Friday, 6 July 2012

Phenobarbital Elixir




Phenobarbital Elixir, USP

CIV

Rx only

Phenobarbital Elixir Description


The barbiturates are nonselective central nervous system (CNS) depressants that are primarily used as sedative-hypnotics. In subhypnotic doses, they are also used as anticonvulsants. The barbiturates and their sodium salts are subject to control under the Federal Controlled Substances Act.


Phenobarbital is a barbituric acid derivative and occurs as white, odorless, small crystals or crystalline powder that is very slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, in ether, and in solutions of fixed alkali hydroxides and carbonates; sparingly soluble in chloroform. Phenobarbital is 5-ethyl-5-phenylbarbituric acid and has the empirical formula C12H12N2O3. Its molecular weight is 232.24. It has the following structural formula:



Phenobarbital is a substituted pyrimidine derivative in which the basic structure is barbituric acid, a substance that has no CNS activity. CNS activity is obtained by substituting alkyl, alkenyl, or aryl groups on the pyrimidine ring.


Each 5 mL (teaspoonful) contains 20.0 mg phenobarbital. The elixir also contains FD&C Red #40, flavors, glycerin, purified water, sucrose, and alcohol 15%.



Phenobarbital Elixir - Clinical Pharmacology


Barbiturates are capable of producing all levels of CNS mood alteration, from excitation to mild sedation, hypnosis, and deep coma. Overdosage can produce death. In high enough therapeutic doses, barbiturates induce anesthesia.


Barbiturates depress the sensory cortex, decrease motor activity, alter cerebellar function, and produce drowsiness, sedation, and hypnosis.


Barbiturate-induced sleep differs from physiologic sleep. Sleep laboratory studies have demonstrated that barbiturates reduce the amount of time spent in the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep or the dreaming stage. Also, Stages III and IV sleep are decreased. Following abrupt cessation of barbiturates used regularly, patients may experience markedly increased dreaming, nightmares, and/or insomnia. Therefore, withdrawal of a single therapeutic dose over 5 or 6 days has been recommended to lessen the REM rebound and disturbed sleep that contribute to the drug withdrawal syndrome (for example, the dose should be decreased from 3 to 2 doses/day for 1 week).


In studies, secobarbital sodium and pentobarbital sodium have been found to lose most of their effectiveness for both inducing and maintaining sleep by the end of 2 weeks of continued drug administration even with the use of multiple doses. As with secobarbital sodium and pentobarbital sodium, other barbiturates (including amobarbital) might be expected to lose their effectiveness for inducing and maintaining sleep after about 2 weeks. The short-, intermediate-, and to a lesser degree, long-acting barbiturates have been widely prescribed for treating insomnia. Although the clinical literature abounds with claims that the short-acting barbiturates are superior for producing sleep whereas the intermediate-acting compounds are more effective in maintaining sleep, controlled studies have failed to demonstrate these differential effects. Therefore, as sleep medications, the barbiturates are of limited value beyond short-term use.


Barbiturates have little analgesic action at subanesthetic doses. Rather, in subanesthetic doses, these drugs may increase the reaction to painful stimuli. All barbiturates exhibit anticonvulsant activity in anesthetic doses. However, of the drugs in this class, only phenobarbital, mephobarbital, and metharbital are effective as oral anticonvulsants in subhypnotic doses.


Barbiturates are respiratory depressants, and the degree of respiratory depression is dependent upon the dose. With hypnotic doses, respiratory depression produced by barbiturates is similar to that which occurs during physiologic sleep and is accompanied by a slight decrease in blood pressure and heart rate.


Studies in laboratory animals have shown that barbiturates cause reduction in the tone and contractility of the uterus, ureters, and urinary bladder. However, concentrations of the drugs required to produce this effect in humans are not reached with sedative-hypnotic doses.


Barbiturates do not impair the normal hepatic function but have been shown to induce liver microsomal enzymes, thus increasing and/or altering the metabolism of barbiturates and other drugs (see Drug Interactions under PRECAUTIONS).


Pharmacokinetics

Barbiturates are absorbed in varying degrees following oral or parenteral administration. The salts are more rapidly absorbed than are the acids. The rate of absorption is increased if the sodium salt is ingested as a dilute solution or taken on an empty stomach.


Duration of action, which is related to the rate at which the barbiturates are redistributed throughout the body, varies among persons and in the same person from time to time.


Phenobarbital is classified as a long-acting barbiturate when taken orally. Its onset of action is 1 hour or longer, and its duration of action ranges from 10 to 12 hours.


Barbiturates are weak acids that are absorbed and rapidly distributed to all tissues and fluids, with high concentrations in the brain, liver, and kidneys. Lipid solubility of the barbiturates is the dominant factor in their distribution within the body. The more lipid soluble the barbiturate, the more rapidly it penetrates all tissues of the body. Barbiturates are bound to plasma and tissue proteins to a varying degree with the degree of binding increasing directly as a function of lipid solubility.


Phenobarbital has the lowest lipid solubility, lowest plasma binding, lowest brain protein binding, the longest delay in onset of activity, and the longest duration of action. The plasma half-life for phenobarbital in adults ranges between 53 and 118 hours with a mean of 79 hours. The plasma half-life for phenobarbital in children and newborns (less than 48 hours old) ranges between 60 to 180 hours with a mean of 110 hours.


Barbiturates are metabolized primarily by the hepatic microsomal enzyme system, and the metabolic products are excreted in the urine, and, less commonly, in the feces. Approximately 25% to 50% of a dose of phenobarbital is eliminated unchanged in the urine. The excretion of unmetabolized barbiturate is one feature that distinguishes the long-acting category from those belonging to other categories, which are almost entirely metabolized. The inactive metabolites of the barbiturates are excreted as conjugates of glucuronic acid.



Indications and Usage for Phenobarbital Elixir


  1. Sedative

  2. Anticonvulsant–For the treatment of generalized and partial seizures.


Contraindications


Phenobarbital is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to barbiturates, in patients with a history of manifest or latent porphyria, and in patients with marked impairment of liver function or respiratory disease in which dyspnea or obstruction is evident.



Warnings


  1. Habit Forming–Phenobarbital may be habit forming. Tolerance and psychological and physical dependence may occur with continued use (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE and Pharmacokinetics under CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Patients who have psychologic dependence on barbiturates may increase the dosage or decrease the dosage interval without consulting a physician and may subsequently develop a physical dependence on barbiturates. In order to minimize the possibility of overdosage or the development of dependence, the prescribing and dispensing of sedative-hypnotic barbiturates should be limited to the amount required for the interval until the next appointment. Abrupt cessation after prolonged use in a person who is dependent on the drug may result in withdrawal symptoms, including delirium, convulsions, and possibly death. Barbiturates should be withdrawn gradually from any patient known to be taking excessive doses over long periods of time (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).

  2. Acute or Chronic Pain–Caution should be exercised when barbiturates are administered to patients with acute or chronic pain, because paradoxical excitement could be induced or important symptoms could be masked. However, the use of barbiturates as sedatives in the postoperative surgical period and as adjuncts to cancer chemotherapy is well established.

  3. Usage in Pregnancy–Barbiturates can cause fetal damage when administered to a pregnant woman. Retrospective, case-controlled studies have suggested a connection between the maternal consumption of barbiturates and a higher than expected incidence of fetal abnormalities. Barbiturates readily cross the placental barrier and are distributed throughout fetal tissues; the highest concentrations are found in the placenta, fetal liver, and brain. Fetal blood levels approach maternal blood levels following parenteral administration.


    Withdrawal symptoms occur in infants born to women who receive barbiturates throughout the last trimester of pregnancy (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).


    If phenobarbital is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.

  4. Usage in Children–Phenobarbital has been reported to be associated with cognitive deficits in children taking it for complicated febrile seizures.

  5. Synergistic Effects–The concomitant use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may produce additive CNS depressant effects.


Precautions


General

Barbiturates may be habit forming. Tolerance and psychological and physical dependence may occur with continued use (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).


Barbiturates should be administered with caution, if at all, to patients who are mentally depressed, have suicidal tendencies, or have a history of drug abuse.


Elderly or debilitated patients may react to barbiturates with marked excitement, depression, or confusion. In some persons, especially children, barbiturates repeatedly produce excitement rather than depression.


In patients with hepatic damage, barbiturates should be administered with caution and initially in reduced doses. Barbiturates should not be administered to patients showing the premonitory signs of hepatic coma.


The systemic effects of exogenous and endogenous corticosteroids may be diminished by phenobarbital. Thus, this product should be administered with caution to patients with borderline hypoadrenal function, regardless of whether it is of pituitary or of primary adrenal origin.


Information for Patients

The following information and instructions should be given to patients receiving barbiturates.


  1. The use of barbiturates carries with it an associated risk of psychological and/or physical dependence. The patient should be warned against increasing the dose of the drug without consulting a physician.

  2. Barbiturates may impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving a car or operating machinery. The patient should be cautioned accordingly.

  3. Alcohol should not be consumed while taking barbiturates. The concurrent use of the barbiturates with other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, narcotics, tranquilizers, and antihistamines) may result in additional CNS-depressant effects.

Laboratory Tests

Prolonged therapy with barbiturates should be accompanied by periodic laboratory evaluation of organ systems, including hematopoietic, renal, and hepatic systems (see General under PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS).


Drug Interactions

Most reports of clinically significant drug interactions occurring with the barbiturates have involved phenobarbital. However, the application of this data to other barbiturates appears valid and warrants serial blood level determinations of the relevant drugs when there are multiple therapies.


  1. Anticoagulants–Phenobarbital lowers the plasma levels of dicumarol and causes a decrease in anticoagulant activity as measured by the prothrombin time. Barbiturates can induce hepatic microsomal enzymes resulting in increased metabolism and decreased anticoagulant response of oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, acenocoumarol, dicumarol, and phenprocoumon). Patients stabilized on anticoagulant therapy may require dosage adjustments if barbiturates are added to or withdrawn from their dosage regimen.

  2. Corticosteroids–Barbiturates appear to enhance the metabolism of exogenous corticosteroids, probably through the induction of hepatic microsomal enzymes. Patients stabilized on corticosteroid therapy may require dosage adjustments if barbiturates are added to or withdrawn from their dosage regimen.

  3. Griseofulvin–Phenobarbital appears to interfere with the absorption of orally administered griseofulvin, thus decreasing its blood level. The effect of the resultant decreased blood levels of griseofulvin on therapeutic response has not been established. However, it would be preferable to avoid concomitant administration of these drugs.

  4. Doxycycline–Phenobarbital has been shown to shorten the half-life of doxycycline for as long as 2 weeks after barbiturate therapy is discontinued. This mechanism is probably through the induction of hepatic microsomal enzymes that metabolize the antibiotic. If phenobarbital and doxycycline are administered concurrently, the clinical response to doxycycline should be monitored closely.

  5. Phenytoin, Sodium Valproate, Valproic Acid–The effect of barbiturates on the metabolism of phenytoin appears to be variable. Some investigators report an accelerating effect, whereas others report no effect. Because the effect of barbiturates on the metabolism of phenytoin is not predictable, phenytoin and barbiturate blood levels should be monitored more frequently if these drugs are given concurrently. Sodium valproate and valproic acid increase the phenobarbital serum levels; therefore, phenobarbital blood levels should be closely monitored and appropriate dosage adjustments made as clinically indicated.

  6. CNS Depressants–The concomitant use of other CNS depressants, including other sedatives or hypnotics, antihistamines, tranquilizers, or alcohol, may produce additive depressant effects.

  7. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)–MAOIs prolong the effects of barbiturates, probably because metabolism of the barbiturate is inhibited.

  8. Estradiol, Estrone, Progesterone, and other Steroidal Hormones–Pretreatment with or concurrent administration of phenobarbital may decrease the effect of estradiol by increasing its metabolism. There have been reports of patients treated with antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenobarbital) who become pregnant while taking oral contraceptives. An alternate contraceptive method might be suggested to women taking phenobarbital.

Carcinogenesis
  1. Animal Data. Phenobarbital sodium is carcinogenic in mice and rats after lifetime administration. In mice, it produced benign and malignant liver cell tumors. In rats, benign liver cell tumors were observed very late in life.

  2. Human Data–In a 29-year epidemiologic study of 9,136 patients who were treated on an anticonvulsant protocol that included phenobarbital, results indicated a higher than normal incidence of hepatic carcinoma. Previously, some of these patients had been treated with thorotrast, a drug which is known to produce hepatic carcinomas. Thus, this study did not provide sufficient evidence that phenobarbital sodium is carcinogenic in humans.


    A retrospective study of 84 children with brain tumors matched to 73 normal controls and 78 cancer controls (malignant disease other than brain tumors) suggested an association between exposure to barbiturates prenatally and an increased incidence of brain tumors.

Usage in Pregnancy
  1. Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category D–See Usage in Pregnancy under WARNINGS.

  2. Nonteratogenic Effects–Reports of infants suffering from long-term barbiturate exposure in utero included the acute withdrawal syndrome of seizures and hyperirritability from birth to a delayed onset of up to 14 days (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).

Labor and Delivery

Hypnotic doses of barbiturates do not appear to impair uterine activity significantly during labor. Full anesthetic doses of barbiturates decrease the force and frequency of uterine contractions. Administration of sedative-hypnotic barbiturates to the mother during labor may result in respiratory depression in the newborn. Premature infants are particularly susceptible to the depressant effects of barbiturates. If barbiturates are used during labor and delivery, resuscitation equipment should be available.


Data are not available to evaluate the effect of barbiturates when forceps delivery or other intervention is necessary or to determine the effect of barbiturates on the later growth, development, and functional maturation of the child.


Nursing Mothers

Caution should be exercised when phenobarbital is administered to a nursing woman, because small amounts of barbiturates are excreted in the milk.



Adverse Reactions


The following adverse reactions have been reported:


CNS Depression–Residual sedation or "hangover", drowsiness, lethargy, and vertigo. Emotional disturbances and phobias may be accentuated. In some persons, barbiturates such as phenobarbital repeatedly produce excitement rather than depression, and the patient may appear to be inebriated. Irritability and hyperactivity can occur in children. Like other nonanalgesic hypnotic drugs, barbiturates such as phenobarbital, when given in the presence of pain, may cause restlessness, excitement, and even delirium. Rarely, the use of barbiturates results in the localized or diffuse myalgic, neuralgic, or arthritic pain, especially in psychoneurotic patients with insomnia. The pain may appear in paroxysms, is most intense in the early morning hours, and is most frequently located in the region of the neck, shoulder girdle, and upper limbs. Symptoms may last for days after the drug is discontinued.


Respiratory/Circulatory–Respiratory depression, apnea, circulatory collapse.


Allergic–Acquired hypersensitivity to barbiturates consists chiefly in allergic reactions that occur especially in persons who tend to have asthma, urticaria, angioedema, and similar conditions. Hypersensitivity reactions in this category include localized swelling, particularly of the eyelids, cheeks or lips, and erythematous dermatitis. Rarely, exfoliative dermatitis (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis) may be caused by phenobarbital and can prove fatal. The skin eruption may be associated with fever, delirium, and marked degenerative changes in the liver and other parenchymatous organs. In a few cases, megaloblastic anemia has been associated with the chronic use of phenobarbital.


Other–Nausea and vomiting; headache, osteomalacia.


The following adverse reactions and their incidence were compiled from surveillance of thousands of hospitalized patients who received barbiturates. Because such patients may be less aware of the milder adverse effects of barbiturates, the incidence of these reactions may be somewhat higher in fully ambulatory patients.


More than 1 in 100 Patients

The most common adverse reaction, estimated to occur at a rate of 1 to 3 patients per 100, is:


Nervous System: Somnolence


Less than 1 in 100 Patients

Adverse reactions estimated to occur at a rate of less than 1 in 100 patients are listed below, grouped by organ system and by decreasing order of occurrence:


Nervous System: Agitation, confusion, hyperkinesia, ataxia, CNS depression, nightmares, nervousness, psychiatric disturbance, hallucinations, insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, abnormality in thinking.


Respiratory System: Hypoventilation, apnea


Cardiovascular System: Bradycardia, hypotension, syncope


Digestive System: Nausea, vomiting, constipation


Other Reported Reactions: Headache, injection site reactions, hypersensitivity reactions (angioedema, skin rashes, exfoliative dermatitis), fever, liver damage, megaloblastic anemia following chronic phenobarbital use.



Drug Abuse and Dependence


Controlled Substance–Phenobarbital is a Schedule IV drug.


Dependence–Barbiturates may be habit forming. Tolerance, psychological dependence, and physical dependence may occur, especially following prolonged use of high doses of barbiturates. Daily administrations in excess of 400 mg of pentobarbital or secobarbital for approximately 90 days is likely to produce some degree of physical dependence. A dosage of 600 to 800 mg taken for at least 35 days is sufficient to produce withdrawal seizures. The average daily dose for the barbiturate addict is usually about 1.5 g. As tolerance to barbiturates develops, the amount needed to maintain the same level of intoxication increases; tolerance to a fatal dosage, however, does not increase more than twofold. As this occurs, the margin between intoxicating dosage and fatal dosage becomes smaller.


Symptoms of acute intoxication with barbiturates include unsteady gait, slurred speech, and sustained nystagmus. Mental signs of chronic intoxication include confusion, poor judgment, irritability, insomnia, and somatic complaints.


Symptoms of barbiturate dependence are similar to those of chronic alcoholism. If an individual appears to be intoxicated with alcohol to a degree that is radically disproportionate to the amount of alcohol in his or her blood, the use of barbiturates should be suspected. The lethal dose of a barbiturate is far less if alcohol is also ingested.


The symptoms of barbiturate withdrawal can be severe and may cause death. Minor withdrawal symptoms may appear 8 to 12 hours after the last dose of a barbiturate. These symptoms usually appear in the following order: anxiety, muscle twitching, tremor of hands and fingers, progressive weakness, dizziness, distortion in visual perception, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and orthostatic hypotension. Major withdrawal symptoms (convulsions and delirium) may occur within 16 hours and last up to 5 days after abrupt cessation of barbiturates. The intensity of withdrawal symptoms gradually declines over a period of approximately 15 days. Individuals susceptible to barbiturate abuse and dependence include alcoholics and opiate abusers as well as other sedative-hypnotic and amphetamine abusers.


Drug dependence on barbiturates arises from repeated administration of a barbiturate or agent with barbiturate-like effect on a continuous basis, generally in amounts exceeding therapeutic dose levels. The characteristics of drug dependence on barbiturates include: (a) a strong desire or need to continue taking the drug; (b) a tendency to increase the dose; (c) a psychic dependence on the effects of the drug related to subjective and individual appreciation of those effects; and (d) a physical dependence on the effects of the drug, requiring its presence for maintenance of homeostasis and resulting in a definite, characteristic and self-limited abstinence syndrome when the drug is withdrawn.


Treatment of barbiturate dependence consists of cautious and gradual withdrawal of the drug. Barbiturate-dependent patients can be withdrawn by using a number of different withdrawal regimens. In all cases, withdrawal requires an extended period of time. One method involves substituting a 30-mg dose of phenobarbital for each 100- to 200-mg dose of barbiturate that the patient has been taking. The total daily amount of phenobarbital is then administered in 3 or 4 divided doses, not to exceed 600 mg daily. If signs of withdrawal occur on the first day of treatment, a loading dose of 100 to 200 mg of phenobarbital may be administered IM in addition to the oral dose. After stabilization on phenobarbital, the total daily dose is decreased by 30 mg/day as long as withdrawal is proceeding smoothly. A modification of this regimen involves initiating treatment at the patient’s regular dosage level and decreasing the daily dosage by 10% if tolerated by the patient.


Infants who are physically dependent on barbiturates may be given phenobarbital, 3 to 10 mg/kg/day. After withdrawal symptoms (hyperactivity, disturbed sleep, tremors, and hyperreflexia) are relieved, the dosage of phenobarbital should be gradually decreased and completely withdrawn over a 2-week period.



Overdosage


Signs and Symptoms–The onset of symptoms following a toxic oral exposure to phenobarbital may not occur until several hours following ingestion. The toxic dose of barbiturates varies considerably. In general, an oral dose of 1 g of most barbiturates produces serious poisoning in an adult. Death commonly occurs after 2 to 10 g of ingested barbiturate. The sedated, therapeutic blood levels of phenobarbital range between 5 to 40 mcg/mL; the usual lethal blood level ranges from 100 to 200 mcg/mL. Barbiturate intoxication may be confused with alcoholism, bromide intoxication, and various neurologic disorders. Potential tolerance must be considered when evaluating significance of dose and plasma concentration.


The manifestations of a long-acting barbiturate in overdose include nystagmus, ataxia, CNS depression, respiratory depression, hypothermia, and hypotension. Other findings may include absent or depressed reflexes and erythematous or hemorrhagic blisters (primarily at pressure points). Following massive exposure to phenobarbital, pulmonary edema, circulatory collapse with loss of peripheral vascular tone, cardiac arrest, and death may occur.


In extreme overdose, all electrical activity in the brain may cease, in which case a "flat" EEG normally equated with clinical death should not be accepted. This effect is fully reversible unless hypoxic damage occurs.


Consideration should be given to the possibility of barbiturate intoxication even in situations that appear to involve trauma.


Complications such as pneumonia, pulmonary edema, cardiac arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, and renal failure may occur. Uremia may increase CNS sensitivity to barbiturates if renal function is impaired. Differential diagnosis should include hypoglycemia, head trauma, cerebrovascular accidents, convulsive states and diabetic coma.


Treatment–To obtain up-to-date information about the treatment of overdose, a good resource is your certified Regional Poison Control Center. Telephone numbers of certified poison control centers are listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR). In managing overdosage, consider the possibility of multiple drug overdoses, interaction among drugs, and unusual drug kinetics in your patient.


Protect the patient’s airway and support ventilation and perfusion. Meticulously monitor and maintain, within acceptable limits, the patient’s vital signs, blood gases, serum electrolytes, etc. Absorption of drugs from the gastrointestinal tract may be decreased by giving activated charcoal, which, in many cases, is more effective than emesis or lavage; consider charcoal instead of or in addition to gastric emptying. Repeated doses of charcoal over time may hasten elimination of some drugs that have been absorbed. Safeguard the patient’s airway when employing gastric emptying or charcoal.


Alkalinization of urine hastens phenobarbital excretion, but dialysis and hemoperfusion are more effective and cause less troublesome alterations in electrolyte equilibrium. If the patient has chronically abused sedatives, withdrawal reactions may be manifest following acute overdose.



Phenobarbital Elixir Dosage and Administration


The dose of phenobarbital must be individualized with full knowledge of its particular characteristics. Factors of consideration are the patient’s age, weight, and condition.


Sedation: For sedation, the drug may be administered in single doses of 30 to 120 mg repeated at intervals; frequency will be determined by the patient’s response. It is generally considered that no more than 400 mg of phenobarbital should be administered during a 24-hour period.


Adults: Daytime Sedation: 30 to 120 mg daily in 2 to 3 divided doses.


Oral Hypnotic: 100 to 200 mg


Anticonvulsant Use–Clinical laboratory reference values should be used to determine the therapeutic anticonvulsant level of phenobarbital in the serum. To achieve the blood levels considered therapeutic in pediatric patients, higher per-kilogram dosages are generally necessary for phenobarbital and most other anticonvulsants. In pediatric patients and infants, phenobarbital at a loading dose of 15 to 20 mg/kg produces blood levels of about 20 mcg/mL shortly after administration.


Phenobarbital has been used in the treatment and prophylaxis of febrile seizures. However, it has not been established that prevention of febrile seizures influences the subsequent development of epilepsy.


Adults: 60 to 200 mg/day.

Pediatric Patients: 3 to 6 mg/kg/day.


Special Patient Population–Dosage should be reduced in the elderly or debilitated because these patients may be more sensitive to barbiturates. Dosage should be reduced for patients with impaired renal function or hepatic disease.



How is Phenobarbital Elixir Supplied


20.0 mg/5 mL in pint and gallon bottles.


Contains alcohol, 15%


Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP/NF with a child-resistant closure.


Keep tightly closed. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].



Manufactured for:

QUALITEST PHARMACEUTICALS

Huntsville, AL 35811


8170502

R6/08-R7



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL



 






PHENOBARBITAL 
phenobarbital  elixir










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0603-1508
Route of AdministrationORALDEA ScheduleCIV    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
PHENOBARBITAL (PHENOBARBITAL)PHENOBARBITAL20.0 mg  in 5 mL














Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
FD&C RED NO. 40 
GLYCERIN 
WATER 
SUCROSE 
ALCOHOL 


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorORANGEImprint Code
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
10603-1508-58473 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
UNAPPROVED DRUG OTHER01/01/1997


Labeler - Qualitest Pharmaceuticals (011103059)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Vintage Pharmaceuticals-Huntsville825839835MANUFACTURE
Revised: 01/2012Qualitest Pharmaceuticals

Monday, 2 July 2012

ursodiol



Generic Name: ursodiol (ur so DY all)

Brand names: Actigall, Urso, Urso Forte, Urso DS


What is ursodiol?

Ursodiol is a bile acid that decreases the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and absorbed by the intestines. Ursodiol helps break down cholesterol that has formed into stones in the gallbladder. Ursodiol also increases bile flow in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.


Ursodiol is used to treat small gallstones in people who cannot have gallbladder surgery, and to prevent gallstones in overweight patients undergoing rapid weight loss. Ursodiol is also used to treat primary biliary cirrhosis.


Ursodiol is not for treating gallstones that are calcified.


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


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


Before taking ursodiol, tell your doctor if you are also taking cholestyramine (Questran), colestipol (Colestid), or estrogens (birth control pills or hormone replacement).


Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of antacid your doctor recommends. Antacids contain different medicines and some types can make it harder for your body to absorb ursodiol.

To treat gallstones, you may have to take ursodiol for several months, and not all gallstones may completely dissolve. Many people who use this medicine will develop gallstones again within 5 years after treatment with ursodiol. Talk to your doctor about your specific risks for repeated gallstones.


To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor may perform ultrasound examinations of your gallbladder on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.


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


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


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 ursodiol 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.

To treat gallstones, you may have to take ursodiol for several months, and not all gallstones may completely dissolve. Many people who use this medicine will develop gallstones again within 5 years after treatment with ursodiol. Talk to your doctor about your specific risks for repeated gallstones.


How should I take ursodiol?


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 instructions on your prescription label.


Take each dose with a full glass of water. The medication can be taken with meals unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor may perform ultrasound examinations of your gallbladder on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.


It may take several months of taking ursodiol before your gallstones dissolve. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor.

It is important to take ursodiol regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.


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

See also: Ursodiol dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?


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


What happens if I overdose?


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

An overdose of ursodiol is likely to cause diarrhea.


What should I avoid while taking ursodiol?


Avoid using antacids without your doctor's advice. Use only the specific type of antacid your doctor recommends. Antacids contain different medicines and some types can make it harder for your body to absorb ursodiol.

Ursodiol 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.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:



  • fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;




  • stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation;




  • dizziness, tired feeling;




  • back pain;




  • runny or stuffy nose, cold symptoms; or




  • headache.



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.


Ursodiol Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Biliary Cirrhosis:

Primary biliary cirrhosis:
13 to 15 mg/kg/day in 3 to 4 divided doses.

Usual Adult Dose for Gallbladder Disease:

Gallstone prevention: 300 mg orally twice a day.

Cholestasis of Pregnancy, Study (n=20): 1.5-2 g/day (20-25 mg/kg/day), given in 3 divided doses.

Gallbladder stone dissolution:
8 to 10 mg/kg/day orally in 2 or 3 divided doses; maintenance therapy: 250 mg daily at bedtime for 6 months to 1 year; use beyond 24 months is not established.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Gallbladder Disease:

less than 1 month:
Parenteral nutrition induced cholestasis:
treatment: 30 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses; some centers divide in 2 daily doses
prevention: 5 mg/kg/day orally in 4 divided doses beginning on day of life 3 with initiation of parenteral nutrition; increase dose to 10 mg/kg/day orally in 4 divided doses with initiation of enteral feeding; increase dose to 20 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses when full enteral feedings reached.

1 month or older:
Biliary atresia: 10 to 15 mg/kg orally once a day.
TPN induced cholestasis, treatment: 30 mg/kg/day orally in 3 divided doses.

1 year or older:
Improvement in the hepatic metabolism of essential fatty acids in cystic fibrosis: 30 mg/kg/day orally in 2 divided doses.


What other drugs will affect ursodiol?


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



  • cholestyramine (Questran);




  • colestipol (Colestid);




  • estrogens (birth control pills or hormone replacement); or




  • antacids that contain aluminum, such as Rolaids, Mylanta, or Maalox).



If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use ursodiol or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.


There may be other drugs not listed that can affect ursodiol. 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 ursodiol resources


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


  • ursodiol Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Ursodiol Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Ursodiol MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ursodiol Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ursodiol Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Actigall Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Urso Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare ursodiol with other medications


  • Biliary Cirrhosis
  • Gallbladder Disease
  • Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist has more information about ursodiol written for health professionals that you may read.

See also: ursodiol side effects (in more detail)


Imitrex Nasal oral/nasal


Generic Name: sumatriptan (oral/nasal) (soo ma TRIP tan)

Brand Names: Imitrex, Imitrex Nasal


What is sumatriptan?

Sumatriptan is a headache medicine that narrows blood vessels around the brain. Sumatriptan also reduces substances in the body that can trigger headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms.


Sumatriptan is used to treat migraine headaches. Sumatriptan will only treat a headache that has already begun. It will not prevent headaches or reduce the number of attacks.


Sumatriptan should not be used to treat a common tension headache, a headache that causes loss of movement on one side of your body, or any headache that seems to be different from your usual migraine headaches. Use this medication only if your condition has been confirmed by a doctor as migraine headaches.

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


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


You should not use this medication if you are allergic to sumatriptan, if you have any history of heart disease, or if you have coronary heart disease, angina, blood circulation problems, lack of blood supply to the heart, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe liver disease, ischemic bowel disease, a history of a heart attack or stroke, or if your headache seems to be different from your usual migraine headaches. Do not use sumatriptan within 24 hours before or after using another migraine headache medicine, including sumatriptan injection, almotriptan (Axert), eletriptan (Relpax), frovatriptan (Frova), rizatriptan (Maxalt), naratriptan (Amerge), zolmitriptan (Zomig), or ergot medicine such as dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot, Migergot), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), or methylergonovine (Methergine). Do not use sumatriptan 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.

Before using sumatriptan, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, seizures, high blood pressure, a heart rhythm disorder, or coronary heart disease (or risk factors such as diabetes, menopause, smoking, being overweight, having high cholesterol, having a family history of coronary artery disease, being older than 40 and a man, or being a woman who has had a hysterectomy).


Also tell your doctor if you are taking an antidepressant such as citalopram (Celexa), desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), duloxetine (Cymbalta), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), or venlafaxine (Effexor).


Sumatriptan will only treat a headache that has already begun. It will not prevent headaches or reduce the number of attacks.


After taking a sumatriptan tablet, you must wait two (2) hours before taking a second tablet. Do not take more than 200 mg of sumatriptan tablets in 24 hours.


After using sumatriptan nasal spray, you must wait two (2) hours before using a second spray. Do not use more than 40 mg of sumatriptan nasal spray in 24 hours.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using sumatriptan?


You should not use this medication if you are allergic to sumatriptan, or if you have:

  • coronary heart disease, angina (chest pain), blood circulation problems, lack of blood supply to the heart;




  • a history of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke, including "mini-stroke";




  • severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;



  • severe liver disease;


  • ischemic bowel disease; or




  • a headache that seems different from your usual migraine headaches.




Do not use sumatriptan 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.

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


  • liver disease;

  • kidney disease;


  • epilepsy or other seizure disorder;




  • high blood pressure, a heart rhythm disorder; or




  • coronary heart disease (or risk factors such as diabetes, menopause, smoking, being overweight, having high cholesterol, having a family history of coronary artery disease, being older than 40 and a man, or being a woman who has had a hysterectomy).




FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether sumatriptan will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Your name may need to be listed on a sumatriptan pregnancy registry when you start using this medication.


Sumatriptan can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not breast-feed within 12 hours after using sumatriptan. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out any milk you collect. Do not feed it to your baby. This medicine should not be given to anyone under 18 or over 65 years of age.

How should I use sumatriptan?


Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Overuse of migraine headache medicine can actually make your headaches worse.


Use sumatriptan as soon as you notice headache symptoms, or after an attack has already begun.


Your doctor may want to give your first dose of this medicine in a hospital or clinic setting to see if you have any serious side effects.


Take one sumatriptan tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not split the tablet.

After taking a tablet: If your headache does not completely go away, or goes away and comes back, take a second tablet two (2) hours after the first. Do not take more than 200 mg of sumatriptan oral tablets in 24 hours. If your symptoms have not improved, contact your doctor before taking any more tablets.


Sumatriptan nasal spray comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Blow your nose to clear your nasal passages before using the nasal spray. Try not to sneeze or blow your nose just after using the spray.


After using the nasal spray: If your headache does not completely go away after using the spray, call your doctor before using a second spray of sumatriptan. If your headache goes away and then comes back, you may use a second spray if it has been at least two hours since you used the first spray. Do not use more than 40 mg of sumatriptan nasal spray in 24 hours. If your symptoms do not improve, contact your doctor before using any more sprays.


Contact your doctor if you have more than four headaches in one month (30 days).


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

What happens if I miss a dose?


Since sumatriptan is used as needed, it does not have a daily dosing schedule. Call your doctor promptly if your symptoms do not improve after using sumatriptan.


After taking a sumatriptan tablet, you must wait two (2) hours before taking a second tablet. Do not take more than 200 mg of sumatriptan tablets in 24 hours.


After using sumatriptan nasal spray, you must wait two (2) hours before using a second spray. Do not use more than 40 mg of sumatriptan nasal spray in 24 hours.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include tremors or shaking, skin redness, breathing problems, blue-colored lips or fingernails, vision problems, watery eyes or mouth, weakness, lack of coordination, or seizure (convulsions).


What should I avoid while using sumatriptan?


Do not use sumatriptan within 24 hours before or after using another migraine headache medicine, including:

  • sumatriptan injection, almotriptan (Axert), eletriptan (Relpax), frovatriptan (Frova), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT), or zolmitriptan (Zomig); or




  • ergot medicine such as dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot, Migergot), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), or methylergonovine (Methergine).




Sumatriptan may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Sumatriptan 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 sumatriptan and call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • feeling of pain or tightness in your jaw, neck, or throat;




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




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




  • sudden severe headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;




  • sudden and severe stomach pain and bloody diarrhea;




  • seizure (convulsions);




  • numbness or tingling and a pale or blue-colored appearance in your fingers or toes; or




  • (if you are also taking an antidepressant) -- agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, fainting.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • mild headache (not a migraine);




  • pressure or heavy feeling in any part of your body;




  • feeling hot or cold;




  • dizziness, spinning sensation;




  • drowsiness;




  • nausea, vomiting, drooling;




  • unusual taste in your mouth after using the nasal spray;




  • burning, numbness, pain or other irritation in your nose or throat after using the nasal spray; or




  • warmth, redness, or mild tingling under your skin.



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 sumatriptan?


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



  • an antidepressant such as citalopram (Celexa), desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), duloxetine (Cymbalta), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), or venlafaxine (Effexor).



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with sumatriptan. 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 Imitrex Nasal resources


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


Compare Imitrex Nasal with other medications


  • Cluster Headaches
  • Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
  • Migraine


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about sumatriptan.

See also: Imitrex Nasal side effects (in more detail)


Sunday, 1 July 2012

Labor Induction Medications


Drugs associated with Labor Induction

The following drugs and medications are in some way related to, or used in the treatment of Labor Induction. This service should be used as a supplement to, and NOT a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

Topics under Labor Induction

  • Cervical Ripening (1 drug)





Drug List:

Saturday, 23 June 2012

Cuvposa


Generic Name: glycopyrrolate (glye koe PIE roe late)

Brand Names: Cuvposa, Robinul, Robinul Forte


What is glycopyrrolate?

Glycopyrrolate reduces the secretions of certain organs in the body.


Glycopyrrolate helps to control conditions such as peptic ulcers that involve excessive stomach acid production.


Glycopyrrolate is also used to reduce drooling in children ages 3 to 16 who have certain medical conditions, such as cerebral palsy.


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


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


You should not use glycopyrrolate if you are allergic to it, or if you have bladder obstruction or other urination problems, a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus, a blockage in your stomach or intestines, severe constipation, severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon, glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, or if you also take potassium chloride.

Before you take glycopyrrolate, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, a stomach disorder, a colostomy or ileostomy, a thyroid disorder, high blood pressure, vision problems, or numbness and tingling.


Take glycopyrrolate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. This medication may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of glycopyrrolate, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Glycopyrrolate can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.

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


You should not use glycopyrrolate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

  • bladder obstruction or other urination problems;




  • a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus;




  • a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), severe constipation;




  • severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon;




  • glaucoma;




  • myasthenia gravis; or




  • if you are also taking potassium chloride (Epiklor, K-Lor, K-Tab, Klor-Con, Micro-K, Rum-K, and others).



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



  • kidney disease;




  • heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder;




  • a stomach disorder such as hiatal hernia, reflux disease, or slow digestion;




  • a colostomy or ileostomy;




  • a thyroid disorder;




  • high blood pressure;




  • vision problems; or




  • a nerve disorder that causes numbness or tingling.




FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether glycopyrrolate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether glycopyrrolate 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. Glycopyrrolate should not be given to a child younger than 3 years old.

How should I take glycopyrrolate?


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.


Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.


Take glycopyrrolate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

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.


Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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 weak or shallow breathing, feeling cold, jerky muscle movements, or seizure (convulsions).


What should I avoid while taking glycopyrrolate?


This medication may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of glycopyrrolate, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Glycopyrrolate can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.

Glycopyrrolate 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 glycopyrrolate and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • severe constipation, severe stomach pain and bloating;




  • diarrhea (especially if you have a colostomy or ileostomy);




  • feeling like you might pass out;




  • feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, weak pulse, or hot and dry skin; or




  • dry diapers, fussiness, or excessive crying in a child taking glycopyrrolate.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • dry mouth;




  • vomiting;




  • mild constipation;




  • stuffy nose, sinus pain; or




  • flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).



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 glycopyrrolate?


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



  • amantadine (Symmetrel);




  • atenolol (Tenormin, Tenoretic);




  • digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);




  • haloperidol (Haldol);




  • levodopa (Larodopa); or




  • metformin (Glucophage, Actoplus Met, Avandamet, Janumet, Kombiglyze, PrandiMet).



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with glycopyrrolate. 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 Cuvposa resources


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


  • Cuvposa Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Cuvposa Consumer Overview

  • Cuvposa Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Cuvposa Solution MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Glycopyrrolate Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Glycopyrrolate Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Glycopyrrolate MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Robinul Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Robinul Forte MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Cuvposa with other medications


  • Excessive Salivation


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about glycopyrrolate.

See also: Cuvposa side effects (in more detail)


Friday, 22 June 2012

Ciproxin Tablets 250mg




Due to regulatory changes, the content of the following Patient Information Leaflet may vary from the one found in your medicine pack. Please compare the 'Leaflet prepared/revised date' towards the end of the leaflet to establish if there have been any changes.


If you have any doubts or queries about your medication, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.





Ciproxin 250 mg film-coated tablets


Ciprofloxacin



Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.


  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

  • If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.



In this leaflet:


  • 1. What Ciproxin is and what it is used for

  • 2. Before you take Ciproxin

  • 3. How to take Ciproxin

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Ciproxin

  • 6. Further information




What Ciproxin Is And What It Is Used For


Ciproxin is an antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone family. The active substance is ciprofloxacin.


Ciprofloxacin works by killing bacteria that cause infections. It only works with specific strains of bacteria.




Adults


Ciproxin is used in adults to treat the following bacterial infections:


  • respiratory tract infections

  • long lasting or recurring ear or sinus infections

  • urinary tract infections

  • infections of the testicles

  • genital organ infections in women

  • gastro-intestinal tract infections and intra-abdominal infections

  • skin and soft tissue infections

  • bone and joint infections

  • to treat infections in patients with a very low white blood cell count (neutropenia)

  • to prevent infections in patients with a very low white blood cell count (neutropenia)

  • to prevent infections due to the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis

  • anthrax inhalation exposure

If you have a severe infection or one that is caused by more than one type of bacterium, you may be given additional antibiotic treatment in addition to Ciproxin.




Children and adolescents


Ciproxin is used in children and adolescents, under specialist medical supervision, to treat the following bacterial infections:


  • lung and bronchial infections in children and adolescents suffering from cystic fibrosis

  • complicated urinary tract infections, including infections that have reached the kidneys (pyelonephritis)

  • anthrax inhalation exposure

Ciproxin may also be used to treat other specific severe infections in children and adolescents when your doctor considered this necessary.




Before You Take Ciproxin



Do not take Ciproxin if you are:


  • allergic (hypersensitive) to the active substance, to other quinolone drugs or to any of the other ingredients of Ciproxin (see section 6)

  • taking tizanidine (see Section 2: Taking other medicines)



Take special care with Ciproxin



Before taking Ciproxin


Tell your doctor if you:


  • have ever had kidney problems because your treatment may need to be adjusted

  • suffer from epilepsy or other neurological conditions

  • have a history of tendon problems during previous treatment with antibiotics such as Ciproxin

  • have myasthenia gravis (a type of muscle weakness)

  • have a history of abnormal heart rhythms (arrythmias)


While taking Ciproxin


Tell your doctor immediately, if any of the following occurs while taking Ciproxin. Your doctor will decide whether treatment with Ciproxin needs to be stopped.



  • Severe, sudden allergic reaction (an anaphylactic reaction/shock, angio-oedema). Even with the first dose, there is a small chance that you may experience a severe allergic reaction with the following symptoms: tightness in the chest, feeling dizzy, sick or faint, or experiencing dizziness when standing up. If this happens, stop taking Ciproxin and contact your doctor immediately.


  • Pain and swelling in the joints and tendinitis may occur occasionally, particularly if you are elderly and are also being treated with corticosteroids. At the first sign of any pain or inflammation stop taking Ciproxin and rest the painful area. Avoid any unnecessary exercise, as this might increase the risk of a tendon rupture.

  • If you suffer from epilepsy or other neurological conditions such as cerebral ischemia or stroke, you may experience side effects associated with the central nervous system. If this happens, stop taking Ciproxin and contact your doctor immediately.

  • You may experience psychiatric reactions the first time you take Ciproxin. If you suffer from depression or psychosis, your symptoms may become worse under treatment with Ciproxin. If this happens, stop taking Ciproxin and contact your doctor immediately.

  • You may experience symptoms of neuropathy such as pain, burning, tingling, numbness and/or weakness. If this happens, stop taking Ciproxin and contact your doctor immediately.


  • Diarrhoea may develop while you are taking antibiotics, including Ciproxin, or even several weeks after you have stopped taking them. If it becomes severe or persistent or you notice that your stool contains blood or mucus, stop taking Ciproxin immediately, as this can be life-threatening. Do not take medicines that stop or slow down bowel movements and contact your doctor.

  • Tell the doctor or laboratory staff that you are taking Ciproxin if you have to provide a blood or urine sample.

  • Ciproxin may cause liver damage. If you notice any symptoms such as loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), dark urine, itching, or tenderness of the stomach, stop taking Ciproxin and contact your doctor immediately.

  • Ciproxin may cause a reduction in the number of white blood cells and your resistance to infection may be decreased. If you experience an infection with symptoms such as fever and serious deterioration of your general condition, or fever with local infection symptoms such as sore throat/pharynx/mouth or urinary problems you should see your doctor immediately. A blood test will be taken to check possible reduction of white blood cells (agranulocytosis). It is important to inform your doctor about your medicine.

  • Tell your doctor if you or a member of your family is known to have a deficiency in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), since you may experience a risk of anemia with ciprofloxacin.

  • Your skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) light when taking Ciproxin. Avoid exposure to strong sunlight, or artificial UV light such as sunbeds.



Taking other medicines


Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including any that you obtained without a prescription.



Do not take Ciproxin together with tizanidine, because this may cause side effects such as low blood pressure and sleepiness (see Section 2: "Do not take Ciproxin").


The following medicines are known to interact with Ciproxin in your body. Taking Ciproxin together with these medicines can influence the therapeutic effect of those medicines. It can also increase the probability of experiencing side effects.




Tell your doctor if you are taking:


  • warfarin or other oral anti-coagulants (to thin the blood)

  • probenecid (for gout)

  • methotrexate (for certain types of cancer, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis)

  • theophylline (for breathing problems)

  • tizanidine (for muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis)

  • clozapine (an antipsychotic)

  • ropinirole (for Parkinson’s disease)

  • phenytoin (for epilepsy)

Ciproxin may increase the levels of the following medicines in your blood:


  • pentoxifylline (for circulatory disorders)

  • caffeine

Some medicines reduce the effect of Ciproxin. Tell your doctor if you take or wish to take:


  • antacids

  • mineral supplements

  • sucralfate

  • a polymeric phosphate binder (e.g. sevelamer)

  • medicines or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, aluminium or iron

If these preparations are essential, take Ciproxin about two hours before or no sooner than four hours after them.




Taking Ciproxin with food and drink


Unless you take Ciproxin during meals, do not eat or drink any dairy products (such as milk or yoghurt) or drinks with added calcium when you take the tablets, as they may affect the absorption of the active substance.




Pregnancy and breast-feeding


It is preferable to avoid the use of Ciproxin during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant.


Do not take Ciproxin during breast feeding because ciprofloxacin is excreted in breast milk and can be harmful for your child.




Driving and using machines


Ciproxin may make you feel less alert. Some neurological adverse events can occur. Therefore, make sure you know how you react to Ciproxin before driving a vehicle or operating machinery. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.





How To Take Ciproxin


Your doctor will explain to you exactly how much Ciproxin you will have to take as well as how often and for how long. This will depend on the type of infection you have and how bad it is.


Tell your doctor if you suffer from kidney problems because your dose may need to be adjusted.


The treatment usually lasts from 5 to 21 days, but may take longer for severe infections. Take the tablets exactly as your doctor has told you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure how many tablets to take and how to take Ciproxin.


  • a. Swallow the tablets with plenty of fluid. Do not chew the tablets because they do not taste nice.

  • b. Do try to take the tablets at around the same time every day.

  • c. You can take the tablets at mealtimes or between meals. Any calcium you take as part of a meal will not seriously affect uptake. However, do not take Ciproxin tablets with dairy products such as milk or yoghurt or with fortified fruit juices (e.g. calcium-fortified orange juice).

Remember to drink plenty of fluids while you are taking Ciproxin.



If you take more Ciproxin than you should


  • If you take more than the prescribed dose, get medical help immediately. If possible, take your tablets or the box with you to show the doctor.



If you forget to take Ciproxin


  • Take the normal dose as soon as possible and then continue as prescribed. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, do not take the missed dose and continue as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Be sure to complete your course of treatment.



If you stop taking Ciproxin


  • It is important that you finish the course of treatment even if you begin to feel better after a few days. If you stop taking this medicine too soon, your infection may not be completely cured and the symptoms of the infection may return or get worse. You might also develop resistance to the antibiotic.


If you have any more questions about the use of this product, ask your doctor or pharmacist.




Possible Side Effects


Like all medicines, Ciproxin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.


If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, tell your doctor or pharmacist.



Common side effects (between 1 and 10 in every 100 people are likely to get these):


  • nausea, diarrhoea

  • joint pains in children


Uncommon side effects (between 1 and 10 in every 1,000 people are likely to get these):


  • fungal superinfections

  • a high concentration of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell

  • loss of appetite (anorexia)

  • hyperactivity or agitation

  • headache, dizziness, sleeping problems, or taste disorders

  • vomiting, abdominal pain, digestive problems such as stomach upset (indigestion/heartburn), or wind

  • increased amounts of certain substances in the blood (transaminases and/or bilirubin)

  • rash, itching, or hives

  • joint pain in adults

  • poor kidney function

  • pains in your muscles and bones, feeling unwell (asthenia), or fever

  • increase in blood alkaline phosphatase (a certain substance in the blood)


Rare side effects (between 1 and 10 in every 10,000 people are likely to get these):


  • inflammation of the bowel (colitis) linked to antibiotic use (can be fatal in very rare cases) (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)

  • changes to the blood count (leukopenia, leukocytosis, neutropenia, anaemia), increased or decreased amounts of a blood clotting factor (thrombocytes)

  • allergic reaction, swelling (oedema), or rapid swelling of the skin and mucous membranes (angio-oedema)

  • increased blood sugar (hyperglycaemia)

  • confusion, disorientation, anxiety reactions, strange dreams, depression, or hallucinations

  • pins and needles, unusual sensitivity to stimuli of the senses, decreased skin sensitivity, tremors, seizures (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin), or giddiness

  • eyesight problems

  • tinnitus, loss of hearing, impaired hearing

  • rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)

  • expansion of blood vessels (vasodilation), low blood pressure, or fainting

  • shortness of breath, including asthmatic symptoms

  • liver disorders, jaundice (cholestatic icterus), or hepatitis

  • sensitivity to light (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)

  • muscle pain, inflammation of the joints, increased muscle tone, or cramp

  • kidney failure, blood or crystals in the urine (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin), urinary tract inflammation

  • fluid retention or excessive sweating

  • abnormal levels of a clotting factor (prothrombin) or increased levels of the enzyme amylase


Very rare side effects (less than 1 in every 10,000 people are likely to get these):


  • a special type of reduced red blood cell count (haemolytic anaemia); a dangerous drop in a type of white blood cells (agranulocytosis ); a drop in the number of red and white blood cells and platelets (pancytopenia), which may be fatal; and bone marrow depression, which may also be fatal (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)

  • severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reaction or anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal - serum sickness) (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)

  • mental disturbances (psychotic reactions) (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)

  • migraine, disturbed coordination, unsteady walk (gait disturbance), disorder of sense of smell (olfactory disorders), pressure on the brain (intracranial pressure)

  • visual colour distortions

  • inflammation of the wall of the blood vessels (vasculitis)

  • pancreatitis

  • death of liver cells (liver necrosis) very rarely leading to life-threatening liver failure

  • small, pin-point bleeding under the skin (petechiae); various skin eruptions or rashes (for example, the potentially fatal Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis)

  • muscle weakness, tendon inflammation, tendon rupture – especially of the large tendon at the back of the ankle (Achilles tendon) (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin); worsening of the symptoms of myasthenia gravis (see Section 2: Take special care with Ciproxin)


Frequency not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)


  • troubles associated with the nervous system such as pain, burning, tingling, numbness and/or weakness in extremities

  • severe cardiac rhythm abnormalities, irregular heart beat (Torsades de Pointes)



How To Store Ciproxin



Keep out of the reach and sight of children.


Do not use Ciproxin after the expiry date, which is stated on the blister and carton after “EXP”: The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.


This medicinal product does not require any special storage conditions.


Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.




Further Information



What Ciproxin contains


The active substance is ciprofloxacin.


Each film-coated tablet contains 250 mg ciprofloxacin (as hydrochloride).


The other ingredients are:


Tablet core: cellulose microcrystalline, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, maize starch, silica colloidal anhydrous.


Film-coat: hypromellose, macrogol 4000, titanium dioxide (E171).




What Ciproxin looks like and contents of the pack


Ciproxin 250 mg tablets: round, nearly white to slightly yellowish film-coated tablets marked with "CIP score 250" on one side and a Bayer cross on the other side.


The tablets can be divided into equal halves.


Pack sizes of 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 28, 50, 100, 160, or 500 film-coated tablets.


Not all pack sizes may be marketed.




Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer


Marketing authorisation holder



Bayer plc

Bayer Schering Pharma

Bayer House

Strawberry Hill

Newbury

Berkshire
RG14 1JA


Manufacturer: Bayer Schering Pharma AG




This medicinal product is authorised in the Member States of the EEA under the following names:


Austria: Ciproxin

Belgium: Ciproxine

Bulgaria: Ciprobay

Czech Republic: Ciprobay

Denmark: Ciproxin

Finland: Ciproxin

France: Ciflox

Germany: Ciprobay

Hungary: Ciprobay

Iceland: Ciproxin

Ireland: Ciproxin

Italy: Ciproxin

Luxembourg: Ciproxine

Malta: Ciproxin

Netherlands: Ciproxin

Norway: Ciproxin

Poland: Ciprobay

Portugal: Ciproxina

Slovenia: Ciprobay

Spain: Baycip

Sweden: Ciproxin

United Kingdom: Ciproxin




This leaflet was last approved in April 2010.



Advice/medical education


Antibiotics are used to cure bacterial infections. They are ineffective against viral infections.


If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, you need them precisely for your current illness.


Despite antibiotics, some bacteria may survive or grow. This phenomenon is called resistance: some antibiotic treatments become ineffective.


Misuse of antibiotics increases resistance. You may even help bacteria become resistant and therefore delay your cure or decrease antibiotic efficacy if you do not respect appropriate:


  • dosages

  • schedules

  • duration of treatment


Consequently, to preserve the efficacy of this drug:


  • 1 - Use antibiotics only when prescribed.

  • 2 - Strictly follow the prescription.

  • 3 - Do not re-use an antibiotic without medical prescription, even if you want to treat a similar illness.

  • 4 - Never give your antibiotic to another person; maybe it is not adapted to her/his illness.

  • 5 - After completion of treatment, return all unused drugs to your chemist’s shop to ensure they will be disposed of correctly.

Thursday, 21 June 2012

hepatitis b vaccine Intramuscular


hep-a-TYE-tis B VAX-een re-KOM-bin-ant


Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Engerix-B

  • Engerix-B Pediatric

  • Recombivax HB

  • Recombivax HB Pediatric/Adolescent

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Suspension

Therapeutic Class: Vaccine


Uses For hepatitis b vaccine


Hepatitis B vaccine recombinant is used to prevent infection by the hepatitis B virus. The vaccine works by causing your body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the disease.


Hepatitis B vaccine recombinant is made without any human blood or blood products or any other substances of human origin. It cannot give you the hepatitis B virus (HBV) or the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).


HBV infection is a major cause of serious liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, and a type of liver cancer called primary hepatocellular carcinoma.


Pregnant women who have hepatitis B infection or are carriers of hepatitis B virus can give the disease to their babies when they are born. These babies often suffer serious long-term illnesses from the disease.


Immunization against hepatitis B disease is recommended for all newborn babies, infants, children, and adolescents up to 19 years of age. It is also recommended for adults who live in areas that have a high rate of hepatitis B disease or who may be at increased risk of infection from hepatitis B virus. These adults include:


  • Sexually active homosexual and bisexual males, including those with HIV infection.

  • Sexually active heterosexual persons with multiple partners.

  • Persons who may be exposed to the virus by means of blood, blood products, or human bites, such as health care workers, employees in medical facilities, patients and staff of live-in facilities and daycare programs for the developmentally disabled, morticians and embalmers, police and fire department personnel, and military personnel.

  • Persons who have kidney disease or who undergo blood dialysis for kidney disease.

  • Persons with blood clotting disorders who receive transfusions of clotting-factor concentrates.

  • Household and sexual contacts of HBV carriers.

  • Persons in areas with high risk of HBV infection [in the population], such as Alaskan Eskimos, Pacific Islanders, Haitian and Indochinese immigrants, and refugees from areas that have a high rate of hepatitis B disease; persons accepting orphans or adoptees from these areas; and travelers to these areas.

  • Persons who use illegal injection drugs.

  • Prisoners.

This vaccine is available only from your doctor or other authorized health care professional.


Before Using hepatitis b vaccine


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


Allergies


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


Pediatric


Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of hepatitis B vaccine recombinant in children.


Geriatric


Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of hepatitis B vaccine recombinant in the elderly.


Pregnancy








Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
All TrimestersCAnimal 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


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. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.


Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


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


Other Medical Problems


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


  • Allergy to yeast—Should not be used in patients with this condition.

  • Bleeding problems (e.g., hemophilia)—Use with caution. May have an increased risk of bleeding at the injection site.

  • Multiple sclerosis—Use with caution. May make this condition worse.

  • Severe illness with a fever—Your dose may need to be given at a later time.

  • Weak immune system from a disease or medicine—May not work as well in patients with this condition.

Proper Use of hepatitis b vaccine


A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this vaccine. This vaccine is given as a shot into one of your muscles. If you have bleeding problems such as hemophilia, the vaccine may be given as a shot under your skin.


This vaccine is usually given as 3 doses. After the first dose, two more doses are given 1 month and 6 months after the first dose, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.


Precautions While Using hepatitis b vaccine


It is very important that you or your child return to your doctor’s office at the right time for the second and third dose. Be sure to notify your doctor of any unwanted effects that occur after you or your child receive this vaccine.


This vaccine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you or your child have a rash, itching, swelling of the tongue and throat, or trouble breathing after you get the injection.


Tell your doctor if you or your child are allergic to latex. The needle cover and the rubber plunger of the prefilled syringe contain dry natural latex rubber, which may cause an allergic reaction in people with a latex allergy.


This vaccine may not protect you against hepatitis B infection if you are already infected with the virus at the time you receive the shot.


hepatitis b vaccine 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
  • Fever of 37.7 degrees C (100 degrees F) or higher

Rare
  • Aches or pain in the joints, fever, or skin rash or welts (may occur days or weeks after receiving the vaccine)

  • blurred vision or other vision changes

  • confusion

  • difficulty with breathing or swallowing

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

  • hives

  • itching, especially of the feet or hands

  • muscle weakness

  • numbness or tingling of the arms and legs

  • reddening of the skin, especially around the ears

  • sweating

  • swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the 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:


More common
  • Dizziness

  • headache

  • soreness at the injection site

Less common
  • Hard lump, redness, swelling, pain, itching, purple spot, tenderness, or warmth at the injection site

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare
  • Aches or pain in the muscles

  • agitation

  • back pain or stiffness or pain in neck or shoulder

  • chills

  • constipation

  • diarrhea

  • difficulty with moving

  • feeling of warmth

  • general feeling of discomfort or illness

  • headache (mild), sore throat, runny nose, or fever (mild)

  • increased sweating

  • itching

  • lack of appetite or decreased appetite

  • nausea or vomiting

  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

  • sleeplessness

  • stomach cramps or pain

  • sudden redness of skin

  • swelling of glands in the armpit or neck

  • trouble with sleeping

  • unable to sleep

  • welts

  • weight loss

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: hepatitis b vaccine Intramuscular 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.


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More hepatitis b vaccine Intramuscular resources


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


Compare hepatitis b vaccine Intramuscular with other medications


  • Hepatitis B Prevention