Diuril

30/06/10

Generic Name: chlorothiazide (KLOR oh THYE a zide)
Brand Names: Diuril

What is Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

Chlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.

Chlorothiazide treats fluid retention (edema) in people with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disorders, or edema caused by taking steroids or estrogen. This medication is also used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

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


What is the most important information I should know about Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chlorothiazide or if you are unable to urinate.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to sulfa drugs, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, allergies, gout, lupus, or diabetes.

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of chlorothiazide. Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you light-headed (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to the side effects of chlorothiazide.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor’s instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.


What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chlorothiazide, or if you are unable to urinate.

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

  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease;
  • asthma or allergies;

  • gout;

  • lupus;

  • diabetes; or

  • if you are allergic to sulfa drugs.

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

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


How should I take Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

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

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood pressure will need to be checked on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Your blood and urine may need to be tested if you have been vomiting or are dehydrated.

Chlorothiazide can interfere with the results of a thyroid test. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using a thiazide diuretic.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

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


What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, and muscle weakness or limp feeling.

What should I avoid while taking Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of chlorothiazide.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor’s instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.


Diuril (chlorothiazide) side effects

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

  • nausea and vomiting with weakness, loss of appetite, headache, hallucinations, muscle pain, and/or seizure;

  • confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling;

  • urinating more or less than usual or not at all;

  • easy bruising or bleeding;

  • numbness or tingly feeling;

  • fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash; or

  • jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • dizziness, spinning sensation;

  • diarrhea, constipation, stomach cramps;

  • muscle spasm;

  • loss of interest in sex; or

  • blurred vision.

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

What other drugs will affect Diuril (chlorothiazide)?

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you light-headed (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to the side effects of chlorothiazide.

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

  • lithium;

  • digoxin (Lanoxin);

  • cholestyramine (Prevalite, Questran) or colestipol (Colestid);

  • steroids (prednisone and others);

  • other blood pressure medications;

  • NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), diclofenac (Voltaren), indomethacin, naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), and others; or

  • insulin or diabetes medicine taken by mouth.

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

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about chlorothiazide.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
  • Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 6.01. Revision Date: 04/01/2009 2:34:57 PM.

 

Generic Name: Chlorothiazide (klor-oh-THYE-a-zide)
Brand Name: Diuril

Diuril Suspension is used for:

Treating excess fluid buildup in the body caused by certain conditions or medicines. It may also be used to treat high blood pressure or other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Diuril Suspension is a thiazide diuretic. It works by helping the kidneys eliminate fluid from your body. Exactly how Diuril Suspension works to treat high blood pressure is unknown.

Do NOT use Diuril Suspension if:

  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Diuril Suspension or to any other sulfonamide medicine (eg sulfamethoxazole, glyburide, acetazolamide)
  • you are unable to urinate
  • you are taking dofetilide or ketanserin

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

Before using Diuril Suspension:

Some medical conditions may interact with Diuril Suspension. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
  • if you have gout, kidney or liver problems, lupus, diabetes, asthma, parathyroid problems, high blood cholesterol or lipid levels, or low blood pressure
  • if you have low blood sodium, chloride, potassium, or magnesium levels; or high blood calcium levels
  • if you have recently had nerve surgery

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Diuril Suspension. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen) because they decrease the effectiveness of Diuril Suspension
  • Barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), narcotic pain medicines (eg, codeine, morphine, fentanyl), or medicines for high blood pressure because side effects of Diuril Suspension may be increased
  • Diazoxide or nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg, tubocurarine) because side effects may be increased by Diuril Suspension
  • Lithium because risk of toxicity may be increased by Diuril Suspension
  • Digoxin, dofetilide, or ketanserin because risk of irregular heartbeat may be increased by Diuril Suspension
  • Diabetes medicines (eg, glipizide, metformin) or insulin because their effectiveness may be decreased by Diuril Suspension

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Diuril Suspension may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.



How to use Diuril Suspension:

Use Diuril Suspension as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

  • Diuril Suspension may be taken with or without food.
  • Shake well before using.
  • Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure your dose.
  • When you first start taking Diuril Suspension, it may cause an increase in urine or in frequency of urination. To prevent this from affecting sleep, try not to take any dose later than 6 pm.
  • Continue to use Diuril Suspension even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
  • If you miss a dose of Diuril Suspension, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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

Important safety information:

  • Diuril Suspension may cause dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Diuril Suspension. Using Diuril Suspension alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
  • Diuril Suspension may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Alcohol, hot weather, exercise, and fever can increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Also, sit or lie down at the first sign of dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness.
  • Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using Diuril Suspension.
  • Diuril Suspension may cause high blood sugar (eg, thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor). If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor immediately.
  • Your doctor may have also prescribed a potassium supplement for you. If so, follow the dosing carefully. Do not start taking additional potassium on your own or change your diet to include more potassium without first checking with your doctor.
  • Diuril Suspension may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Diuril Suspension. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.
  • Patients being treated for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after beginning therapy. Continue taking your medication even though you may not feel quite “normal.” Contact your doctor or pharmacist about any new symptoms.
  • LAB TESTS, including kidney function, blood pressure, and blood electrolyte levels, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
  • Use Diuril Suspension with caution in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to its effects.
  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Diuril Suspension during pregnancy. Diuril Suspension is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Diuril Suspension.

Possible side effects of Diuril Suspension:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Blurred vision; dizziness; headache; lightheadedness, especially when sitting up or standing; numbness or tingling of skin.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; decrease in amount of urine; drowsiness; gout; inability to keep an erection; inflammation of the pancreas; muscle pain or cramps; rapid or irregular heartbeat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; restlessness; seizures; shortness of breath; unusual thirst; unusual tiredness or weakness; unusually dry mouth; vomiting.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org), or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include dry mouth; excessive urination followed by a decrease in amount of urine; muscle cramps; severe lightheadedness, especially upon standing; weak or irregular heartbeat.

Proper storage of Diuril Suspension:

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

General information:

  • If you have any questions about Diuril Suspension, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
  • Diuril Suspension is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Diuril Suspension. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Issue Date: May 5, 2010
Database Edition 10.2.1.002
Copyright © 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.
 

DisperMox

30/06/10

Generic Name: Amoxicillin (a-MOX-i-SIL-in)
Brand Name: DisperMox

DisperMox is used for:

Treating infections caused by certain bacteria. It is also used with other medicines to treat Helicobacter pylori infection and ulcers of the small intestines.

DisperMox is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing sensitive bacteria.

Do NOT use DisperMox if:

  • you are allergic to any ingredient in DisperMox or another penicillin antibiotic (eg, ampicillin)
  • you have recently received or will be receiving live oral typhoid vaccine
  • you have infectious mononucleosis (mono)

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

Before using DisperMox:

Some medical conditions may interact with DisperMox. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
  • if you have a history of allergies, asthma, hay fever, or hives
  • if you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness) to a cephalosporin (eg, cephalexin) or another beta-lactam antibiotic (eg, imipenem)
  • if you have kidney problems, phenylketonuria, or gonorrhea

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with DisperMox. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

  • Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) because the risk of bleeding may be increased
  • Probenecid because it may increase the amount of DisperMox in your blood
  • Chloramphenicol, macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin), sulfonamides (eg, sulfamethoxazole), or tetracycline antibiotics (eg, doxycycline) because they may decrease DisperMox’s effectiveness
  • Methotrexate because the risk of its side effects may be increased by DisperMox
  • Live oral typhoid vaccine or hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) because their effectiveness may be decreased by DisperMox

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if DisperMox may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.



How to use DisperMox:

Use DisperMox as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

  • An extra patient leaflet is available with DisperMox. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.
  • Take DisperMox by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.
  • Do NOT chew or swallow DisperMox whole.
  • Place DisperMox in a small amount of water (about 2 teaspoons/10 mL). Do NOT use any other liquid. Swirl or stir until the tablet is completely mixed in the water. Drink right after mixing. Be sure to drink the entire mixture. Rinse the container with an additional small amount of water and drink to be sure all the medicine is taken.
  • To clear up your infection completely, take DisperMox for the full course of treatment. Keep taking it even if you feel better in a few days.
  • If you miss a dose of DisperMox, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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

Important safety information:

  • DisperMox may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use DisperMox with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
  • DisperMox only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold).
  • Be sure to use DisperMox for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.
  • Long-term or repeated use of DisperMox may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.
  • Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may rarely occur. This may develop while you use the antibiotic or within several months after you stop using it. Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.
  • Hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using DisperMox. To prevent pregnancy, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms).
  • Some of these products contain phenylalanine. If you must have a diet that is low in phenylalanine, ask your pharmacist if it is in your product.
  • Brown, yellow, or gray tooth discoloration has occurred rarely in some patients taking DisperMox. It occurred most often in children. The discoloration was reduced or removed by brushing or dental cleaning in most cases. Contact your doctor if you experience this effect.
  • Diabetes patients – DisperMox may cause the results of some tests for urine glucose to be wrong. Ask your doctor before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetes medicine.
  • Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed if you use DisperMox for a long period of time. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
  • Use DisperMox with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially patients with kidney problems.
  • Use DisperMox with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 10 years old who have diarrhea or an infection of the stomach or bowel.
  • Caution is advised when using DisperMox in CHILDREN younger than 3 months old; they may be more sensitive to its effects.
  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using DisperMox while you are pregnant. DisperMox is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use DisperMox, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of DisperMox:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Diarrhea; nausea; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody stools; confusion; dark urine; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe diarrhea; stomach pain or cramps; unusual bruising or bleeding; vaginal discharge or irritation; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org), or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include decreased urination.

Proper storage of DisperMox:

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

General information:

  • If you have any questions about DisperMox, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
  • DisperMox is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about DisperMox. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Issue Date: May 5, 2010
Database Edition 10.2.1.002
Copyright © 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.
 

disulfiram

30/06/10

Generic Name: disulfiram (die sul FER am)
Brand Names: Antabuse

What is disulfiram?

Disulfiram interferes with the metabolism of alcohol resulting in unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed.

Disulfiram is used to treat chronic alcoholism.

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


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

Do not drink alcohol while taking disulfiram. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, thirst, chest pain, vertigo, and low blood pressure may occur when alcohol is ingested during disulfiram therapy.

Do not take disulfiram for at least 12 hours after drinking alcohol.

Reactions may occur from drinking alcohol for several weeks after you have stopped taking disulfiram.

Be aware of the alcohol content of other common products such as cough and cold medicines, mouth washes, tonics, sauces, vinegars, and other food products. Alcohol in these products can also cause a reaction.


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

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

  • liver disease,
  • kidney disease;
  • thyroid disease;

  • diabetes;

  • brain damage or mental disorders;

  • epilepsy or another seizure disorder.

You may not be able to take disulfiram, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of these conditions.

Your doctor may want you to carry an identification card that states you are taking disulfiram. Ask your health care provider if you have any questions about this.

Disulfiram is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether disulfiram will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Disulfiram passes into breast milk in small amounts and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take disulfiram without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.


How should I take disulfiram?

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

Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Store disulfiram at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

See also: Disulfiram dosage in more detail

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Take the rest of the day’s doses at evenly spaced intervals unless otherwise directed by your doctor.


What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a disulfiram overdose include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, loss of coordination, numbness and tingling, and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking disulfiram?

Do not drink alcohol while taking disulfiram. Flushing, fast heartbeats, nausea, thirst, chest pain, vertigo, and low blood pressure may occur when alcohol is ingested during disulfiram therapy.

Do not take disulfiram for at least 12 hours after drinking alcohol.

Reactions may occur from drinking alcohol for several weeks after you have stopped taking disulfiram.

Be aware of the alcohol content of other common products such as cough and cold medicines and food products. Alcohol in these products can also cause a reaction.

Tell your doctor (or dentist) that you are taking disulfiram before taking an antibiotic or before having surgery.

Do not come in contact or breathe the fumes of products that may contain alcohol including paint thinners, solvents, stains, lacquers and others. Use caution when applying or using products that may contain alcohol including aftershaves, mouthwashes, colognes, perfumes, antiseptics and others. Talk to your doctor or phaarmacist if you have questions regarding product alcohol content.


Disulfiram side effects

Severe and sometimes fatal liver problems have occurred in patients taking disulfiram even without a prior history of liver problems.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking disulfiram and seek emergency medical attention:

  • an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of your throat; or hives);

  • seizures;

  • extreme tiredness;

  • dark urine;

  • yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice);

  • large appetite changes;

  • weakness, dizziness or loss of coordination; or

  • severe diarrhea or vomiting.

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

  • skin rash or acne;

  • mild headaches;

  • mild drowsiness or tiredness;

  • impotence;

  • metallic taste in the mouth; or

  • swollen or sore tongue.

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

Disulfiram Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Alcohol Dependence:

Initial: 500 mg orally once a day. This dose is generally continued for the first 1 to 2 weeks of abstinence of ethanol.

Maintenance: 250 mg orally once a day. Disulfiram is generally continued for at least 6 months to 1 year of abstinence from ethanol.

The maximum recommended dose is 500 mg/day.

What other drugs will affect disulfiram?

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

  • isoniazid (Nydrazid);

  • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);

  • a benzodiazepine such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), and others;
  • a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine (Tofranil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and others;

  • warfarin (Coumadin);

  • metronidazole (Flagyl);

  • theophylline (Theo-Dur);

  • phenytoin (Dilantin);

  • lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith, others).

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with disulfiram. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist has additional information about disulfiram written for health professionals that you may read.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
  • Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.02. Revision Date: 4/12/2009 4:39:51 PM.

 

dye-SUL-fi-ram

Oral routeTablet

Disulfiram should never be administered to a patient when he is in a state of alcohol intoxication, or without his full knowledge. The physician should instruct relatives accordingly .

Disulfiram should never be administered to a patient when he is in a state of alcohol intoxication, or without his full knowledge. The physician should instruct relatives accordingly .

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

  • Antabuse

Available Dosage Forms:

  • Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Ethanol Dependency

Uses For disulfiram

Disulfiram is used to help overcome your drinking problem. It is not a cure for alcoholism, but rather will discourage you from drinking.

Disulfiram is available only with your doctor’s prescription.


Before Using disulfiram

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 disulfiram, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to disulfiram 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

Studies on disulfiram have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of disulfiram in children with use in other age groups.

Geriatric

Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of disulfiram in the elderly with use in other age groups.

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 disulfiram 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.

  • Amprenavir
  • Metronidazole
  • Paraldehyde

Using disulfiram 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.

  • Tinidazole
  • Tranylcypromine

Using disulfiram 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.

  • Anisindione
  • Diazepam
  • Dicumarol
  • Fosphenytoin
  • Isoniazid
  • Omeprazole
  • Phenprocoumon
  • Phenytoin
  • Theophylline
  • Warfarin

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.

Using disulfiram with any of the following is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication, change some of the other medicines you take, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.

  • Ethanol

Other Medical Problems

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

  • Asthma or other lung disease, severe, or
  • Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) or
  • Epilepsy or other seizure disorder or
  • Heart or blood vessel disease or
  • Kidney disease or
  • Liver disease or cirrhosis of the liver or
  • Underactive thyroid—A disulfiram-alcohol reaction may make the condition worse
  • Depression or
  • Severe mental illness—Disulfiram may make the condition worse
  • Skin allergy—Disulfiram may cause an allergic reaction




Proper Use of disulfiram

In addition to beverages, alcohol is found in many other products. Reading the list of ingredients on foods and other products before using them will help you to avoid alcohol. Do not use alcohol-containing foods such as sauces and vinegars.

Before you take the first dose of disulfiram, make sure you have not taken any alcoholic beverage or alcohol-containing product or medicine (for example, tonics, elixirs, and cough syrups) during the past 12 hours. If you are not sure about the alcohol content of medicines you may have taken, check with your health care professional.

Take disulfiram every day as directed by your doctor . The medicine is usually taken each morning. However, if it makes you drowsy, ask your doctor if you may take it at bedtime instead.

Dosing

The dose of disulfiram 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 disulfiram. 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):
    • To help overcome drinking problems:
      • Adults and teenagers—At first, the dose is 500 milligrams (mg) or less, once a day for one or two weeks. Then, your doctor may lower your dose to 125 to 500 mg (usually to 250 mg) once a day.
      • 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 disulfiram

Do not drink any alcohol, even small amounts, while you are taking disulfiram and for 14 days after you stop taking it, because the alcohol may make you very sick. In addition to beverages, alcohol is found in many other products. Reading the list of ingredients on foods and other products before using them will help you to avoid alcohol. You can also avoid alcohol if you:

  • Do not use alcohol-containing foods, products, or medicines, such as elixirs, tonics, sauces, vinegars, cough syrups, mouth washes, or gargles.
  • Do not come in contact with or breathe in the fumes of chemicals that may contain alcohol, acetaldehyde, paraldehyde, or other related chemicals, such as paint thinner, paint, varnish, or shellac.
  • Use caution when using alcohol-containing products that are applied to the skin, such as some transdermal (stick-on patch) medicines or rubbing alcohol, back rubs, after-shave lotions, colognes, perfumes, toilet waters, or after-bath preparations. Using such products while you are taking disulfiram may cause headache, nausea, or local redness or itching because the alcohol in these products may be absorbed into your body. Before using alcohol-containing products on your skin, first test the product by applying some to a small area of your skin. Allow the product to remain on your skin for 1 or 2 hours. If no redness, itching, or other unwanted effects occur, you should be able to use the product.
  • Do not use any alcohol-containing products on raw skin or open wounds.

Check with your doctor if you have any questions.

Some of the symptoms you may experience if you use any alcohol while taking disulfiram are:

  • Blurred vision
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Fast or pounding heartbeat
  • Flushing or redness of face
  • Increased sweating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Throbbing headache
  • Troubled breathing
  • Weakness

These symptoms will last as long as there is any alcohol left in your system, from 30 minutes to several hours. On rare occasions, if you have a severe reaction or have taken a large enough amount of alcohol, a heart attack, unconsciousness, convulsions (seizures), and death may occur.

Your doctor may want you to carry an identification card stating that you are using disulfiram. This card should list the symptoms most likely to occur if alcohol is taken, and the doctor, clinic, or hospital to be contacted in case of an emergency. These cards may be available from the manufacturer. Ask your health care professional if you have any questions about this.

If you will be taking disulfiram for a long period of time (for example, for several months at a time), your doctor should check your progress at regular visits.

Before buying or using any liquid prescription or nonprescription medicine, check with your pharmacist to see if it contains any alcohol.

disulfiram may cause some people to become drowsy or less alert than they are normally. If this occurs, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert .

Disulfiram will add to the effects of other CNS depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system, possibly causing drowsiness). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures; muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any of the above while you are using disulfiram .

disulfiram 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:

Less common

  • Eye pain or tenderness or any change in vision
  • mood or mental changes
  • numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in hands or feet

Rare

  • Darkening of urine
  • light gray-colored stools
  • severe stomach pain
  • 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

  • Drowsiness

Less common or rare

  • Decreased sexual ability in males
  • headache
  • metallic or garlic-like taste in mouth
  • skin rash
  • unusual tiredness

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.

 

Ditropan

30/06/10

Generic name: Oxybutynin chloride
Brand names: Ditropan XL, Ditropan

Why is Ditropan prescribed?

Ditropan and Ditropan XL, the extended-release form of the drug, treat symptoms of overactive bladder, including frequent urination, urgency (increased need to urinate), and urge incontinence (inability to control urination). The drug works by blocking the nerve impulses that prompt the bladder to contract. Ditropan is also used to treat the urgency, frequency, leakage, incontinence, and painful or difficult urination caused by a neurogenic bladder (altered bladder function due to a nervous system abnormality).

Ditropan XL can also be prescribed for children 6 years of age and older who are suffering from urinary urge incontinence due to a neurological condition such as spina bifida.

Most important fact about Ditropan

Ditropan can cause heat prostration (fever and heat stroke due to decreased sweating) in high temperatures. If you live in a hot climate or will be exposed to high temperatures, take appropriate precautions.

How should you take Ditropan?

Ditropan may be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as prescribed.

Ditropan can make your mouth dry. Sucking hard candies or melting bits of ice in your mouth can remedy the problem.

Ditropan tablets and syrup must be taken 2 or 3 times a day. Ditropan XL, a long-acting form of the drug, is available for once-a-day dosing. Ditropan XL tablets should be swallowed whole with plenty of fluid. Do not chew, crush, or break them.

  • If you miss a dose…
    Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.
  • Storage instructions…
    Keep Ditropan in a tightly closed container and store it at room temperature. Protect the syrup from direct light. Protect the extended-release tablets from moisture and humidity.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Ditropan.

  • Side effects may include:
    Constipation, decreased production of tears, decreased sweating, difficulty falling or staying asleep, dilation of the pupil of the eye, dim vision, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, eye paralysis, hallucinations, impotence, inability to urinate, nausea, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, rash, restlessness, suppression of milk production, weakness

Why should Ditropan not be prescribed?

You should not take Ditropan if you have certain types of untreated glaucoma (excessive pressure in the eye), partial or complete blockage of the gastrointestinal tract, or paralytic ileus (obstructed bowel). Ditropan should also be avoided if you have severe colitis (inflamed colon), myasthenia gravis (abnormal muscle weakness), or urinary tract obstruction (inability to urinate). This drug is usually not prescribed for the elderly or debilitated.

Do not take Ditropan if you are sensitive or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Make sure your doctor is aware of any allergic reactions you have experienced.





Special warnings about Ditropan

If you have an ileostomy or colostomy (an artificial opening to the bowel) and develop diarrhea while taking Ditropan, inform your doctor immediately.

Ditropan may cause drowsiness or blurred vision. Driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended until you know how Ditropan affects you.

Your doctor will prescribe Ditropan with caution if you have liver disease, kidney disease, digestive problems such as reflux disease, or a nervous system disorder.

Ditropan may aggravate the symptoms of overactive thyroid, heart disease or congestive heart failure, irregular or rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, or enlarged prostate.

After taking Ditropan XL, you may notice something like a tablet in your stool. This is not a cause for concern. The outer coating of the extended release tablet sometimes fails to dissolve along with the contents.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ditropan

If Ditropan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ditropan with alcohol or sedatives such as temazepam or triazolam because increased drowsiness may occur. You should also check with your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

Alendronate
Antibiotics such as erythromycin and clarithromycin
Antifungal medication such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole
Risedronate
Drugs that ease spasms, including dicyclomine, glycopyrrolate, hyoscyamine, and propantheline

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Ditropan during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Ditropan may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Ditropan is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Ditropan

DITROPAN

Adults

The usual dose is one 5-milligram tablet or 1 teaspoonful of syrup taken 2 to 3 times a day, but not more than 4 times a day.

Children over 5 Years of Age

The usual dose is one 5-milligram tablet or 1 teaspoonful of syrup taken 2 times a day, but not more than 3 times a day. Ditropan is not recommended for children under 5.

DITROPAN XL

Adults

The recommended starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams once a day. If this proves insufficient, the doctor may increase the dose by 5 milligrams at weekly intervals, up to a maximum of 30 milligrams a day.

Children 6 Years of Age and Older

The recommended starting dose is 5 milligrams once a day. If this proves insufficient, the doctor may increase the dose by 5-milligram increments, up to a maximum of 20 milligrams a day.

Overdosage

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

  • Symptoms of Ditropan overdose may include:
    Coma, convulsions, delirium, dehydration, difficulty breathing, fever, flushing, hallucinations, irritability, low or high blood pressure, nausea, paralysis, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, tremor, urinary tract obstruction, vomiting

 

Ditropan Syrup

30/06/10

Generic Name: Oxybutynin (OX-i-BUE-ti-nin)
Brand Name: Generic only. No brands available.

Ditropan Syrup is used for:

Relieving symptoms of bladder problems (urinary urgency, frequency, or leakage; loss of bladder control; and painful urination) in certain patients. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Ditropan Syrup is an anticholinergic. It works by relaxing muscles in the bladder.

Do NOT use Ditropan Syrup if:

  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Ditropan Syrup
  • you have bladder blockage or are unable to urinate
  • you have certain stomach or bowel problems (eg, blockage, decreased muscle movement) or tightening of the esophagus
  • you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
  • you have heart problems caused by severe bleeding

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

Before using Ditropan Syrup:

Some medical conditions may interact with Ditropan Syrup. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
  • if you have trouble urinating or very poor health
  • if you have a history of heart problems (eg, heart failure, fast or irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, nervous system problems, esophagus problems (eg, reflux disease, inflammation), stomach or bowel problems (eg, colitis, inflammation), or hiatal hernia
  • if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, myasthenia gravis, an enlarged prostate, an overactive thyroid, or glaucoma, or if you are at risk for glaucoma

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Ditropan Syrup. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

  • Anticholinergics (eg, scopolamine), azole antifungals (eg, ketoconazole), or macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin) because they may increase the risk of Ditropan Syrup’s side effects
  • Bisphosphonates (eg, alendronate) because the risk of irritation of the esophagus may be increased
  • Phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Ditropan Syrup and they may increase the risk of Ditropan Syrup’s side effects

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Ditropan Syrup may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.



How to use Ditropan Syrup:

Use Ditropan Syrup as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

  • Take Ditropan Syrup by mouth with or without food.
  • Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure your dose.
  • Take Ditropan Syrup on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Ditropan Syrup at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
  • Continue to take Ditropan Syrup event if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.
  • If you miss a dose of Ditropan Syrup, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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

Important safety information:

  • Ditropan Syrup may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Ditropan Syrup with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
  • Check with your doctor before you drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Ditropan Syrup; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.
  • Ditropan Syrup may cause decreased sweating. Do not become overheated in hot weather or while you are being active; heatstroke may occur. Contact your doctor if you have been exposed to high temperatures and you develop fever; flushing; hot, dry skin; severe or persistent headache; dizziness; sudden fatigue; fast heartbeat; seizures; or fainting.
  • Ditropan Syrup may cause dry mouth. To help relieve dry mouth, suck on sugarless hard candy or ice chips, chew sugarless gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Use Ditropan Syrup with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.
  • Ditropan Syrup should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 5 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: It is not known if Ditropan Syrup can cause harm to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Ditropan Syrup while you are pregnant. It is not known if Ditropan Syrup is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Ditropan Syrup, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Ditropan Syrup:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Blurred vision; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry eyes, nose, skin, or mouth; headache; indigestion; nausea; stomach pain; taste changes; trouble sleeping.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; difficult or painful urination; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; hallucinations; mental or mood changes (eg, agitation); seizures; swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet; vision problems.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org), or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include coma; delirium; fever; flushing; hallucinations; irregular heartbeat; paralysis; seizures; severe or persistent dizziness or headache; tremor; trouble breathing; vomiting.

Proper storage of Ditropan Syrup:

Store Ditropan Syrup at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), in a tight container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Ditropan Syrup out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

  • If you have any questions about Ditropan Syrup, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
  • Ditropan Syrup is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Ditropan Syrup. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Issue Date: May 5, 2010
Database Edition 10.2.1.002
Copyright © 2010 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.
 

Ditropan XL

30/06/10

Generic name: Oxybutynin chloride
Brand names: Ditropan XL, Ditropan

Why is Ditropan XL prescribed?

Ditropan and Ditropan XL, the extended-release form of the drug, treat symptoms of overactive bladder, including frequent urination, urgency (increased need to urinate), and urge incontinence (inability to control urination). The drug works by blocking the nerve impulses that prompt the bladder to contract. Ditropan is also used to treat the urgency, frequency, leakage, incontinence, and painful or difficult urination caused by a neurogenic bladder (altered bladder function due to a nervous system abnormality).

Ditropan XL can also be prescribed for children 6 years of age and older who are suffering from urinary urge incontinence due to a neurological condition such as spina bifida.

Most important fact about Ditropan XL

Ditropan can cause heat prostration (fever and heat stroke due to decreased sweating) in high temperatures. If you live in a hot climate or will be exposed to high temperatures, take appropriate precautions.

How should you take Ditropan XL?

Ditropan may be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as prescribed.

Ditropan can make your mouth dry. Sucking hard candies or melting bits of ice in your mouth can remedy the problem.

Ditropan tablets and syrup must be taken 2 or 3 times a day. Ditropan XL, a long-acting form of the drug, is available for once-a-day dosing. Ditropan XL tablets should be swallowed whole with plenty of fluid. Do not chew, crush, or break them.

  • If you miss a dose…
    Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.
  • Storage instructions…
    Keep Ditropan XL in a tightly closed container and store it at room temperature. Protect the syrup from direct light. Protect the extended-release tablets from moisture and humidity.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Ditropan.

  • Side effects may include:
    Constipation, decreased production of tears, decreased sweating, difficulty falling or staying asleep, dilation of the pupil of the eye, dim vision, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, eye paralysis, hallucinations, impotence, inability to urinate, nausea, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, rash, restlessness, suppression of milk production, weakness

Why should Ditropan XL not be prescribed?

You should not take Ditropan if you have certain types of untreated glaucoma (excessive pressure in the eye), partial or complete blockage of the gastrointestinal tract, or paralytic ileus (obstructed bowel). Ditropan should also be avoided if you have severe colitis (inflamed colon), myasthenia gravis (abnormal muscle weakness), or urinary tract obstruction (inability to urinate). This drug is usually not prescribed for the elderly or debilitated.

Do not take Ditropan XL if you are sensitive or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Make sure your doctor is aware of any allergic reactions you have experienced.





Special warnings about Ditropan XL

If you have an ileostomy or colostomy (an artificial opening to the bowel) and develop diarrhea while taking Ditropan, inform your doctor immediately.

Ditropan may cause drowsiness or blurred vision. Driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended until you know how Ditropan XL affects you.

Your doctor will prescribe Ditropan with caution if you have liver disease, kidney disease, digestive problems such as reflux disease, or a nervous system disorder.

Ditropan may aggravate the symptoms of overactive thyroid, heart disease or congestive heart failure, irregular or rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, or enlarged prostate.

After taking Ditropan XL, you may notice something like a tablet in your stool. This is not a cause for concern. The outer coating of the extended release tablet sometimes fails to dissolve along with the contents.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ditropan XL

If Ditropan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ditropan with alcohol or sedatives such as temazepam or triazolam because increased drowsiness may occur. You should also check with your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

Alendronate
Antibiotics such as erythromycin and clarithromycin
Antifungal medication such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole
Risedronate
Drugs that ease spasms, including dicyclomine, glycopyrrolate, hyoscyamine, and propantheline

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Ditropan during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Ditropan may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Ditropan XL is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Ditropan XL

DITROPAN

Adults

The usual dose is one 5-milligram tablet or 1 teaspoonful of syrup taken 2 to 3 times a day, but not more than 4 times a day.

Children over 5 Years of Age

The usual dose is one 5-milligram tablet or 1 teaspoonful of syrup taken 2 times a day, but not more than 3 times a day. Ditropan is not recommended for children under 5.

DITROPAN XL

Adults

The recommended starting dose is 5 or 10 milligrams once a day. If this proves insufficient, the doctor may increase the dose by 5 milligrams at weekly intervals, up to a maximum of 30 milligrams a day.

Children 6 Years of Age and Older

The recommended starting dose is 5 milligrams once a day. If this proves insufficient, the doctor may increase the dose by 5-milligram increments, up to a maximum of 20 milligrams a day.

Overdosage

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

  • Symptoms of Ditropan overdose may include:
    Coma, convulsions, delirium, dehydration, difficulty breathing, fever, flushing, hallucinations, irritability, low or high blood pressure, nausea, paralysis, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, tremor, urinary tract obstruction, vomiting

 

Disalcid

30/06/10

Generic Name: salsalate (SAL sa late)
Brand Names: Disalcid, Salsitab

What is Disalcid (salsalate)?

Salsalate is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) in a group of drugs called salicylates (sa-LIS-il-ates). This medicine works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain, fever, and inflammation.

Salsalate is used to reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by arthritis.

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


What is the most important information I should know about Disalcid (salsalate)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to aspirin or to an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug).

Before taking salsalate, tell your doctor if you have asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, stomach or intestinal bleeding, diabetes, anemia, a bleeding disorder, liver or kidney disease, nasal polyps, a genetic enzyme deficiency, or if you are dehydrated.

Salsalate may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term. Do not use salsalate just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain, severe dizziness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.

This medicine may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking salsalate, especially in older adults.

Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of stomach bleeding such as black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. This medication should not be given to a child or teenager who has a fever, especially if the child also has flu symptoms or chicken pox. Salicylates can cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called Reye’s syndrome in children.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Disalcid (salsalate)?

Salicylates may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term. Do not use salsalate just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Salicylates may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking salsalate, especially in older adults.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to aspirin or to an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug).

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

  • asthma;

  • heart disease, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure;

  • a history of stroke or heart attack;

  • a stomach ulcer or intestinal bleeding;

  • a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;

  • diabetes;

  • swelling or fluid retention;

  • anemia (a lack of red blood cells);

  • liver disease;
  • kidney disease;
  • an enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD);

  • nasal polyps; or

  • if you are dehydrated.

FDA pregnancy category C. Salsalate may be harmful to an unborn baby if the mother takes the medication during the last 3 months of pregnancy. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Salsalate can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. This medication should not be given to a child or teenager who has a fever, especially if the child also has flu symptoms or chicken pox. Salicylates can cause a serious and sometimes fatal condition called Reye’s syndrome in children. Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from salsalate.


How should I take Disalcid (salsalate)?

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

Salsalate may be taken up to 3 times per day. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Take the medicine with a full glass of water. Take salsalate with food, milk, or an antacid if it upsets your stomach. To prevent stomach upset, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking salsalate. It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not start to improve after 2 weeks of treatment.

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

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using salsalate. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Store salsalate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since salsalate is often used as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are using the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms may include ringing in your ears, severe dizziness or drowsiness, sweating, fast breathing, severe vomiting or diarrhea, confusion, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking Disalcid (salsalate)?

Salsalate can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Do not use any other over-the-counter medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Salicylates and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are contained in many medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of a certain drug. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen, magnesium salicylate, or similar medicines.

If you are also taking low-dose aspirin because your doctor has prescribed it to prevent heart attack or stroke, do not stop taking it or change your dose without your doctor’s advice. Aspirin should be used for cardiovascular conditions only under the supervision of a doctor.

Avoid alcohol or use it in moderation while taking salsalate. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, the risk of stomach bleeding may increase. Avoid smoking while you are taking this medication. Smoking can also increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Disalcid (salsalate) side effects

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

  • chest pain, severe dizziness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance;

  • sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;

  • feeling like you might pass out;

  • black, bloody, or tarry stools;

  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

  • hearing problems, ringing in your ears;

  • swelling in your hands or feet, rapid weight gain;

  • fast or pounding heartbeats;

  • easy bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, sore throat, flu symptoms;

  • urinating more or less than usual;

  • severe stomach pain, ongoing nausea or vomiting;

  • dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects may include:

  • upset stomach, heartburn; or

  • mild dizziness.

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

What other drugs will affect Disalcid (salsalate)?

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

  • acetazolamide (Diamox);

  • cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune);

  • lithium (Eskalith, LithoBid);

  • methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall);

  • pemetrexed (Alimta);

  • tenofovir (Viread);

  • an antidepressant such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft);

  • a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

  • diabetes medication you take by mouth;

  • a diuretic (water pill);

  • gout medication such as probenecid (Benemid);

  • heart or blood pressure medication such as atenolol (Tenormin), captopril (Capoten), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), losartan (Cozaar, Hyzaar), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), and others;

  • medication used to prevent blood clots, such as cilostazol (Pletal) or clopidogrel (Plavix);

  • medicine to treat or prevent osteoporosis, such as alendronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva), risedronate (Actonel), and others;

  • sodium bicarbonate, potassium citrate (K-Lyte, Urocit-K), sodium citrate and citric acid (Bicitra, Oracit), or sodium citrate and potassium (Citrolith, Polycitra);

  • seizure medication such as phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital (Solfoton), valproic acid (Depakene); or

  • steroid medicine (prednisone and others).

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

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about salsalate.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only f or the indication prescribed.
  • Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01. Revision Date: 08/25/2009 12:48:56 PM.

 

Diskets

30/06/10

Generic Name: methadone (METH a done)
Brand Names: Diskets, Dolophine, Methadose

What is Diskets (methadone)?

Methadone is a narcotic pain reliever, similar to morphine. Methadone also reduces withdrawal symptoms in people addicted to heroin or other narcotic drugs without causing the “high” associated with the drug addiction.

Methadone is used as a pain reliever and as part of drug addiction detoxification and maintenance programs.

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


What is the most important information I should know about Diskets (methadone)?

Taking methadone improperly will increase your risk of serious side effects or death. Even if you have used other narcotic medications, you may still have serious side effects from methadone. Follow all dosing instructions carefully.

Like other narcotic medicines, methadone can slow your breathing, even long after the pain-relieving effects of the medication wear off. Death may occur if breathing becomes too weak. Never use more methadone than your doctor has prescribed. Call your doctor if you think the medicine is not working.

Do not stop using methadone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Call your doctor if you miss doses or forget to take this medication for longer than 3 days in a row. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking methadone. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with methadone. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol. Methadone can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Diskets (methadone)?

Taking methadone improperly will increase your risk of serious side effects or death. Even if you have used other narcotic medications, you may still have serious side effects from methadone. Follow all dosing instructions carefully. Methadone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Methadone should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not use this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a narcotic medicine (examples include codeine, morphine, Oxycontin, Darvocet, Percocet, Vicodin, Lortab, and many others). You should also not take methadone if you are having an asthma attack or if you have a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus.

Before taking methadone, talk to your doctor if you have:

  • a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome”;

  • asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;

  • liver or kidney disease;
  • underactive thyroid;

  • curvature of the spine;

  • a history of head injury or brain tumor;

  • epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

  • low blood pressure;

  • gallbladder disease;

  • Addison’s disease or other adrenal gland disorders;

  • enlarged prostate, urination problems;

  • mental illness; or

  • a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. It could also cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes methadone during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Methadone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults and people with debilitating conditions may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.



How should I use Diskets (methadone)?

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

Like other narcotic medicines, methadone can slow your breathing, even long after the pain-relieving effects of the medication wear off. Death may occur if breathing becomes too weak. Never use more methadone than your doctor has prescribed. Call your doctor if you think the medicine is not working.

When methadone is used as part of a treatment program for drug addiction or detoxification, you will receive the medication through a clinic or special pharmacy.

Your doctor may recommend that methadone be given to you by a family member or other caregiver. This is to make sure you are using the medicine as it was prescribed as part of your treatment.

Additional forms of counseling and/or monitoring may be recommended during treatment with methadone.

Methadone is available in tablets, dispersible tablets, oral solution (liquid) and as an injection. The pill and oral liquid forms of methadone must never be used to make a methadone injection.

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

The methadone dispersible tablet (Diskets) is made to be dissolved in water. Do not chew, crush, or swallow the tablet whole. Place the tablet into a 4-ounce glass of water, orange juice, or other citrus-flavored non-alcoholic beverage and allow the tablet to disperse in the liquid. The tablet will not dissolve completely. Drink this mixture right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more liquid to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

Store methadone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep track of how much of this medicine has been used. Methadone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

If you miss your doses for longer than 3 days in a row, call your doctor for instructions. You may need to restart methadone at a lower dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.An overdose of methadone can be fatal, especially if you take it with alcohol or other narcotic medications.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, confusion, cold and clammy skin, weak pulse, shallow breathing, fainting, or breathing that stops.

What should I avoid while using Diskets (methadone)?

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking methadone. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with methadone. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol. Methadone can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Diskets (methadone) side effects

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

  • shallow breathing;

  • hallucinations or confusion;

  • chest pain, dizziness, fainting, fast or pounding heartbeat; or

  • trouble breathing, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • feeling anxious, nervous, or restless;

  • sleep problems (insomnia);

  • feeling weak or drowsy;

  • dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite; or

  • decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

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

What other drugs will affect Diskets (methadone)?

Do not use methadone with other narcotic pain medications, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, or other medicines that can make you sleepy or slow your breathing. Dangerous side effects may result. Do not use methadone with any of the following drugs without first talking to your doctor:

  • a diuretic (water pill);

  • antibiotics such as azithromycin (Zithromax), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), metronidazole (Flagyl) or voriconazole (Vfend);

  • heart or blood pressure medication such as diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac) or verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan);

  • HIV medicines such as abacavir (Ziagen), amprenavir (Agenerase), didanosine (Videx), efavirenz (Sustiva), lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra), nelfinavir (Viracept), nevirapine (Viramune), ritonavir (Norvir), stavudine (Zerit), or zidovudine (Retrovir);

  • an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), or selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam);

  • other narcotic medications such as pentazocine (Talwin), nalbuphine (Nubain), buprenorphine (Subutex), or butorphanol (Stadol);

  • rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater); or

  • seizure medication such as phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton) or phenytoin (Dilantin).

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

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about methadone.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed
  • Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.07. Revision Date: 4/12/2009 4:22:32 PM.