SUR-a-min

Uses For suramin

Suramin is used in the treatment of African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) and river blindness (onchocerciasis), infections caused by parasites. suramin works by causing the parasites to lose energy, which causes their death.

Suramin may cause serious side effects. Before you begin treatment with suramin, you and your doctor should talk about the good suramin will do as well as the risks of receiving it.

Suramin is administered in the hospital only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.

Before Using suramin

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For suramin, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to suramin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Suramin can cause serious side effects in any patient. Therefore, it is especially important that you discuss with the child’s doctor the good that suramin may do as well as the risks of receiving it.

Geriatric

Elderly people are especially sensitive to the effects of suramin. This may increase the chance of side effects during treatment.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of suramin. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease—Patients with kidney or liver disease may have an increased chance of side effects

Proper Use of suramin

To help clear up your infection completely, you must receive suramin on a regular schedule for the full time of treatment. It is also necessary for you to receive suramin in the hospital so your doctor can check on your condition.

Dosing

The dose of suramin will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of suramin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For injection dosage form:
  • For African sleeping sickness:
    • Adults and children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor.
  • For river blindness:
    • Adults—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Precautions While Using suramin

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This is to help make sure that the infection is cleared up completely. Your doctor may also want to check for any side effects that may occur even after your treatment has ended.

suramin Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Cloudy urine
• crawling or tingling sensation of the skin
• diarrhea
• faintness, especially after missing meals
• headache
• increased skin color
• irritability
• itching
• joint pain
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• numbness or weakness in arms, hands, legs, or feet
• skin rash
• stinging sensation on skin
• swelling on skin
• tenderness of the palms and the soles
• tire easily
• vomiting

Less common

• Changes in or loss of vision
• extreme tiredness or weakness
• increased sensitivity of eyes to light
• painful tender glands in the neck, armpits, or groin
• swelling around eyes
• ulcers or sores in mouth
• watery eyes

Rare

• Cold and clammy skin
• convulsions
• decreased blood pressure
• difficulty in breathing
• fever and sore throat
• fever with or without chills
• increased heartbeat
• loss of consciousness
• pale skin
• pinpoint red spots on skin
• red, thickened, or scaly skin
• swelling and/or tenderness in upper abdominal or stomach area
• swollen and/or painful glands
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• yellow eyes or skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Abdominal pain
• fever
• general feeling of discomfort
• metallic taste

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Generic Name: tetracaine (Topical application route)

TE-tra-kane

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Cepacol Viractin
• Pontocaine

In Canada

• Supracaine

Available Dosage Forms:

• Cream
• Ointment
• Gel/Jelly
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Anesthetic, Local

Chemical Class: Amino Ester

Uses For Supracaine

Tetracaine is used in different parts of the body to cause numbness or loss of feeling in some patients before having a medical test or procedure.

Tetracaine belongs to a group of medicines known as topical local anesthetics. It deadens the nerve endings in the skin. This medicine does not cause unconsciousness as general anesthetics do when used for surgery.

This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using Supracaine

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of tetracaine in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of tetracaine in geriatric patients.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Brain or spinal problems or
• Eye problems or
• Heart and blood vessel problems—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Infection at or near the place of application or
• Large sores, broken skin, or severe injury at the area of application—The chance of side effects may be increased.

Proper Use of tetracaine

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain tetracaine. It may not be specific to Supracaine. Please read with care.

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. This medicine is for use on the skin only.

Be careful not to get any of this medicine in your nose, mouth, and especially in your eyes, because it can cause severe eye irritation. If any of the medicine does get into these areas especially the eyes, wash it with water and check with your doctor right away.

Precautions While Using Supracaine

It is very important that your doctor check you closely for any problems or unwanted effects that may be caused by this medicine.

Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you have a skin rash, burning, stinging, swelling, or irritation of your skin.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Supracaine Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

• Blurred vision
• chest pain or discomfort
• confusion
• dizziness
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly
• fainting
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• lightheadedness or fainting
• no blood pressure or pulse
• no breathing
• numbness
• seizures
• shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
• shortness of breath
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• stopping of heart
• sweating
• trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
• unconsciousness
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

• Continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
• fear or nervousness
• hearing loss
• restlessness
• sleepiness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Generic Name: desflurane (Inhalation route)

des-FLOO-rane

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Suprane

Available Dosage Forms:

• Liquid

Therapeutic Class: Volatile Liquid

Chemical Class: Haloalkane

Uses For Suprane

Desflurane belongs to the group of medicines known as general anesthetics. Desflurane is used to cause general anesthesia (loss of consciousness) before and during surgery. It is breathed in (inhaled). Although desflurane can be used by itself, combinations of anesthetics are often used together. This helps produce more effective anesthesia in some patients.

General anesthetics are given only by or under the immediate supervision of a medical doctor trained to use them. If you will be receiving a general anesthetic during surgery, your doctor will give you the medicine and closely follow your progress.

Before Using Suprane

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Desflurane has been tested in children. It is not used to start anesthesia in children who are awake because it causes irritation and other unwanted effects. However, when it is used to continue general anesthesia that has been started with another anesthetic, desflurane does not cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Geriatric

Desflurane has been tested and has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults. However, older people usually need smaller amounts of an anesthetic than younger people. Your doctor will take your age into account when deciding on the right amount of desflurane for you.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	B	Animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus, however, there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Cisatracurium
• Hydromorphone
• Oxycodone
• St John’s Wort

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of desflurane. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Diseases that can cause muscle weakness, such as familial periodic paralysis, muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, or Eaton-Lambert syndrome, or
• Heart or blood vessel disease—The chance of side effects may be increased, but serious problems can be prevented if your doctor knows that these conditions are present before giving you an anesthetic

• Malignant hyperthermia, during or shortly after receiving an anesthetic (history of, or family history of). Signs of malignant hyperthermia include very high fever, fast and irregular heartbeat, muscle spasms or tightness, and breathing problems—This side effect may occur again

Proper Use of Suprane

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• Your age.
• Your general physical condition.
• The kind of surgery being performed.
• Other medicines you are taking or will receive before and during surgery.

Precautions While Using Suprane

For patients going home within 24 hours after receiving a general anesthetic:

• General anesthetics may cause some people to feel drowsy, tired, or weak for a while after they have been given. They may also cause problems with coordination and one’s ability to think. Therefore, for about 24 hours (or longer if necessary) after receiving a general anesthetic, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Unless otherwise directed by your doctor or dentist, do not drink alcoholic beverages or take other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness) for about 24 hours after you have received a general anesthetic. To do so may add to the effects of the anesthetic. Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; other sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures; and muscle relaxants.

Suprane Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Coughing
• nausea or vomiting

Less common or rare

• Dizziness
• headache
• irritated or red eyes
• nervousness and restlessness
• sore throat

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Class Name: sunscreen agent (Topical application route)

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• A-Fil
• Deeptan
• Deeptan Suntan Oil Supreme
• Hydroquinone Skin Bleaching with Sunscreens
• Neutrogena Glow Sunless Tanning
• Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock

In Canada

• Coppertone Waterproof Lotion Spf-15 Paba-Free
• Coppertone Waterproof Lotion Spf-4 Paba-Free
• Episun
• Pabafilm 10
• Pabafilm 15
• Presun 15
• Presun 15 Creamy Lotion
• Presun 15 Facial
• Presun 29
• Presun 29 For Kids
• Presun 30
• Presun 30 Clear Gel

Available Dosage Forms:

• Cream
• Lotion
• Ointment
• Oil
• Stick
• Spray
• Gel/Jelly
• Liquid
• Pad

Uses For This Medicine

Sunscreen agents are used to prevent sunburn. Limiting your exposure to the sun and using sunscreen agents when in the sun may help prevent early wrinkling and skin cancer. There are two kinds of sunscreen agents: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen agents protect you from the sun by absorbing the ultraviolet (UV) and visible sun rays, while physical sunscreen agents reflect, scatter, absorb, or block these rays.

Sunscreen agents often contain more than one ingredient. For example, products may contain one ingredient that provides protection against the ultraviolet A (UVA) sun rays and another ingredient that protects you from the ultraviolet B (UVB) sun rays, which are more likely to cause sunburn than the UVA sun rays. Ideally, coverage should include protection against both UVA and UVB sun rays.

The sun protection factor (SPF) that you find on the label of these products tells you the minimum amount of UVB sunlight that is needed with that product to produce redness on sunscreen-protected skin as compared with unprotected skin. Sunscreen products with high SPFs will provide more protection against the sun.

Sunscreen products are available with and without your doctor’s prescription. If you are using this medicine without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label.

Before Using This Medicine

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to medicines in this group or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Infants under 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun. Sunscreen agents should not be used on infants under 6 months of age because of increased chance of side effects. Children 6 months of age and older should be kept out of the sun or have limited exposure to the sun. Sunscreen agents with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 should be applied during exposure to the sun. Lotion sunscreen products are preferred for use in children. Alcohol-based sunscreen products should be avoided because they can cause irritation.

Geriatric

It is believed that the elderly, who spend little time in the sun and use sunscreen agents frequently, may be at risk for vitamin D deficiency (which may result in bone disease and fracture), although this has not been proven. To help you get enough vitamin D, it is recommended that you eat food rich in vitamin D, such as fortified milk or fatty fish. Your doctor may also advise you to take vitamin D supplements. Check with your doctor about this.

Pregnancy

Studies on effects in pregnancy have not been done in either humans or animals.

Breast Feeding

Sunscreen agents have not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of medicines in this class. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Skin conditions or diseases, especially those caused or worsened by exposure to light—Worsening of skin condition may occur.

Proper Use of This Medicine

Sunscreen agents are for external use only. These products usually come with patient directions. Read them carefully before using any product.

In choosing the sunscreen product, you may consider the following:

• Type of Activity—Take precautions when you are in places of higher elevations (mountains) or on reflective surfaces (concrete, sand, snow, or water), as these may increase the likelihood of sun damage to the skin. Use a sunscreen with ultraviolet A/ultraviolet B (UVA/UVB) coverage and with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Activities that make you sweat, such as outdoor jobs (gardeners, construction workers), outdoor sports (tennis) or exercise, prolonged sunbathing, or water sports such as swimming, water-skiing, or wind surfing, may result in the removal of the sunscreen agent from the skin. Use a water-resistant or waterproof sunscreen agent with SPF of 15 or more. When possible, also wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and UV-opaque sunglasses. Wearing UV-opaque sunglasses when you are in the sun is also necessary because the sun rays can cause cataracts.
• Age—Do not use sunscreen agents on infants less than 6 months of age. For children 6 months of age and older, use a lotion form of sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher. Avoid using alcohol-based sunscreen products for this age group.
• Site of application—For the ear and nose, use a physical sunscreen agent. For the lips, use a gel-based lip sunscreen or lip balm.
• Skin condition—If your skin is dry, use a cream or lotion form of sunscreen agent. If your skin is oily, use an alcohol or gel-based sunscreen. Avoid using alcohol-based sunscreens on eczematous or inflamed skin.

The following are skin types (complexions) and the appropriate sunscreen agent that should be used:

• Very fair; always burns easily; rarely tans—Use SPF 20 to 30
• Fair; always burns easily; tans minimally—Use SPF 12 to 20
• Light; burns moderately; tans gradually (light brown)—Use SPF 8 to 12
• Medium; burns minimally; always tans well (moderate brown)—Use SPF 4 to 8
• Medium; burns minimally; always tans well (moderate brown)—Use SPF 4 to 8

Dark; rarely burns; tans profusely (dark brown)—Use SPF 2 to 4

Before every exposure to the sun, apply an appropriate sunscreen product that protects you against ultraviolet sun rays. For maximum sun protection, sunscreens should be applied uniformly and thickly to all exposed skin surfaces (including the lips, using lip sunscreen or lip balm). Sunscreen products containing aminobenzoic acid, lisadimate, padimate O, or roxadimate should be applied 1 to 2 hours before sun exposure. Other sunscreen products should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure, unless otherwise directed by the package instructions. Lip sunscreens should be applied 45 to 60 minutes before sun exposure.

Because most sunscreens are easily removed from the skin, you should reapply these products liberally every 1 to 2 hours for adequate protection. You should reapply sunscreen especially after swimming or heavy perspiration. Lip sunscreens should be reapplied liberally at least once every hour while you are in the sun and also before and after swimming, after eating and drinking, and during other activities that remove it from the lips.

Keep sunscreen products away from the eyes.

Some sunscreen agents contain alcohol and are flammable. Do not use near heat, near open flame, or while smoking.

Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average dose of sunscreen agents.

• For topical dosage forms (cream, gel, lotion, lip balm, oil, spray, and stick):
  • For sunburn (prevention):
    • Adults and children 6 months of age and older—Apply liberally and evenly to exposed area(s) of skin (including the lips, using lip sunscreen or lip balm) before sun exposure. Reapply when needed.
    • Children under 6 months of age—Use is not recommended.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Precautions While Using This Medicine

If rash or irritation develops, stop using the sunscreen and check with your doctor.

Sunscreen agents containing aminobenzoic acid, lisadimate, padimate O, or roxadimate may discolor and stain light-colored fabrics yellow.

In addition to using sunscreen agents, it is advisable to minimize exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daylight savings time) when the sun is at its strongest. Take extra precautions also on cloudy or overcast days and around reflective surfaces such as concrete, sand, snow, or water, since these surfaces can reflect the sun’s damaging rays. Wear protective clothing including a hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants. Sunglasses also should be worn to avoid sun damage to the eyes (cataract formation). Avoid sunlamps and tanning parlors because these can damage the skin and eyes as direct sunlight can.

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

• Acne
• burning, itching, or stinging of skin
• early appearance of redness or swelling of skin
• late appearance of rash with or without weeping blisters that become crusted, especially in sun-exposed areas, and may extend to unexposed areas of skin
• pain in hairy areas
• pus in the hair follicles

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Drying or tightening of skin

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Healthcare (Micromedex) products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Healthcare products.

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Sutent

Available Dosage Forms:

• Capsule

Therapeutic Class: Antineoplastic Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Sunitinib

Uses For sunitinib malate

Sunitinib malate belongs to the group of medicines known as antineoplastics. It is used to treat patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) when the medicine imatinib mesylate did not stop the cancer from growing or when the patient cannot take imatinib mesylate. GIST is a group of cancer cells that start growing in the wall of the stomach, intestines, or rectum. Sunitinib malate is also used to treat advanced (late-stage) kidney cancer.

Sunitinib malate interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal body cells may also be affected by sunitinib malate, other effects will also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may not occur for months or years after the medicine is used.

Before you begin treatment with sunitinib malate, you and your doctor should talk about the good sunitinib malate will do as well as the risks of using it.

sunitinib malate is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Importance of Diet

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may change the amount of sunitinib malate in the body. You should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are taking sunitinib malate.

Before Using sunitinib malate

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For sunitinib malate, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to sunitinib malate or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of sunitinib malate in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of sunitinib malate in the elderly.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	D	Studies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy in a life threatening situation or a serious disease, may outweigh the potential risk.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using sunitinib malate with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Pimozide
• Thioridazine

Using sunitinib malate with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Amiodarone
• Arsenic Trioxide
• Astemizole
• Atazanavir
• Bretylium
• Carbamazepine
• Cisapride
• Clarithromycin
• Dexamethasone
• Disopyramide
• Dofetilide
• Halofantrine
• Indinavir
• Itraconazole
• Ketoconazole
• Lapatinib
• Levofloxacin
• Lumefantrine
• Methadone
• Moxifloxacin
• Nefazodone
• Nelfinavir
• Nilotinib
• Pazopanib
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Procainamide
• Quinidine
• Quinine
• Ranolazine
• Rifabutin
• Rifampin
• Rifapentine
• Ritonavir
• Saquinavir
• Sodium Phosphate
• Sotalol
• St John’s Wort
• Telavancin
• Telithromycin
• Terfenadine
• Tetrabenazine
• Voriconazole
• Ziprasidone

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of sunitinib malate. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Bleeding problems or
• High blood pressure or
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or
• Kidney function problems (other than cancer) or
• Liver problems or
• Seizures or
• Stomach ulcers—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., low magnesium or potassium in the blood) or
• Heart disease or
• Heart rhythm problems (e.g., QT prolongation or slow heartbeat), history of—Patients with these conditions should be monitored closely when using sunitinib malate.

• Infection, recent or
• Surgery, recent or
• Trauma or injury, recent—Your chances of having serious side effects may be increased.

Proper Use of sunitinib malate

Your doctor will tell you how much of sunitinib malate to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

You may take sunitinib malate with or without food. Do not open the capsules.

sunitinib malate comes with a patient information leaflet. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Dosing

The dose of sunitinib malate will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of sunitinib malate. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (capsules):
  • For the treatment of GIST and late-stage kidney cancer:
    • Adults—50 milligrams (mg) once a day for four weeks (28 days) then stop for two weeks (14 days). The cycle may be repeated as long as your doctor tells you.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

sunitinib malate needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using sunitinib malate

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to see if the medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

If you are a woman who can get pregnant, your doctor may do tests to make sure you are not pregnant before starting sunitinib malate therapy.

Using sunitinib malate while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.

Before you have any medical tests, tell the medical doctor in charge that you are taking sunitinib malate. The results of some tests may be affected by sunitinib malate.

Cancer medicines can cause nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.

Sunitinib malate can temporarily lower the number of white blood cells in your blood, increasing the chance of getting an infection. It can also lower the number of platelets, which are necessary for proper blood clotting. If this occurs, there are certain precautions you can take, especially when your blood count is low, to reduce the risk of infection or bleeding:

• If you can, avoid people with infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you are getting an infection or if you get a fever or chills, cough or hoarseness, lower back or side pain, or painful or difficult urination.
• Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising; black, tarry stools; blood in urine or stools; or pinpoint red spots on your skin.
• Be careful when using a regular toothbrush, dental floss, or toothpick. Your medical doctor, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Check with your medical doctor before having any dental work done.
• Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have just washed your hands and have not touched anything else in the meantime.
• Be careful not to cut yourself when you are using sharp objects such as a safety razor or fingernail or toenail cutters.
• Avoid contact sports or other situations where bruising or injury could occur.

Do not take St. John’s Wort while taking sunitinib malate.

sunitinib malate Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Bleeding gums
• bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, fingers, lower legs, or feet
• blurred vision
• chest pain
• chills
• confusion
• coughing up blood
• cracked lips
• decreased urination
• decreased urine output
• diarrhea
• difficulty in breathing or swallowing
• dilated neck veins
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• extreme fatigue
• fainting
• fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
• fever
• headache
• increase in heart rate
• increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
• irregular breathing
• labored breathing
• lightheadedness
• nervousness
• nosebleeds
• paralysis
• pounding in the ears
• prolonged bleeding from cuts
• rapid breathing
• rapid weight gain
• red or black, tarry stools
• red or dark brown urine
• shortness of breath
• sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth
• sunken eyes
• swelling or inflammation of the mouth
• thirst
• tightness in the chest
• tingling of the hands or feet
• troubled breathing
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• unusual weight gain or loss
• wheezing
• wrinkled skin
• yellow eyes or skin

Less common

• Constipation
• depressed mood
• dry skin and hair
• feeling cold
• hair loss
• indigestion
• hoarseness or husky voice
• loss of appetite
• muscle cramps and stiffness
• nausea
• pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially the calves
• pain in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
• severe, sudden headache
• slurred speech
• sudden loss of coordination
• sudden, severe weakness or numbness in the arm or leg
• sudden, unexplained shortness of breath
• vision changes
• vomiting

Rare

• Back pain
• chest discomfort
• cloudy or bloody urine
• convulsions
• darkening of the skin
• drowsiness
• general feeling of tiredness or weakness
• irregular or slow heart rate
• light-colored stools
• mental depression
• skin rash
• stomach pain, continuing
• swelling of the face, feet, or lower legs

Incidence not known

• Cough
• dark-colored urine
• decreased frequency or amount of urine
• increased thirst
• lower back or side pain
• muscle cramps or spasms
• muscular pain, tenderness, wasting, or weakness
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• sore throat
• sudden, severe chest pain
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• weight gain

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Abdominal pain
• acid or sour stomach
• belching
• blistering, peeling, redness, and/or swelling of the palms, hands, or bottoms of the feet
• change in color of treated skin
• change in taste
• difficulty in moving
• discouragement
• excess air or gas in stomach or intestines
• feeling sad or empty
• full feeling
• hair color changes
• hair loss or thinning of the hair
• heartburn
• irritability
• joint pain
• lack of appetite
• lack or loss of strength
• loss of interest or pleasure
• muscle aches or pains
• numbness, pain, tingling, or unusual sensations in the palms of hands or bottoms of feet
• pain or burning in the throat
• passing gas
• sleeplessness
• stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
• swollen joints
• trouble concentrating
• trouble sleeping
• unable to sleep

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Generic Name: hydrocortisone (Topical application route)

hye-droe-KOR-ti-sone

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Ala-Cort
• Ala-Scalp HP
• Anusol HC
• Aquanil HC
• Beta HC
• Caldecort
• Cetacort
• Corta-Cap
• Cortagel Extra Strength
• Cortaid
• CortAlo With Aloe
• Corticaine
• Corticool Maximum Strength
• Cortizone-10
• Cortizone-5
• Cotacort
• Delacort
• Dermarest
• Dermtex-HC
• Foille Cort
• Gly-Cort
• Hydrozone Plus
• Hytone
• Instacort-10
• Ivy Soothe
• IvyStat
• Keratol HC
• Kericort 10
• Lacticare-HC
• Locoid
• Locoid Lipocream
• Medi-Cortisone Maximum Strength
• Microcort
• Mycin Scalp
• Neutrogena T/Scalp
• NuCort
• Nupercainal HC
• Nutracort
• Pandel
• Pediaderm HC Kit
• Preparation H Hydrocortisone
• Proctocream-HC
• Recort Plus
• Sarnol-HC Maximum Strength
• Scalacort
• Scalpcort
• Summer’s Eve Specialcare
• Texacort
• Therasoft Anti-Itch & Dermatitis
• U-Cort
• Westcort

In Canada

• Barriere-Hc
• Cortate
• Cort-Eze
• Cortoderm Mild Ointment
• Cortoderm Regular Ointment
• Emo-Cort
• Emo-Cort Scalp Solution
• Hydrocortisone Cream
• Novo-Hydrocort
• Novo-Hydrocort Cream
• Prevex Hc
• Sarna Hc

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution
• Cream
• Spray
• Lotion
• Ointment
• Pad
• Liquid
• Gel/Jelly
• Kit
• Foam
• Stick
• Paste

Therapeutic Class: Corticosteroid, Weak

Pharmacologic Class: Adrenal Glucocorticoid

Uses For Summer’s Eve Specialcare

Hydrocortisone topical is used to help relieve redness, itching, swelling, or other discomfort caused by skin conditions. This medicine is a corticosteroid (cortisone-like medicine or steroid).

This medicine is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using Summer’s Eve Specialcare

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of hydrocortisone topical in the pediatric population. However, because of this medicine’s toxicity, it should be used with caution. Children may absorb large amounts through the skin, which can cause serious side effects. If your child is using this medicine, follow your doctor’s instructions very carefully.

Geriatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of hydrocortisone topical in geriatric patients.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Cushing’s syndrome (adrenal gland disorder) or
• Diabetes or
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or
• Intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in the head)—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Infection of the skin at or near the place of application or
• Large sores, broken skin, or severe skin injury at the place of application—The chance of side effects may be increased.

Proper Use of hydrocortisone

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain hydrocortisone. It may not be specific to Summer’s Eve Specialcare. Please read with care.

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause unwanted side effects or skin irritation.

This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away with water.

This medicine should only be used for skin conditions that your doctor is treating. Check with your doctor before using it for other conditions, especially if you think that a skin infection may be present. This medicine should not be used to treat certain kinds of skin infections or conditions, such as severe burns.

To use:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently.
• With the lotion, shake it well before using.
• Do not bandage or otherwise wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• If the medicine is applied to the diaper area of an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• If your doctor ordered an occlusive dressing or airtight covering to be applied over the medicine, make sure you know how to apply it. Occlusive dressings increase the amount of medicine absorbed through your skin, so use them only as directed. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For redness, itching, and swelling of the skin:
  • For topical dosage form (cream):
    • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin two or three times per day.
    • Children—Apply to the affected area of the skin two or three times per day.
  • For topical dosage form (lotion):
    • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin two to four times per day.
    • Children—Apply to the affected area of the skin two to four times per day.
  • For topical dosage form (ointment):
    • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin three or four times per day.
    • Children—Apply to the affected area of the skin three or four times per day.
  • For topical dosage form (solution):
    • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin three or four times per day.
    • Children—Apply to the affected area of the skin three or four times per day.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using Summer’s Eve Specialcare

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child’s progress at regular visits for any unwanted effects that may be caused by this medicine.

If your or your child’s symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and patients who use large amounts for a long time. Talk to your doctor right away if you or your child have more than one of these symptoms while you are using this medicine: blurred vision; dizziness or fainting; a fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat; increased thirst or urination; irritability; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you or your child have a skin rash, burning, stinging, swelling, or irritation on the skin.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated areas.

Summer’s Eve Specialcare Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

• Blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin
• irritation
• itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin
• redness and scaling around the mouth
• thinning of the skin with easy bruising, especially when used on the face or where the skin folds together (e.g. between the fingers)
• thinning, weakness, or wasting away of the skin

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

• Acne or pimples
• burning and itching of the skin with pinhead-sized red blisters
• burning, itching, and pain in hairy areas, or pus at the root of the hair
• increased hair growth on the forehead, back, arms, and legs
• lightening of normal skin color
• lightening of treated areas of dark skin
• reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin
• softening of the skin

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Generic Name: sumatriptan (Nasal route, Oral route, Subcutaneous route)

soo-ma-TRIP-tan

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Imitrex
• Imitrex Stat Dose Refill
• Sumavel DosePro

Available Dosage Forms:

• Spray
• Tablet
• Kit
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antimigraine

Pharmacologic Class: Serotonin Receptor Agonist, 5-HT1

Uses For Sumavel DosePro

Sumatriptan is used to treat severe migraine headaches. Many people find that their headaches go away completely after they take sumatriptan. Other people find that their headaches are much less painful, and that they are able to go back to their normal activities even though their headaches are not completely gone. Sumatriptan often relieves other symptoms that occur together with a migraine headache, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.

Sumatriptan is not an ordinary pain reliever. It will not relieve any kind of pain other than migraine headaches. This medicine is usually used for people whose headaches are not relieved by acetaminophen, aspirin, or other pain relievers.

Sumatriptan injection is also used to treat cluster headaches.

Sumatriptan has caused serious side effects in some people, especially people who have heart or blood vessel disease. Be sure that you discuss with your doctor the risks of using this medicine as well as the good that it can do.

Sumatriptan is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using Sumavel DosePro

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

This medicine has been tested in a limited number of children aged 12 to 17 years, however use is not recommend in children younger than 18 years of age.

Geriatric

Use of sumatriptan in elderly patients is not recommended.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Almotriptan
• Dihydroergotamine
• Ergoloid Mesylates
• Ergonovine
• Ergotamine
• Frovatriptan
• Isocarboxazid
• Linezolid
• Methylergonovine
• Methysergide
• Naratriptan
• Phenelzine
• Procarbazine
• Rizatriptan
• Tranylcypromine
• Zolmitriptan

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Citalopram
• Desvenlafaxine
• Dexfenfluramine
• Duloxetine
• Escitalopram
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Milnacipran
• Paroxetine
• Reboxetine
• Sertraline
• Sibutramine
• St John’s Wort
• Tapentadol
• Venlafaxine

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Angina (chest pain) or
• Fast or irregular heartbeat or
• Heart or blood vessel disease or
• High blood pressure or
• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease or
• Stroke (history of)—The chance of side effects may be increased. Heart or blood vessel disease and high blood pressure sometimes do not cause any symptoms, so some people do not know that they have these problems. Before deciding whether you should use sumatriptan, your doctor may need to do some tests to make sure that you do not have any of these conditions.

Proper Use of sumatriptan

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain sumatriptan. It may not be specific to Sumavel DosePro. Please read with care.

Do not use sumatriptan for a headache that is different from your usual migraines . Instead, check with your doctor.

To relieve your migraine as soon as possible, use sumatriptan as soon as the headache pain begins. Even if you get warning signals of a coming migraine (an aura), you should wait until the headache pain starts before using sumatriptan. Using sumatriptan during the aura probably will not prevent the headache from occurring. However, even if you do not use sumatriptan until your migraine has been present for several hours, the medicine will still work.

Lying down in a quiet, dark room for a while after you use this medicine may help relieve your migraine.

If you are not much better in 1 or 2 hours after an injection of sumatriptan or after sumatriptan nasal solution, or in 2 to 4 hours after a tablet is taken, do not use any more of this medicine for the same migraine. A migraine that is not relieved by the first dose of sumatriptan probably will not be relieved by a second dose, either. Ask your doctor ahead of time about other medicine to be taken if sumatriptan does not work. After taking the other medicine, check with your doctor as soon as possible. Headaches that are not relieved by sumatriptan are sometimes caused by conditions that need other treatment. However, even if sumatriptan does not relieve one migraine, it may still relieve the next one.

If you feel much better after a dose of sumatriptan, but your headache comes back or gets worse after a while, you may use more sumatriptan. However, use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, and do not use it more often, than directed. Using too much sumatriptan may increase the chance of side effects.

Your doctor may direct you to take another medicine to help prevent headaches. It is important that you follow your doctor’s directions, even if your headaches continue to occur. Headache-preventing medicines may take several weeks to start working. Even after they do start working, your headaches may not go away completely. However, your headaches should occur less often, and they should be less severe and easier to relieve. This can reduce the amount of sumatriptan or pain relievers that you need. If you do not notice any improvement after several weeks of headache-preventing treatment, check with your doctor.

For patients taking sumatriptan tablets:

• Sumatriptan tablets are to be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets before swallowing them.

For patients using sumatriptan injection:

• This medicine comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine, and check with your health care professional if you have any questions.
• Your health care professional will teach you how to inject yourself with the medicine. Be sure to follow the directions carefully. Check with your health care professional if you have any problems using the medicine.
• After you have finished injecting the medicine, be sure to follow the precautions in the patient directions about safely discarding the empty cartridge and the needle. Always return the empty cartridge and needle to their container before discarding them. Do not throw away the autoinjector unit, because refills are available.

For patients using sumatriptan nasal solution :

• This medicine comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine, and check with your health care professional if you have any questions.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For nasal dosage form (nasal solution):
  • For migraine headaches:
    • Adults—5 milligrams (mg) (1 spray into one nostril) or 10 mg (2 sprays in one nostril or 1 spray in each nostril) or 20 mg (1 spray into one nostril). If pain is not relieved, another spray (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) should not be used for the same migraine attack. Another spray (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) may be used for a migraine that occurs at a later time as long as it has been at least two hours since the last spray. Do not use more than 40 mg in a twenty-four-hour period (one day).
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For migraine headaches:
    • Adults—25, 50 or 100 mg as a single dose. If you get some relief, or if the migraine comes back after being relieved, another dose may be taken two hours after the last dose. Do not take more than 200 mg in any twenty-four-hour period. If you are taking the tablets after using an injection, you may take single doses up to 100 mg a day with two hours between doses. Do not take more than 200 mg in a twenty-four-hour period.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• For parenteral dosage form (injection):
  • For migraine or cluster headaches:
    • Adults—One 6-mg injection. One more 6-mg dose may be injected, if necessary, if the migraine comes back after being relieved. However, the second injection should not be given any sooner than one hour after the first one. Do not use more than two 6-mg injections in a twenty-four-hour period (one day). However, some people may be directed to use no more than two 6-mg doses in a forty-eight-hour period (two days).
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Precautions While Using Sumavel DosePro

Check with your doctor if you have used sumatriptan for three headaches, and have not had good relief. Also, check with your doctor if your migraine headaches are worse, or if they are occurring more often, than before you started using sumatriptan.

Drinking alcoholic beverages can make headaches worse or cause new headaches to occur. People who suffer from severe headaches should probably avoid alcoholic beverages, especially during a headache.

Some people feel drowsy or dizzy during or after a migraine, or after taking sumatriptan to relieve a migraine. As long as you are feeling drowsy or dizzy, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

Sumavel DosePro Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Most side effects of sumatriptan are milder and occur less often with the tablets than with the injection. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Stop taking this medicine and get emergency help immediately if any of the following effects occur:

Rare

• Chest pain (severe)
• changes in skin color on face
• convulsions (seizures)
• fast or irregular breathing
• puffiness or swelling of eyelids, area around the eyes, face, or lips
• shortness of breath, troubled breathing, or wheezing

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Chest pain (mild)
• heaviness, tightness, or pressure in chest and/or neck

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Difficulty in swallowing
• pounding heartbeat
• skin rash, hives, itching, or bumps on skin

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. Some of the following effects, such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, and general feeling of illness or tiredness, often occur during or after a migraine, even when sumatriptan has not been used. Most of the side effects caused by sumatriptan go away within a short time (less than 1 hour after an injection or 2 hours after a tablet). However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

• Burning, discharge, pain, and/or soreness in the nose
• burning, pain, or redness at place of injection
• change in sense of taste
• discomfort in jaw, mouth, tongue, throat, nose, or sinuses
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• feeling of burning, warmth, heat, numbness, tightness, or tingling
• feeling cold, “strange,” or weak
• flushing
• lightheadedness
• muscle aches, cramps, or stiffness
• nausea or vomiting

Less common or rare

• Anxiety
• general feeling of illness or tiredness
• vision changes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Sumatriptan Succinate, na-PROX-en SOE-dee-um

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Treximet

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Antimigraine

Pharmacologic Class: Sumatriptan

Chemical Class: Naproxen

Uses For sumatriptan and naproxen

Sumatriptan and naproxen combination is used to treat migraine attacks in adults. It does not prevent migraine attacks nor treat certain types of migraine headaches (e.g., hemiplegic or basilar type) .

Sumatriptan and naproxen combination has caused serious side effects in some people, especially people who have heart or blood vessel disease. Be sure that you discuss with your doctor the risks of using sumatriptan and naproxen as well as the good that it can do .

sumatriptan and naproxen is available only with your doctor’s prescription .

Before Using sumatriptan and naproxen

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For sumatriptan and naproxen, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to sumatriptan and naproxen or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of sumatriptan and naproxen combination in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established .

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatrics-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of sumatriptan and naproxen combination in the elderly. However, sumatriptan and naproxen is not recommended for use in elderly patients with kidney problems, heart and blood vessel disease, or high blood pressure, and should not be used by elderly patients with liver problems .

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using sumatriptan and naproxen with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Almotriptan
• Dihydroergotamine
• Ergoloid Mesylates
• Ergonovine
• Ergotamine
• Frovatriptan
• Isocarboxazid
• Ketorolac
• Linezolid
• Methylergonovine
• Methysergide
• Naratriptan
• Phenelzine
• Procarbazine
• Rizatriptan
• Tranylcypromine
• Zolmitriptan

Using sumatriptan and naproxen with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Ardeparin
• Beta Glucan
• Certoparin
• Citalopram
• Dalteparin
• Danaparoid
• Desirudin
• Desvenlafaxine
• Dexfenfluramine
• Duloxetine
• Enoxaparin
• Escitalopram
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Ginkgo
• Methotrexate
• Milnacipran
• Nadroparin
• Parnaparin
• Paroxetine
• Pemetrexed
• Reboxetine
• Reviparin
• Sertraline
• Sibutramine
• St John’s Wort
• Tacrolimus
• Tapentadol
• Tinzaparin
• Venlafaxine
• Warfarin

Using sumatriptan and naproxen with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Acetohexamide
• Alacepril
• Amiloride
• Azosemide
• Bemetizide
• Benazepril
• Bendroflumethiazide
• Benzthiazide
• Bumetanide
• Buthiazide
• Candesartan Cilexetil
• Canrenoate
• Captopril
• Chlorothiazide
• Chlorpropamide
• Chlorthalidone
• Cilazapril
• Citalopram
• Clopamide
• Clopidogrel
• Clovoxamine
• Cyclopenthiazide
• Cyclosporine
• Cyclothiazide
• Delapril
• Desvenlafaxine
• Duloxetine
• Enalaprilat
• Enalapril Maleate
• Eprosartan
• Escitalopram
• Ethacrynic Acid
• Femoxetine
• Flesinoxan
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Fosinopril
• Furosemide
• Gliclazide
• Glimepiride
• Glipizide
• Gliquidone
• Glyburide
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Hydroflumethiazide
• Imidapril
• Indapamide
• Irbesartan
• Lisinopril
• Losartan
• Methyclothiazide
• Metolazone
• Milnacipran
• Moexipril
• Nefazodone
• Olmesartan Medoxomil
• Paroxetine
• Pentopril
• Perindopril
• Piretanide
• Polythiazide
• Quinapril
• Quinethazone
• Ramipril
• Sertraline
• Spirapril
• Spironolactone
• Tasosartan
• Telmisartan
• Temocapril
• Tolazamide
• Tolbutamide
• Torsemide
• Trandolapril
• Triamterene
• Trichlormethiazide
• Valsartan
• Venlafaxine
• Xipamide
• Zimeldine
• Zofenopril

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of sumatriptan and naproxen. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Aspirin sensitivity, history of or
• Cerebrovascular disease (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack) or
• Heart attack or
• Hemiplegic or basilar types of migraine or
• High blood pressure, uncontrolled or
• Heart disease (e.g., angina) or
• Heart surgery (e.g., coronary artery bypass graft [CABG] surgery) or
• Ischemic bowel disease—Should not be used in patients with these conditions .

• Anemia or
• Asthma or
• Bleeding problems or
• Blurred vision or
• Congestive heart failure or
• Edema (fluid retention) or
• High blood pressure, controlled or
• Kidney disease or
• Seizures or
• Stomach or intestinal ulcer or bleeding—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse .

Proper Use of sumatriptan and naproxen

Do not use sumatriptan and naproxen for a headache that is different from your usual migraines. Instead, check with your doctor .

If your headache comes back or does not go away after taking sumatriptan and naproxen, wait at least two hours before taking another dose. Do not take more than two doses in 24 hours .

You may take the tablet with or without food .

Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it .

Use sumatriptan and naproxen for the shortest time possible and in the smallest dose possible. This will help lower the risk of side effects .

Dosing

The dose of sumatriptan and naproxen will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of sumatriptan and naproxen. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For migraine headaches:
    • Adults—One tablet once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose if needed. However, your dose is usually not more than two tablets in any 24-hour period.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor .

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using sumatriptan and naproxen

Check with your doctor if you have used sumatriptan and naproxen and have not had good relief. Also, check with your doctor if your migraine headaches are worse, or if they are occurring more often, than before you started using sumatriptan and naproxen .

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant. You should not use sumatriptan and naproxen during the later part of pregnancy unless your doctor tells you to .

sumatriptan and naproxen may increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. This is more likely in people who already have heart disease. People who use sumatriptan and naproxen for a long time might also have a higher risk .

sumatriptan and naproxen might cause bleeding or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. This is more likely if you have had a stomach ulcer in the past, if you smoke or drink alcohol regularly, if you are over 60 years old, if you are in poor health, or if you are using certain other medicines (a steroid or a blood thinner) .

You should not take sumatriptan and naproxen if you have used an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxacid (Marplan®), phenelzine (Nardil®), selegiline (Eldepryl®), or tranylcypromine (Parnate®) within the past two weeks. Do not use sumatriptan and naproxen if you have taken other migraine medicines (e.g., almotriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, zolmitriptan, Axert™, Frova®, Amerge®, Maxalt®, or Zomig®) or an ergotamine medicine (e.g., methysergide, Cafergot®, D.H.E. 45®, Ergomar®, or Migranal®) within the past 24 hours .

Make sure your doctor knows about all the other medicines you are using. Sumatriptan and naproxen combination may cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome when taken with some medicines. This especially includes medicines used to treat depression, such as citalopram, duloxetine, escitalopram, paroxetine, fluoxetine, olanzapine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine, Celexa®, Lexapro®, Cymbalta®, Effexor®, Paxil®, Prozac®, or Zoloft®. Check with your doctor first before taking any other medicines .

sumatriptan and naproxen may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Although this is rare, it may occur more often in patients who are allergic to aspirin or to any of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. The most serious signs of this reaction are very fast or irregular breathing, gasping for breath, wheezing, or fainting. Other signs may include changes in color of the skin of the face; very fast but irregular heartbeat or pulse; hive-like swellings on the skin; and puffiness or swellings of the eyelids or around the eyes. If these effects occur, get emergency help at once .

Serious skin reactions may also occur during treatment with sumatriptan and naproxen. Check with your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms while taking sumatriptan and naproxen: blistering, peeling, loosening of skin, chills, cough, diarrhea, fever, itching, joint or muscle pain, red skin lesions, sore throat, sores or ulcers, white spots in mouth or on lips, or unusual tiredness or weakness .

Check with your doctor immediately if blurred vision, difficulty in reading, or any other change in vision occurs during or after your treatment. Your doctor may want you to have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) .

Drinking alcoholic beverages can make headaches worse or cause new headaches to occur. People who suffer from severe headaches should probably avoid alcoholic beverages, especially during a headache .

sumatriptan and naproxen may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. If any of these side effects occur, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert while you are taking sumatriptan and naproxen .

sumatriptan and naproxen Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feelings
• chest discomfort or pain
• fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
• jaw, neck, or throat pain

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

• Acid or sour stomach
• belching
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• feeling hot
• heartburn
• indigestion
• lack or loss of strength
• muscle tightness
• nausea
• sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
• stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

soo-ma-TRIP-tan

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Imitrex
• Imitrex Stat Dose Refill
• Sumavel DosePro

Available Dosage Forms:

• Spray
• Tablet
• Kit
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antimigraine

Pharmacologic Class: Serotonin Receptor Agonist, 5-HT1

Uses For sumatriptan

Sumatriptan is used to treat severe migraine headaches. Many people find that their headaches go away completely after they take sumatriptan. Other people find that their headaches are much less painful, and that they are able to go back to their normal activities even though their headaches are not completely gone. Sumatriptan often relieves other symptoms that occur together with a migraine headache, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sensitivity to sound.

Sumatriptan is not an ordinary pain reliever. It will not relieve any kind of pain other than migraine headaches. sumatriptan is usually used for people whose headaches are not relieved by acetaminophen, aspirin, or other pain relievers.

Sumatriptan injection is also used to treat cluster headaches.

Sumatriptan has caused serious side effects in some people, especially people who have heart or blood vessel disease. Be sure that you discuss with your doctor the risks of using sumatriptan as well as the good that it can do.

Sumatriptan is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using sumatriptan

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For sumatriptan, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to sumatriptan or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

sumatriptan has been tested in a limited number of children aged 12 to 17 years, however use is not recommend in children younger than 18 years of age.

Geriatric

Use of sumatriptan in elderly patients is not recommended.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using sumatriptan with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Almotriptan
• Dihydroergotamine
• Ergoloid Mesylates
• Ergonovine
• Ergotamine
• Frovatriptan
• Isocarboxazid
• Linezolid
• Methylergonovine
• Methysergide
• Naratriptan
• Phenelzine
• Procarbazine
• Rizatriptan
• Tranylcypromine
• Zolmitriptan

Using sumatriptan with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Citalopram
• Desvenlafaxine
• Dexfenfluramine
• Duloxetine
• Escitalopram
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Milnacipran
• Paroxetine
• Reboxetine
• Sertraline
• Sibutramine
• St John’s Wort
• Tapentadol
• Venlafaxine

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of sumatriptan. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Angina (chest pain) or
• Fast or irregular heartbeat or
• Heart or blood vessel disease or
• High blood pressure or
• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease or
• Stroke (history of)—The chance of side effects may be increased. Heart or blood vessel disease and high blood pressure sometimes do not cause any symptoms, so some people do not know that they have these problems. Before deciding whether you should use sumatriptan, your doctor may need to do some tests to make sure that you do not have any of these conditions.

Proper Use of sumatriptan

Do not use sumatriptan for a headache that is different from your usual migraines . Instead, check with your doctor.

To relieve your migraine as soon as possible, use sumatriptan as soon as the headache pain begins. Even if you get warning signals of a coming migraine (an aura), you should wait until the headache pain starts before using sumatriptan. Using sumatriptan during the aura probably will not prevent the headache from occurring. However, even if you do not use sumatriptan until your migraine has been present for several hours, the medicine will still work.

Lying down in a quiet, dark room for a while after you use sumatriptan may help relieve your migraine.

If you are not much better in 1 or 2 hours after an injection of sumatriptan or after sumatriptan nasal solution, or in 2 to 4 hours after a tablet is taken, do not use any more of sumatriptan for the same migraine. A migraine that is not relieved by the first dose of sumatriptan probably will not be relieved by a second dose, either. Ask your doctor ahead of time about other medicine to be taken if sumatriptan does not work. After taking the other medicine, check with your doctor as soon as possible. Headaches that are not relieved by sumatriptan are sometimes caused by conditions that need other treatment. However, even if sumatriptan does not relieve one migraine, it may still relieve the next one.

If you feel much better after a dose of sumatriptan, but your headache comes back or gets worse after a while, you may use more sumatriptan. However, use sumatriptan only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, and do not use it more often, than directed. Using too much sumatriptan may increase the chance of side effects.

Your doctor may direct you to take another medicine to help prevent headaches. It is important that you follow your doctor’s directions, even if your headaches continue to occur. Headache-preventing medicines may take several weeks to start working. Even after they do start working, your headaches may not go away completely. However, your headaches should occur less often, and they should be less severe and easier to relieve. This can reduce the amount of sumatriptan or pain relievers that you need. If you do not notice any improvement after several weeks of headache-preventing treatment, check with your doctor.

For patients taking sumatriptan tablets:

• Sumatriptan tablets are to be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablets before swallowing them.

For patients using sumatriptan injection:

• sumatriptan comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine, and check with your health care professional if you have any questions.
• Your health care professional will teach you how to inject yourself with the medicine. Be sure to follow the directions carefully. Check with your health care professional if you have any problems using the medicine.
• After you have finished injecting the medicine, be sure to follow the precautions in the patient directions about safely discarding the empty cartridge and the needle. Always return the empty cartridge and needle to their container before discarding them. Do not throw away the autoinjector unit, because refills are available.

For patients using sumatriptan nasal solution :

• sumatriptan comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine, and check with your health care professional if you have any questions.

Dosing

The dose of sumatriptan will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of sumatriptan. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For nasal dosage form (nasal solution):
  • For migraine headaches:
    • Adults—5 milligrams (mg) (1 spray into one nostril) or 10 mg (2 sprays in one nostril or 1 spray in each nostril) or 20 mg (1 spray into one nostril). If pain is not relieved, another spray (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) should not be used for the same migraine attack. Another spray (5 mg, 10 mg, or 20 mg) may be used for a migraine that occurs at a later time as long as it has been at least two hours since the last spray. Do not use more than 40 mg in a twenty-four-hour period (one day).
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For migraine headaches:
    • Adults—25, 50 or 100 mg as a single dose. If you get some relief, or if the migraine comes back after being relieved, another dose may be taken two hours after the last dose. Do not take more than 200 mg in any twenty-four-hour period. If you are taking the tablets after using an injection, you may take single doses up to 100 mg a day with two hours between doses. Do not take more than 200 mg in a twenty-four-hour period.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• For parenteral dosage form (injection):
  • For migraine or cluster headaches:
    • Adults—One 6-mg injection. One more 6-mg dose may be injected, if necessary, if the migraine comes back after being relieved. However, the second injection should not be given any sooner than one hour after the first one. Do not use more than two 6-mg injections in a twenty-four-hour period (one day). However, some people may be directed to use no more than two 6-mg doses in a forty-eight-hour period (two days).
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Precautions While Using sumatriptan

Check with your doctor if you have used sumatriptan for three headaches, and have not had good relief. Also, check with your doctor if your migraine headaches are worse, or if they are occurring more often, than before you started using sumatriptan.

Drinking alcoholic beverages can make headaches worse or cause new headaches to occur. People who suffer from severe headaches should probably avoid alcoholic beverages, especially during a headache.

Some people feel drowsy or dizzy during or after a migraine, or after taking sumatriptan to relieve a migraine. As long as you are feeling drowsy or dizzy, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

sumatriptan Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Most side effects of sumatriptan are milder and occur less often with the tablets than with the injection. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Stop taking sumatriptan and get emergency help immediately if any of the following effects occur:

Rare

• Chest pain (severe)
• changes in skin color on face
• convulsions (seizures)
• fast or irregular breathing
• puffiness or swelling of eyelids, area around the eyes, face, or lips
• shortness of breath, troubled breathing, or wheezing

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Chest pain (mild)
• heaviness, tightness, or pressure in chest and/or neck

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Difficulty in swallowing
• pounding heartbeat
• skin rash, hives, itching, or bumps on skin

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. Some of the following effects, such as nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, and general feeling of illness or tiredness, often occur during or after a migraine, even when sumatriptan has not been used. Most of the side effects caused by sumatriptan go away within a short time (less than 1 hour after an injection or 2 hours after a tablet). However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

• Burning, discharge, pain, and/or soreness in the nose
• burning, pain, or redness at place of injection
• change in sense of taste
• discomfort in jaw, mouth, tongue, throat, nose, or sinuses
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• feeling of burning, warmth, heat, numbness, tightness, or tingling
• feeling cold, “strange,” or weak
• flushing
• lightheadedness
• muscle aches, cramps, or stiffness
• nausea or vomiting

Less common or rare

• Anxiety
• general feeling of illness or tiredness
• vision changes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

SUL-in-dak

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Clinoril

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Analgesic

Pharmacologic Class: NSAID

Chemical Class: Acetic Acid (class)

Uses For sulindac

Sulindac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain and help relieve symptoms of arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis) or acute gout, such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. sulindac does not cure arthritis and will help you only as long as you continue to take it.

Sulindac is also used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, which is a type of arthritis that affects the joints in the spine. sulindac may also be used to treat painful shoulder (bursitis or tendinitis).

sulindac is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using sulindac

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For sulindac, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to sulindac or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of sulindac in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of sulindac in the elderly. However, elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of sulindac than younger adults, and are more likely to have age-related kidney problems, which may require an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving sulindac.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using sulindac with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Ketorolac

Using sulindac with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Ardeparin
• Beta Glucan
• Certoparin
• Dalteparin
• Danaparoid
• Desirudin
• Enoxaparin
• Ginkgo
• Methotrexate
• Nadroparin
• Parnaparin
• Pemetrexed
• Reviparin
• Tacrolimus
• Tinzaparin

Using sulindac with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Acenocoumarol
• Acetohexamide
• Alacepril
• Amiloride
• Azosemide
• Bemetizide
• Benazepril
• Bendroflumethiazide
• Benzthiazide
• Bumetanide
• Buthiazide
• Candesartan Cilexetil
• Canrenoate
• Captopril
• Chlorothiazide
• Chlorpropamide
• Chlorthalidone
• Cilazapril
• Citalopram
• Clopamide
• Clopidogrel
• Clovoxamine
• Cyclopenthiazide
• Cyclosporine
• Cyclothiazide
• Delapril
• Desvenlafaxine
• Dicumarol
• Duloxetine
• Enalaprilat
• Enalapril Maleate
• Eprosartan
• Escitalopram
• Ethacrynic Acid
• Femoxetine
• Flesinoxan
• Fluoxetine
• Fluvoxamine
• Fosinopril
• Furosemide
• Gliclazide
• Glimepiride
• Glipizide
• Gliquidone
• Glyburide
• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Hydroflumethiazide
• Imidapril
• Indapamide
• Irbesartan
• Lisinopril
• Lithium
• Losartan
• Methyclothiazide
• Metolazone
• Milnacipran
• Moexipril
• Nefazodone
• Olmesartan Medoxomil
• Paroxetine
• Pentopril
• Perindopril
• Piretanide
• Polythiazide
• Quinapril
• Quinethazone
• Ramipril
• Sertraline
• Spirapril
• Spironolactone
• Tasosartan
• Telmisartan
• Temocapril
• Tolazamide
• Tolbutamide
• Torsemide
• Trandolapril
• Triamterene
• Trichlormethiazide
• Valsartan
• Venlafaxine
• Warfarin
• Xipamide
• Zimeldine
• Zofenopril

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of sulindac. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Anemia or
• Bleeding problems or
• Blood clots or
• Edema (fluid retention or body swelling) or
• Heart attack, history of or
• Heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure) or
• Hypertension (high blood pressure) or
• Kidney disease (e.g., kidney stones), history of or
• Liver disease (e.g., hepatitis) or
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or
• Stomach ulcers or intestinal bleeding, history of or
• Stroke, history of—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Aspirin-sensitive asthma or
• Aspirin sensitivity, history of—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

• Heart surgery (e.g., coronary artery bypass graft [CABG])—Should not be used to relieve pain right before or after the surgery.

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)—May cause side effects to become worse.

Proper Use of sulindac

For safe and effective use of sulindac, do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than ordered by your doctor. Taking too much of sulindac may increase the chance of unwanted effects, especially in elderly patients.

sulindac should come with a medication guide. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

When used for severe or continuing arthritis, sulindac must be taken regularly as ordered by your doctor in order for it to help you. sulindac usually begins to work within one week, but in severe cases up to two weeks or even longer may pass before you begin to feel better. Also, several weeks may pass before you feel the full effects of sulindac.

It is best to take sulindac with food. Also drink extra fluids so you will pass more urine while you are using sulindac. This will keep your kidneys working well and help prevent kidney problems.

Dosing

The dose of sulindac will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of sulindac. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis:
    • Adults—At first, 150 milligrams (mg) two times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 400 mg per day.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For acute gout, bursitis, or tendinitis:
    • Adults—At first, 200 milligrams (mg) two times a day. After the pain is relieved, your doctor may direct you to take a lower dose for a while before treatment is stopped completely.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of sulindac, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using sulindac

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that the medicine is working properly. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

sulindac may raise your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. This is more likely in people who already have heart disease. People who use sulindac for a long time might also have a higher risk.

sulindac may cause bleeding in your stomach or intestines. These problems can happen without warning signs. This is more likely if you have had a stomach ulcer in the past, if you smoke or drink alcohol regularly, are over 60 years of age, are in poor health, or if you are using certain other medicines (such as a steroid medicine or a blood thinner).

Serious skin reactions can occur during treatment with sulindac. Check with your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms while taking sulindac: blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin; chills; cough; diarrhea; fever; itching; joint or muscle pain; red skin lesions; sore throat; sores, ulcers, white spots in the mouth or on the lips; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

Some possible warning signs of serious side effects that can occur during treatment with sulindac may include black, tarry stools; decreased urination; severe stomach pain; skin rash; swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual weight gain; vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; or yellow skin or eyes. . Also, signs of serious heart problems could occur such as chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, tightness in the chest, unusual flushing or warmth of skin, weakness, or slurring of speech. Stop taking sulindac and check with your doctor right away if you notice any of these warning signs.

sulindac may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Although this is rare, it may occur more often in patients who are allergic to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. The most serious signs of this reaction are very fast or irregular breathing, gasping for breath, wheezing, or fainting. Other signs may include a color change of the face; very fast but irregular heartbeat or pulse; hive-like swellings on the skin; and puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes. If these effects occur, get emergency help at once.

Using sulindac during late pregnancy can harm your unborn baby. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.

sulindac may cause problems with your pancreas. Check with your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms while taking sulindac: bloating; chills; constipation; darkened urine; fast heartbeat; fever; indigestion; loss of appetite; nausea; pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back; vomiting; or yellow eyes or skin.

Check with your doctor immediately if blurred vision, difficulty in reading, or any other change in vision occurs during or after your treatment. Your doctor may want you to have your eyes checked by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

Call your doctor right away if you have confusion, drowsiness, a fever, a general feeling of illness, a headache, loss of appetite, nausea, a stiff neck or back, or vomiting. These could be symptoms of meningitis.

Before having any kind of surgery or medical tests, tell your doctor that you are taking sulindac. It may be necessary for you to stop treatment for a while, or to change to a different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug before your procedure.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

sulindac Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Acid or sour stomach
• belching
• constipation
• headache
• heartburn
• nausea or vomiting
• skin rash
• stomach pain

Less common

• Excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
• itching skin
• passing gas
• stomach cramps
• swelling
• weight loss

Rare

• Back or leg pains
• bleeding gums
• blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
• bloating
• bloody or black, tarry stools
• bloody or cloudy urine
• blurred or loss of vision
• burning feeling in the chest or stomach
• burning while urinating
• chest pain
• chills
• clay-colored stools
• confusion
• cough or hoarseness
• cracks in the skin
• dark urine
• decreased urine output
• diarrhea
• difficult or labored breathing
• difficult or painful urination
• difficulty with swallowing
• dilated neck veins
• discoloration of urine
• disturbed color perception
• dizziness
• double vision
• extreme fatigue
• eye pain
• fainting
• feeling of warmth
• fever
• flu-like symptoms
• general body swelling
• general feeling of discomfort or illness
• groin pain
• halos around lights
• hives
• increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
• increased sweating
• increased thirst
• indigestion
• irregular breathing
• joint or muscle pain
• large, flat, blue, or purplish patches in the skin
• large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
• light-colored stools
• loss of appetite
• loss of heat from the body
• lower back or side pain
• muscle aches, pains, or weakness
• nervousness
• night blindness
• noisy breathing
• nosebleeds
• numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
• overbright appearance of lights
• painful or difficult urination
• pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
• pale skin
• persistent bleeding or oozing from puncture sites, mouth, or nose
• pinpoint red or purple spots on the skin
• pounding in the ears
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• red skin lesions, often with a purple center
• red, irritated eyes
• redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest
• redness or other discoloration of the skin
• redness, swelling, or soreness of the tongue
• scaly skin
• seizures
• severe or continuing stomach pain
• severe sunburn
• shortness of breath
• slow or fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
• sore throat
• sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
• stiff neck or back
• stomach upset
• swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
• swelling or inflammation of the mouth
• swollen or painful glands
• tenderness in the stomach area
• tightness in the chest
• troubled breathing
• tunnel vision
• unpleasant breath odor
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• upper right abdominal pain
• vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• watery or bloody diarrhea
• weakness or heaviness of the legs
• weight gain
• wheezing
• yellow eyes or skin

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

• Change in consciousness
• decreased awareness or responsiveness
• loss of consciousness
• severe sleepiness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

• Continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
• hearing loss

Rare

• Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feelings
• burning, dry, or itching eyes
• decreased hearing
• difficulty with moving
• discharge, excessive tearing
• discouragement
• false sense of well-being
• feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
• feeling sad or empty
• hair loss or thinning of the hair
• hallucinations
• irritability
• loss of interest or pleasure
• metallic or bitter taste
• mood swings
• muscle cramping or stiffness
• personality changes
• redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
• restlessness
• sensation of spinning
• sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
• sleeplessness
• sore or dry mucous membranes
• swelling or redness in the joints
• trouble with concentrating
• trouble with sleeping
• unable to sleep
• vaginal bleeding

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.