Tuesday, 28 August 2012

Nutracort


Generic Name: hydrocortisone topical (hye droe KOR ti sone)

Brand Names: Ala-Cort, Ala-Scalp HP, Aquanil HC, Beta HC, Caldecort, Cortaid, Cortaid Intensive Therapy, Cortaid Maximum Strength, Cortaid with Aloe, Cortalo with Aloe, Corticaine, Cortizone for Kids, Cortizone-10, Cortizone-10 Intensive Healing Formula, Cortizone-10 Plus, Cortizone-5, Dermarest Dricort, Dermarest Eczema Medicated, Dermarest Plus Anti-Itch, Dermtex HC, Genasone/Aloe, Gly-Cort, Gynecort Maximum Strength, Hycort, Hydrocortisone 1% In Absorbase, Hydrocortisone with Aloe, Hydrocortisone-Aloe, Hytone, Instacort, Itch-X Lotion, Locoid, Locoid Lipocream, Locoid Lotion, Massengill Medicated Soft Cloth, MD Hydrocortisone, Neutrogena T-Scalp, NuCort with Aloe, NuZon, Pandel, Recort Plus, Rederm, Sarnol-HC, Scalacort, Texacort, U-Cort, Westcort


What is Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?

Hydrocortisone is a topical steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.


Hydrocortisone topical is used to treat inflammation of the skin caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, or psoriasis.


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


What is the most important information I should know about Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?


There are many brands and forms of hydrocortisone topical available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.


Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with hydrocortisone topical can increase the amount of the drug your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Avoid using this medication on your face, near your eyes, or on body areas where you have skin folds or thin skin.


Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor's advice. Children are more sensitive to the effects of hydrocortisone topical.

Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.


Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse after using this medication for several days.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?


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

Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.


FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether hydrocortisone topical is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether hydrocortisone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor's advice. Children are more sensitive to the effects of hydrocortisone topical.

How should I use Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer than recommended.


Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.


Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using hydrocortisone topical to treat a hand condition.


Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin.


Avoid using this medication on your face, near your eyes or mouth, or on body areas where you have skin folds or thin skin.


Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with hydrocortisone topical can increase the amount of the drug your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions. Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse after using this medication for several days. It is important to use hydrocortisone topical regularly to get the most benefit. Store hydrocortisone topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


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


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of hydrocortisone topical applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while using Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?


Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, mouth, and nose, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, wash with water. Do not use hydrocortisone topical on sunburned, windburned, irritated, or broken skin. Also avoid using this medication in open wounds.

Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps or shampoos or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.


Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical) 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 hydrocortisone topical and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights;




  • uneven heartbeats;




  • sleep problems (insomnia);




  • weight gain, puffiness in your face; or




  • feeling tired.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • skin redness, burning, itching, or peeling;




  • thinning of your skin;




  • blistering skin; or




  • stretch marks.



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 Nutracort (hydrocortisone topical)?


It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied hydrocortisone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Nutracort resources


  • Nutracort Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Nutracort Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Nutracort Drug Interactions
  • Nutracort Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Nutracort - Add your own review/rating


  • Nutracort Lotion MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Nutracort Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Anusol-HC Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Carmol HC Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Carmol HC MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Cortizone-10 Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Hydrocortisone Acetate Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Hydrocortisone with Aloe Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Hytone Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Instacort Gel MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Locoid Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Locoid Lipocream Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Locoid Lotion Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Pandel Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Pediaderm HC Lotion MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • ProctoCream-HC Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Proctocort Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Texacort Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • U-cort Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Westcort Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Nutracort with other medications


  • Anal Itching
  • Aphthous Stomatitis, Recurrent
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Dermatitis
  • Eczema
  • Gingivitis
  • Proctitis
  • Pruritus
  • Psoriasis
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis
  • Skin Rash
  • Ulcerative Colitis, Active


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about hydrocortisone topical.

See also: Nutracort side effects (in more detail)


Monday, 27 August 2012

Intafenac




Intafenac may be available in the countries listed below.


Ingredient matches for Intafenac



Aceclofenac

Aceclofenac is reported as an ingredient of Intafenac in the following countries:


  • Vietnam

Diclofenac

Diclofenac sodium salt (a derivative of Diclofenac) is reported as an ingredient of Intafenac in the following countries:


  • Bangladesh

International Drug Name Search

Sunday, 26 August 2012

Ionamin


Generic Name: phentermine (FEN ter meen)

Brand Names: Adipex-P, Oby-Cap, T-Diet, Zantryl


What is Ionamin (phentermine)?

Phentermine is a stimulant that is similar to an amphetamine. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that affects the central nervous system.


Phentermine is used togther with diet and exercise to treat obesity (overweight) in people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.


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


What is the most important information I should know about Ionamin (phentermine)?


Taking phentermine together with other diet medications such as fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux) can cause a rare fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Do not take phentermine with any other diet medications without your doctor's advice.


Phentermine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of phentermine.

Phentermine is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.


Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share phentermine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription. Do not stop using phentermine suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phentermine.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Ionamin (phentermine)?


Do not use phentermine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Serious, life threatening side effects can occur if you use phentermine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Taking phentermine together with other diet medications such as fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux) can cause a rare fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Do not take phentermine with any other diet medications without your doctor's advice.


You should not take phentermine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

  • coronary artery disease (hardening of the arteries);




  • heart disease;




  • severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;




  • overactive thyroid;




  • glaucoma;




  • if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse; o




  • if you are allergic to other diet pills, amphetamines, stimulants, or cold medications.



If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a phentermine dose adjustment or special tests:



  • high blood pressure;




  • diabetes; or




  • a thyroid disorder.




FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether phentermine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Phentermine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking phentermine. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 16 years old. Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share phentermine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

How should I take Ionamin (phentermine)?


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


It is best to take phentermine on an empty stomach before breakfast or within 2 hours after breakfast.

To prevent sleep problems, take this medication early in the day, no later than 6:00 pm.


Talk with your doctor if you have increased hunger or if you otherwise think the medication is not working properly. Taking more of this medication will not make it more effective and can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.

Phentermine should be taken only for a short time, such as a few weeks.


Do not stop taking phentermine suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phentermine. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of phentermine can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include confusion, hallucinations, panic, feeling hostile or aggressive, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, irregular heartbeat, rapid breathing, overactive reflexes, confusion, hallucinations, seizure (convulsions), feeling light-headed, or fainting.


What should I avoid while taking Ionamin (phentermine)?


Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of phentermine. Phentermine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Ionamin (phentermine) 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 a serious side effect such as:

  • feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;




  • chest pain, feeling like you might pass out;




  • swelling in your ankles or feet;




  • pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;




  • confusion or irritability, unusual thoughts or behavior;




  • feelings of extreme happiness or sadness; or




  • dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).



Less serious side effects may include:



  • feeling restless or hyperactive;




  • headache, dizziness, tremors;




  • sleep problems (insomnia);




  • dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth;




  • diarrhea or constipation, upset stomach; or




  • increased or decreased interest in sex, impotence.



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 Ionamin (phentermine)?


Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:



  • blood pressure medications;




  • insulin or oral diabetes medication;




  • guanethidine (Ismelin); or




  • an antidepressant such as citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, Symbyax), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), and others.



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with phentermine. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Ionamin resources


  • Ionamin Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Ionamin Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Ionamin Drug Interactions
  • Ionamin Support Group
  • 6 Reviews for Ionamin - Add your own review/rating


  • Ionamin Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Ionamin MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ionamin Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Phentermine Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Phentermine Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Adipex-P MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Adipex-P Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Ionamin with other medications


  • Obesity
  • Weight Loss


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about phentermine.

See also: Ionamin side effects (in more detail)


Friday, 24 August 2012

Jodisol Spray s Mechanickým Rozprasovacem




Jodisol Spray s Mechanickým Rozprasovacem may be available in the countries listed below.


Ingredient matches for Jodisol Spray s Mechanickým Rozprasovacem



Povidone Iodine

Povidone-Iodine is reported as an ingredient of Jodisol Spray s Mechanickým Rozprasovacem in the following countries:


  • Czech Republic

International Drug Name Search

Nelova 0.5/35


Generic Name: ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (ETH in il ess tra DYE ole and nor ETH in drone)

Brand Names: Aranelle, Balziva, Brevicon, Estrostep Fe, Femcon FE, Junel 1.5/30, Junel Fe 1.5/30, Junel Fe 1/20, Leena, Loestrin 21 1.5/30, Loestrin 24 Fe, Loestrin Fe 1/20, Microgestin 1.5/30, Microgestin FE 1.5/30, Modicon, Necon 0.5/35, Necon 1/35, Necon 7/7/7, Nortrel 0.5/35, Nortrel 7/7/7, Ortho-Novum 1/35, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7, Ovcon 35, Tilia Fe, Tri-Legest Fe, Tri-Norinyl, Zenchent


What is Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?

Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone contains a combination of female hormones that prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary). This medication also causes changes in your cervical mucus and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus.


Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone are used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. It is also used to treat severe acne.


Ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?


Do not use birth control pills if you are pregnant or if you have recently had a baby. Do not use this medication if you have any of the following conditions: a history of stroke or blood clot, circulation problems, a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding, liver disease or liver cancer, or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.

You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.


Taking hormones can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack, especially if you smoke and are older than 35.

Some drugs can make birth control pills less effective, which may result in pregnancy. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, including vitamins, minerals and herbal products. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?


This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant, or if you miss two menstrual periods in a row. If you have recently had a baby, wait at least 4 weeks before taking birth control pills (6 weeks if you are breast-feeding). Do not use this medication if you have:

  • a history of a stroke, blood clot, or circulation problems;




  • a hormone-related cancer such as breast or uterine cancer;




  • abnormal vaginal bleeding;




  • liver disease, liver cancer, or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pills.



Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions.



  • high blood pressure or a history of heart disease;




  • high cholesterol, gallbladder disease, or diabetes;




  • migraine headaches or a history of depression; or




  • a history of breast cancer or an abnormal mammogram.




The hormones in birth control pills can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. This medication may also slow breast milk production. Do not use if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?


Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. You will take your first pill on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period begins (follow your doctor's instructions).


You may need to use back-up birth control, such as condoms or a spermicide, when you first start using this medication. Follow your doctor's instructions.


The 28-day birth control pack contains seven "reminder" pills to keep you on your regular cycle. Your period will usually begin while you are using these reminder pills.


You may have breakthrough bleeding, especially during the first 3 months. Tell your doctor if this bleeding continues or is very heavy.

Take one pill every day, no more than 24 hours apart. When the pills run out, start a new pack the following day. You may get pregnant if you do not use this medication regularly. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of pills completely.


The chewable tablet may be chewed or swallowed whole. If chewed, drink a full glass of water just after you swallow the pill.


If you need to have any type of medical tests or surgery, or if you will be on bed rest, you may need to stop using this medication for a short time. Any doctor or surgeon who treats you should know that you are using birth control pills.


Your doctor will need to see you on a regular basis while you are using this medication. Do not miss any appointments.


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

What happens if I miss a dose?


Missing a pill increases your risk of becoming pregnant.


If you miss one "active" pill, take two pills on the day that you remember. Then take one pill per day for the rest of the pack.


If you miss two "active" pills in a row in week one or two, take two pills per day for two days in a row. Then take one pill per day for the rest of the pack. Use back-up birth control for at least 7 days following the missed pills.


If you miss two "active" pills in a row in week three, or if you miss three pills in a row during any of the first 3 weeks, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one the same day if you are a Day 1 starter. If you are a Sunday starter, keep taking a pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one that day.


If you miss three "active" pills in a row during any of the first 3 weeks, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new pack on the same day if you are a Day 1 starter. If you are a Sunday starter, keep taking a pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new one that day.


If you miss two or more pills, you may not have a period during the month. If you miss a period for two months in a row, call your doctor because you might be pregnant.

If you miss any reminder pills, throw them away and keep taking one pill per day until the pack is empty. You do not need back-up birth control if you miss a reminder pill.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.


What should I avoid while taking Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?


Do not smoke while using birth control pills, especially if you are older than 35. Smoking can increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack caused by birth control pills.

Birth control pills will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV and AIDS. Using a condom is the only way to protect yourself from these diseases.


Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone) 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:

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




  • sudden headache, confusion, pain behind the eyes, problems with vision, speech, or balance;




  • chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling; or




  • nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).



Less serious side effects may include:



  • mild nausea, vomiting, bloating, stomach cramps;




  • breast pain, tenderness, or swelling;




  • freckles or darkening of facial skin;




  • increased hair growth, loss of scalp hair;




  • changes in weight or appetite;




  • problems with contact lenses;




  • vaginal itching or discharge;




  • changes in your menstrual periods, decreased sex drive; or




  • headache, nervousness, dizziness.



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


What other drugs will affect Nelova 0.5/35 (ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone)?


Some drugs can make ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone less effective, which may result in pregnancy. Before using ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:



  • acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ascorbic acid (vitamin C);




  • prednisolone (Orapred);




  • theophylline (Respbid, Theo-Dur);




  • St. John's wort;




  • an antibiotic;




  • seizure medication;




  • a barbiturate sedative such as secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton); or




  • HIV or AIDS medications.



There may be other drugs not listed that can affect this medication. 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.



More Nelova 0.5/35 resources


  • Nelova 0.5/35 Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Nelova 0.5/35 Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Nelova 0.5/35 Drug Interactions
  • Nelova 0.5/35 Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Nelova 0.5/35 - Add your own review/rating


  • Aranelle Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Balziva Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Brevicon Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Briellyn Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Cyclafem 1/35 Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Cyclafem 7/7/7 Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Estrostep Fe Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Femcon FE Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Femcon Fe Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Femhrt Consumer Overview

  • Femhrt Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Femhrt MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Jevantique Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Jinteli Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Leena Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Lo Loestrin Fe MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Lo Loestrin Fe Consumer Overview

  • Lo Loestrin Fe Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Lo Loestrin Fe Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Loestrin 24 FE Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Loestrin 24 Fe Consumer Overview

  • Loestrin Fe 1/20 MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ovcon 35 MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Tilia FE Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Tri-Norinyl Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zenchent FE Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zeosa Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Nelova 0.5/35 with other medications


  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
  • Acne
  • Birth Control
  • Endometriosis
  • Gonadotropin Inhibition
  • Menstrual Disorders
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
  • Postmenopausal Symptoms
  • Prevention of Osteoporosis


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone.

See also: Nelova 0.5/35 side effects (in more detail)


Thursday, 16 August 2012

Hydron CP


Generic Name: chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine (KLOR fe NEER a meen, HYE droe KOE done, FEN il EFF rin)

Brand Names: B-Tuss, Coughtuss, Cytuss HC, De-Chlor HC, DroTuss-CP, Ed-TLC, Ed-Tuss HC, Endal-HD Plus, H-C Tussive, Histussin-HC, Hydro-PC II, Hydro-PC II Plus, Hydron CP, Liquicough HC, Maxi-Tuss HCX, Mintuss MS, Neo HC, Poly-Tussin, Poly-Tussin HD, Relacon-HC, Relacon-HC NR, Relasin-HC, Rindal HD Plus, Rindal-HD, Triant-HC, Tusana-D, Z-Cof HC


What is Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.


Hydrocodone is a narcotic cough medicine.


Phenylephrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).


The combination of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sinus congestion, and cough caused by the common cold or flu.


Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?


Do not take this medication if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Serious, life threatening side effects can occur if you use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine. Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share hydrocodone with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?


Do not take this medication if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Serious, life threatening side effects can occur if you use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. You should not use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine if you are allergic to it.

To make sure you can safely take this medication, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:



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



  • liver or kidney disease;


  • heart disease or high blood pressure;




  • diabetes;




  • a thyroid disorder;




  • curvature of the spine;




  • a history of head injury or brain tumor;




  • epilepsy or other seizure disorder;




  • low blood pressure;




  • glaucoma;




  • gallbladder disease;




  • Addison's disease or other adrenal gland disorders;




  • enlarged prostate, urination problems;




  • mental illness; or




  • a history of drug or alcohol addiction.




Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share hydrocodone with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine will harm an unborn baby. Hydrocodone may cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine. It is not known whether chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?


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


You may take this medication with or without food.


Measure liquid medicine 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.


Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of hydrocodone can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, feeling restless or nervous, vomiting, stomach pain, warmth or tingly feeling, seizure (convulsions), pinpoint pupils, confusion, cold and clammy skin, weak pulse, shallow breathing, fainting, or breathing that stops.


What should I avoid while taking Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?


Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine.

Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine) 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 a serious side effect such as:

  • severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness;




  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats;




  • shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;




  • confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;




  • feeling like you might pass out;




  • urinating less than usual or not at all;




  • easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;




  • dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, chest pain, shortness of breath, seizure); or




  • upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).



Less serious side effects may include:



  • nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation;




  • dry mouth;




  • blurred vision;




  • dizziness, drowsiness;




  • problems with memory or concentration;




  • sleep problems (insomnia);




  • ringing in your ears;




  • warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin; or




  • skin rash or itching.



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 Hydron CP (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine)?


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

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:



  • blood pressure medication;




  • cimetidine (Tagamet);




  • rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane);




  • zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT);




  • an antidepressant;




  • a diuretic (water pill);




  • medication to treat irritable bowel syndrome;




  • bladder or urinary medications such as oxybutynin (Ditropan, Oxytrol) or tolterodine (Detrol);




  • aspirin or salicylates (such as Disalcid, Doan's Pills, Dolobid, Salflex, Tricosal, and others);




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




  • a beta-blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), carteolol (Cartrol), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), nadolol (Corgard), propranolol (Inderal), sotalol (Betapace), timolol (Blocadren), and others; or




  • medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil), pimozide (Orap), or thioridazine (Mellaril).



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Hydron CP resources


  • Hydron CP Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Hydron CP Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Hydron CP Drug Interactions
  • Hydron CP Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Hydron CP - Add your own review/rating


  • Chlorpheniramine/Hydrocodone/Phenylephrine Liquid MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Hydron CP with other medications


  • Cough and Nasal Congestion


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and phenylephrine.

See also: Hydron CP side effects (in more detail)


Wednesday, 15 August 2012

Vascace Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Vascace 0.5 mg Film-coated Tablets



Vascace 1 mg Film-coated Tablets



Vascace 2.5 mg Film-coated Tablets



Vascace 5 mg Film-coated Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



One film coated tablet 0.5mg contains:



Cilazapril, anhydrous 0.5mg, in the form of the monohydrate (cilazapril 0.522mg).



Excipients include lactose monohydrate 82.028 mg.



One film coated tablet 1.0mg contains:



Cilazapril, anhydrous 1.0mg, in the form of the monohydrate (cilazapril 1.044mg).



Excipients include lactose monohydrate 81.506 mg.



One film coated tablet 2.5mg contains:



Cilazapril, anhydrous 2.5mg, in the form of the monohydrate (cilazapril 2.61mg).



Excipients include lactose monohydrate 124.39 mg.



One film coated tablet 5.0mg contains:



Cilazapril, anhydrous 5.0mg, in the form of the monohydrate (cilazapril 5.22mg).



Excipients include lactose monohydrate 121.78 mg.



For warnings related to lactose monohydrate, see section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablets.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Vascace is indicated for the treatment of hypertension.



Vascace is indicated for the treatment of chronic heart failure.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Vascace should be administered once daily. As food intake has no clinically significant influence on absorption, Vascace can be administered before or after a meal. The dose should always be taken at about the same time of day.



Hypertension: The initial dose is 1 mg/day. Blood pressure should be assessed, and dosage adjusted individually in accordance with the blood pressure response. The usual dose range of Vascace is 2.5 to 5.0 mg once daily.



Patients with a strongly activated renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (in particular, salt and/or volume depletion, cardiac decompensation or severe hypertension) may experience an excessive drop in blood pressure following the initial dose. A lower starting dose of 0.5 mg once daily is recommended in such patients and the initiation of treatment should take place under medical supervision.



Hypertensive patients receiving diuretics: If possible, the diuretic should be discontinued 2 - 3 days before beginning therapy with Vascace to reduce the likelihood of symptomatic hypotension. It may be resumed later if required. The recommended starting dose in these patients is 0.5 mg once daily.



Chronic heart failure: Therapy with Vascace should be initiated at a recommended starting dose of 0.5 mg once daily under close medical supervision. This dose should be maintained for about 1 week. If this dose has been well tolerated it may be increased in weekly intervals and according to the clinical status of the patient to 1.0 mg or 2.5 mg. The maximum daily dose for these patients is 5.0 mg. The posology recommendation for cilazapril in chronic heart failure is based on effects on symptomatic improvement, rather than on data showing that cilazapril reduces morbidity and mortality in this patient group (see section 5.1).



Patients with renal impairment: Reduced dosages are required for patients with renal impairment, depending on their creatinine clearance (see section 4.4).



The following dosage schedules are recommended:



Table 1: Recommended dosage schedule for patients with renal impairment
















Creatinine clearance




Initial dose of Vascace




Maximal dose of Vascace




> 40 ml/min




1 mg once daily




5 mg once daily




10 - 40 ml/min




0.5 mg once daily




2.5 mg once daily




< 10 ml/min




Not recommended


 


If renovascular hypertension is also present there is an increased risk of severe hypotension and renal insufficiency. In these patients, treatment should be started under close medical supervision with low doses and careful dose titration. Since treatment with diuretics may be a contributory factor, they should be discontinued and renal function should be monitored during the first weeks of Vascace therapy.



Results from clinical trials showed that clearance of cilazapril was correlated with creatinine clearance in patients with chronic heart failure. The special dosage recommendation should thus be followed in chronic heart failure patients with impaired renal function.



Liver cirrhosis: In patients with liver cirrhosis (but without ascites) who require therapy for hypertension, cilazapril should be dosed with great caution not exceeding 0.5 mg/day accompanied by careful monitoring of the blood pressure, because significant hypotension may occur.



Elderly with hypertension: Treatment with Vascace should be initiated with a dose between 0.5 and 1.0 mg once daily. Thereafter, the maintenance dose must be adapted to individual tolerability, response and clinical status.



Elderly with chronic heart failure: The recommended starting dose of Vascace 0.5 mg must be strictly followed.



Children: Safety and efficacy in children have not been established. Therefore, there is no recommendation for administration of cilazapril to children.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to cilazapril or any components of the product, or to other ACE inhibitors



History of angioedema associated with previous ACE inhibitor therapy



Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema



Second and third trimesters of pregnancy (see sections 4.4. and 4.6)



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Pregnancy



ACE inhibitors should not be initiated during pregnancy. Unless continued ACE inhibitor therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative antihypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with ACE inhibitors should be stopped immediately, and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started (see sections 4.3 and 4.6).



Hypotension



ACE inhibitors may cause severe hypotension, especially when starting treatment. First-dose hypotension is most likely to occur in patients whose renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is activated, such as in renovascular hypertension or other causes of renal hypoperfusion, sodium or volume depletion, or previous treatment with other vasodilators. These conditions can co-exist, particularly in severe heart failure.



Hypotension should be treated by placing the patient supine and volume expansion. Cilazapril may be continued once the patient is volume replete, but should be given at a lower dose or discontinued if hypotension persists.



At-risk patients should start treatment with cilazapril under medical supervision, with a low initial dose and careful titration. If possible, diuretic therapy should be discontinued temporarily.



Similar caution should be taken for patients with angina pectoris or cerebrovascular disease, in whom hypotension can cause myocardial or cerebral ischaemia.



Renal impairment



In patients with renal impairment, the dosage of cilazapril should be adjusted according to creatinine clearance (see section 4.2). Routine monitoring of potassium and creatinine is part of normal medical practice for these patients.



ACE inhibitors have established renoprotective effects, but can cause reversible impairment of renal function in the setting of reduced renal perfusion, whether due to bilateral renal artery stenosis, severe congestive heart failure, volume depletion, hyponatraemia or high dosages of diuretics, and in those receiving treatment with NSAIDs. Preventive measures include withdrawing or temporarily withholding diuretics, beginning therapy with very small doses of ACE inhibitors, and cautious dose titration.



In patients with renal artery stenosis, activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system helps to maintain renal perfusion by causing constriction of the efferent arteriole. Hence, blockade of angiotensin II formation, and possibly also an increase in the formation of bradykinin, causes efferent arteriolar vasodilation resulting in a reduction in glomerular filtration pressure. Hypotension contributes further to a reduction in renal perfusion (see section 4.4 'Hypotension'). As with other agents acting on the renin-angiotensin system, there is an increased risk of renal insufficiency, including acute renal failure, when patients with renal artery stenosis are treated with cilazapril. Therefore, caution should be exercised in these patients. If renal failure occurs, treatment should be discontinued.



Hypersensitivity/angioedema



Angioedema has been associated with ACE inhibitors, with a reported incidence of 0.1-0.5%. Angioedema due to ACE inhibitors can present as recurrent episodes of facial swelling, which resolves on withdrawal, or as acute oropharyngeal edema and airways obstruction, which requires emergency treatment, and may be life-threatening. A variant form is angioedema of the intestine, which tends to occur within the first 24-48 hours of treatment. The risk of angioedema appears to be greater in black-skinned than non black-skinned patients. Patients with a history of angioedema unrelated to ACE inhibitors may be at greater risk.



Anaphylaxis



Haemodialysis: Anaphylaxis has occurred in patients dialysed with high flux membranes (e.g. AN 69) receiving ACE inhibitors. Consideration should be given to using a different type of dialysis membrane or different class of antihypertensive agent in such patients.



Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) apheresis: Patients receiving ACE inhibitors during LDL apheresis with dextran sulphate have experienced life-threatening anaphylaxis. This can be avoided by temporarily withholding ACE inhibitor therapy prior to each apheresis.



Desensitization: Anaphylactic reactions can occur in patients undergoing desensitization therapy with wasp or bee venom while receiving an ACE inhibitor. Cilazapril must be stopped before the start of desensitization therapy, and should not be replaced by a β- blocker.



Hepatic disorders



Single cases of liver function disorders, such as increased values of liver function tests (transaminases, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma GT) and cholestatic hepatitis with or without necrosis have been reported. Patients receiving cilazapril who develop jaundice or marked elevations of hepatic enzymes should discontinue cilazapril and receive appropriate medical follow-up. In patients with liver cirrhosis (but without ascites) who require therapy for hypertension, cilazapril should be initiated at a lower dose and with great caution because significant hypotension may occur (see section 4.2). In patients with ascites, cilazapril administration is not recommended.



Neutropenia



Rarely, neutropenia and agranulocytosis have been associated with ACE inhibitors, especially in patients with renal failure or collagen vascular disease and those receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Periodic monitoring of leukocyte count is recommended in such patients.



Serum potassium



ACE inhibitors can cause hyperkalemia because they inhibit the release of aldosterone. The effect is usually not significant in patients with normal renal function. However, in patients with impaired renal function and/or in patients taking potassium supplements (including salt substitutes) or potassium-sparing diuretics, and especially aldosterone antagonists, hyperkalemia can occur. Potassium-sparing diuretics should be used with caution in patients receiving ACE inhibitors, and serum potassium and renal function should be monitored.



Diabetes



Administration of ACE inhibitors to patients with diabetes may potentiate the blood glucose-lowering effect of oral hypoglycaemic agents or insulin, especially in patients with renal impairment. In such patients, glucose levels should be carefully monitored during initiation of treatment with an ACE inhibitor.



Surgery/anaesthesia



Anaesthetic agents with blood pressure lowering effects can cause hypotension in patients receiving ACE inhibitors. Hypotension in this setting can be corrected with volume expansion.



Aortic stenosis/hypertrophic cardiomyopathy



ACE inhibitors should be used with caution in patients with obstructive cardiac disorders (e.g. mitral stenosis, aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), since cardiac output cannot increase to compensate for systemic vasodilation, and there is a risk of severe hypotension.



Lactose intolerance



Owing to the presence of lactose monohydrate, patients with hereditary galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.



Ethnicity



ACE inhibitors are less effective as antihypertensives in patients with black skin colour. These patients also have a higher risk of angioedema.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Lithium



Reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported during concomitant administration of lithium with ACE inhibitors. Concomitant use of thiazide diuretics may increase the risk of lithium toxicity and enhance the already increased risk of lithium toxicity with ACE inhibitors.



Use of cilazapril with lithium is not recommended, but if the combination proves necessary, careful monitoring of serum lithium levels should be performed.



Other antihypertensive agents



An additive effect may be observed when cilazapril is administered in combination with other antihypertensive agents.



Potassium sparing diuretics, potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes



Although serum potassium usually remains within normal limits, hyperkalaemia may occur in some patients treated with cilazapril. Potassium sparing diuretics (e.g. spironolactone, triamterene, or amiloride), potassium supplements, or potassium-containing salt substitutes may lead to significant increases in serum potassium. Therefore, the combination of cilazapril with the above-mentioned drugs is not recommended (see section 4.4). If concomitant use is indicated because of demonstrated hypokalaemia they should be used with caution and with frequent monitoring of serum potassium.



Diuretics (thiazide or loop diuretics)



Prior treatment with high dose diuretics may result in volume depletion and a risk of hypotension when initiating therapy with cilazapril (see section 4.4). The hypotensive effects can be reduced by discontinuation of the diuretic, by increasing volume or salt intake or by initiating therapy with a low dose of cilazapril.



Tricyclic antidepressants/antipsychotics/anesthetics/narcotics



Concomitant use of certain anesthetic medicinal products, tricyclic antidepressants and antipsychotics with ACE inhibitors may result in further reduction of blood pressure (see section 4.4).



Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicinal products (NSAIDs) including aspirin



When ACE inhibitors are administered simultaneously with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (i.e. acetylsalicylic acid at anti-inflammatory dosage regimens, COX-2 inhibitors and non-selective NSAIDs), attenuation of the antihypertensive effect may occur. Concomitant use of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may lead to an increased risk of worsening of renal function, including possible acute renal failure, and an increase in serum potassium, especially in patients with poor pre-existing renal function. The combination should be administered with caution, especially in the elderly. Patients should be adequately hydrated and consideration should be given to monitoring renal function after initiation of concomitant therapy, and periodically thereafter.



Sympathomimetics



Sympathomimetics may reduce the antihypertensive effects of ACE inhibitors.



Antidiabetics



Epidemiological studies have suggested that concomitant administration of ACE inhibitors and antidiabetic medicines (insulins, oral hypoglycemic agents) may cause an increased blood-glucose-lowering effect with risk of hypoglycemia. This phenomenon appeared to be more likely to occur during the first weeks of combined treatment and in patients with renal impairment.



Gold



Nitritoid reactions (symptoms include facial flushing, nausea, vomiting and hypotension) have been reported rarely in patients on therapy with injectable gold (sodium aurothiomalate) and concomitant ACE inhibitor therapy.



Others



No clinically significant interactions were observed when cilazapril and digoxin, nitrates, coumarin anticoagulants, and H2 receptor blockers were concomitantly administered.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



The use of ACE inhibitors such as cilazapril is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.4). The use of ACE inhibitors such as cilazapril is contraindicated during the second and third trimester of pregnancy (see sections 4.3 and 4.4).



Epidemiological evidence regarding the risk of teratogenicity following exposure to ACE inhibitors during the first trimester of pregnancy has not been conclusive; however, a small increase in risk cannot be excluded. Unless continued ACE inhibitor therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative antihypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with ACE inhibitors should be stopped immediately, and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started.



Exposure to ACE inhibitor therapy during the second and third trimesters is known to induce human foetotoxicity (decreased renal function, oligohydramnios, skull ossification retardation) and neonatal toxicity (renal failure, hypotension, hyperkalaemia). Should exposure to ACE inhibitors have occurred from the second trimester of pregnancy, ultrasound examination of renal function and skull is recommended. Infants whose mothers have taken ACE inhibitors should be closely observed for hypotension (see sections 4.3 and 4.4).



Because no information is available regarding the safety of cilazapril during breast-feeding, cilazapril is not recommended, and alternative treatments with better established safety profiles during breast-feeding are preferable, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



When driving and operating machines, it should be taken into account that occasionally dizziness and fatigue may occur, especially when starting therapy (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).



4.8 Undesirable Effects



(a) Summary of the safety profile



The most frequent drug-attributable adverse events observed in patients taking ACE inhibitors are cough, skin rash and renal dysfunction. Cough is more common in women and non-smokers. Where the patient can tolerate the cough, it may be reasonable to continue treatment. In some cases, reducing the dose may help.



Treatment-related adverse events severe enough to stop treatment occur in less than 5% of patients receiving ACE inhibitors.



(b) Tabulated list of adverse reactions



The following list of adverse reactions is derived from clinical trials and post-marketing data in association with cilazapril and/or other ACE inhibitors. Estimates of frequency are based on the proportion of patients reporting each adverse reaction during cilazapril clinical trials that included a total combined population of 7171 patients. Adverse reactions that were not observed during cilazapril clinical trials but have been reported in association with other ACE inhibitors or derived from post-marketing case reports are classified as 'rare'.



Frequency categories are as follows:












Very common







Common







Uncommon







Rare




< 1/1,000



Blood and lymphatic system disorders



Rare



Neutropenia, agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia, anaemia



Immune system disorders



Uncommon



Angioedema (may involve the face, lips, tongue, larynx or gastrointestinal tract) (see section 4.4)



Rare



Anaphylaxis (see section 4.4)



Lupus-like syndrome (symptoms may include vasculitis, myalgia, arthralgia/arthritis, positive antinuclear antibodies, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, eosinophilia and leukocytosis)



Nervous system disorders



Common



Headache



Uncommon



Dysgeusia



Rare



Cerebral ischaemia, transient ischaemic attack, ischaemic stroke



Peripheral neuropathy



Cardiac disorders



Uncommon



Myocardial ischaemia, angina pectoris, tachycardia, palpitations



Rare



Myocardial infarction, arrhythmia



Vascular disorders



Common



Dizziness



Uncommon



Hypotension, postural hypotension (see section 4.4). Symptoms of hypotension may include syncope, weakness, dizziness and visual impairment.



Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders



Common



Cough



Uncommon



Dyspnoea, bronchospasm, rhinitis



Rare



Interstitial lung disease, bronchitis, sinusitis



Gastrointestinal disorders



Common



Nausea



Uncommon



Dry mouth, aphthous stomatitis, decreased appetite, diarrhoea, vomiting



Rare



Glossitis, pancreatitis



Hepatobiliary disorders



Rare



Abnormal liver function test (including transaminases, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma GT)



Cholestatic hepatitis with or without necrosis



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders



Uncommon



Rash, maculopapular rash



Rare



Psoriaform dermatitis, psoriasis (exacerbation), lichen planus, exfoliative dermatitis, urticaria, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus, Karposi's sarcoma, vasculitis/purpura, photosensitivity reactions, alopecia, onycholysis



Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders



Uncommon



Muscle cramps, myalgia, arthralgia



Renal and urinary disorders



Rare



Renal impairment, acute renal failure (see section 4.4), blood creatinine increased, blood urea increased



Hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia, proteinuria, nephrotic syndrome, nephritis



Reproductive and breast disorders



Uncommon



Impotence



Rare



Gynaecomastia



General disorders and administration site conditions



Common



Fatigue



Uncommon



Excess sweating, flushing, asthenia, sleep disorder



(c) Description of selected adverse events



Hypotension and postural hypotension may occur when starting treatment or increasing dose, especially in at-risk patients (see section 4.4).



Renal impairment and acute renal failure are more likely in patients with severe heart failure, renal artery stenosis, pre-existing renal disorders or volume depletion (see section 4.4).



Hyperkalaemia is most likely to occur in patients with renal impairment and those taking potassium sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.



The events of cerebral ischaemia, transient ischaemic attack and ischaemic stroke reported rarely in association with ACE inhibitors may be related to hypotension in patients with underlying cerebrovascular disease. Similarly, myocardial ischaemia may be related to hypotension in patients with underlying ischaemic heart disease.



Headache is a commonly reported adverse event, although the incidence of headache is greater in patients receiving placebo than in those receiving ACE inhibitors.



4.9 Overdose



Limited data are available for overdosage in humans. Symptoms associated with overdosage of ACE inhibitors may include hypotension, circulatory shock, electrolyte disturbances, renal failure, hyperventilation, tachycardia, palpitations, bradycardia, dizziness, anxiety and cough.



The recommended treatment of overdosage is intravenous infusion of sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9%) solution. If hypotension occurs, the patient should be placed in the shock position. If available, treatment with angiotensin II infusion and/or intravenous catecholamines may also be considered.



Pacemaker therapy is indicated for therapy-resistant bradycardia. Vital signs, serum electrolytes and creatinine concentrations should be monitored continuously.



If indicated, cilazaprilat, the active form of cilazapril, may be removed from the general circulation by haemodialysis (see section 4.4).



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: ACE inhibitor, ATC code: C09AA08.



Mechanism of action



Vascace is a specific, long-acting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor which suppresses the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and thereby the conversion of the inactive angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor. At recommended doses, the effect of Vascace in hypertensive patients and in patients with chronic heart failure is maintained for up to 24 hours.



Clinical / efficacy studies



Hypertension



Vascace induces a reduction of both supine and standing systolic and diastolic blood pressure, usually with no orthostatic component. It is effective in all degrees of essential hypertension as well as in renal hypertension. The antihypertensive effect of Vascace is usually apparent within the first hour after administration, with maximum effect observed between 3 and 7 hours after dosing. In general, the heart rate remains unchanged. Reflex tachycardia is not induced, although small, clinically insignificant alterations of heart rate may occur. In some patients blood pressure reduction may diminish towards the end of the dosage interval.



The antihypertensive effect of Vascace is maintained during long-term therapy. No rapid increase in blood pressure has been observed after abrupt withdrawal of Vascace.



In hypertensive patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, the glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow generally remained unchanged with Vascace, despite a clinically significant blood pressure reduction.



As with other ACE inhibitors, the blood pressure-lowering effect of Vascace in black patients may be less pronounced than in non-blacks. However, racial differences in response are no longer evident when Vascace is administered in combination with hydrochlorothiazide.



Chronic heart failure



No clinical trials have been carried out which prove the effect of cilazapril on morbidity and mortality in heart failure.



In patients with chronic heart failure, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems are generally activated, leading to enhanced systemic vasoconstriction and promotion of sodium and water retention. By suppressing the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, Vascace improves loading conditions in the failing heart by reducing systemic vascular resistance (afterload) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (preload) in patients on diuretics and/or digitalis. Furthermore, the exercise tolerance of these patients increases significantly. The haemodynamic and clinical effects occur promptly and persist.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption



Cilazapril is efficiently absorbed and rapidly converted to the active form, cilazaprilat. Ingestion of food immediately prior to Vascace administration delays and reduces absorption to a minor extent which, however, is therapeutically irrelevant. The bioavailability of cilazaprilat from oral cilazapril approximates 60%, based on urinary recovery data. Maximum plasma concentrations are reached within 2 hours after administration and are directly related to dosage.



Elimination



Cilazaprilat is eliminated unchanged by the kidneys, with an effective half-life of 9 hours after once daily dosing with Vascace.



Pharmacokinetics in special populations



Renal impairment: In patients with renal impairment, higher plasma concentrations of cilazaprilat are observed than in patients with normal renal function, since drug clearance is reduced when creatinine clearance is lower. There is no elimination in patients with complete renal failure, but haemodialysis reduces concentrations of both cilazapril and cilazaprilat to a limited extent.



Elderly patients:



In elderly patients whose renal function is normal for age, plasma concentrations of cilazaprilat may be up to 40% higher and clearance 20% lower, than in younger patients.



Hepatic impairment:



In patients with liver cirrhosis increased plasma concentrations and reduced plasma and renal clearance were observed, with a greater effect on cilazapril than on its active metabolite cilazaprilat.



Chronic heart failure:



In patients with chronic heart failure, clearance of cilazaprilat is correlated with creatinine clearance. Thus, dosage adjustments beyond those recommended for patients with impaired renal function (see section 4.2) should not be necessary.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Preclinical data reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of general pharmacology, repeated dose toxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenic potential.



Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, as a class, have been shown to induce adverse effects on the late foetal development, resulting in foetal death and congenital effects, in particular affecting the skull. Foetotoxicity, intrauterine growth retardation and patent ductus arteriosus have also been reported. These developmental anomalies are thought to be partly due to a direct action of ACE inhibitors on the foetal renin-angiotensin system and partly due to ischaemia resulting from maternal hypotension and decreases in foetal-placental blood flow and oxygen/nutrients delivery to the foetus.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



In the tablet core:



Lactose monohydrate



Maize starch



Hypromellose 3cp



Talc



Sodium stearyl fumarate



In the film coat:



Hypromellose 6cp



Talc



Titanium dioxide E171



Iron oxide red E172 (2.5mg and 5.0mg only)



Iron oxide yellow E172 (1.0mg and 2.5mg only)



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 25°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Glass Bottles and Aluminium Blisters



0.5mg: 2, 28, 30 or 100 tablets



1.0mg: 2, 28, 30 or 100 tablets



2.5mg: 4, 28, 30, 98 or 100 tablets



5.0mg: 28, 30, 98 or 100 tablets



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None stated.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Roche Products Limited, 6 Falcon Way, Shire Park, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1TW, United Kingdom.



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 0031/0244 0.5mg Tablets



PL 0031/0245 1.0mg Tablets



PL 0031/0246 2.5mg Tablets



PL 0031/0247 5.0mg Tablets



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



26 October 1990/7 December 2001



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



July 2010



LEGAL STATUS




POM



Vascace is a registered trade mark




Sunday, 12 August 2012

Minims Artificial Tears





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Minims Artificial Tears


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Clear, colourless, sterile eye drops containing hyetellose 0.44% w/w BP and sodium chloride EP 0.35% w/w.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Sterile single-use eye drop.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the relief of dry eye syndromes associated with deficient tear secretion.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



One or two drops instilled into the affected eye three or four times daily, or as often as is required.



4.3 Contraindications



None known.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



If irritation persists or worsens or continued redness occurs, discontinue use and consult a physician or ophthalmologist.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



None known.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



There is no evidence of safety of the drug in human pregnancy but it has been in wide use for many years without apparent ill consequence. If drug therapy is needed in pregnancy this preparation can be used if recommended by a physician and it is considered that the benefits outweigh the possible risks.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



May cause transient blurring of vision on instillation. Do not drive or operate hazardous machinery unless vision is clear.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



May cause transient mild stinging or temporarily blurred vision.



4.9 Overdose



Overdose would not be expected to produce symptoms.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



The viscolising properties of hyetellose combined with sodium chloride have been shown to increase the tear break-up time in animal models, whilst also acting as a lubricating agent for dry eyes.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Not applicable.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



No adverse safety issues were detected during the development of this formulation. The active ingredients are well-established in clinical ophthalmology.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Purified water



Borax



Boric acid



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



24 months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



A sealed conical shaped polypropylene container fitted with a twist and pull off cap. Each Minims unit is overwrapped in an individual polypropylene/paper pouch.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Each Minims unit should be discarded after a single use.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Chauvin Pharmaceuticals Ltd



106 London Road



Kingston-upon-Thames



Surrey



KT2 6TN



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 0033/0137



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



11 January 1990



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



September 2007