Nov
15th

Indinavir

Indinavir

Indinavir is an antiviral medication in a group of HIV medicines called protease (PRO-tee-ayz) inhibitors. Indinavir prevents human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) cells from multiplying in your body.

Indinavir is used to treat HIV, which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Indinavir is not a cure for HIV or AIDS.

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

What are the possible side effects of Indinavir?

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 taking indinavir and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash
  • pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness
  • increased urination or extreme thirst
  • pain in your side or lower back, blood in your urine
  • easy bruising or bleeding
  • signs of a new infection, such as fever or chills, cough, or flu symptoms; or
  • nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Less serious side effects may include:

  • mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating
  • numbness or tingling, especially around your mouth
  • tired feeling
  • headache, mood changes; or
  • changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist)

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 affect Indinavir?

Before taking indinavir, tell your doctor if you are using:

  • injectable midazolam (Versed)
  • fluticasone (Advair, Flonase, Flovent)
  • St. John’s wort
  • antibiotics such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), rifabutin (Mycobutin), or rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater)
  • antidepressants such as trazodone (Desyrel), and others
  • a calcium channel blocker such as amlodipine (Caduet, Lotrel, Norvasc), diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Dilacor), felodipine (Plendil), nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), or verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan)
  • cholesterol-lowering medicine such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor, Altocor), rosuvastatin (Crestor), or simvastatin (Zocor)
  • drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune), sirolimus (Rapamune), or tacrolimus (Prograf)
  • heart rhythm medications such as quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex)
  • insulin or diabetes medication you take by mouth
  • medicines to treat erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), or vardenafil (Levitra)
  • other HIV /AIDS medicine such as atazanavir (Reyataz), delavirdine (Rescriptor), efavirenz (Sustiva), lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra), or ritonavir (Norvir); or
  • seizure medications such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol), phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton), or phenytoin (Dilantin)

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with indinavir. 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.

How should I take Indinavir?

Take indinavir 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.

This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Take indinavir with a full glass (8 ounces) of water or skim milk. You may also drink juice, coffee, or tea with this medication. Drink at least 6 glasses of water each day to prevent kidney stones while you are taking indinavir.

Indinavir should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

If you prefer to take the medication with food, eat only a light meal, such as dry toast with jelly, or corn flakes with skim milk and sugar. Avoid eating a high-fat meal.

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

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

HIV/AIDS is usually 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. Every person with HIV or AIDS should remain under the care of a doctor.

Store indinavir at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the capsules in their original container, along with the packet of moisture-absorbing preservative that comes with indinavir capsules.

What happens if I overdose on Indinavir?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of an indinavir overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lower back pain, and blood in your urine.

What happens if I miss a dose of Indinavir?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. If you are more than 2 hours late in taking your indinavir, skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

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

Do not take indinavir with amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone), cisapride (Propulsid), pimozide (Orap), alprazolam (Xanax), oral midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion), or an ergot medicine such as Ergomar, Cafergot, Wigraine, D.H.E. 45, Migranal, Methergine.

These drugs can cause life-threatening side effects if you use them while you are taking indinavir.

There are many other medicines that can interact with indinavir. 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.

HIV/AIDS is usually treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor. Every person with HIV or AIDS should remain under the care of a doctor.

Taking indinavir will not prevent you from passing HIV to other people through unprotected sex or sharing of needles. Talk with your doctor about safe methods of preventing HIV transmission during sex, such as using a condom and spermicide. Sharing drug or medicine needles is never safe, even for a healthy person.

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

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to indinavir.

Do not take indinavir with amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone), cisapride (Propulsid), pimozide (Orap), alprazolam (Xanax), oral midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion), or ergot medicines such as ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal Nasal Spray), ergonovine (Ergotrate), or methylergonovine (Methergine).

These drugs can cause life-threatening side effects if you use them while you are taking indinavir.

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

  • liver disease
  • kidney disease, or a history of kidney stones
  • diabetes
  • a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia; or
  • high cholesterol or triglycerides

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

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. HIV can be passed to the baby if the mother is not properly treated during pregnancy. Take all of your HIV medicines as directed to control your infection while you are pregnant.

Your name may need to be listed on an antiviral pregnancy registry when you start using this medication.

You should not breast-feed while you are using indinavir. Women with HIV or AIDS should not breast-feed at all. Even if your baby is born without HIV, you may still pass the virus to the baby in your breast milk.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Nov
15th

Folic Acid

Folic Acid

Folic Acid is to treat folic acid deficiency and megaloblastic anemia caused by folic acid deficiency.

How Taken

Use Folic Acid as directed by your doctor.

  • Folic Acid may be taken with or without food.
  • Swallow whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

Folic Acid is a vitamin. It works by helping the body to produce blood cells.

Folic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is important for the formation of red and white blood cells. Folic acid is present in foods such as dried beans, peas, lentils, oranges, whole-wheat products, liver, asparagus, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and spinach.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Folic Acid and are taking it regularly, 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.

Storage

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

Warnings Precautions

Do not use Folic Acid if:

  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Folic Acid.

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

Important :

  • Check any other vitamin products you may be taking for folic acid content. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if any other medicines that you take contain folic acid.
  • Lab tests, including red blood cell counts, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

  • severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue).

More Information

Folic Acid 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.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Nov
14th

Vitamin C

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a vitamin that is necessary for normal growth and development.

How Taken

Use Vitamin C as directed by your doctor.

  • Take Vitamin C by mouth with or without food.
  • Chew a pill before swallowing.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vitamin C is required for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It is necessary to form collagen, an important protein used to make skin, scar tissue, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Vitamin C is essential for the healing of wounds, and for the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.

The body cannot store vitamins. Leftover amounts of the vitamins leave the body through the urine. That means you need a continuous supply of such vitamins in your diet.

A severe form of vitamin C deficiency is known as scurvy, which mainly affects older, malnourished adults.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Vitamin C and are taking it regularly, 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.

Storage

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

Warnings Precautions

  • Taking megadoses of vitamin C may lead to kidney damage, diarrhea, iron overload and accelerated atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). It increases the risk of kidney stones in some people. If stopped abruptly, it may result in rebound scurvy (vitamin C deficiency). Doses between 2000 and 5000 mg per day may have anti-coagulant properties, making it difficult for people to stop bleeding.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

  • Dry and splitting hair; gingivitis (inflammation of the gums); bleeding gums; rough, dry, scaly skin; decreased wound-healing rate; easy bruising; nosebleeds; weakened tooth enamel; swollen and painful joints; anemia; decreased ability to fight infection; possible weight gain because of slowed metabolism.

More Information

Vitamin C is used therapeutically in huge doses from 100 to 10,000 mg a day. In acute poisoning or infections, 1,000 to 2,000 mg, preferably in injection form, can be administered every one and a half or two hours.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Nov
14th

Vitamin B-1

Vitamin B-1

Vitamin B-1 is a water soluble vitamin that readily enters and exits the body daily so it must be taken internally on a daily basis.
Vitamin B-1 is helps maintain a normal metabolism and helps burn carbohydrates. Vitamin B-1 is a group of water-soluble vitamins that participates in many of the chemical reactions in the body. It is also called thiamine, thiamin and aneurin.
Vitamin B-1 is plays an essential role as a cofactor in key reactions in carbohydrate metabolism. It is also involved in the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids and may have non-coenzyme (non-cofactor) roles in excitable cells.

How Taken

Use Vitamin B-1 as directed by your doctor.

  • Take Vitamin B-1 by mouth with or without food.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to Vitamin B-1.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vitamin B-1 is essential for the body to be able to use carbohydrate as an energy source as well as for metabolising amino acids. A person’s requirements for Vitamin B-1 are increased when they are relying heavily on carbohydrates for their main source of energy. In humans, Vitamin B-1 can be synthesized in the large intestine as thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP). The main circulating form of Vitamin B-1 is thiamine diphosphate (TDP) which is found almost completely in red blood cells. TPP is too large a molecule to be absorbed across the intestinal mucosa. It requires the use of an enzyme to cleave the smaller thiamin molecule out of the compound. TDP is a cofactor for several enzymes - pyruvate dehydrogenase and transketolase (activity is sometimes measured as an indicator of vitamin B1 deficiency) and thiamine triphosphate is thought to be important in nerve conduction.
Vitamin B-1 is needed to process carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Every cell of the body requires Vitamin B-1 to form the fuel the body runs on - ATP. Nerve cells require vitamin B1 in order to function normally. Vitamin B-1 assists in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism, and the production of hydrochloric acid, which is important for proper digestion.
Vitamin B-1 also enhances circulation and optimizes cognitive activity and brain function. Vitamin B-1 has a positive effect on energy, growth, normal appetite, and learning capacity, and is needed for muscle tone of the intestines, stomach, and heart. Vitamin B-1 acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from generative effects of aging, alcohol consumption, and smoking. May improve glucose tolerance and retard arterial blockages, especially in diabetics.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Vitamin B-1 and are taking it regularly, 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.

Storage

Store Vitamin B-1 at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Vitamin B-1out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings Precautions

  • Vitamin B-1 is a water-soluble vitamin and as such, it is least likely to reach toxic levels. There is little danger of thiamin toxicity when it is taken orally. However, there is an exception. When Vitamin B-1 is taken intravenously (injections), it has been reported to cause anaphylactic shock in few people.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

  • Dry and splitting hair; gingivitis (inflammation of the gums); bleeding gums; rough, dry, scaly skin; decreased wound-healing rate; easy bruising; nosebleeds; weakened tooth enamel; swollen and painful joints; anemia; decreased ability to fight infection; possible weight gain because of slowed metabolism.

More Information

Vitamin B-1 has an important function in nerve membranes and in nerve conduction, although the mechanism is unclear. Vitamin B-1 has a specific role in neurophysiology separate from its co-enzyme function. It works at the nerve cell membrane to allow displacement so that sodium ions can freely cross the membrane.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Nov
13th

Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6, also called pyridoxine, is one of eight water-soluble B vitamins. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) serves as coenzyme and is involved in the metabolism of protein and carbohydrates, the production of insulin and red and white blood cells, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, enzymes, and prostaglandins. Vitamin B-6 is essential in numerous biochemical pathways involving red blood cells, the immune system, central nervous system function, protein metabolism, homocysteine metabolism, and also the production of energy.

Pyridoxine is an especially important vitamin for maintaining healthy nerve and muscle cells and it aids in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material. It is necessary for proper absorption of vitamin B-12 and for the production of red blood cells and cells of the immune system.

How Taken

Use Vitamin B-6 as directed by your doctor.

  • Take Vitamin B-6 by mouth with or without food.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to Vitamin B-6.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vitamin B-6 is indicated for the treatment of sideroblast anemia, neurologic disturbances, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and cheilosis. In combination with folic acid and Vitamin B-12, Vitamin B-6 lowers homocysteine levels which is an amino acid linked to heart disease and stroke, and possibly other diseases as well, such as osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Pyridoxine is required for the balancing of hormonal changes in women as well as assisting the immune system and the growth of new cells.

Vitamin B-6 may be helpful in some women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and may be useful in some cases of gestational diabetes and for protection against metabolic imbalances associated with the use of some oral contraceptives. Vitamin B-6 promotes iron excretion and this has been used as a rationale for treatment in iron storage diseases.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Vitamin B-6 and are taking it regularly, 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.

Storage

Store Vitamin B-6 at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Vitamin B-6 out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings Precautions

  • Vitamin B-6 is usually safe, at intakes up to 200 mg per day in adults. However, Vitamin B-6 can cause neurological disorders, such as loss of sensation in legs and imbalance, when taken in high doses (200 mg or more per day) over a long period of time. Vitamin B-6 toxicity can damage sensory nerves, leading to numbness in the hands and feet as well as difficulty walking. Symptoms of a pyridoxine overdose may include poor coordination, staggering, numbness, decreased sensation to touch, temperature, and vibration; and tiredness for up to six months.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

  • Dry and splitting hair; gingivitis (inflammation of the gums); bleeding gums; rough, dry, scaly skin; decreased wound-healing rate; easy bruising; nosebleeds; weakened tooth enamel; swollen and painful joints; anemia; decreased ability to fight infection; possible weight gain because of slowed metabolism.

More Information

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble compound that was discovered in the 1930s during nutrition studies on rats. The vitamin was named pyridoxine to indicate its structural homology to pyridine. Later it was shown that vitamin B6 could exist in two other, slightly different, chemical forms, termed pyridoxal and pyridoxamine. All three forms of vitamin B6 are precursors of an activated compound known as pyridoxal 5 -phosphate (PLP), which plays a vital role as the cofactor of a large number of essential enzymes in the human body.

Enzymes dependent on PLP focus a wide variety of chemical reactions mainly involving amino acids. The reactions carried out by the PLP-dependent enzymes that act on amino acids include transfer of the amino group, decarboxylation, racemization, and beta- or gamma-elimination or replacement. Such versatility arises from the ability of PLP to covalently bind the substrate, and then to act as an electrophilic catalyst, thereby stabilizing different types of carbanionic reaction intermediates.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Nov
12th

Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is stored in the liver. Vitamin B-12 is a collective term for a group of cobalt-containing compounds known as corrinoids. The principal cobalamins are cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin and the two coenzyme forms of Vitamin B-12, methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin (adenosylcobalamin). Cyanocobalamin is the principal form of the vitamin used for fortification of foods and in nutritional supplements. Vitamin B-12 is also called cobalamin because it contains the metal cobalt. Vitamin B-12 is bound to the protein in food. Hydrochloric acid in the stomach releases B-12 from proteins in foods during digestion. Hydroxocobalamin is a man-made form of Vitamin B-12. The advantage using hydroxocobalamin is the lack of adverse effects seen with the nitrites such as methemoglobinemia and hypotension. It works by exchanging the hydroxy group for cyanide to form the non-toxic cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12).

How Taken

Use Vitamin B-12 as directed by your doctor.

  • Take Vitamin B-12 by mouth with or without food.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to Vitamin B-12.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vitamin B-12’s main functions are in the formation of red blood cells and the maintenence of a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B-12 is an especially important vitamin for maintaining healthy nerve cells and it aids in the production of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material. Cyanocobalamin works to promote normal growth and development, helps with certain types of nerve damage, and treats pernicious anemia. Vitamin B-12 helps in the formation of red blood cells and in the maintenance of the central nervous system. Nerves are surrounded by an insulating fatty sheath comprised of a complex protein called myelin. B12 plays a vital role in the metabolism of fatty acids essential for the maintenance of myelin. Prolonged B12 deficiency can lead to nerve degeneration and irreversible neurological damage.

Vitamin B-12 is essential for the proper production of blood platelets and red and white blood cells, the manufacture of vital substances needed for cell function, and the metabolism of nutrients necessary for cell growth. It participates in a variety of cellular reactions to release energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein. Vitamin B-12 helps maintain the myelin sheath that insulates nerve fibers from each other. People with Vitamin B-12 deficiency show irregular destruction of the myelin sheaths, which eventually causes paralysis and death. Vitamin B-12 levels decrease with age and various measures of cognitive impairment are associated with reduced B-12 status. The most important use of Vitamin B-12 is to treat the symptoms of pernicious anemia. Vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B12 are critical to the health of the nervous system and to a process that clears homocysteine from the blood. Vitamins B-12, B-6, and B-9 (folate) work closely together to control blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine. Elevated plasma homocysteine concentrations are considered to be a risk factor for vascular disease and birth defects such as neural tube defects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Vitamin B-12 and are taking it regularly, 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.

Storage

Store Vitamin B-12 at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Vitamin B-12 out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings Precautions

  • Vitamin B-12 is considered safe and non-toxic. No toxic or adverse effects have been associated with large intakes of vitamin B12 from food or supplements in healthy people.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

  • Dry and splitting hair; gingivitis (inflammation of the gums); bleeding gums; rough, dry, scaly skin; decreased wound-healing rate; easy bruising; nosebleeds; weakened tooth enamel; swollen and painful joints; anemia; decreased ability to fight infection; possible weight gain because of slowed metabolism.

More Information

Vitamin B-12 deficiency occurs when there is an abnormally low level of Vitamin B-12 absorbed in the body. The absorption of dietary Vitamin B-12 occurs in the small intestine and requires a secretion from the stomach known as intrinsic factor. If intrinsic factor is deficient, absorption of Vitamin B-12 is severely diminished. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can be a factor in a variety of different health conditions and disorders. B12 deficiency inhibits of severy decrease the bodies ability to produce blood, increases blood cell destruction, and is very harmful to the nervous system. Characteristic signs of B-12 deficiency include fatigue, weakness, nausea, constipation, flatulence (gas), loss of appetite, and weight loss. Symptoms of severe Vitamin B-12 deficiency (regardless of the cause) may include burning of the tongue, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, intermittent constipation and diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, menstrual symptoms, psychological symptoms, and nervous system problems, such as numbness and tingling in the feet and hands.

Popularity: 5% [?]

Nov
12th

Cystone

Cystone

Cystone naturally promotes a healthy urinary tract and helps maintain normal urine composition and mucosal integrity. It is a natural aid in maintaining healthy water management, and a diuretic that relieves temporary water - weight gain. As a dietary supplement, Cystone assists kidneys and urinary tract in normal functions. It provides normal absorption and utilization for overall healthy urinary tract.

How Taken

In urolithiasis & crystalluria: 2 capsules twice daily for four to six months or till the stone(s) passes out. In urinary infections: 1 capsules twice daily until the infection is cleared. In acute renal colic: The dose may be increased to 2 capsules thrice daily. In burning micturition: 1 capsule twice daily for 4 to 5 days. To prevent recurrence of renal stones: 1 capsule twice daily for 4 to 6 months every year, more particularly during summer months. Allow several weeks for benefits. The use of natural products provides progressive but long-lasting results.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Cystone prevents supersaturation of lithogenic substances, controls oxamide (a substance that precipitates stone formation) absorption from the intestine and corrects the crystalloid-colloid imbalance. Cystone inhibits calculogenesis by reducing stone-forming substances like oxalic acid, calcium hydroxyproline, and causes their expulsion by micropulverization. Cystone causes disintegration of the calculi and the crystals by acting on the mucin, which binds the particles together.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store at the room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.

Warnings Precautions

No absolute contraindications.

Possible Side Effects

Cystone is not known to have any side effects if taken as per the prescribed dosage.

More Information

Cystone has been scientifically validated by many clinical studies. Its formula has been subjected to the modern scrutiny of clinical testing to prove its benefits in gently addressing your health concerns, and its quality is controlled by the most sophisticated chromatographic “fingerprinting” techniques.

Popularity: 4% [?]

Nov
11th

Detrol (Tolterodine)

Detrol (Tolterodine)

Detrol reduces spasms of the bladder muscles.

Detrol is used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence.

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

Important information about Detrol (Tolterodine)

Do not take Detrol if you are allergic to tolterodine, if you have uncontrolled glaucoma, or if you have a blockage of the urinary tract, stomach, or intestines.

Before taking Detrol, tell your doctor if you have a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.”

Do not crush, chew, break, or open a controlled-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. Detrol 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. It can increase some of the side effects of Detrol. There are many other medicines that can interact with Detrol. 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.

Before taking Detrol (Tolterodine)

Do not take Detrol if you are allergic to tolterodine or if you have:

  • a blockage of the urinary tract (difficulty urinating);
  • a blockage in your stomach or intestines; or
  • untreated or uncontrolled glaucoma.

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

  • liver disease;
  • kidney disease;
  • glaucoma; or
  • a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.”

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

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. It is not known whether Detrol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Detrol (Tolterodine)?

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

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

Take this medication with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a controlled-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. Store Detrol 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 medication.

Overdose symptoms may include dry mouth, blurred vision, and fast heartbeat.

Detrol (Tolterodine) 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 Detrol and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • chest pain, fast or uneven heart rate;
  • feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
  • swelling, rapid weight gain;
  • confusion, hallucinations;
  • urinating less than usual or not at all; or
  • painful or difficult urination.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • dry mouth, dry eyes;
  • blurred vision;
  • dizziness, drowsiness;
  • constipation or diarrhea;
  • stomach pain or upset;
  • joint pain; or
  • headache.

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 Detrol (Tolterodine)?

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

  • arsenic trioxide (Trisenox);
  • bepridil (Vascor),
  • cisapride (Propulsid);
  • chloroquine (Arelan) or halofantrine (Halfan);
  • cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune);
  • droperidol (Inapsine);
  • narcotic medication such as levomethadyl (Orlaam); or methadone (Dolophine, Methadose);
  • pentamidine (NebuPent, Pentam);
  • vinblastine (Velban);
  • antibiotics such as azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin), dirithromycin (Dynabac), erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Erythrocin, Ery-Tab), pentamidine (NebuPent, Pentam), sparfloxacin (Zagam), telithromycin (Ketek);
  • medicines to treat psychiatric disorder, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil) pimozide (Orap), or thioridazine (Mellaril); or
  • heart rhythm medicine such as amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone), dofetilide (Tikosyn), disopyramide (Norpace), procainamide (Procan, Pronestyl), quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinaglute), or sotalol (Betapace).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Detrol. 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: 5% [?]

Nov
10th

Synthroid (Levothyroxine)

Synthroid (Levothyroxine)

Levothyroxine is a replacement for a hormone that is normally produced by your thyroid gland to regulate the body’s energy and metabolism. Levothyroxine is given when the thyroid does not produce enough of this hormone on its own.

Levothyroxine treats hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). Levothyroxine is also used to treat or prevent goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), which can be caused by hormone imbalances, radiation treatment, surgery, or cancer.

Levothyroxine should not be used to treat obesity or weight problems.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Synthroid (Levothyroxine)?

Since thyroid hormone occurs naturally in the body, almost anyone can take levothyroxine. You should not use this medication if you have had a heart attack, a thyroid disorder called thyrotoxicosis, or an adrenal gland problem that is not controlled by treatment.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, coronary artery disease, anemia (lack of red blood cells), diabetes, problems with your pituitary or adrenal glands, or a history of blood clots.

If you use insulin or take diabetes medicine by mouth, ask your doctor if your dose needs to be changed when you start using levothyroxine.

Different brands of levothyroxine may not work the same. If you get a prescription refill and your new pills look different, talk with your pharmacist or doctor.

It may take several weeks before your body starts to respond to this medication. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. Even if you feel well, you may still need to take this medicine every day for the rest of your life to replace the thyroid hormone your body cannot produce.

There are many other medicines that can affect levothyroxine. 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.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Synthroid (Levothyroxine)?

Since thyroid hormone occurs naturally in the body, almost anyone can take levothyroxine. You should not use this medication if you have had a heart attack, a thyroid disorder called thyrotoxicosis, or an adrenal gland problem that is not controlled by treatment.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, coronary artery disease, anemia (lack of red blood cells), diabetes, problems with your pituitary or adrenal glands, or a history of blood clots.

If you use insulin or take diabetes medicine by mouth, ask your doctor if your dose needs to be changed when you start using levothyroxine.

Levothyroxine is in the FDA pregnancy category A. This means that it is safe to use while you are pregnant. It is also safe to use while you are breast-feeding a baby. This drug does pass into breast milk, but it is not expected to be harmful to a nursing infant.

Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. You may need to increase your dose during pregnancy or if you plan to breast-feed.

In most cases, you will need to take levothyroxine for the rest of your life. Taking levothyroxine over long periods of time may cause bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. Talk with your doctor about how this could affect you.

How should I take Synthroid (Levothyroxine)?

Take levothyroxine exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not take levothyroxine for longer than your doctor has prescribed.

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

It is very important to take levothyroxine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. The levothyroxine tablet can dissolve very quickly and swell in the throat, possibly causing choking or gagging. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before eating. Levothyroxine is usually taken in the morning. Follow your doctor’s dosing instructions and try to take this medication at the same time each day.

It may take several weeks before your body starts to respond to this medication. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. Even if you feel well, you may still need to take this medicine every day for the rest of your life to replace the thyroid hormone your body cannot produce.

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

Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using levothyroxine.

Store levothyroxine 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 chest pain, pounding heartbeat, tremor, shortness of breath, leg cramps, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures.

Synthroid (Levothyroxine) side effects

Stop using levothyroxine and 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 of these serious side effects:

  • headache;
  • sleep problems (insomnia);
  • nervous or irritable feeling;
  • fever, hot flashes, sweating;
  • changes in your menstrual periods;
  • appetite changes, weight changes;

Less serious side effects may include mild hair loss.

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 Synthroid (Levothyroxine)?

The following drugs may cause medical problems if you use them with levothyroxine: lithium, amiodarone, or antidepressants. Tell your doctor if you have recently received radiation therapy with iodine (such as I-131).

This list is not complete and there are many other drugs that can interact with levothyroxine. 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.

Certain medicines can be continued, but they may make levothyroxine less effective if taken at the same time. If you use any of the following drugs, use them at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after you take levothyroxine:

  • calcium carbonate (Caltrate, Citracal, Oystercal, and others);
  • ferrous sulfate iron supplement;
  • sucralfate (Carafate);
  • sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate, Kionex, and others);
  • antacids that contain aluminum (Amphojel, Gaviscon, Maalox, Mylanta, Riopan, Rulox, Tums, and others); and
  • cholesterol-lowering drugs cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid).

Popularity: 5% [?]

Nov
10th

Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)

Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)

Albuterol and ipratropium are bronchodilators that relax muscles in the airways and increase air flow to the lungs.

Combivent is used to prevent bronchospasm in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are also using other medicines to control their condition.

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

Important information about Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)

Do not use Combivent if you are allergic to soybeans, peanuts, or other food products that contain soya lecithin.

Call your doctor right away if you feel that this medicine is not working as well as usual, or if it makes your condition worse. If it seems like you need to use more of any of your medications in a 24-hour period, talk with your doctor.

Extreme heat can cause the medicine canister to burst. Do not store your inhaler in your car on hot days. Do not throw an empty canister into open flame.

Before using Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)

Do not use Combivent if you are allergic to soybeans, peanuts, or other food products that contain soya lecithin.

Before using Combivent, tell your doctor if you have:

  • heart disease, high blood pressure, or congestive heart failure;
  • a seizure disorder such as epilepsy;
  • diabetes;
  • overactive thyroid;
  • glaucoma;
  • an enlarged prostate or problems with urination; or
  • liver or kidney disease.

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

FDA pregnancy category C. Combivent may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether Combivent passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Combivent without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)?

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

Combivent may increase the risk of asthma-related death. It is critical that you use only the prescribed dose of this medicine and follow all patient instructions for safe use of the medication.

Combivent comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

When using the inhaler device for the first time, prime it by spraying 2 test sprays into the air, away from your face. Also prime the inhaler if you have not used it for 3 days or longer.

The instructions below are for standard use of the inhaler and nebulizer devices. Your doctor may want you to use your device differently. Be sure you understand all instructions that are specific to your use of Combivent.

To use the inhaler:

  • Shake the canister vigorously for at least 10 seconds before each spray.
  • Uncap the mouthpiece of the inhaler. Breathe out fully. Put the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips. Keep your eyes closed to prevent spraying any medicine into your eyes. Breathe in slowly while pushing down on the canister. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
  • If you use more than one inhalation at a time, wait at least 2 minutes before using the second inhalation.
  • Keep your inhaler clean and dry, and store it with the cap on the mouthpiece. Clean your inhaler once a week by removing the canister and placing the mouthpiece under warm running water for at least 30 seconds. Allow the parts to dry before putting the inhaler back together.

To use the solution with a nebulizer:

  • Measure the correct amount of medicine using the dropper provided, or use the proper number of ampules. Place the liquid into the medication chamber of the nebulizer. If using a medicine dropper, do not allow the dropper to touch any surface including your hands or the nebulizer.
  • Attach the mouthpiece or face mask to the drug chamber. Then, attach the drug chamber to the compressor. Sit upright in a comfortable position. Place the mouthpiece into your mouth or put the face mask on, covering your nose and mouth. Breathe in slowly and evenly until you have inhaled all of the medicine (usually 5 to 15 minutes). The treatment is complete when no more mist is formed by the nebulizer and the drug chamber is empty.
  • Clean the nebulizer after each use. Follow the cleaning directions that came with your nebulizer.

Call your doctor right away if you feel that this medicine is not working as well as usual, or if it makes your condition worse. If it seems like you need to use more of any of your medications in a 24-hour period, talk with your doctor.

To be sure Combivent is helping your condition, your lung function will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

It is important to use Combivent regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. Keep using all of your other medications as prescribed by your doctor.

Store Combivent at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Extreme heat can cause the medicine canister to burst. Do not store it in your car on hot days. Do not throw an empty canister into open flame.

Keep track of the number of sprays you have used and throw away the inhaler canister after 200 sprays, even if it feels like there is still medicine in it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use 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 Combivent can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include chest pain or heavy feeling, rapid or uneven heart rate, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, weakness, or general ill feeling.

Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium) side effects

Stop using Combivent and 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 Combivent and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • bronchospasm (wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing), especially after starting a new canister of this medicine;
  • chest pain and fast, pounding, or uneven heart beats;
  • swelling of your ankles or feet;
  • pain or burning with urination; or
  • increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • headache, dizziness, nervousness;
  • drowsiness or sleep problems (insomnia);
  • cough, hoarseness, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose;
  • dry mouth, unusual taste in your mouth;
  • tremors, numbness or tingly feeling;
  • nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation; or
  • blurred vision.

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 Combivent (Albuterol and Ipratropium)?

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

  • atropine (Donnatal, and others);
  • belladonna;
  • clidinium (Quarzan);
  • dicyclomine (Bentyl);
  • glycopyrrolate (Robinul);
  • hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Cystospaz, Levsin, and others);
  • mepenzolate (Cantil);
  • methantheline (Provocholine);
  • methscopolamine (Pamine), scopolamine (Transderm-Scop);
  • propantheline (Pro-Banthine);
  • a beta-blocker such as acebutolol (Sectral), atenolol (Tenormin), carvedilol (Coreg), metoprolol (Lopressor), or propranolol (Inderal);
  • a stimulant, ADHD medication, diet pills, or over-the-counter cold or allergy medicines;
  • a diuretic (water pill) such as furosemide (Lasix), bumetanide (Bumex), ethacrynic acid (Edecrin), torsemide (Demadex), hydrochlorothiazide (Hydrodiuril), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), or chlorothiazide (Diuril); or
  • an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Combivent. 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: 5% [?]

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