Jul
17th

Amantadine

Amantadine

Amantadine is an antiviral medication. It blocks the actions of viruses in your body.

Amantadine is used to treat and to prevent influenza A (a viral infection). There may be some flu seasons during which amantadine is not recommended because certain flu strains may be resistant to this drug.

Amantadine is also used to treat Parkinson’s disease and “Parkinson-like” symptoms such as stiffness and shaking that may be caused by the use of certain drugs.

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

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

Before taking amantadine, tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorder, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, glaucoma, or a history of mental illness or suicide attempt.

Do not use FluMist nasal influenza “live vaccine” while you are being treated with amantadine and for at least 48 hours after you stop taking amantadine. The nasal vaccine may not be as effective if you receive it while you are taking amantadine. Before taking amantadine, tell your doctor if you have received a nasal flu vaccine within the past 14 days. Amantadine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. If you are taking amantadine to treat influenza A, take the medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. If you are taking amantadine to treat Parkinson symptoms, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking amantadine suddenly, your condition may become worse.

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

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to amantadine, or if you have received a nasal flu vaccine (FluMist) within the past 14 days.

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

  • epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
  • congestive heart failure;
  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease;
  • glaucoma; or
  • a history of mental illness or suicide attempt.

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

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. Amantadine 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 amantadine?

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.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Measure the liquid form of amantadine 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 for one.

If you are taking amantadine to treat influenza A, take the medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. If you are taking amantadine to treat Parkinson symptoms, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking amantadine suddenly, your condition may become worse. Store amantadine 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 your 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 amantadine can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include blurred vision, severe headache, anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, aggression, tremor, fast or uneven heart rate, trouble breathing, seizure (convulsion), or coma.

Amantadine 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 of these serious side effects:

  • feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
  • swelling, rapid weight gain;
  • feeling depressed agitated, or aggressive;
  • behavior changes, thoughts of hurting yourself;
  • fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
  • feeling light-headed, fainting;
  • urinating less than usual or not at all;
  • restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck; or
  • tremor (uncontrolled shaking).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness, headache;
  • sleep problems (insomnia);
  • nausea, constipation, loss of appetite;
  • dry mouth, dry nose; or
  • loss of balance or coordination.

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 amantadine?

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

  • atropine (Atreza, Sal-Tropine, and others);
  • dicyclomine (Bentyl);
  • glycopyrrolate (Robinul);
  • hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Levbid, Levsin, Nulev, and others);
  • mepenzolate (Cantil);
  • methscopolamine (Pamine);
  • propantheline (Pro-Banthine);
  • scopolamine (Maldemar, Scopace, Transderm-Scop).
  • quinine (Qualaquin);
  • quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinaglute);
  • a diuretic (water pill) such as chlorothiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Hyzaar, Lopressor, Vasoretic, Zestoretic), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), indapamide (Lozol), metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn), and others; or
  • phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), prochlorperazine (Compazine), thioridazine (Mellaril), or trifluperazine (Stelazine).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with amantadine. 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.

Amantadine

Popularity: 10% [?]

Jul
15th

Lamictal (Lamotrigine)

Lamictal (Lamotrigine)

Lamictal is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant.

Lamictal is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat seizures in adults and children who are at least 2 years old. It is also used to delay mood episodes in adults with bipolar disorder.

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

Important information about Lamictal

This medication may cause severe or life-threatening skin rash, especially in children and in people who are allergic to other seizure medications. Serious skin rash may also be more likely to occur if you are taking Lamictal together with valproic acid (Depakene) or divalproex (Depakote). Seek emergency medical attention if you have a fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash.

If you have to stop taking Lamictal because of a serious skin rash, you may not be able to take it again in the future.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. 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.

Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking Lamictal suddenly. You will need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking Lamictal. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking Lamictal, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication. Lamictal can cause side effects that may impair your vision or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. Taking this medication during early pregnancy can increase the risk of the baby being born with cleft lip or cleft palate. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant during treatment.

Before taking Lamictal

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to lamotrigine.

Before taking Lamictal, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other seizure medications, or if you have:

  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease; or
  • heart disease.

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

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. 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. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Taking this medication during early pregnancy can increase the risk of the baby being born with cleft lip or cleft palate. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

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

Lamictal 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 Lamictal?

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.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose over several weeks or months to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

To make sure you are taking the right dose of this medication, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

If you are switching to Lamictal from another anticonvulsant medication, carefully follow your doctor’s instructions about timing and dosage when switching from one drug to another.

Lamictal can be taken with or without food.

Take the regular Lamictal tablet with a full glass of water.

To take the chewable dispersible tablet, you may either swallow it whole with a glass of water, or chew it first and then swallow it. You may also place the tablet into 1 teaspoon of water or diluted fruit juice and allow it to disperse in the liquid for about 1 minute. Gently swirl the liquid and then swallow all of the mixture right away. Do not save it for later use.

Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking Lamictal suddenly. You will need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking Lamictal. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking Lamictal, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.

Birth control pills can make Lamictal less effective, which may result in increased seizures. Your Lamictal dose may need to be changed when you start or stop using birth control pills. You may also have Lamictal side effects during the weeks when you are taking an inactive (placebo) pill from your birth control pack.

Tell your doctor if you plan to stop taking birth control pills.

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

Store this medication at room temperature away from light and moisture.

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 your 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 blurred vision, problems with coordination, increased seizures, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

Lamictal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; fever; swollen glands; painful sores in or around your eyes or mouth; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This medication may cause severe or life-threatening skin rash, especially in children and in people who are allergic to other seizure medications. Serious skin rash may also be more likely to occur if you are taking Lamictal together with valproic acid (Depakene) or divalproex (Depakote). Seek emergency medical attention if you have a fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash.

If you have to stop taking Lamictal because of a serious skin rash, you may not be able to take it again in the future.

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:

  • the first sign of any skin rash;
  • fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
  • chest pain;
  • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
  • fever, chills, body aches, 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:

  • dizziness or drowsiness;
  • blurred vision;
  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach;
  • headache;
  • lack of coordination;
  • weight loss;
  • sleep problems (insomnia), unusual dreams; or
  • runny or stuffy nose.

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 Lamictal?

Birth control pills can make Lamictal less effective, resulting in increased seizures. Tell your doctor if you start or stop using birth control pills while you are taking Lamictal. Your dose may need to be changed.

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

  • hormonal forms of birth control (pills, injections, implants, or skin patches);
  • carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol);
  • divalproex (Depakote);
  • oxcarbazepine (Trileptal);
  • phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);
  • primidone (Mysoline);
  • phenytoin (Dilantin);
  • rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane); or
  • valproic acid (Depakene).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Lamictal. 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.

Lamictal

Popularity: 11% [?]

Jul
14th

Vitaliq

Vitaliq

Vitaliq is a multivitamin and multimineral supplement, providing 100% Daily Value of all the vitamins and large amounts of the required minerals.

How Taken

Take one (1) capsule 15 minutes before meals. Do not exceed 6 capsules daily. Drink at least 6 glasses of water daily between meals.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vitaliq also contains Lycopene, a carotenoid found in plants, such as tomatoes, which has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate and lung cancer as well as cardiovascular(heart) disease 1,2. In addition, Vitaliq supplies more Biotin than other multivitamins and Lutein, a carotenoid shown to be protective against age-related macular degeneration(ARMD), cataracts and other eye problems.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Vitaliq, 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 Vitaliq at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Vitaliq out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings Precautions

Seek the advice of a health care professional if you have any medical condition.

Possible Side Effects

Because Vitaliq is an all-natural nutritional supplement containing only the finest botanicals, there are no harmful side effects when taken as directed.

More Information

Vitaliq is not a pharmaceutical drug and contains none of the synthetic chemicals found in prescription medications. It is a safe alternative to prescription drugs, which can sometimes have serious side effects.

Vitaliq

Popularity: 6% [?]

Jul
13th

Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)

Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)

Hydroxyurea affects certain cells in the body, such as cancer cells or sickled red blood cells.

Hydroxyurea is used to treat melanoma (a type of skin cancer), chronic myelocytic leukemia, cancer of the ovary, and primary squamous cell (skin) cancer of the head and neck. Hydroxyurea is also used to treat sickle cell anemia.

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

What are the possible side effects of Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

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:

  • pinpoint red spots on your skin
  • red patches, skin ulcers, or darkened skin (especially on your legs or feet)
  • fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
  • nausea or vomiting
  • loss of appetite
  • diarrhea
  • white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips; or
  • easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness

Less serious side effects may include:

  • constipation
  • skin rash
  • itching
  • leg sores
  • redness of the face
  • hair loss
  • drowsiness
  • headache; or
  • dizziness

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 Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

There may be other drugs that can affect hydroxyurea. 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.

How should I take Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

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

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Hydroxyurea can be taken with or without food.

Handle the tablets and capsules with extreme care. The medicine from a crushed or broken tablet or capsule can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills or the medicine bottle. For best protection, wear disposable gloves whenever handling the bottle or the pills. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely dispose of any unused tablets or capsules.

Talk with your doctor if you have trouble swallowing the capsule. Your doctor may instruct you to open the capsule, pour the medicine powder into a glass of water, and drink this mixture. If you open a capsule, do not inhale the powder or let it come in contact with your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills, and wear disposable gloves when opening the capsule. If any of the medicine is spilled, wipe up the spill with a damp cloth and throw the cloth away in a sealed plastic bag. Keep all medicine and empty capsule shells out of the reach of children and pets.

Hydroxyurea can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, 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.

If you vomit shortly after taking a dose hydroxyurea, contact your doctor. You may need to take another dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

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

Store hydroxyurea at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I overdose on Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it.

What happens if I miss a dose of Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

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 is the most important information I should know about Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

Hydroxyurea can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, 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.

Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Talk with your doctor if you have trouble swallowing the capsule. Your doctor may instruct you to open the capsule, pour the medicine powder into a glass of water, and drink this mixture. If you open a capsule, do not inhale the powder or let it come in contact with your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills, and wear disposable gloves when opening the capsule. If any of the medicine is spilled, wipe up the spill with a damp cloth and throw the cloth away in a sealed plastic bag. Keep all medicine and empty capsule shells out of the reach of children and pets.

Handle the tablets and capsules with extreme care. The medicine from a crushed or broken tablet or capsule can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. Wash your hands before and after handling the pills or the medicine bottle. For best protection, wear disposable gloves whenever handling the bottle or the pills. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely dispose of any unused tablets or capsules.

Call your doctor promptly if you have any skin changes such as pinpoint red spots, red patches, skin ulcers, or darkened skin (especially on your legs or feet). These may be early signs of a serious side effect.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Hydrea (Hydroxyurea)?

Before taking hydroxyurea, tell your doctor if you are being treated with radiation therapy or using interferon (Roferon, Intron, Rebetron, Actimmune, Betaseron, Rebif, Infergen, Alferon).

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

  • poor bone marrow function
  • liver disease; or
  • kidney disease

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

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use hydroxyurea if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Hydroxyurea 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 sensitive to the side effects of this medicine.

Hydrea

Popularity: 6% [?]

Jul
13th

Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)

Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)

Dimenhydrinate is used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and vertigo associated with motion sickness.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Dramamine (dimenhydrinate)?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dimenhydrinate may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking dimenhydrinate.

Who should not take Dramamine (dimenhydrinate)?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

  • kidney or liver disease,
  • an enlarged prostate,
  • difficulty urinating,
  • bladder problems,
  • glaucoma,
  • asthma, or
  • an irregular heartbeat or any other type of heart disease.

You may not be able to take dimenhydrinate, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Dimenhydrinate is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take dimenhydrinate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Dimenhydrinate passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not take dimenhydrinate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Dimenhydrinate is not recommended for use by children younger than 2 years of age, except under the direction of a doctor.

How should I take Dramamine (dimenhydrinate)?

Take dimenhydrinate exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of dimenhydrinate with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Dimenhydrinate is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 400 mg of this medication in one day.

Store dimenhydrinate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a dimenhydrinate overdose include drowsiness, seizures or convulsions, difficulty breathing, and death.

Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) side effects

Stop taking dimenhydrinate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take dimenhydrinate and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • drowsiness or dizziness;
  • restlessness, excitation, nervousness, or insomnia;
  • blurred or double vision;
  • dry mouth, nose, or throat;
  • decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
  • difficulty urinating; or
  • an irregular or fast heartbeat.

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.

What other drugs will affect Dramamine (dimenhydrinate)?

Dimenhydrinate may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with dimenhydrinate. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Dramamine

Popularity: 6% [?]

Jul
12th

Prednisone (Prednisone)

Prednisone (Prednisone)

Prednisone is used in the management of inflammatory conditions or diseases in which the immune system plays an important role. Since prednisone is used in so many conditions, only the most common or established uses are mentioned here. Prednisone most often is used for treating several types of arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, systemic lupus, allergic reactions, asthma and severe psoriasis. It also is used for treating leukemias, lymphomas, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Corticosteroids, including prednisone, are commonly used to suppress the immune system and prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs. Prednisone is used as replacement therapy in patients whose adrenal glands are unable to produce sufficient amounts of cortisol.

How Taken

Tablets of 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 50 mg. Oral solution or syrup of 5mg/5ml. The initial dose of prednisone varies depending on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. The starting dose may be from 5 to 60 mg per day and often is adjusted based on the response of the condition being treated. Corticosteroids typically do not produce immediate effects and must be used for several days before maximal effects are seen. It may take much longer before conditions respond to treatment. Prolonged therapy with prednisone causes the adrenal glands to atrophy and stop producing cortisol. When prednisone is discontinued after a period of prolonged therapy, the dose of prednisone must be tapered (lowered gradually) to allow the adrenal glands time to recover. (See side effects.) It is recommended that prednisone be taken with food.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Prednisone is an oral, synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid used for suppressing the immune system and inflammation. It has effects similar to other corticosteroids such as triamcinolone (Kenacort), methylprednisolone (Medrol), prednisolone (Prelone) and dexamethasone (Decadron). These synthetic corticosteroids mimic the action of cortisol (hydrocortisone), the naturally-occurring corticosteroid produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Corticosteroids have many effects on the body, but they most often are used for their potent anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in those conditions in which the immune system plays an important role. Such conditions include arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of the nose and eyes. Prednisone is inactive in the body and, in order to be effective, first must be converted to prednisolone by enzymes in the liver. Therefore, prednisone may not work as effectively in people with liver disease whose ability to convert prednisone to prednisolone is impaired.

Missed Dose

If you take one dose daily, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if you don’t remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and take only your regular daily dose. If you take more than one dose daily, you can either take the missed dose as soon as you remember, or you can take two doses at the next dose time. If you take one dose every other day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then go back to your regular every-other-day schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F), and keep away from moisture.

Warnings Precautions

Avoid alcohol. Acting together, alcohol and prednisone can be damaging to the stomach. Avoid sources of infection. Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from the mouth and eyes. Your immune system may be weakened while taking prednisone. Do not receive any immunizations during treatment with prednisone without first talking to your doctor. Prednisone may interact with estrogens and phenytoin (Dilantin). Estrogens may reduce the action of enzymes in the liver that break down (eliminate) the active form of prednisone, prednisolone. As a result, the levels of prednisolone in the body may increase and lead to more frequent side effects. Phenytoin increases the activity of enzymes in the liver that break down (eliminate) prednisone and thereby may reduce the effectiveness of prednisone. Thus, if phenytoin is being taken, an increased dose of prednisone may be required. Corticosteroids are secreted in breast milk and can cause side effects in the nursing infant. Prednisone is less likely than other corticosteroids to be secreted in breast milk, but it may still pose a risk to the infant.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects of prednisone and other corticosteroids range from mild annoyances to serious, irreversible damage, and they occur more frequently with higher doses and more prolonged treatment. Side effects include retention of sodium (salt) and fluid, weight gain, high blood pressure, loss of potassium, headache and muscle weakness. Prednisone also causes puffiness of the face (moon face), growth of facial hair, thinning and easy bruising of the skin, impaired wound-healing, glaucoma, cataracts, ulcers in the stomach and duodenum, worsening of diabetes, irregular menses, rounding of the upper back (“buffalo hump”), obesity, retardation of growth in children, convulsions, and psychiatric disturbances. The psychiatric disturbances include depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and even psychotic behavior. Prednisone suppresses the immune system and, therefore, increases the frequency or severity of infections and decreases the effectiveness of vaccines and antibiotics. Prednisone may cause osteoporosis that results in fractures of bones. Patients taking long-term prednisone often receive supplements of calcium and vitamin D to counteract the effects on bones. Calcium and vitamin D probably are not enough, however, and treatment with bisphosphonates such as alendronate (Fosamax) and risedronate (Actonel) may be necessary. Calcitonin (Miacalcin) also is effective. The development of osteoporosis and the need for treatment can be monitored, using bone density scans.

More Information

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking prednisone and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); increased blood pressure (severe headache or blurred vision); or sudden weight gain (more than 5 pounds in a day or two). Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take prednisone and talk to your doctor if you experience insomnia; nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset; fatigue or dizziness; muscle weakness or joint pain; problems with diabetes control; or increased hunger or thirst. Other side effects that occur only rarely, usually with high doses of prednisone, include acne, increased hair growth, thinning of the skin, cataracts, glaucoma, osteoporosis, roundness of the face, and changes in behavior. 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.

Popularity: 6% [?]

Jul
12th

Revia (Naltrexone)

Revia (Naltrexone)

ReVia is prescribed to treat alcohol dependence and narcotic addiction. ReVia is not a cure. You must be ready to make a change and be willing to undertake a comprehensive treatment program that includes professional counseling, support groups, and close medical supervision.

Most important fact about ReVia

Before taking ReVia for narcotic addiction, you must be drug-free for at least 7 to 10 days. You must also be free of any drug withdrawal symptoms. If you think you are still in withdrawal, be sure to tell your doctor, since taking ReVia while narcotics are still in your system could cause serious physical problems. Your doctor will perform tests to confirm your drug-free condition.

How should you take ReVia?

It is important to take ReVia on schedule as directed by your doctor, and to follow through with your counseling and support group therapy.

If you take small doses of heroin or other narcotic drugs while taking ReVia, they will have no effect. Large doses combined with ReVia can be fatal.

–If you miss a dose…

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

–Storage instructions…

No special measures are needed.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any side effects develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking ReVia.

  • Side effects of treatment for alcoholism may include:
    Dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, nervousness, sleeplessness, vomiting
  • Side effects of treatment for narcotic addiction may include:
    Abdominal pain/cramps, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, headache, joint and muscle pain, low energy, nausea and/or vomiting, nervousness

Possible food and drug interactions when taking ReVia

Since studies to evaluate the interaction of ReVia with drugs other than narcotics have not been performed, do not take any medications, either over-the-counter or prescription, without first notifying your doctor.

Do not use Antabuse while you are taking ReVia; both drugs can damage your liver.

Do not take Mellaril (a drug used to treat depression and anxiety) while on ReVia therapy, as the combination may make you feel very sleepy and sluggish.

While taking ReVia avoid medicines that contain narcotics, including cough and cold preparations, such as Actifed-C, Ryna-C, and Dimetane-DC; antidiarrheal medications such as Lomotil; and narcotic painkillers such as Percodan, Tylox, and Tylenol No. 3.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of ReVia during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. ReVia should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. ReVia may appear in breast milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may tell you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment with ReVia is finished.

Recommended dosage

ALCOHOLISM

The usual starting dose is 50 milligrams once a day.

NARCOTIC DEPENDENCE

The usual starting dose is 25 milligrams once a day. If no withdrawal symptoms occur, the doctor may increase the dosage to 50 milligrams a day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of ReVia, seek medical attention immediately.

Revia

Popularity: 6% [?]

Jul
12th

Reminyl (Galantamine)

Reminyl (Galantamine)

Galantamine improves the function of nerve cells in the brain. It works by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine (ah see til KO leen). People with dementia usually have lower levels of this chemical, which is important for the processes of memory, thinking, and reasoning.

Galantamine is used to treat mild to moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

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

What are the possible side effects of Reminyl (Galantamine)?

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

  • chest pain, slow heart rate
  • black, bloody, or tarry stools
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • weakness, confusion, decreased sweating, extreme thirst, hot dry skin; or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all

Less serious side effects may include:

  • feeling tired, dizzy, or light-headed
  • nausea, vomiting, gas, loss of appetite
  • weight loss; 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 affect Reminyl (Galantamine)?

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

  • atropine (Donnatal, and others)
  • belladonna
  • clidinium (Quarzan)
  • dicyclomine (Bentyl)
  • glycopyrrolate (Robinul)
  • hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Cystospaz, Levsin, and others)
  • ketoconazole (Nizoral)
  • mepenzolate (Cantil)
  • methantheline (Provocholine)
  • methscopolamine (Pamine)
  • paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
  • propantheline (Pro-Banthine); or
  • scopolamine (Transderm-Scop)

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with galantamine. 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.

How should I take Reminyl (Galantamine)?

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.

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

Galantamine is usually taken once or twice a day with a meal. You may also take the medication without food. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-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.

Take the capsule or tablet with a full glass of water. Drink 6 to 8 full glasses of water each day to keep from getting dehydrated while taking galantamine.

The liquid form of 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.

Measure the liquid using only the special dose-measuring device provided. Empty the medicine into 3 to 4 ounces of any non-alcoholic beverage. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. Rinse the dose-measuring device with water after each use.

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

If you have stopped taking galantamine for any reason, talk with your doctor before you start taking it again. You may need to restart the medication at a lower dose.

Store galantamine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze.

What happens if I overdose on Reminyl (Galantamine)?

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

Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, muscle weakness or spasm, watery eyes, drooling, increased urination or bowel movements, sweating, slow heart rate, feeling light-headed or fainting, and seizure (convulsions).

What happens if I miss a dose of Reminyl (Galantamine)?

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 is the most important information I should know about Reminyl (Galantamine)?

Before taking galantamine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have urination problems, heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, stomach ulcers or bleeding, a seizure disorder, kidney disease, liver disease, or asthma.

Stop using galantamine and call your doctor at once if you have chest pain, slow heart rate, blood in your stools, coughing up blood, decreased urination, weakness, confusion, extreme thirst, or hot, dry skin.

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

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

If you have stopped taking galantamine for any reason, talk with your doctor before you start taking it again. You may need to restart the medication at a lower dose.

Galantamine 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 Reminyl (Galantamine)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to galantamine.

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

  • urination problems
  • heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder
  • a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding
  • seizures or epilepsy
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease; or
  • a history of asthma or obstructive pulmonary disease

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

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to 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 galantamine 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.

Reminyl

Popularity: 5% [?]

Jul
12th

Chloroquine

Chloroquine

Chloroquine is an antimalarial drug. The exact way that chloroquine works is unknown.

Chloroquine is used to treat and to prevent malaria. Chloroquine is also used to treat infections caused by amoebae.

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

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

Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Chloroquine may cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing. Report any vision or hearing changes to your doctor.

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

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

  • had a previous allergic reaction to chloroquine;
  • glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency;
  • psoriasis;
  • porphyria; or
  • liver disease.

You may not be able to take chloroquine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether chloroquine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take chloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known how chloroquine will affect a nursing infant. Do not take chloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take chloroquine?

Take chloroquine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take chloroquine with food to lessen stomach upset.

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

Store chloroquine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a chloroquine overdose include headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, visual changes, seizures, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.

Chloroquine side effects

Stop taking chloroquine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (flushing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; vision problems; rash; itching; or fever).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chloroquine and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing;
  • hearing loss or ringing in the ears;
  • diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or upset, vomiting, or loss of appetite;
  • muscle weakness; or
  • a rash.

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.

What other drugs will affect chloroquine?

Cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB) may increase the effects of chloroquine, which could lead to toxicity. Do not take cimetidine without first talking to your doctor.

Kaolin and magnesium trisilicate may decrease the effects of chloroquine. These ingredients can be found in products such as Kaopectate Advanced Formula, Parepectolin, K-Pek, K-C, Kaodene Non-Narcotic, Kao-Spen, Gaviscon, and others.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chloroquine. Do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, without frist talking to your doctor.

Chloroquine

Popularity: 5% [?]

Jul
12th

Pilocarpine

Pilocarpine

Pilocarpine causes constriction of the pupils (miosis) and reduces pressure within the eye. It is used to treat the increased pressure of open-angle glaucoma and to lower eye pressure before surgery for acute angle-closure glaucoma. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications.

How Taken

Use Pilocarpine as directed by your doctor.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket next to your eye.
  • Brace the eyedrop bottle on the bridge of your nose or your forehead.
  • Tilt your head back and squeeze the medication into your eye.
  • Close your eyes gently. Keep them closed for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Do not rinse the dropper.
  • Wait for 5 to 10 minutes before using a second eye medication.
  • The usual starting dose is 1 or 2 drops up to 6 times a day, depending on the severity of the glaucoma and your response. During a severe attack, your doctor will tell you to put drops into the unaffected eye as well.

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

Drug Class and Mechanism

Pilocarpine acts on a subtype of muscarinic receptor (M3) found on the iris sphincter muscle, causing the muscle to contract and produce miosis. This opens the trabecular meshwork through increased tension on the scleral spur. This action facilitates the rate that aqueous humor leaves the eye to decrease intraocular pressure.

Missed Dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Pilocarpine between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Pilocarpine out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings Precautions

Do not use Pilocarpine if:

  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Pilocarpine.

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

Possible Side Effects

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

  • Cloudy vision, detached retina, headache over your eye, nearsightedness, reduced vision in poor light, spasms of the eyelids, tearing eyes.

More Information

If you have any questions about Pilocarpine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Pilocarpine is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

Pilocarpine

Popularity: 6% [?]


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