctor if you have used an “SSRI” antidepressant in the past 5 weeks, such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft).

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

  • cimetidine (Tagamet);
  • guanethidine (Ismelin);
  • disulfiram (Antabuse); or
  • heart rhythm medications such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), or quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute).

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with Elavil. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Popularity: 28% [?]

May
29th

Remeron (Mirtazapine)

Remeron (Mirtazapine)

Mirtazapine is an antidepressant. Mirtazapine affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression.

Mirtazapine is used to treat major depressive disorder.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Remeron (Mirtazapine)?

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Do not use mirtazapine if you have used an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take mirtazapine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking mirtazapine, tell your doctor if you have bipolar disorder, liver or kidney disease, seizures, heart disease, a history of heart attack or stroke, or a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts.

It may take up to several weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of mirtazapine. Mirtazapine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Remeron (Mirtazapine)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to mirtazapine.

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

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

Do not use mirtazapine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take mirtazapine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking mirtazapine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

  • liver or kidney disease;
  • bipolar disorder (manic depression);
  • seizures or epilepsy;
  • heart disease, including angina (chest pain);
  • a history of heart attack or stroke; or
  • a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use mirtazapine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Mirtazapine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether mirtazapine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take mirtazapine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether mirtazapine passes into breast milk. Do not take mirtazapine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication.

The orally disintegrating tablet may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of mirtazapine if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

How should I take Remeron (Mirtazapine)?

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

Take the regular tablet form of mirtazapine with water.

To take mirtazapine orally disintegrating tablets (Remeron SolTab):

  • Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel back the foil from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may break the tablet.
  • Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.
  • Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
  • Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. No water is needed.

Mirtazapine is usually taken once a day at bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

It may take up to several weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store mirtazapine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include confusion, memory problems, drowsiness, and fast heart rate.

Remeron (Mirtazapine) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
  • white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips; or
  • feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious side effects include:

  • drowsiness, dizziness, weakness;
  • nausea, stomach pain;
  • constipation;
  • increased appetite, weight gain;
  • dry mouth; or
  • thirst.

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

What other drugs will affect Remeron (Mirtazapine)?

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by mirtazapine. Tell your doctor if you need to use any of these other medicines while you are taking mirtazapine.

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

Popularity: 29% [?]

May
29th

Bupropion

Bupropion

Bupropion is an antidepressant medication.

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

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

Important information about Bupropion

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

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

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Do not smoke at any time if you are using a nicotine product along with Zyban. Too much nicotine can cause serious side effects. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking bupropion. Alcohol may increase your risk of a seizure while you are taking bupropion.

Before taking Bupropion

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

  • epilepsy or a seizure disorder;
  • an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia;
  • if you are using a second form of bupropion; or
  • if you have suddenly stopped using alcohol or sedatives (such as Valium).

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

If you have certain conditions, may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication. Before taking bupropion, tell your doctor if you have:

  • heart disease, high blood pressure, history of heart attack;
  • a history of head injury, seizures, or brain or spinal cord tumor;
  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease (especially cirrhosis);
  • bipolar disorder (manic depression);

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

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

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking bupropion, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Bupropion passes into breast milk and could be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take this medicine without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Bupropion?

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

Bupropion can be taken with or without food.

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

If you take Zyban (bupropion) to help you stop smoking, you may continue to smoke for about 1 week after you start the medicine. Set a date to quit smoking during the second week of Zyban treatment. By that time you will have enough of the medicine in your blood stream to help you quit smoking. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble quitting after you have used Zyban for at least 7 weeks.

Your doctor may prescribe nicotine patches or gum to help support your smoking cessation treatment. Be sure you read all directions and safety information for the nicotine product. Using nicotine with Zyban may raise your blood pressure and your doctor may want to check your blood pressure regularly. Do not smoke at any time if you are using a nicotine product along with Zyban. Too much nicotine can cause serious side effects.

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

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

Store bupropion at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include seizures, muscle stiffness, hallucinations, fainting, fast or uneven heartbeat, or shallow breathing.

Bupropion side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to bupropion: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • seizure (convulsions);
  • severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
  • fever, swollen glands, rash or itching, joint pain, or general ill feeling;
  • confusion, trouble concentrating; or
  • hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.

Less serious side bupropion effects may include:

  • headache or migraine;
  • sleep problems (insomnia);
  • nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth;
  • dizziness, tremors (shaking);
  • appetite changes, weight loss or gain;
  • mild itching or skin rash, increased sweating; or
  • loss of interest in sex.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Bupropion Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Depression:

Immediate release tablets:
Initial dose: 100 mg orally twice a day.
Maintenance dose: The dosage may be increased in 75 to 100 mg/day increments not more often than every 3 days up to the usual maintenance dose of 100 mg orally 3 times a day. The maximum dose is 450 mg/day, given in 4 divided doses; bupropion should be discontinued if there is not an adequate response to this dose. Single doses should not exceed 150 mg.

Sustained release tablets:
Initial dose: 150 mg orally once a day in the morning.
Maintenance dose: After at least 4 days, the dose may be increased to 100 to 150 mg twice a day. If there is not adequate improvement after several week, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 200 mg twice a day.

Extended release tablets:
Initial dose: 150 mg bupropion orally once a day in the morning.
Maintenance dose: After at least 4 days, the dose may be increased to 300 mg once a day. If there is not adequate improvement after several week, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 450 mg once a day in the morning.

Usual Adult Dose for Smoking Cessation:

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once a day.
Maintenance: Based on clinical response, this dosage may be increased to 300 mg/day, given as 150 mg twice a day, no sooner than 3 days after beginning therapy.

Usual Adult Dose for Seasonal Affective Disorder:

Extended-release:
Initial: 150 mg orally once a day in the morning
Titration: If tolerated, after 7 days dose may be increased to maximum dose of 400 mg once a day administered in the morning. Patients who are unable to tolerate this increase in dose should be reduced back to 150 mg orally once a day.

Usual Geriatric Dose for Depression:

Initial dose: 75 mg bupropion orally twice a day.
Maintenance dose: 75 mg orally 3 times a day.
Maximum doses:
Immediate Release: 150 mg orally 3 times a day.
Sustained Release: 400 mg given as 200 mg twice a day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Attention Deficit Disorder:

Immediate release tablets:
6 to 18 years:
20 to 30 kg: 50 to 150 mg/day in 2 divided doses (investigational).
31 to 40 kg: 75 to 200 mg/day in 2 divided doses (investigational).
>40 kg: 100 to 250 mg/day in 2 divided doses (investigational).

Extended release tablets:
<11 years: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.
11 to 18 years: 150 to 300 mg/day in 2 divided doses (investigational).

What other drugs will affect Bupropion?

Many drugs can interact with bupropion. Below is just a partial list. Tell your doctor if you are using:

  • cancer medicine such as cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar) or thiotepa (Thioplex);
  • heart rhythm medication such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rythmol), and others; or
  • heart or blood pressure medication such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), propranolol (Inderal), and others.

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with bupropion. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you. You may have a higher risk of seizures if you use certain medications together with bupropion. Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:

  • any other antidepressant, or a medicine to treat a psychiatric disorder;
  • antihistamines that make you sleepy;
  • asthma medications or bronchodilators;
  • birth control pills or hormone replacement estrogens;
  • bladder or urinary medications such as oxybutynin (Ditropan, Urotrol);
  • certain antibiotics such as cefdinir (Omnicef), cephalexin (Keflex), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Augmentin), penicillin, and others;
  • diet pills, a stimulant, or ADHD medication such as Adderall or Ritalin;
  • insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth;
  • medication for nausea, vomiting, or motion sickness;
  • medications to treat or prevent malaria;
  • medicines to treat Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, or pituitary gland tumor (prolactinoma);
  • medicines used to prevent organ transplant rejection;
  • narcotic pain medication;
  • a sedative such as diazepam (Valium), and others;
  • a steroid such as prednisone, and others;
  • street drugs such as “speed” or cocaine;
  • theophylline (Theo-Dur, Slo-Bid, Bronkodyl Theolair, Respbid); or
  • ulcer or irritable bowel medications.

Popularity: 26% [?]

May
26th

Keppra (Levetiracetam)

Keppra (Levetiracetam)

Keppra is an anti-epileptic drug. It is used to treat partial onset seizures in adults and children who are at least 4 years old.

Keppra is also used to treat tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children who are at least 6 years old, and myoclonic seizures in adults and children who are at least 12 years old.

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

Important information about Keppra (Levetiracetam)

Do not stop taking Keppra without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. If you stop taking Keppra suddenly, you may have increased seizures. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening seizures.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking Keppra. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking Keppra, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking Keppra. Levetiracetam can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Before taking Keppra (Levetiracetam)

You should not use Keppra if you are allergic to levetiracetam.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking Keppra. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Keppra is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Keppra can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give Keppra to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Keppra (Levetiracetam)?

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

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

Take the medication with a full glass of water. You may take Keppra with or without food.

Measure the liquid form of Keppra with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Do not crush, chew, or break a Keppra XR tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

Keppra can be taken with or without food.

It is important to use Keppra regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Do not stop taking Keppra without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. If you stop taking Keppra suddenly, you may have increased seizures. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening seizures.

Seizures are often treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking Keppra, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking Keppra.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you have missed your dose by only a few hours, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical treatment if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, agitation, aggression, shallow breathing, weakness, or fainting.

Keppra (Levetiracetam) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • hallucinations;
  • fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
  • weakness, lack of coordination;
  • increasing or worsening seizures; or
  • nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious Keppra side effects may include:

  • dizziness, spinning sensation;
  • drowsiness;
  • feeling irritable;
  • headache;
  • runny nose, sore throat; or
  • neck pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Keppra (Levetiracetam)?

There may be other drugs that can interact with Keppra. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Popularity: 19% [?]

May
25th

Anafranil (Clomipramine)

Anafranil (Clomipramine)

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant. It affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced.

Clomipramine is used to treat symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) such as recurrent thoughts or feelings and repetitive actions.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Anafranil (Clomipramine)?

Do not use this medication if you have recently had a heart attack, or if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Do not use clomipramine if you are allergic to it or to similar drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine (Ascendin), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine (Surmontil).

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Anafranil (Clomipramine)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to clomipramine or to similar drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine (Ascendin), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine (Surmontil). Do not use clomipramine if you have recently had a heart attack, or if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take clomipramine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking clomipramine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

  • heart disease or a history of heart attack, stroke, or seizures;
  • bipolar disorder (manic-depression), schizophrenia or other mental illness;
  • kidney or liver disease;
  • overactive thyroid or adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma);
  • glaucoma; or
  • problems with urination.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use clomipramine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

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

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

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Clomipramine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give clomipramine to anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Anafranil (Clomipramine)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take clomipramine with food to reduce stomach upset.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking clomipramine. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not stop using clomipramine without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. It may take up to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store clomipramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of clomipramine can be fatal. Symptoms may include fast or uneven heart rate, extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, vomiting, blurred vision, sweating, muscle stiffness, increased or decreased urination, swelling, shortness of breath, blue lips or fingernails, feeling light-headed, fainting, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

Anafranil (Clomipramine) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
  • sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
  • feeling light-headed, fainting;
  • fever, confusion, muscle stiffness, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
  • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; or
  • urinating more than usual.

Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:

  • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea;
  • dry mouth, unpleasant taste;
  • increased appetite, weight changes;
  • feeling anxious, restless, dizzy, drowsy, or tired;
  • blurred vision, trouble concentrating;
  • sleep problems (insomnia), nightmares;
  • blurred vision;
  • increased sweating; or
  • decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

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

What other drugs will affect Anafranil (Clomipramine)?

Before taking clomipramine, tell your doctor if you have used an “SSRI” antidepressant in the past 5 weeks, such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft).

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

  • cimetidine (Tagamet);
  • guanethidine (Ismelin);
  • methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin, Daytrana);
  • phenytoin (Dilantin);
  • warfarin (Coumadin);
  • heart or blood pressure medication such as clonidine (Catapres) or digoxin (Lanoxin);
  • heart rhythm medications such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), or quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute); or
  • anti-psychotic medications such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), thioridazine (Mellaril), clozapine (Clozaril), olanzapine (Zyprexa, Zydis), quetiapine (Seroquel), risperidone (Risperdal), or ziprasidone (Geodon).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use clomipramine, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There are many other medicines that can interact with clomipramine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Popularity: 16% [?]

May
24th

Abilify (Aripiprazole)

Abilify (Aripiprazole)

Abilify is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in the brain.

Abilify is used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression). It is also used together with other medications to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

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

Important information about Abilify (Aripiprazole)

Abilify is not for use in psychotic conditions that are related to dementia. Abilify may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. Stop using Abilify and call your doctor at once if you have the following symptoms: fever with stiff muscles and rapid heart rate; uncontrolled muscle movements; symptoms that come on suddenly such as numbness or weakness, severe headache, and problems with vision, speech, or balance. Abilify can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Abilify.

Before you take aripiprazole, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Abilify.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking Abilify.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

Abilify is not for use in psychotic conditions that are related to dementia. Abilify may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions.

Before taking Abilify, tell your doctor if you have:

  • liver or kidney disease;
  • heart disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems;
  • a history of heart attack or stroke;
  • a history of breast cancer;
  • seizures or epilepsy;
  • a personal or family history of diabetes; or
  • trouble swallowing.

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

The liquid form (oral solution) of this medication may contain up to 15 grams of sugar per dose. Before taking Abilify oral solution, tell your doctor if you have diabetes. The orally disintegrating tablet form of this medication may contain over 3 milligrams of phenylalanine per tablet. Before taking Abilify Discmelt, tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria.

Abilify may cause you to have high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Talk to your doctor if you have any signs of hyperglycemia such as increased thirst or urination, excessive hunger, or weakness. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis while you are taking Abilify.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Abilify is harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Abilify can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

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

Do not take aripiprazole for longer than 6 weeks unless your doctor has told you to. Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Abilify can be taken with or without food.

Abilify is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor ’s instructions.

Measure the liquid form of Abilify with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

To take aripiprazole orally disintegrating tablets (Abilify Discmelt):

  • Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel back the foil from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.
  • Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.
  • Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
  • Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet.

It is important to take Abilify regularly to get the most benefit.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store Abilify tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Abilify oral solution should be stored in the refrigerator and can be used for up to 6 months after opening.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include drowsiness, vomiting, agitation, aggression, confusion, tremors, fast or slow heart rate, seizure (convulsions), trouble breathing, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

Abilify (Aripiprazole) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Abilify and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
  • jerky muscle movements you cannot control;
  • sudden numbness or weakness, headache, confusion, or problems with vision, speech, or balance;
  • increased thirst or urination, loss of appetite, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, nausea, and vomiting
  • seizure (convulsions);
  • thoughts of hurting yourself;
  • feeling like you might pass out;
  • jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes); or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious Abilify side effects may include:

  • choking or trouble swallowing;
  • dizziness, drowsiness, or weakness;
  • constipation, mild stomach upset;
  • headache, anxiety;
  • sleep problems (insomnia); or
  • weight gain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect Abilify (Aripiprazole)?

Before you take Abilify, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Abilify.

Also tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

Before taking Abilify, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

  • a medication to treat high blood pressure or a heart condition;
  • carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton), or phenytoin (Dilantin);
  • rifabutin (Mycobutin) or rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater);
  • ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox);
  • quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinaglute); or
  • fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), or paroxetine (Paxil).

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

Popularity: 26% [?]

May
12th

Amitriptyline

Amitriptyline

Amitriptyline is in a group of drugs called tricyclic antidepressants. Amitriptyline affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced.

Amitriptyline is used to treat symptoms of depression.

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

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

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use amitriptyline if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days.

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

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

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

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to amitriptyline, or if you have recently had a heart attack. Do not use amitriptyline if you have taken cisapride (Propulsid) or used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take amitriptyline before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking amitriptyline, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

  • heart disease;
  • a history of heart attack, stroke, or seizures;
  • bipolar disorder (manic-depression);
  • schizophrenia or other mental illness;
  • diabetes (amitriptyline may raise or lower blood sugar);
  • overactive thyroid;
  • glaucoma; or
  • problems with urination.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take amitriptyline.

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

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

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Amitriptyline can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Amitriptyline?

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

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking amitriptyline. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Do not stop using amitriptyline without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Stopping this medication suddenly could cause you to have unpleasant side effects. It may take up to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment. Store amitriptyline at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of amitriptyline can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include uneven heartbeats, extreme drowsiness, confusion, agitation, vomiting, blurred vision, feeling hot or cold, sweating, muscle stiffness, feeling light-headed, fainting, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

Amitriptyline side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heart rate, chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
  • sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
  • hallucinations, or seizures (convulsions), feeling light-headed, fainting;
  • restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck, uncontrollable shaking or tremor;
  • skin rash, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
  • easy bruising or bleeding;
  • extreme thirst with headache, nausea, vomiting, and weakness; or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
  • dry mouth, unpleasant taste;
  • feeling dizzy, drowsy, or tired;
  • trouble concentrating;
  • nightmares;
  • blurred vision, headache, ringing in your ears;
  • breast swelling (in men or women); or
  • decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

Amitriptyline Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Depression:

Oral:
Initial dose: 25 to 100 mg per day in 3 to 4 divided doses or 50 to 100 mg at bedtime.
Maintenance dose: 25 to 150 mg per day in single or 3 to 4 divided doses. 25 mg per day at bedtime has been used for premenstrual depression. Dose increases should be made gradually. A small number of hospitalized patients may need as much as 300 mg per day. ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate monitoring is recommended for patients receiving high doses.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Adult Dose for Migraine Prophylaxis:

10 mg orally once a day at bedtime.

Usual Adult Dose for Dysthymia:

Oral:
Initial dose: 75 mg per day orally in single or divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 150 to 300 mg per day orally in single or divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate monitoring is recommended for patients receiving high doses.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Adult Dose for Pain:

Oral:
Initial dose: 75 mg per day orally in single or divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 150 to 300 mg per day orally in single or divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate monitoring is recommended for patients receiving high doses.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Adult Dose for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

Oral:
Initial dose: 75 mg per day orally in single or divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 150 to 300 mg per day orally in single or divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate monitoring is recommended for patients receiving high doses.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Adult Dose for Somatoform Pain Disorder:

Oral:
Initial dose: 75 mg per day orally in single or divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 150 to 300 mg per day orally in single or divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate monitoring is recommended for patients receiving high doses.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Geriatric Dose for Depression:

Oral:
10 mg orally 3 times a day and 20 mg at bedtime may be satisfactory in patients who do not tolerate higher dosages. Any dose increases should be made gradually.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Depression:

9 to 12 years:
Initial dose: 1 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses
Maintenance dose: 1 to 5 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. ECG, heart rate, and blood pressure monitoring is recommended when doses exceed 3 mg/kg/day.

12 to 18 years:
Oral:
Initial dose: 25 to 50 mg per day orally in single or 3 to 4 divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 20 to 200 mg per day in divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually. 10 mg orally 3 times a day and 20 mg at bedtime may be satisfactory in patients who do not tolerate higher dosages.

IM:
20 to 30 mg up to 4 times a day. Patients should be switched to oral therapy as soon as possible.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain:

1 to 12 years:
Initial dose: 0.1 mg/kg orally at bedtime (investigational).
Maintenance dose: May increase as tolerated over 2 to 3 weeks to 0.5 to 2 mg/kg at bedtime.

12 to 18 years:
Initial dose: 25 mg twice daily.
Maintenance dose: 50 to 200 mg per day in divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Migraine Prophylaxis:

6 to 12 years: 0.25 to 1.5 mg/kg/day once daily at bedtime (investigational). Dose increases should be made gradually.

12 to 18 years:
Initial dose: 25 mg twice daily.
Maintenance dose: 50 to 200 mg per day in divided doses. Dose increases should be made gradually.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Urinary Incontinence:

2 to 6 years: 10 mg orally at bedtime has been tried for nocturnal enuresis (investigational).

What other drugs will affect Amitriptyline?

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, or other antidepressants).

Before taking amitriptyline, tell your doctor if you have used an “SSRI” antidepressant in the past 5 weeks, such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft).

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

  • cimetidine (Tagamet);
  • guanethidine (Ismelin);
  • disulfiram (Antabuse); or
  • heart rhythm medications such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), or quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute).

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with amitriptyline. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Popularity: 14% [?]

May
11th

Compazine (Prochlorperazine)

Compazine (Prochlorperazine)

Prochlorperazine is an anti-psychotic medication in a group of drugs called phenothiazines (FEEN-oh-THYE-a-zeens). It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.

Prochlorperazine is used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. It is also used to treat anxiety, and to control severe nausea and vomiting.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Compazine (Prochlorperazine)?

Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have twitching or uncontrollable movements of your eyes, lips, tongue, face, arms, or legs. These could be early signs of dangerous side effects. Prochlorperazine is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Prochlorperazine may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. Do not use prochlorperazine if you have brain damage, bone marrow depression, or are also using large amounts of alcohol or medicines that make you sleepy. Do not use if you are allergic to prochlorperazine or other phenothiazines.

Before you take prochlorperazine, tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, heart disease or high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, severe asthma or breathing problems, a history of seizures, adrenal gland tumor, Parkinson’s disease, enlarged prostate or urination problems, an infectious disease (such as chickenpox, measles, flu, or central nervous system infection), past or present breast cancer, low levels of calcium in your blood, or if you have ever had a serious side effect while using prochlorperazine or similar medicines.

Before taking prochlorperazine, tell your doctor about all other medications you use.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Compazine (Prochlorperazine)?

Prochlorperazine is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Prochlorperazine may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. Do not use prochlorperazine if you have brain damage, bone marrow depression, or are also using large amounts of alcohol or medicines that make you sleepy. Do not use if you are allergic to prochlorperazine or other phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Permitil), perphenazine (Trilafon), promethazine (Adgan, Pentazine, Phenergan), thioridazine (Mellaril), or trifluoperazine (Stelazine).

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before you take prochlorperazine, tell your doctor if you have:

  • glaucoma;
  • heart disease or high blood pressure;
  • liver or kidney disease;
  • severe asthma, emphysema, or other breathing problem;
  • a history of seizures;
  • adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma);
  • Parkinson’s disease;
  • an enlarged prostate or urination problems;
  • an infectious disease such as chickenpox, measles, stomach flu, or an infection of the central nervous system;
  • past or present breast cancer;
  • low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or
  • if you have ever had a serious side effect while using prochlorperazine or another phenothiazine.

Tell your doctor if you will be exposed to extreme heat or cold, or to insecticide poisons while you are taking prochlorperazine.

It is not known whether prochlorperazine will harm an unborn baby. Prochlorperazine may cause side effects in a newborn if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while taking prochlorperazine. Prochlorperazine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medication. Prochlorperazine is not for use in children younger than 2 years old or weighing less than 20 pounds. Talk with your doctor before giving this medication to a child who has been ill with a fever or flu symptoms.

How should I take Compazine (Prochlorperazine)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

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

If you need to have an x-ray or CT scan of your spinal column using a dye that is injected into a vein, you may need to temporarily stop taking prochlorperazine. Be sure the doctor knows ahead of time that you are using this medication.

Do not stop using prochlorperazine suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or feeling shaky. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using prochlorperazine.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include dry mouth, constipation, bloating or stomach cramps, extreme drowsiness or feeling restless and agitated, changes in heart rate, fever, and fainting.

Compazine (Prochlorperazine) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using prochlorperazine and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • twitching or uncontrollable movements of your eyes, lips, tongue, face, arms, or legs;
  • tremor (uncontrolled shaking), drooling, trouble swallowing, problems with balance or walking;
  • feeling restless, jittery, or agitated;
  • high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats, rapid breathing;
  • feeling like you might pass out;
  • seizure (black-out or convulsions);
  • decreased night vision, tunnel vision, watery eyes, increased sensitivity to light;
  • nausea and stomach pain, skin rash, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
  • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, sore throat, flu symptoms;
  • urinating less than usual or not at all;
  • joint pain or swelling with fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, chest pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or behavior, and patchy skin color; or
  • slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness, anxiety;
  • sleep problems (insomnia), strange dreams;
  • dry mouth, stuffy nose;
  • blurred vision;
  • constipation;
  • breast swelling or discharge;
  • a missed menstrual period;
  • weight gain, swelling in your hands or feet;
  • impotence, trouble having an orgasm;
  • mild itching or skin rash; or
  • headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Compazine (Prochlorperazine)?

Cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can interact with prochlorperazine and cause medical problems or increase side effects. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other anti-psychotic medications.

Also tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

  • atropine (Atreza, Sal-Tropine);
  • lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid);
  • a diuretic (water pill);
  • an antibiotic;
  • birth control pills or hormone replacement estrogens;
  • blood pressure medication;
  • a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);
  • certain asthma medications or bronchodilators;
  • drugs to treat a prostate disorder, such as alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), terazosin (Hytrin), tamsulosin (Flomax);
  • incontinence medications;
  • insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth;
  • medication for nausea, vomiting, or motion sickness;
  • medications to treat or prevent malaria;
  • medications used for general anesthesia;
  • medicines used to prevent organ transplant rejection;
  • numbing medicine such as lidocaine or Novocain;
  • a stimulant or ADHD medication;
  • ulcer or irritable bowel medications; or
  • medicines to treat Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, or pituitary gland tumor (prolactinoma).

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with prochlorperazine. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Popularity: 21% [?]



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