Aurodex

Generic Name: antipyrine and benzocaine otic (AN tee PYE reen and BEN zoe kane)

Brand Names: A/B Otic, Aurodex, Rx-Otic

What is Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic)?

Antipyrine is a pain reliever.

Benzocaine is a numbing medicine.

The combination of antipyrine and benzocaine is used to treat pain, and swelling caused by ear infections.

Antipyrine and benzocaine otic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic)?

Antipyrine and benzocaine otic is for use only in your ears. Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water. Ear infections may sometimes cause dizziness or a loss of balance. Be careful if you drive, operate machinery, or do anything else hazardous if you feel dizzy or off balance. Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have ear drainage or discharge, or worsening pain, irritation, or rash.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic)?

You should not use antipyrine and benzocaine otic if you have a ruptured (torn) ear drum, or the medication could leak into the inner ear. A ruptured ear drum usually causes moderate to severe ear pain, with or without a decrease in hearing. Call your doctor if you think you have a ruptured ear drum. Your doctor will use a special scope to see any tear in your ear drum. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using antipyrine and benzocaine otic, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether antipyrine and benzocaine otic 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 use Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic)?

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

Do not use the medication in your eyes or take it by mouth. Antipyrine and benzocaine otic is for use only in the ears.

For best results, remove any ear wax or other debris before using the ear drops. Ask your doctor about safe methods of ear wax removal.

To use the ear drops, first remove the cap from the dropper bottle. Lie down or tilt your head with your ear facing upward. Pull back on your ear gently to open up the ear canal. Hold the dropper upside down over your ear canal and place enough drops of the medicine in your ear to fill the ear canal.

Do not place the dropper tip into your ear or allow the tip to touch any surface. It may become contaminated.

After using the ear drops, keep the ear tilted upward for about 5 minutes. Ask your doctor about using a small piece of cotton to plug the ear and keep the medicine from draining out.

Wipe the dropper tip with a clean tissue. Do not wash the tip with water or soap.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medication.

Store antipyrine and benzocaine otic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed 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.

An overdose of antipyrine and benzocaine applied into the ear is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while using this medication?

Do not use other ear drops during treatment with antipyrine and benzocaine otic without first talking to your doctor. Ear infections may sometimes cause dizziness or a loss of balance. Be careful if you drive, operate machinery, or do anything else hazardous if you feel dizzy or off balance. Antipyrine and benzocaine otic is for use only in your ear. Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water.

Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic) 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:

• 
  

  ear drainage or discharge; or

  
  


• 
  

  worsening pain, irritation, or rash.

  
  

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 Aurodex (antipyrine and benzocaine otic)?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on antipyrine and benzocaine used in the ears. 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 Aurodex resources

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

• Aurodex Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Aurodex MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Aurodex with other medications

• Ear Wax Impaction
• Otitis Media

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about antipyrine and benzocaine otic.

See also: Aurodex side effects (in more detail)

Antivenin Injection

Generic Name: antivenin (LATRODECTUS MACTANS) (Injection route)

an-tee-VEN-in (lat-roe-DEK-tus MAK-tans)

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Antivenin-Spider

In Canada

• Antivenin

Available Dosage Forms:

• Powder for Solution


• Injectable

Therapeutic Class: Antivenom

Uses For Antivenin

Black widow spider antivenin belongs to a group of medicines known as immunizing agents. It is used to treat patients with serious symptoms caused by the bites of the black widow spider.

Black widow spider antivenin is to be used only by or under the supervision of a doctor.

Before Using Antivenin

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

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Although there is no specific information comparing use of black widow spider antivenin in children with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

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. Although there is no specific information comparing use of black widow spider antivenin in the elderly with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Interactions with Medicines

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

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Proper Use of antivenin (latrodectus mactans)

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain antivenin (latrodectus mactans). It may not be specific to Antivenin. Please read with care.

Dosing

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

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

Antivenin Side Effects

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

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

• Difficulty in breathing or swallowing


• hives


• itching, especially of feet or hands


• reddening of skin, especially around ears


• swelling of eyes, face, or inside of nose


• unusual tiredness or weakness (sudden and severe)

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:

• Feeling of discomfort


• fever


• inflammation of joints


• itching


• muscle aches


• rash


• swollen lymph glands

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.

Aminoxin

Generic Name: pyridoxine (Oral route, Injection route)

pir-i-DOX-een

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Aminoxin


• Pyri-500


• Rodex


• Vitabee 6

Available Dosage Forms:

• Injectable


• Solution


• Tablet


• Capsule


• Tablet, Extended Release


• Tablet, Enteric Coated

Therapeutic Class: Nutritive Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Vitamin B

Uses For Aminoxin

Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Pyridoxine (vitamin B 6) is necessary for normal breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Some conditions may increase your need for pyridoxine. These include:

• Alcoholism


• Burns


• Diarrhea


• Dialysis


• Heart disease


• Intestinal problems


• Liver disease


• Overactive thyroid


• Stress, long-term illness, or serious injury


• Surgical removal of stomach

In addition, infants receiving unfortified formulas such as evaporated milk may need additional pyridoxine.

Increased need for pyridoxine should be determined by your health care professional.

Lack of pyridoxine may lead to anemia (weak blood), nerve damage, seizures, skin problems, and sores in the mouth. Your doctor may treat these problems by prescribing pyridoxine for you.

Claims that pyridoxine is effective for treatment of acne and other skin problems, alcohol intoxication, asthma, hemorrhoids, kidney stones, mental problems, migraine headaches, morning sickness, and menstrual problems, or to stimulate appetite or milk production have not been proven.

Injectable pyridoxine is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of pyridoxine are available without a prescription.

Importance of Diet

For good health, it is important that you eat a balanced and varied diet. Follow carefully any diet program your health care professional may recommend. For your specific dietary vitamin and/or mineral needs, ask your health care professional for a list of appropriate foods. If you think that you are not getting enough vitamins and/or minerals in your diet, you may choose to take a dietary supplement.

Pyridoxine is found in various foods, including meats, bananas, lima beans, egg yolks, peanuts, and whole-grain cereals. Pyridoxine is not lost from food during ordinary cooking, although some other forms of vitamin B 6 are.

Vitamins alone will not take the place of a good diet and will not provide energy. Your body also needs other substances found in food such as protein, minerals, carbohydrates, and fat. Vitamins themselves often cannot work without the presence of other foods.

The daily amount of pyridoxine needed is defined in several different ways.

• For U.S.—


• Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) are the amount of vitamins and minerals needed to provide for adequate nutrition in most healthy persons. RDAs for a given nutrient may vary depending on a person's age, sex, and physical condition (e.g., pregnancy).


• Daily Values (DVs) are used on food and dietary supplement labels to indicate the percent of the recommended daily amount of each nutrient that a serving provides. DV replaces the previous designation of United States Recommended Daily Allowances (USRDAs).

• For Canada—


• Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs) are used to determine the amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein needed to provide adequate nutrition and lessen the risk of chronic disease.

Normal daily recommended intakes for pyridoxine are generally defined as follows:

• Infants and children—
  
  • Birth to 3 years of age: 0.3 to 1 milligram (mg).
  
  
  • 4 to 6 years of age: 1.1 mg.
  
  
  • 7 to 10 years of age: 1.4 mg.
  
  


• Adolescent and adult males—1.7 to 2 mg.


• Adolescent and adult females—1.4 to 1.6 mg.


• Pregnant females—2.2 mg.


• Breast-feeding females—2.1 mg.

Before Using Aminoxin

If you are taking this dietary supplement without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label. For this supplement, the following should be considered:

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Problems in children have not been reported with intake of normal daily recommended amounts.

Geriatric

Problems in older adults have not been reported with intake of normal daily recommended amounts.

Breast Feeding

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving this dietary supplement, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

Using this dietary supplement 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.

• Altretamine

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.

Proper Use of pyridoxine

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

Dosing

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

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

• For oral dosage forms (capsules, tablets, oral solution):
  
  • To prevent deficiency, the amount taken by mouth is based on normal daily recommended intakes:
    
    • Adult and teenage males—1.7 to 2 milligrams (mg) per day.
    
    
    • Adult and teenage females—1.4 to 1.6 mg per day.
    
    
    • Pregnant females—2.2 mg per day.
    
    
    • Breast-feeding females—2.1 mg per day.
    
    
    • Children 7 to 10 years of age—1.4 mg per day.
    
    
    • Children 4 to 6 years of age—1.1 mg per day.
    
    
    • Children birth to 3 years of age—0.3 to 1 mg per day.
    
    
  
  
  • To treat deficiency:
    
    • Adults, teenagers, and children—Treatment dose is determined by prescriber for each individual based on the severity of deficiency.
    
    
  
  

To use the extended-release capsule form of this dietary supplement:

• Swallow the capsule whole.


• Do not crush, break, or chew before swallowing.


• If the capsule is too large to swallow, you may mix the contents of the capsule with jam or jelly and swallow without chewing.

To use the extended-release tablet form of this dietary supplement:

• Swallow the tablet whole.


• Do not crush, break, or chew before swallowing.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Aminoxin 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:

With large doses

• Clumsiness


• numbness of hands or feet

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.

See also: Aminoxin side effects (in more detail)

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.

More Aminoxin resources

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

Compare Aminoxin with other medications

• Anemia
• Dietary Supplementation
• Drug Induced Vitamin/Mineral Deficiency
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Seizures

Alclometasone Cream

Pronunciation: al-kloe-MEH-tah-zone
Generic Name: Alclometasone
Brand Name: Aclovate

Alclometasone Cream is used for:

Treating itching, redness, and swelling of many skin conditions.

Alclometasone Cream is a topical corticosteroid. It works by reducing inflammatory reactions and modifying immune reactions in the body.

Do NOT use Alclometasone Cream if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Alclometasone Cream

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

Before using Alclometasone Cream:

Some medical conditions may interact with Alclometasone Cream. 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 (especially prednisone or similar medicines), herbal preparation, or dietary supplement


• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances


• if you have measles, chickenpox, shingles, a skin infection, thinning of the skin, tuberculosis (TB) or a positive TB test, or have recently had a vaccination

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Alclometasone Cream. Because little, if any, of Alclometasone Cream is absorbed into the blood, the risk of it interacting with another medicine is low.

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Alclometasone Cream 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 Alclometasone Cream:

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

• Apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Wash your hands after applying Alclometasone Cream, unless your hands are part of the treated area.


• Do not bandage or wrap the affected area unless otherwise told by your doctor.


• If you miss a dose of Alclometasone Cream, apply 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 use 2 doses at once.

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

Important safety information:

• Alclometasone Cream is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes.


• Do not use Alclometasone Cream on the face, underarms, or groin areas unless directed to do so by a health care provider.


• Do not use more of Alclometasone Cream than prescribed, for longer than the time prescribed, or for other skin conditions at a later time.


• Do not use Alclometasone Cream for diaper rash.


• Use Alclometasone Cream with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 1 year of age. Safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Alclometasone Cream during pregnancy. It is unknown if Alclometasone Cream is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Alclometasone Cream, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Alclometasone Cream:

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:

None.

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); burning, itching, redness, skin thinning and discoloration, or swelling not present before using Alclometasone Cream.

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. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.

See also: Alclometasone side effects (in more detail)

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Alclometasone Cream may be harmful if swallowed.

Proper storage of Alclometasone Cream:

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

General information:

• If you have any questions about Alclometasone Cream, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.


• Alclometasone Cream 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.


• Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Alclometasone Cream. 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: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Alclometasone resources

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

Compare Alclometasone with other medications

• Atopic Dermatitis
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis

Aphthasol topical

Generic Name: amlexanox (topical) (am LEX a nox)

Brand Names: Aphthasol

What is amlexanox?

Amlexanox is an oral paste that is used to treat canker sores, also called aphthous (AFF-thus) ulcers, in the mouth.

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

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

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

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

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.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. You may feel a slight burning or stinging when you first apply amlexanox oral paste. Talk to your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effects.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using amlexanox?

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

Before using amlexanox, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have a weak immune system caused by disease or by taking certain medicines or receiving cancer treatments. You may not be able to use amlexanox.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether amlexanox 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 use amlexanox?

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

For best results, start using amlexanox when you first notice symptoms of a canker sore.

Amlexanox oral paste is usually applied 4 times each day--usually after breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and at bedtime.

It is best to apply the paste after you have brushed and rinsed your teeth. Always dry the canker sore with a clean cloth before applying amlexanox oral paste.

Wash your hands before applying amlexanox oral paste.

Dry the canker sore with a soft clean cloth before applying the paste.

To use the paste, moisten the tip of your finger with water and squeeze out a 1/4-inch dab of paste onto the wet tip of your finger.

Gently apply the amlexanox paste to the canker sore. There is no need to rub in the medicine.

Wash your hands with soap and water to remove any remaining paste from your finger.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 10 days of treatment.

Store amlexanox oral paste at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of amlexanox topical is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms. Overdose symptoms may include nausea or diarrhea.

What should I avoid while using amlexanox?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while using amlexanox unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

Amlexanox 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 amlexanox and call your doctor if you have any of these serious side effects:

• 
  

  skin rash;

  
  


• 
  

  new mouth ulcers; or

  
  


• 
  

  white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include may a slight stinging or burning when you first apply the medication.

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 amlexanox?

There may be other drugs that can affect amlexanox. 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 Aphthasol resources

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

Compare Aphthasol with other medications

• Aphthous Stomatitis, Recurrent

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about amlexanox oral paste.

See also: Aphthasol side effects (in more detail)

Alacol DM

Generic Name: brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine (brome fen IR a meen, dex troe metho OR fan, fen il EFF rin)

Brand Names: Alacol DM, Alahist DM, BP Allergy DM, BPM PE DM, Bromatan-DM, Bromtuss DM, BroveX PEB DM, Children's Cold & Cough DM, Cold & Cough Childrens, Dimaphen DM, Dimetapp Cold & Cough, Dimetapp DM Cold & Cough, DuraTan DM, Duravent DPB, Lohist-DM, Lortuss DM (obsolete), Tusdec-DM

What is Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

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

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

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

Brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine is used to treat sneezing, cough, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.

Dextromethorphan will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. 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 an antihistamine, decongestant, or cough suppressant. Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of this medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, or phenylephrine, or if you have:

• kidney disease;


• liver disease;


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  glaucoma;

  
  


• 
  

  heart disease or high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  a thyroid disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  a stomach ulcer or a stomach obstruction,

  
  


• 
  

  emphysema or chronic bronchitis; or

  
  


• 
  

  an enlarged prostate or urination problems.

  
  

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

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine 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.

Artificially-sweetened liquid forms of cough-and-cold medications may contain phenylalanine. This would be important to know if you have phenylketonuria (PKU). Check the ingredients and warnings on the medication label if you are concerned about phenylalanine.

How should I take Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

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

Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Measure the liquid form of this 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 where you can get one.

Take this medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with allergy skin tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are taking an antihistamine.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken a cold medicine within the past few days.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cough or cold medicine is usually taken only as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, warmth or tingly feeling, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of this medication.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as sleeping pills, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine.

Avoid taking diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants (such as ADHD medications) without your doctor's advice. Taking a stimulant together with a decongestant can increase your risk of unpleasant side effects.

Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. 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 an antihistamine, decongestant, or cough suppressant.

Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, 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 any of these serious side effects:

• 
  

  fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;

  
  


• 
  

  confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;

  
  


• 
  

  severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness;

  
  


• 
  

  increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure);

  
  


• 
  

  confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;

  
  


• 
  

  slow, shallow breathing;

  
  


• 
  

  urinating less than usual or not at all;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  blurred vision;

  
  


• 
  

  dry mouth;

  
  


• 
  

  nausea, stomach pain, constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  mild loss of appetite, stomach upset;

  
  


• 
  

  warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin;

  
  


• 
  

  sleep problems (insomnia);

  
  


• 
  

  restless or excitability (especially in children);

  
  


• 
  

  skin rash or itching;

  
  


• 
  

  dizziness, drowsiness;

  
  


• 
  

  problems with memory or concentration; or

  
  


• 
  

  ringing in your ears.

  
  

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 Alacol DM (brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine)?

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

• 
  

  an antidepressant;

  
  


• 
  

  a diuretic (water pill);

  
  


• 
  

  medication to treat irritable bowel syndrome;

  
  


• 
  

  celecoxib (Celebrex);

  
  


• 
  

  cinacalcet (Sensipar);

  
  


• 
  

  darifenacin (Enablex);

  
  


• 
  

  imatinib (Gleevec);

  
  


• 
  

  quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex);

  
  


• 
  

  ranolazine (Ranexa)

  
  


• 
  

  ritonavir (Norvir);

  
  


• 
  

  sibutramine (Meridia);

  
  


• 
  

  terbinafine (Lamisil);

  
  


• 
  

  medicines to treat high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine. 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 Alacol DM resources

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

• Alacol DM Elixir MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Bromatan-DM Suspension MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Alacol DM with other medications

• Cough and Nasal Congestion

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine.

See also: Alacol DM side effects (in more detail)

Adoxa

Generic Name: doxycycline (DOX i SYE kleen)

Brand Names: Adoxa, Adoxa CK, Adoxa TT, Alodox, Avidoxy, Doryx, Monodox, Oracea, Oraxyl, Periostat, Vibramycin, Vibramycin Calcium, Vibramycin Monohydrate

What is Adoxa (doxycycline)?

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. It fights bacteria in the body.

Doxycycline is used to treat many different bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, acne, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, periodontitis (gum disease), and others.

Doxycycline is also used to treat blemishes, bumps, and acne-like lesions caused by rosacea. Doxycycline will not treat facial redness caused by rosacea.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Adoxa (doxycycline)?

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby or cause permanent tooth discoloration later in life.

Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while using doxycycline.

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to doxycycline or to other tetracycline antibiotics such as demeclocycline (Declomycin), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin, Solodyn, Vectrin), or tetracycline (Brodspec, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap).

Before taking doxycycline, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, asthma, or if you are allergic to sulfites.

Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking doxycycline. Children should not use doxycycline. Doxycycline can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth in children younger than 8 years old. Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Adoxa (doxycycline)?

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to doxycycline or to other tetracycline antibiotics such as demeclocycline (Declomycin), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin, Solodyn, Vectrin), or tetracycline (Brodspec, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap).

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

• 
  

  liver disease;

  
  


• 
  

  kidney disease; or

  
  


• 
  

  asthma or sulfite allergy.

  
  

If you are using doxycycline to treat gonorrhea, your doctor may test you to make sure you do not also have syphilis, another sexually transmitted disease.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use doxycycline if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby or cause permanent tooth discoloration later in life. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while using doxycycline.

Doxycycline passes into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are taking doxycycline. Children should not use doxycycline. Doxycycline can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth in children younger than 8 years old.

How should I take Adoxa (doxycycline)?

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.

Take doxycycline with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking doxycycline.

Different brands of doxycycline may have different instructions about taking them with or without food.

Most brands of doxycyline may be taken with food or milk if the medicine upsets your stomach. Take Oracea or Periostat on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

You may open a Doryx capsule or break up a Doryx tablet and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Drink a full glass (8 ounces) of cool water right away.

Do not crush, break, or open a delayed-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. Breaking or opening the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. The enteric coated pill has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill will damage this coating.

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

Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Doxycycline will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using doxycycline. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label has passed. Using expired doxycycline can cause damage to your kidneys.

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.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What should I avoid while taking Adoxa (doxycycline)?

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking doxycycline and call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Doxycycline can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. Do not take iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours before or after taking doxycycline.

Adoxa (doxycycline) 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:

• 
  

  severe headache, dizziness, blurred vision;

  
  


• 
  

  fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, swollen glands, rash or itching, joint pain, or general ill feeling;

  
  


• 
  

  urinating less than usual or not at all;

  
  


• 
  

  diarrhea that is watery or bloody

  
  


• 
  

  pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness;

  
  


• 
  

  severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate;

  
  


• 
  

  loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or

  
  


• 
  

  severe skin reaction -- fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  mild nausea, mild diarrhea;

  
  


• 
  

  upset stomach;

  
  


• 
  

  mild skin rash or itching; or

  
  


• 
  

  vaginal itching or discharge.

  
  

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 Adoxa (doxycycline)?

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

• 
  

  cholesterol-lowering medications such as cholestyramine (Prevalite, Questran) or colestipol (Colestid);

  
  


• 
  

  isotretinoin (Accutane);

  
  


• 
  

  tretinoin (Renova, Retin-A, Vesanoid);

  
  


• 
  

  an antacid such as Tums, Rolaids, Milk of Magnesia, Maalox, and others;

  
  


• 
  

  a product that contains bismuth subsalicylate such as Pepto-Bismol;

  
  


• 
  

  minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements;

  
  


• 
  

  a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven); or

  
  


• 
  

  a penicillin antibiotic such as amoxicillin (Amoxil, Augmentin, Dispermox, Moxatag), ampicillin (Principen, Unasyn), dicloxacillin (Dycill, Dynapen), oxacillin (Bactocill), or penicillin (Bicillin L-A, PC Pen VK, Pfizerpen).

  
  

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with doxycycline. 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 Adoxa resources

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

• Adoxa Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Adoxa MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Doxycycline Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)


• Doxycycline Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Doxycycline Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Doxycycline MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Alodox Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Doryx Delayed-Release Capsules MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Doryx Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Doxycycline Calcium Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Monodox Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Ocudox Convenience Kit MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Oracea Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Oracea Consumer Overview


• Periostat MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Periostat Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Vibra-Tabs MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Vibramycin Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare Adoxa with other medications

• Acne

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about doxycycline.

See also: Adoxa side effects (in more detail)

Adipost

Generic Name: phendimetrazine (fen di MEH tra zeen)

Brand Names: Adipost, Bontril PDM, Bontril Slow Release, Melfiat

What is Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

Phendimetrazine is similar to an amphetamine. Phendimetrazine stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite.

Phendimetrazine is used as a short-term supplement to diet and exercise in the treatment of obesity.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

Phendimetrazine may cause blurred vision or impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. Phendimetrazine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not stop using phendimetrazine suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phendimetrazine. Do not crush, chew, break, or open the extended-release capsule. Swallow it whole. Breaking or opening the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

Do not use phendimetrazine 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. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to phendimetrazine, or if you have:

• 
  

  coronary artery disease (hardening of the arteries);

  
  


• 
  

  heart disease;

  
  


• 
  

  severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  heart murmur or heart valve disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH);

  
  


• 
  

  overactive thyroid;

  
  


• 
  

  glaucoma;

  
  


• 
  

  severe agitation or nervousness;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  

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

• 
  

  high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  an anxiety disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  epilepsy or seizure disorder; or

  
  


• 
  

  if you have used other diet pills in the past year (prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal products).

  
  

It is not known whether phendimetrazine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take phendimetrazine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether phendimetrazine passes into breast milk. Do not take phendimetrazine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

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

Phendimetrazine is usually taken once daily. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Take phendimetrazine on an empty stomach, 30 to 60 minutes before your morning meal. Do not crush, chew, break, or open the extended-release capsule. Swallow it whole. Breaking or opening the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. You should lose at least 4 pounds during the first 4 weeks of taking phendimetrazine and eating a low calorie diet. Tell your doctor if you do not lose at least 4 pounds after taking the medication for 4 weeks. Do not stop using phendimetrazine suddenly after long-term use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phendimetrazine. Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much phendimetrazine could be very dangerous to your health. 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. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

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.

A dose taken too late in the day will cause insomnia.

What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms of a phendimetrazine overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, confusion, panic, hallucinations, extreme restlessness, feeling tired or depressed, ringing in your ears, chest pain, slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, seizure, or slow breathing (breathing may stop).

What should I avoid while taking Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

Phendimetrazine may cause blurred vision or impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.

Adipost (phendimetrazine) 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 phendimetrazine and 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);

  
  


• 
  

  flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);

  
  


• 
  

  dry 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 Adipost (phendimetrazine)?

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

• 
  

  insulin; or

  
  


• 
  

  any other diet pills.

  
  

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with phendimetrazine. 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 Adipost resources

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

• Phendimetrazine Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Bontril PDM Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Bontril PDM MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Phendimetrazine Tartrate Monograph (AHFS DI)

Compare Adipost with other medications

• Obesity

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about phendimetrazine.

See also: Adipost side effects (in more detail)

Abatacept

Class: Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Agents
Chemical Name: Fusion protein with an extracellular domain of human cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen (CTLA-4) and modified Fc domain of human immunoglobulin G1
Molecular Formula: C₁₉₆₅H₃₀₈₀N₄₇₉O₆₉₅S₁₆
CAS Number: 332348-12-6
Brands: Orencia

Introduction

Biologic response modifier and disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD); a recombinant fusion protein.^{1 2 3 4 5}

Uses for Abatacept

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Used to manage the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, to induce a major clinical response, to improve physical function, and to inhibit progression of structural damage associated with the disease in adults with moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis.^{1 2 3 4 5} Can be used alone or with other DMARDs other than tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocking agents.¹

Do not use concomitantly with TNF blocking agents (e.g., adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, infliximab); concomitant use with other biologic antirheumatic drugs (e.g., anakinra) not recommended.¹ (See Infectious Complications under Cautions and see Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests under Interactions.)

Juvenile Arthritis

Management of the signs and symptoms of moderately to severely active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children.^{1 7} Can be use alone or with methotrexate.¹

Do not use concomitantly with TNF blocking agents (e.g., adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, infliximab); concomitant use with other biologic antirheumatic drugs (e.g., anakinra) not recommended.¹ (See Infectious Complications under Cautions and see Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests under Interactions.)

Abatacept Dosage and Administration

Administration

IV Administration

For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.¹

Administer by IV infusion.¹

Administer with an in-line, sterile, nonpyrogenic, low-protein-binding filter with a pore diameter ≤1.2 mcm.¹

Consult manufacturer’s labeling for additional information on reconstitution, dilution, and administration.¹

Reconstitution

Reconstitute the appropriate number of vials containing 250 mg of abatacept lyophilized powder with 10 mL of sterile water for injection to provide a solution containing 25 mg/mL.¹

Use only the silicone-free disposable syringe provided by the manufacturer and an 18–21 gauge needle.¹ If a siliconized syringe is inadvertently used, translucent particles may develop and solution should be discarded.¹

Direct sterile water for injection toward the side of the vial during reconstitution; swirl gently to minimize foaming.¹ Do not shake.¹ Upon dissolution, insert a vented needle into the vial to dissipate foam.¹ Must be diluted further before IV administration.¹

Dilution

Remove the volume of diluent equal to the total required volume of reconstituted abatacept solution from a 100 mL bag of 0.9% sodium chloride injection.¹

Using same silicone-free disposable syringe used for reconstitution, slowly add reconstituted abatacept to the bag to a total volume of 100 mL; mix gently.¹

Rate of Administration

Infuse over 30 minutes.¹

Dosage

Dosage is based on patient's weight.¹

Pediatric Patients

Juvenile Arthritis

IV

Children 6–17 years of age weighing <75 kg: 10 mg/kg at 0, 2, and 4 weeks, then every 4 weeks.¹

Children 6–17 years of age weighing ≥75 kg: Use adult dosage.¹

Adults

Rheumatoid Arthritis

IV

Adults weighing <60 kg: 500 mg at 0, 2, and 4 weeks, then every 4 weeks.¹

Adults weighing 60–100 kg: 750 mg at 0, 2, and 4 weeks, then every 4 weeks.¹

Adults weighing >100 kg: 1 g at 0, 2, and 4 weeks, then every 4 weeks.¹

Prescribing Limits

Pediatric Patients

Juvenile Arthritis

IV

Children 6–17 years of age weighing ≥75 kg: Maximum dose is 1 g.¹

Special Populations

No special population dosage recommendations at this time.¹

Cautions for Abatacept

Contraindications

None known.¹

Warnings/Precautions

Warnings

Infectious Complications

Serious infections (including pneumonia, cellulitis, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, diverticulitis, and acute pyelonephritis) reported, particularly in patients receiving concomitant TNF-blocking agents.¹

Concomitant use of abatacept and TNF-blocking agents is not recommended.¹ Monitor patients being switched from TNF-blocking agents to abatacept for infection.¹ (See Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests under Interactions.)

Discontinue abatacept if serious infection develops.¹ Closely monitor patients who develop new infections.¹

Use caution in patients with a history of recurring infections, underlying conditions that may predispose them to infections, or chronic, latent, or localized infections.¹

Evaluate all patients for active or latent tuberculosis prior to initiation of abatacept therapy.¹ When indicated, initiate appropriate antimycobacterial regimen for the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection prior to abatacept.¹

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Reactivation

Use of antirheumatic drugs associated with reactivation of HBV infection in patients who are chronic carriers of the virus (i.e., hepatitis B surface antigen-positive [HBsAg-positive]).¹ Screen patients at risk prior to initiation of therapy.¹

Sensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Anaphylaxis or anaphylactoid reactions reported.^{1 6} Other allergic reactions (e.g., hypotension, urticaria, dyspnea) reported rarely.¹

If serious hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue immediately and institute appropriate therapy as indicated (e.g., epinephrine, corticosteroids, maintenance of an adequate airway, oxygen).¹

Acute Infusion Reactions

Acute infusion reactions (e.g., dizziness, headache, hypertension, hypotension, dyspnea, nausea, flushing, urticaria, cough, pruritus, rash, wheezing) reported within 1 hour after IV infusion.¹

General Precautions

Vaccination

Vaccine efficacy may be reduced; avoid live virus vaccines during abatacept therapy or within 3 months after discontinuance of the drug.¹ (See Vaccines under Interactions and see Pediatric Use under Cautions.)

COPD

Possible exacerbations of COPD, cough, rhonchi, and dyspnea.¹

Use with caution; careful monitoring recommended for worsening of respiratory function.¹

Immunosuppression

Possibility exists for agents that inhibit T-cell activation, including abatacept, to affect host defenses against infection and malignancies.¹ (See Infectious Complications and also see Malignancies and Lymphoproliferative Disorders, under Cautions.)

Malignancies and Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Lymphoma and lung cancer reported more frequently in patients receiving abatacept versus control.¹ Rheumatoid arthritis patients, especially with highly active disease, may be at increased risk of lymphoma.^{1 6}

Other malignancies (e.g., myelodysplastic syndrome, melanoma, breast, bile duct, bladder, cervical, endometrial, ovarian, prostate, renal, thyroid, uterine, and nonmelanoma skin cancer) also reported.¹

Role of abatacept in the development and course of malignancies not fully determined.^{1 6}

Immunogenicity

Antibodies to abatacept may develop; not associated with decreased clinical response or increased adverse events.¹

Blood Glucose Testing

Parenteral preparations containing maltose, including abatacept injection, may cause falsely elevated results in blood glucose determinations that use glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolinequinone (GDH-PQQ).¹ (See Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests under Interactions.)

Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Category C.¹

Lactation

Distributed into milk in rats; not known whether distributed into human milk.¹ Discontinue nursing or the drug.¹

Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy for the management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis established in pediatric patients ≥6 years of age.¹ Safety and efficacy not established in children <6 years of age; use in this age group not recommended.¹

Safety and efficacy for uses other than juvenile idiopathic arthritis not established in pediatric patients.¹

Review vaccination status of the child and administer all age-appropriate vaccines prior to initiation of abatacept.¹

Adverse effects reported in children similar to those reported in adults.¹

Geriatric Use

Insufficient experience in patients >65 years of age to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger adults.¹

Possible increased incidence of infections and malignancies in geriatric patients; use with caution.¹ (See Infectious Complications and also Malignancies and Lymphoproliferative Disorders under Cautions.)

Common Adverse Effects

Upper respiratory infection, nasopharyngitis, headache, nausea.¹

Interactions for Abatacept

Vaccines

Data not available on the effects of immunization in patients receiving abatacept.¹

Avoid live virus vaccines (e.g., measles virus vaccine live, mumps virus vaccine live, rubella virus vaccine live, poliovirus vaccine live oral [no longer commercially available in US], smallpox vaccine, typhoid vaccine live oral, varicella vaccine live, yellow fever vaccine).¹ No data available on secondary transmission of infection by live virus vaccines in abatacept-treated patients.¹ Since abatacept may interfere with the immune response to antigens, vaccine efficacy may be reduced in patients receiving the drug.¹ (See Vaccination under Cautions and see Pediatric Use under Cautions.)

Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests

Drug	Interaction	Comments
Biologic antirheumatic drugs (e.g., anakinra)	Insufficient experience to assess safety and efficacy of concomitant use1	Concomitant use not recommended1
Corticosteroids	Concomitant use does not alter clearance of abatacept 1
Methotrexate	Concomitant use does not alter clearance of abatacept 1
NSAIAs	Concomitant use does not alter clearance of abatacept 1
Tests for glucose	Maltose contained in abatacept injection may interfere with blood glucose monitoring systems based on glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolinequinone (GDH-PQQ) and cause falsely elevated blood glucose results1	Use only glucose-specific test methods not affected by maltose (e.g., glucose dehydrogenase nicotine adenine dinucleotide [GDH-NAD], glucose oxidase, glucose hexokinase)1
TNF-blocking agents (adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, infliximab)	Increased incidence of potentially serious infections1	Concomitant use not recommended1 (See Infectious Complications under Cautions.)

Abatacept Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Following multiple IV infusions, steady-state serum concentrations reached at 60 days.¹ Systemic accumulation does not appear to occur.¹

Elimination

Half-life

Terminal half-life averages 13.1 days.¹

Special Populations

Age and gender (adjusted for body weight) do not affect clearance.¹

Clearance increases with increasing body weight.¹

Pharmacokinetics not evaluated in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.¹

Stability

Storage

Parenteral

Powder for Injection

2–8°C in the original container; protect from light.¹

Store fully diluted solution at either room temperature or between 2–8°C.¹ Infusion of diluted solution must be completed within 24 hours of reconstitution.¹

Compatibility

For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.

Parenteral

Solution Compatibility

Compatible
Sodium chloride 0.9%.1

Drug Compatibility

Information on the physical and/or chemical compatibility with other drugs is not available.¹

ActionsActions

• 
  

  Inhibits T-cell activation by binding to CD80 and CD86, further blocking interaction with CD28.^{1 2 3 4 5}

  
  


• 
  

  Decreases T-cell proliferation and inhibits production of TNFα, interferon-γ and IL–2.¹

  
  


• 
  

  Suppresses inflammation, decreases anti-collagen antibody production, and reduces antigen specific production of interferon-γ.¹

  
  

Advice to Patients

• 
  

  Importance of providing patient a copy of the manufacturer's patient information.¹

  
  


• 
  

  Importance of patient informing clinician about existing infections prior to initiating therapy.¹ Importance of patients informing clinicians promptly if any signs or symptoms of infection occur during therapy.¹

  
  


• 
  

  Advise patients that this preparation contains maltose and may cause falsely elevated glucose readings when blood glucose monitoring systems based on glucose dehydrogenase pyrroloquinolinequinone (GDH-PQQ) are used; importance of using glucose-specific test methods not affected by maltose.¹

  
  


• 
  

  Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.¹

  
  


• 
  

  Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription (e.g., TNF blocking agents, biologic antirheumatic drugs, immunizations) and OTC drugs, as well as any other illnesses (e.g., concomitant or recurrent infections, history of tuberculosis, history of HBV infection, diabetes mellitus).¹

  
  


• 
  

  Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.¹ (See Cautions.)

  
  

Preparations

Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.

Abatacept

Routes	Dosage Forms	Strengths	Brand Names	Manufacturer
Parenteral	For Injection	250 mg	Orencia	Bristol-Myers Squibb

Comparative Pricing

This pricing information is subject to change at the sole discretion of DS Pharmacy. This pricing information was updated 03/2011. Actual costs to patients will vary depending on the use of specific retail or mail-order locations and health insurance copays.

Orencia 250MG Solution (B-M SQUIBB U.S. (PRIMARY CARE)): 1/$590.99 or 3/$1695.97

Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions April 2009. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.

References

1. Bristol-Myers Squibb. Orencia (abatacept) prescribing information. Princeton, NJ; 2008 Apr.

2. Genovese MC, Becker JC, Schiff M et al. Abatacept for rheumatoid arthritis refractory to tumor necrosis factor α inhibition. N Engl J Med. 2005; 353:1114-23. [PubMed 16162882]

3. Kremer JM, Westhovens R, Leon M et al. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis by selective inhibition of T-cell activation with fusion protein CTLA4Ig. N Engl J Med. 2003; 349:1907-15. [PubMed 14614165]

4. Kremer JM, Dougados M, Emery P et al. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with the selective costimulatory modulator abatacept: twelve-month results of a phase IIb, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2005; 52:2263-71. [PubMed 16052582]

5. Moreland LW, Alten R, Van den Bosch F et al. Costimulatory blockade in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a pilot, dose-finding, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating CTLA-4Ig and LEA29Y eighty-five days after the first infusion. Arthritis Rheum. 2002; 46:1470-9. [PubMed 12115176]

6. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Plainsboro, NJ: Personal communication.

7. Ruperto N, Lovell DJ, Quartier P et al. Abatacept in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled withdrawal trial. Lancet. 2008; 372;383-91. [PubMed 18632147]

8. Giannini EH, Ruperto N, Ravelli A et al. Preliminary definition of improvement in juvenile arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1997; 40:1202-9. [PubMed 9214419]

More Abatacept resources

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

• Abatacept MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Abatacept Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)


• abatacept Intravenous Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Orencia Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Orencia Consumer Overview

Compare Abatacept with other medications

• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis