Bisoprolol

bis-oh-PROE-lol

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Zebeta

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Cardiovascular Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Beta-Adrenergic Blocker, Cardioselective

Uses For bisoprolol

Bisoprolol is used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled .

bisoprolol is a beta-blocker. It works by affecting the response to nerve impulses in certain parts of the body, like the heart. As a result, the heart beats slower and decreases the blood pressure. When the blood pressure is lowered, the amount of blood and oxygen is increased to the heart .

bisoprolol is available only with your doctor's prescription .

Before Using bisoprolol

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 bisoprolol, the following should be considered:

Allergies

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

Pediatric

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

Geriatric

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

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. When you are taking bisoprolol, 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 bisoprolol 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.

• Albuterol


• Amiodarone


• Arformoterol


• Bambuterol


• Bitolterol


• Broxaterol


• Clenbuterol


• Clonidine


• Colterol


• Diltiazem


• Dronedarone


• Fenoldopam


• Fenoterol


• Formoterol


• Hexoprenaline


• Indacaterol


• Isoetharine


• Levalbuterol


• Metaproterenol


• Pirbuterol


• Procaterol


• Reproterol


• Rimiterol


• Ritodrine


• Salmeterol


• Terbutaline


• Tretoquinol


• Tulobuterol


• Verapamil

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

• Acarbose


• Aceclofenac


• Acemetacin


• Acetohexamide


• Alclofenac


• Alfuzosin


• Amlodipine


• Apazone


• Arbutamine


• Benfluorex


• Benoxaprofen


• Bromfenac


• Bufexamac


• Bunazosin


• Carprofen


• Chlorpropamide


• Clometacin


• Clonixin


• Dexketoprofen


• Diclofenac


• Diflunisal


• Digoxin


• Dipyrone


• Doxazosin


• Droxicam


• Etodolac


• Etofenamate


• Felbinac


• Felodipine


• Fenbufen


• Fenoprofen


• Fentiazac


• Floctafenine


• Flufenamic Acid


• Flurbiprofen


• Gliclazide


• Glimepiride


• Glipizide


• Gliquidone


• Glyburide


• Guar Gum


• Ibuprofen


• Indomethacin


• Indoprofen


• Insulin


• Insulin Aspart, Recombinant


• Insulin Glulisine


• Insulin Lispro, Recombinant


• Isoxicam


• Ketoprofen


• Ketorolac


• Lacidipine


• Lercanidipine


• Lornoxicam


• Manidipine


• Meclofenamate


• Mefenamic Acid


• Meloxicam


• Metformin


• Methyldopa


• Mibefradil


• Miglitol


• Moxisylyte


• Nabumetone


• Naproxen


• Nicardipine


• Nifedipine


• Niflumic Acid


• Nilvadipine


• Nimesulide


• Nimodipine


• Nisoldipine


• Nitrendipine


• Oxaprozin


• Oxyphenbutazone


• Phenoxybenzamine


• Phentolamine


• Phenylbutazone


• Pirazolac


• Piroxicam


• Pirprofen


• Pranidipine


• Prazosin


• Propyphenazone


• Proquazone


• Repaglinide


• Rifapentine


• St John's Wort


• Sulindac


• Suprofen


• Tamsulosin


• Tenidap


• Tenoxicam


• Terazosin


• Tiaprofenic Acid


• Tolazamide


• Tolbutamide


• Tolmetin


• Trimazosin


• Troglitazone


• Urapidil


• Zomepirac

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Angina (severe chest pain)—May provoke chest pain if stopped too quickly .

• Blood vessel disease—Use with caution. bisoprolol may make this condition worse .

• Bradycardia (slow heartbeat) or


• Heart block or


• Heart failure—Should not use in patients with these conditions .

• Diabetes or


• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or


• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)—May cover up some of the signs and symptoms of these diseases, such as a fast heartbeat .

• Kidney disease or


• Liver disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body .

• Lung disease (e.g., asthma, bronchitis, emphysema)—May cause difficulty with breathing in patients with this condition .

Proper Use of bisoprolol

In addition to the use of bisoprolol, treatment for your high blood pressure may include weight control and changes in the types of foods you eat, especially foods high in sodium. Your doctor will tell you which of these are most important for you. You should check with your doctor before changing your diet .

Many patients who have high blood pressure will not notice any signs of the problem. In fact, many may feel normal. It is very important that you take your medicine exactly as directed and that you keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well .

Remember that bisoprolol will not cure your high blood pressure, but it does help control it. You must continue to take it as directed if you expect to lower your blood pressure and keep it down. You may have to take high blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life. If high blood pressure is not treated, it can cause serious problems such as heart failure, blood vessel disease, stroke, or kidney disease .

Do not interrupt or stop taking bisoprolol without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping it completely. Some conditions may become worse when the medicine is stopped suddenly, which can be dangerous .

Dosing

The dose of bisoprolol 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 bisoprolol. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

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

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  
  • For high blood pressure:
    
    • Adults—At first, 5 milligrams (mg) once a day. Some patients may take 2.5 mg once day as a starting dose. Your doctor may increase your dose up to 20 mg once a day if needed.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor .
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

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

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Precautions While Using bisoprolol

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure bisoprolol is working properly and to check for unwanted effects .

Bisoprolol may cause heart failure in some patients. Check with your doctor right away if you are having chest pain or discomfort; dilated neck veins; extreme fatigue; irregular breathing; an irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath; swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs; weight gain; or wheezing .

bisoprolol may cause changes in your blood sugar levels. Also, bisoprolol may cover up signs of low blood sugar, such as a rapid pulse rate. Check with your doctor if you have these problems or if you notice a change in the results of your blood or urine sugar tests .

Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using bisoprolol. You may need to stop using bisoprolol several days before having surgery .

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

bisoprolol Side Effects

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

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

Less common

• Body aches or pain


• chest pain


• chills


• cough


• difficult or labored breathing


• ear congestion


• fever


• headache


• loss of voice


• nasal congestion


• pain or tenderness around eyes and cheekbones


• shortness of breath or troubled breathing


• sneezing


• sore throat


• stuffy or runny nose


• tightness in chest


• unusual tiredness or weakness


• wheezing

Rare

• Chest discomfort


• lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting


• slow or irregular heartbeat

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

Symptoms of overdose

• Anxiety


• blurred vision


• cold sweats


• coma


• confusion


• cool, pale skin


• decreased urine output


• depression


• dilated neck veins


• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly


• extreme fatigue


• fast heartbeat


• increased hunger


• irregular breathing


• nausea


• nervousness


• nightmares


• noisy breathing


• seizures


• shakiness


• slurred speech


• sweating


• swelling of face, fingers, feet, or lower legs


• weight gain

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

Less common

• Abnormal or decreased touch sensation


• diarrhea


• difficulty in moving


• lack or loss of strength


• muscle pain or stiffness


• pain in joints


• sleeplessness


• trouble sleeping


• unable to sleep


• vomiting

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: bisoprolol side effects (in more detail)

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More bisoprolol resources

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

• Bisoprolol MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Bisoprolol Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Bisoprolol Fumarate Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Zebeta Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Zebeta Consumer Overview

Compare bisoprolol with other medications

• Angina Pectoris Prophylaxis
• Heart Failure
• High Blood Pressure
• Mitral Valve Prolapse
• Premature Ventricular Depolarizations
• Supraventricular Tachycardia

Duration

Generic Name: oxymetazoline nasal (ox ee me TAZ oh leen)

Brand Names: Afrin, Afrin Nasal Sinus, Allerest 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Duramist Plus, Duration, Four-Way Nasal Spray, Genasal, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Nostrilla, NRS Nasal, NTZ Long Acting Nasal, Oxyfrin, Oxymeta-12, Sinarest Nasal, Sinex Long-Acting, Twice-A-Day

What is Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Oxymetazoline is a decongestant. It works by constricting (shrinking) blood vessels (veins and arteries) in your body. The nasal formulation acts directly on the blood vessels in your nasal tissues. Constriction of the blood vessels in your nose and sinuses leads to drainage of these areas and a decrease in congestion.

Oxymetazoline nasal is used to treat congestion associated with allergies, hay fever, sinus irritation, and the common cold.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Do not use oxymetazoline nasal for longer than 3 to 5 days. Longer use could cause damage to your nasal tissue and lead to chronic congestion. If your symptoms do not improve, see your doctor.

Do not use more of this medication than is recommended on the package or by your doctor.

Who should not use Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Do not use oxymetazoline nasal if you have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. This could cause a very dangerous drug interaction with serious side effects.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• 
  

  high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  any type of heart disease, hardening of the arteries, or irregular heart beats;

  
  


• 
  

  thyroid problems;

  
  


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye;

  
  


• 
  

  an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating; or

  
  


• 
  

  liver or kidney disease.

  
  

You may not be able to use oxymetazoline nasal, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether oxymetazoline nasal will harm an unborn baby. Do not use oxymetazoline nasal without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Infants are especially sensitive to the effects of oxymetazoline nasal. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from oxymetazoline nasal. You may require a lower dose of this medication.

How should I use Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Use oxymetazoline nasal exactly as directed by your doctor, or follow the instructions that accompany the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

To apply the nasal spray, keep your head upright, spray, then sniff hard for a few minutes after administering a dose.

To apply the nasal drops, lie on a bed on your back with your head hanging over the edge. Insert the drops and remain in this position for several minutes. Gently turn your head from side to side.

Do not allow the tip of the container to touch the inside of your nose or any other surface. This spreads the infection.

Also, to prevent the spread of infection, do not share this medication with anyone else.

Discard this medication bottle after use. Do not save it for reuse.

Never use this medication in larger doses or more often than is recommended. Too much oxymetazoline nasal could be very harmful. Oxymetazoline nasal should not be used more often than twice a day (every 12 hours).

Do not use oxymetazoline nasal for longer than 3 to 5 days. Longer use could cause damage to your nasal tissue and lead to chronic congestion. If your symptoms do not improve, see your doctor.

Store oxymetazoline nasal at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an oxymetazoline nasal overdose include extreme tiredness, sweating, dizziness, a slow heartbeat, and coma.

What should I avoid while taking Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Never use this medication in larger doses or more often than is recommended. Too much oxymetazoline nasal could be very harmful.

Duration (oxymetazoline nasal) side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using oxymetazoline nasal and seek emergency medical attention:

• 
  

  an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

  
  


• 
  

  seizures;

  
  


• 
  

  unusual behavior or hallucinations; or

  
  


• 
  

  an irregular or fast heartbeat.

  
  

More commonly, you may experience some sneezing or burning, stinging, dryness, or irritation of the nose. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

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 Duration (oxymetazoline nasal)?

Do not use oxymetazoline nasal if you have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.

Although drug interactions between topical nasal decongestants and drugs taken by mouth are not expected, they can occur. Rarely, oxymetazoline nasal may interact with the following medicines:

• 
  

  furazolidone (Furoxone);

  
  


• 
  

  guanethidine (Ismelin);

  
  


• 
  

  indomethacin (Indocin);

  
  


• 
  

  methyldopa (Aldomet);

  
  


• 
  

  bromocriptine (Parlodel);

  
  


• 
  

  caffeine in cola, tea, coffee, chocolate and other products;

  
  


• 
  

  theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theochron, Theolair, others);

  
  


• tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep), doxepin (Sinequan), and nortriptyline (Pamelor);


• other commonly used tricyclic antidepressants, including amoxapine (Asendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), and trimipramine (Surmontil);


• phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), thioridazine (Mellaril), and prochlorperazine (Compazine); and


• other commonly used phenothiazines, including fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), mesoridazine (Serentil), and trifluoperazine (Stelazine).

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

More Duration resources

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

• Duration Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Afrin Solution MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Duration with other medications

• Nasal Congestion

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about oxymetazoline nasal written for health professionals that you may read.

See also: Duration side effects (in more detail)

Deferoxamine Injection

de-fer-OX-a-meen

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Desferal

Available Dosage Forms:

• Powder for Solution

Therapeutic Class: Heavy Metal Chelator

Uses For deferoxamine

Deferoxamine injection is used to remove excess iron from the body in anemia or thalassemia patients who have many blood transfusions. It is also used with other medicines to treat acute iron poisoning, especially in small children.

Deferoxamine combines with iron in the blood. The combination of iron and deferoxamine is then removed from the body by the kidneys. If you have too much iron in the body, it can damage various organs and tissues.

deferoxamine is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.

Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although this use is not included in product labeling, deferoxamine is used in certain patients with the following medical condition:

• Aluminum toxicity (too much aluminum in the body).

Before Using deferoxamine

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 deferoxamine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of deferoxamine injection in children younger than 3 years of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of deferoxamine injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have vision or hearing problems, and age-related kidney or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving deferoxamine injection.

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. When you are receiving deferoxamine, 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 deferoxamine 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.

• Ascorbic Acid

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Aluminum overload or


• Dialysis treatment or


• Encephalopathy (brain disease), aluminum-related—May increase risk for more serious side effects.

• Anuria (not able to form urine) or


• Kidney disease, severe—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

• Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid) or


• Kidney problems or


• Seizures, history of—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Infection (e.g., bacteria, fungus)—May decrease your body's ability to fight infection.

Proper Use of deferoxamine

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you deferoxamine in a hospital or clinic. You may also be taught how to give your medicine at home. deferoxamine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.

Deferoxamine may sometimes be given at home to patients who do not need to be in the hospital. If you are receiving deferoxamine at home, make sure you clearly understand and carefully follow your doctor's instructions.

Use a new needle, unopened vial, or syringe each time you inject your medicine.

You might not use all of the medicine in each vial (glass container). Use each vial only one time. Do not save an open vial. If the medicine in the vial has changed color, or if you see particles in it, do not use it.

Do not take vitamin C supplements unless your doctor has told you to do so.

Dosing

The dose of deferoxamine 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 deferoxamine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

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

• For injection dosage form:
  
  • For acute iron toxicity:
    
    • Adults, teenagers, and children 3 years of age and older—At first, 1000 milligrams (mg) per day injected into a muscle or vein. Your doctor may increase your dose by 500 mg every 4 hours for two doses. However, the total dose is usually not more than 6000 mg in 24 hours.
    
    
    • Children younger than 3 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  
  • For chronic iron toxicity:
    
    • Adults, teenagers, and children 3 years of age and older—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The dose is usually 1000 to 2000 milligrams (mg) (20 to 40 mg per kg of body weight) per day, injected under the skin, over a period of 8 to 24 hours.
    
    
    • Children younger than 3 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not refrigerate. Keep from freezing.

Store the medicine that has been mixed at room temperature and use it within 3 hours. Throw away any mixed medicine that has not been used within this time.

Precautions While Using deferoxamine

It is very important that your doctor check the progress of you or your child at regular visits to make sure that deferoxamine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it. Blood and urine tests must be done regularly to check for unwanted effects .

Deferoxamine may cause some people to have hearing and vision problems within a few weeks after they start using it. This usually occurs if you are receiving high doses of deferoxamine and using it for a long period of time. If you or your child notice any problems with your hearing or vision, such as blurred vision, difficulty with night vision, or difficulty with seeing colors, check with your doctor as soon as possible.

Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have the following symptoms while using deferoxamine: agitation, confusion, decreased urine output, lethargy, muscle twitching, rapid weight gain, seizures, or swelling of the face, ankles, or hands. These may be symptoms of a serious kidney problem.

deferoxamine may cause slow growth. If your child is using deferoxamine, the doctor will need to keep track of your child's height and weight every 3 months to make sure that your child is growing properly.

Stop using deferoxamine and check with your doctor right away if you or your child develop fever, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, trouble with breathing, or wheezing. These could be symptoms of a serious lung condition called acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Before you have any medical tests, tell the medical doctor in charge that you or your child are using deferoxamine. The results of some tests (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging or MRI) may be affected by deferoxamine.

deferoxamine may make you dizzy, drowsy, lightheaded, or trouble in hearing or seeing clearly. Make sure you know how you react to deferoxamine before you drive, use machines, or do other jobs that require you to be alert or able to see well.

deferoxamine may cause your urine to turn red in color. This is normal and is nothing to worry about.

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

deferoxamine Side Effects

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

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

More common

• Bluish fingernails, lips, or skin


• blurred vision or other problems with vision


• convulsions (seizures)


• difficulty with breathing or fast breathing


• fast heartbeat


• hearing problems


• redness or flushing of the skin

Less common

• Diarrhea


• difficult urination


• fever


• leg cramps


• nausea


• stomach and muscle cramps


• stomach discomfort


• unusual bleeding or bruising


• vomiting

Incidence not known

• Agitation


• coma


• confusion


• cough


• decreased urine output


• depression


• difficulty with swallowing


• dizziness


• headache


• hives


• hostility


• irritability


• itching


• large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs


• lethargy


• muscle twitching


• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue


• rapid weight gain


• shortness of breath


• skin rash


• stupor


• swelling of the face, ankles, or hands


• tightness in the chest


• unusual tiredness or weakness


• wheezing

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

Incidence not known

• Bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site

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: deferoxamine Injection 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 deferoxamine Injection resources

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

Compare deferoxamine Injection with other medications

• Iron Poisoning, Acute
• Iron Poisoning, Chronic

Dutasteride and tamsulosin

doo-TAS-ter-ide, tam-SOO-loe-sin hye-droe-KLOR-ide

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Jalyn

Available Dosage Forms:

• Capsule

Pharmacologic Class: 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor

Uses For dutasteride and tamsulosin

Note: Women of childbearing potential should not use or handle dutasteride and tamsulosin. Dutasteride can cause birth defects in male fetuses.

Dutasteride and tamsulosin combination is used to treat men who have symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland, which is also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Benign enlargement of the prostate is a problem that can occur in men as they get older. The prostate gland is located below the bladder. When the prostate gland gets larger, certain muscles in the gland get in the way of the tube that drains urine from the bladder. This can cause problems with urinating, such as a need to urinate often, a weak stream when urinating, or a feeling of not being able to empty the bladder completely.

Dutasteride blocks the action of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. This enzyme changes testosterone to another hormone that causes the prostate gland to grow. Dutasteride will cause the size of the prostate to decrease, but the effect lasts only as long as the medicine is taken. If it is stopped, the prostate begins to grow again.

Tamsulosin helps relax the muscles in the prostate gland and the opening of the bladder. This may help increase the flow of urine or decrease symptoms.

dutasteride and tamsulosin is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before Using dutasteride and tamsulosin

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 dutasteride and tamsulosin, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to dutasteride and tamsulosin 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

Dutasteride and tamsulosin combination is not indicated for use in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of dutasteride and tamsulosin combination in the elderly.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	X	Studies in animals or pregnant women have demonstrated positive evidence of fetal abnormalities. This drug should not be used in women who are or may become pregnant because the risk clearly outweighs any possible benefit.

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. When you are taking dutasteride and tamsulosin, 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 dutasteride and tamsulosin 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.

• Atazanavir


• Clarithromycin


• Indinavir


• Itraconazole


• Ketoconazole


• Nefazodone


• Nelfinavir


• Ritonavir


• Saquinavir


• Tadalafil


• Telithromycin

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

• Acebutolol


• Alprenolol


• Atenolol


• Betaxolol


• Bevantolol


• Bisoprolol


• Bucindolol


• Carteolol


• Carvedilol


• Celiprolol


• Cimetidine


• Ciprofloxacin


• Dilevalol


• Diltiazem


• Esmolol


• Ketoconazole


• Labetalol


• Levobunolol


• Mepindolol


• Metipranolol


• Metoprolol


• Nadolol


• Nebivolol


• Oxprenolol


• Paroxetine


• Penbutolol


• Pindolol


• Propranolol


• Ritonavir


• Sildenafil


• Sotalol


• Talinolol


• Tertatolol


• Timolol


• Vardenafil


• Verapamil

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. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

Other Medical Problems

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

• Allergy to sulfa drugs (such as sulfamethoxazole, sulfasalazine, sulfasoxazole, Azulfidine®, Bactrim®, or Septra®)—Increased allergic reaction in patients with this condition.

• Hypotension (low blood pressure) or


• Postural hypotension (low blood pressure when arising), history of or


• Priapism (painful or prolonged erection of the penis)—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Liver disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body.

Proper Use of dutasteride and tamsulosin

Take dutasteride and tamsulosin exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

dutasteride and tamsulosin comes with a patient information insert. Read and follow the instructions in the insert carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Take the capsule approximately 30 minutes after the same meal each day. Swallow the capsule whole. Do not chew or open it.

Dosing

The dose of dutasteride and tamsulosin 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 dutasteride and tamsulosin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

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

• For oral dosage form (capsules):
  
  • For benign prostatic hyperplasia:
    
    • Adults—One capsule once a day.
    
    
    • Children—Use is not recommended.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

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

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Precautions While Using dutasteride and tamsulosin

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that dutasteride and tamsulosin is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Women and children should not use dutasteride and tamsulosin. Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not handle or touch the capsules. Dutasteride can be absorbed through the skin and can cause birth defects in male fetuses. If a pregnant woman does come in contact with dutasteride and tamsulosin, the affected area should be washed right away with soap and water, especially if the capsule is broken.

Because dutasteride and tamsulosin may cause some people to become dizzy or feel faint, make sure you know how you react to dutasteride and tamsulosin before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur after you take dutasteride and tamsulosin, especially when you get up suddenly from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help with this problem. If you feel dizzy, lie down so you do not faint. Then sit for a few moments before standing to prevent the dizziness from returning.

If you plan to have cataract surgery, tell your eye doctor (ophthalmologist) that you are taking dutasteride and tamsulosin or that you used dutasteride and tamsulosin in the previous 9 months. A serious eye problem called Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) has occurred in some patients who were taking dutasteride and tamsulosin or who had recently taken dutasteride and tamsulosin when they had cataract surgery.

dutasteride and tamsulosin may affect the results of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, which may be used to detect prostate cancer. Make sure you tell all of your doctors that you are using dutasteride and tamsulosin.

dutasteride and tamsulosin will not prevent prostate cancer but may increase your risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer. Tell your doctor if you have concerns about this risk.

You should seek medical attention right away if you experience a prolonged erection while using dutasteride and tamsulosin. This is an extremely rare unwanted effect that must be treated right away to prevent permanent erectile damage (impotence).

Men who have taken dutasteride and tamsulosin should not donate blood until 6 months have passed since the last dose. Dutasteride can remain in your blood for a long time and be passed on to a pregnant woman who receives a blood transfusion.

dutasteride and tamsulosin does not usually affect normal sexual abilities for most men. You may notice that you ejaculate less fluid when you have sex.

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

dutasteride and tamsulosin Side Effects

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

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

More common

• Chills


• cold sweats


• confusion


• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

Less common

• Chest pain


• cough or hoarseness


• fever


• lower back or side pain


• painful or difficult urination

Incidence not known

• Blistering, flaking, or peeling of the skin


• blurred vision


• difficulty with breathing


• fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse


• large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs


• pain or swelling of the treated skin


• painful or prolonged erection of the penis


• shortness of breath


• sweating


• unusual tiredness or weakness

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

More common

• Change or problem with discharge of semen


• decreased interest in sexual intercourse


• dizziness


• enlarged and painful breasts


• inability to have or keep an erection


• loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

Less common

• Back pain


• body aches or pain


• congestion


• diarrhea


• dryness or soreness of the throat


• headache


• increased cough


• lack or loss of strength


• pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones


• runny nose


• shortness of breath or troubled breathing


• sleepiness or unusual drowsiness


• sleeplessness


• sneezing


• stuffy nose


• tender, swollen glands in the neck


• tightness of the chest or wheezing


• trouble sleeping


• trouble with swallowing


• unable to sleep


• voice changes

Incidence not known

• Constipation


• hives or welts


• itching


• redness of the skin


• skin rash


• vomiting

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: dutasteride and tamsulosin 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 dutasteride and tamsulosin resources

• Dutasteride and tamsulosin Side Effects (in more detail)
• Dutasteride and tamsulosin Dosage
• Dutasteride and tamsulosin Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Dutasteride and tamsulosin Drug Interactions
• Dutasteride and tamsulosin Support Group
• 11 Reviews for Dutasteride and tamsulosin - Add your own review/rating

Compare dutasteride and tamsulosin with other medications

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Dilaudid Suppository

Pronunciation: HYE-droe-MOR-fone
Generic Name: Hydromorphone
Brand Name: Dilaudid

Dilaudid Suppository is used for:

Treating pain in certain patients.

Dilaudid Suppository is an opioid (narcotic) analgesic. It works by binding to certain receptors in the brain and nervous system to reduce pain.

Do NOT use Dilaudid Suppository if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Dilaudid Suppository or any other codeine- or morphine-related medicine (eg, morphine, codeine, oxycodone)


• you have difficult or slowed breathing, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or right-sided heart problems (cor pulmonale), or you are having a severe asthma attack


• you are in labor


• you have severe diarrhea or other bowel problems caused by antibiotics or poisoning


• you have a brain injury or growths in the brain along with increased pressure in the brain


• you are taking sodium oxybate (GHB)

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

Before using Dilaudid Suppository:

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

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding


• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement


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


• if you have a history of lung or breathing problems (eg, asthma, emphysema, bronchitis), seizures (eg, epilepsy), adrenal gland problems, an enlarged prostate, heart problems, low blood pressure, dehydration, low blood volume, an underactive thyroid, or urinary blockage


• if you have severe drowsiness, a recent head injury, spinal problems, growths in the brain, or increased pressure in the brain


• if you have liver or kidney problems, gallbladder problems, or stomach or bowel problems (eg, inflammation), or if you have had recent stomach or bowel surgery


• if you drink alcohol regularly, have symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, or have a history of suicidal thoughts or attempts


• if you have a personal or family history of mental or mood problems, alcohol abuse, or other substance abuse or dependence


• if you are in poor health or shock, or will be having surgery

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

• Phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine) because the risk of low blood pressure may be increased


• Barbiturate anesthetics (eg, thiopental), cimetidine, or sodium oxybate (GHB) because the risk of severe drowsiness, coma, or slowed or difficult breathing may be increased


• Agonist/antagonist analgesics (eg, pentazocine) or naltrexone because they may decrease Dilaudid Suppository's effectiveness and withdrawal may occur

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

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

• Wash your hands before and after using Dilaudid Suppository.


• If the suppository is too soft to use, put it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. You may also run cold water over it.


• Remove the wrapper. Moisten the suppository with cool water. Lie down on your side. Insert the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum. Use your finger to push it in completely.


• If you are taking Dilaudid Suppository for persistent pain, take it on a regular schedule to help control the pain more effectively.


• Do not change your dose or suddenly stop taking Dilaudid Suppository without checking with your doctor.


• If Dilaudid Suppository is no longer needed, dispose of it as soon as possible. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to dispose of Dilaudid Suppository properly.


• If you miss a dose of Dilaudid Suppository and you are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. Do not take 2 doses at once.

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

Important safety information:

• Dilaudid Suppository may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol, other opiate pain medicines, or certain other medicines. Use Dilaudid Suppository with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.


• Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you take Dilaudid Suppository; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.


• Dilaudid Suppository may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.


• Dilaudid Suppository may be habit-forming. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. Misuse or abuse of Dilaudid Suppository may cause severe side effects, including severe breathing problems, seizures, coma, and possibly death.


• Constipation is a common side effect of Dilaudid Suppository. Talk to your doctor about using laxatives or stool softeners to prevent or treat constipation while you use Dilaudid Suppository.


• If your pain continues or becomes worse or if you have side effects that concern you, contact your doctor.


• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Dilaudid Suppository before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.


• Use Dilaudid Suppository with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially drowsiness and breathing problems.


• Dilaudid Suppository should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Dilaudid Suppository may cause harm to the fetus. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Dilaudid Suppository while you are pregnant. Dilaudid Suppository is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Dilaudid Suppository.

When used for long periods of time or at high doses, Dilaudid Suppository may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Dilaudid Suppository stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed.

Some people who use Dilaudid Suppository for a long time may develop a need to continue taking it. People who take high doses are also at risk. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction. Dependence is unlikely to be an issue in terminally ill patients where comfort is more important. If you are taking Dilaudid Suppository regularly, do not suddenly stop taking it without checking with your doctor. WITHDRAWAL symptoms have occurred when Dilaudid Suppository is suddenly stopped and may include anxiety; diarrhea; fever, runny nose, or sneezing; goose bumps and abnormal skin sensations; nausea and vomiting; pain; rigid muscles; seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there; shivering or tremors; sweating; and trouble sleeping. Contact your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms after stopping Dilaudid Suppository.

Possible side effects of Dilaudid Suppository:

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:

Constipation; dizziness, drowsiness; dry mouth; flushing; lightheadedness; nausea; sweating; vomiting.

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

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); fainting; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; hallucinations; mental or mood changes; seizure or persistent dizziness or drowsiness; severe or persistent headache or vomiting; shallow, slowed or difficult breathing; tremor; trouble urinating; vision changes.

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: Dilaudid 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. Symptoms may include bluish skin; chest pain; cold and clammy skin; coma; difficult or slow breathing; excessive sweating; limp muscles; nausea and vomiting; numbness of an arm or leg; pinpoint pupils; seizures; severe drowsiness or dizziness; slow or irregular heartbeat.

Proper storage of Dilaudid Suppository:

Store Dilaudid Suppository in the refrigerator, between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Keep Dilaudid Suppository out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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


• Dilaudid Suppository 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 Dilaudid Suppository. 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 Dilaudid resources

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

Compare Dilaudid with other medications

• Cough
• Pain

Durahist PE

Generic Name: chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine (KLOR fe NEER a meen, METH skoe POL a meen, FEN il EFF rin)

Brand Names: Aerohist Plus, Ah-Chew, Chlor-Mes, Dallergy (obsolete), Denaze, Duradryl, Durahist PE, DuraTan PE, Extendryl Chews, Histatab PH, Omnihist L.A., Ralix, Redur-PCM, Rescon MX

What is Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, 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.

Methscopolamine is an anticholinergic (an-tye-kol-in-URJ-ik) that has a drying effect on the nasal passages.

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, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine is used to treat runny nose, sneezing, itchy throat, watery eyes, and sinus congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, 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 Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine)?

Do not use this 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 cold or allergy medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before using this medicine, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or a heart rhythm disorder, circulation problems, glaucoma, diabetes, a thyroid disorder, kidney disease, or problems with urination.

Do not use any other over-the-counter cold, cough, or allergy 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 chlorpheniramine or phenylephrine. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 5 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine)?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, phenylephrine, or to other cold or allergy medicines, diet pills, stimulants, or ADHD medications. Do not use this 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 a cold or allergy medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• 
  

  heart disease, high blood pressure, or a heart rhythm disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  a blood vessel disorder or circulation problems;

  
  


• 
  

  glaucoma;

  
  


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  a thyroid disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  kidney disease;

  
  


• 
  

  asthma;

  
  


• 
  

  an enlarged prostate; or

  
  


• 
  

  problems with urination.

  
  

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. This medication can decrease breast milk production, and also may pass into breast milk and could 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 cold medicine 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 Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Cold medicine is usually taken for only a short time until your symptoms clear up.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. It is best to take this medicine with food.

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 for one. The suspension liquid form should be shaken well just before you measure a dose.

Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet unless your doctor tells you to. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. However, some extended-release pills can be broken to split the dose. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

The chewable tablet must be chewed completely before you swallow it.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 5 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

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.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at 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, extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, uneven heart rate, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, 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 becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather.

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by chlorpheniramine or methscopolamine. Tell your doctor if you need to use any of these other medicines.

Avoid taking diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants (such as ADHD medications) without your doctor's advice.

Do not use any other over-the-counter cold, cough, or allergy medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine are contained in many medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of a certain drug. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains chlorpheniramine or phenylephrine. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can add to drowsiness caused by an antihistamine.

Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, 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:

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  fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;

  
  


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  confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;

  
  


• 
  

  severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness;

  
  


• 
  

  urinating less than usual or not at all;

  
  


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

  
  


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

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  blurred vision;

  
  


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  dry mouth;

  
  


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  nausea, stomach pain, constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  mild loss of appetite;

  
  


• 
  

  dizziness, drowsiness, headache;

  
  


• 
  

  problems with memory or concentration;

  
  


• 
  

  ringing in your ears;

  
  


• 
  

  restlessness or excitability (especially in children);

  
  


• 
  

  warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin;

  
  


• 
  

  cold feeling in your hands or feet;

  
  


• 
  

  sleep problems (insomnia); or

  
  


• 
  

  skin rash or itching.

  
  

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 Durahist PE (chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, and phenylephrine)?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any other antihistamine or decongestant pills, liquids, or nasal sprays. Also tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• 
  

  pramlintide (Symlin);

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon) or desipramine (Norpramin);

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  a diuretic (water pill), or medicines to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), or other heart conditions;

  
  


• 
  

  medication to treat irritable bowel syndrome;

  
  


• 
  

  medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), risperidone (Risperdal), trazodone (Desyrel);

  
  


• 
  

  migraine headache medication such as sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), zolmitriptan (Zomig), ergotamine (Ergostat, Ergomar); or

  
  


• 
  

  seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol) or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton).

  
  

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with chlorpheniramine, methscopolamine, 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 Durahist PE resources

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

• AH-Chew Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Aerohist Plus Sustained-Release and Long-Acting Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Allergy DN PE Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Dallergy Syrup Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Dehistine Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Duravent-DA Controlled-Release Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Rescon Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare Durahist PE with other medications

• Nasal Congestion
• Rhinitis

Where can I get more information?

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

See also: Durahist PE side effects (in more detail)

Benzocaine otic

Generic Name: benzocaine otic (BENZ o kane OH tik)

Brand names: Oticaine, Otocain, Americaine Otic, Omedia, Benzotic

What is benzocaine otic?

Benzocaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.

Benzocaine otic is used to treat pain, itching, and irritation caused by infection or injury of the ear. Benzocaine will not treat the infection.

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 benzocaine otic?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Before using benzocaine otic, tell your doctor if you have any allergies.

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

Do not place the dropper tip into your ear, or allow the tip to touch any surface. It may become contaminated. Wipe the tip of the medicine bottle with a clean tissue. Do not wash the dropper tip with water or soap.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse during the first few days of treatment with benzocaine otic.

Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you think you have used too much medicine, or 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. Talk to your doctor about unusual or bothersome any side effect.

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

Before using benzocaine otic, tell your doctor if you have any allergies.

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. It is not known whether 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 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. Use this medicine only in the affected ear. You may not need to use it in both ears.

Wash your hands before using this medicine.

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 drop the correct number of ear drops into the ear.

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, stay lying down or with your head tilted for at least 2 minutes. You may use a small piece of cotton to plug the ear and keep the medicine from draining out. Follow your doctor's instructions about the use of cotton.

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

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse during the first few days of treatment with benzocaine otic.

Store this medication 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.

What should I avoid while using benzocaine otic?

Avoid swimming until your ear infection has completely cleared up.

Do not use other ear drops unless your doctor has told you to.

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.

Call you doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• 
  

  skin rash;

  
  


• 
  

  severe itching or burning in your ear; or

  
  


• 
  

  pain, redness, or swelling of your ear.

  
  

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as mild stinging, burning, or irritation in the ear.

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 benzocaine otic?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on benzocaine otic. 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 benzocaine otic resources

• Benzocaine otic Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Benzocaine otic Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Benzocaine - Add your own review/rating

• Americaine Otic Drops MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Benzotic Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

Compare benzocaine otic with other medications

• Acute Otitis Externa
• Ear Conditions
• Otitis Externa

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about benzocaine otic.