Monday, 16 July 2012

Ranitidine 150mg tablets (Aurobindo Pharma Ltd)





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Ranitidine 150mg Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains Ranitidine Hydrochloride equivalent to Ranitidine 150 mg.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Film-coated Tablet



Creamish-yellow, round, biconvex, film-coated tablets marked with “MR 150” on one side.



4. Clinical Particulars



Ranitidine tablets are indicated for the treatment of benign gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers.



Ranitidine Tablets are also indicated for Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome and for the treatment of reflux oesophagitis.



Ranitidine tablets are indicated for the long-term treatment of duodenal and benign gastric ulcers to prevent their recurrence. Long-term treatment is indicated in patients with a history of recurrent ulcers.



Children (3 to 18 years)



• Short term treatment of peptic ulcer



• Treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux, including reflux oesophagitis and symptomatic relief of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults



The usual dose is 150 mg twice daily, taken in the morning and evening. A single bedtime dose of 300 mg may be given to patients with duodenal or gastric ulcers. Treatment may be continued for 4-8 weeks. For maintenance, the usual dose is 150 mg at bedtime.



For the management of reflux oesophagitis, the recommended dose is 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg at bedtime, usually for up to 8 weeks, this may be extended to a maximum of 12 weeks if necessary.



Severe Oesophagitis :



The dose is 150 mg, four times a day for up to a maximum of 12 weeks. This raised level of dosing has not been associated with a raised level of side effects. Long-term treatment in patients with unhealed oesophagitis is not indicated, either in the presence of Barrett's epithelium or its absence.



Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome :



An initial dose of 150 mg, three times a day, may be increased up to 300 mg three times a day. Daily divided doses of up to 6g have been used and found to be well tolerated.



Elderly Patients :



In patients with normal renal function, the doses of Ranitidine Tablets are the same as for younger adults.



Children :



The experience of ranitidine treatment in children is limited.



The recommended dose for treating active peptic ulcer is 2-4 mg/kg, twice daily, up to a maximum daily dose of 300 mg ranitidine, given in divided doses.



Children from 3 to 11 years and over 30 kg of weight



See section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties – Special Patient Populations.



Peptic Ulcer Acute Treatment



The recommended oral dose for the treatment of peptic ulcer in children is 4 mg/kg/day to 8 mg/kg/day administered as two divided doses to a maximum of 300 mg ranitidine per day for a duration of 4 weeks. For those patients with incomplete healing, another 4 weeks of therapy is indicated, as healing usually occurs after eight weeks of treatment.



Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux



The recommended oral dose for the treatment of gastro-oesophageal reflux in children is 5 mg/kg/day to 10 mg/kg/day administered as two divided doses in a maximum dose of 600 mg (the maximum dose is likely to apply to heavier children or adolescents with severe symptoms).



Safety and efficacy in new-born patients has not been established.



Renal Impairment :



In patients with severe renal impairment, plasma levels of the drug are increased. The dose in such patients is 150 mg at night for 4-8 weeks. The same dose is used for maintenance. If healing has not occurred, 150 mg twice daily should be used, followed by 150 mg at night for maintenance.










Creatinine clearance



mL/min.




Dose of ranitidine




<50




150 mg




>50




300 mg



Ranitidine is removed by hemodialysis. Dialysis patients should therefore take Ranitidine Ranbaxy after each dialysis occasion.



Method of Administration



The tablet should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of fluid. In children the tablets may be dissolved in water or crushed. The application of a more convenient dosage form may be considered.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to ranitidine or any component of Ranitidine Tablets.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Treatment with histamine H2•receptor antagonists may mask symptoms of stomach carcinoma and therefore delay its diagnosis of the condition. Accordingly, where gastric ulcer has been diagnosed , or in patients of middle age and over with new or recently changed dyspeptic symptoms the possibility of malignancy should be excluded before therapy with ranitidine Tablets is instituted



Ranitidine is excreted via the kidney and so plasma levels of the drug are increased in patients with severe renal impairment. The dose should be adjusted as detailed above under Dosage in Renal Impairment.



Regular supervision of patients who are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs concomitantly with ranitidine is recommended, especially in the elderly. Current evidence shows that ranitidine protects against NSAID associated ulceration in the duodenum and not in the stomach.



Although clinical reports of acute intermittent porphyria associated with ranitidine administration have been rare and inconclusive, ranitidine should be avoided in patients with a history of this condition.



Use in elderly patients:



Rates of healing of ulcers in clinical trial patients aged 65 and over have not been found to differ from those in younger patients. Additionally, there was no difference in the incidence of adverse effects.



In patients such as the elderly, persons with chronic lung disease, diabetes or the immunocompromised, there may be an increased risk of developing community acquired pneumonia. A large epidemiological study showed an increased risk of developing community acquired pneumonia in current users of H2 receptor antagonists versus those who had stopped treatment, with an observed adjusted relative risk increase of 1.63 (95% CI, 1.07–2.48).



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Ranitidine has the potential to affect the absorption, metabolism or renal excretion of other drugs. The altered pharmacokinetics may necessitate dosage adjustment of the affected drug or discontinuation of treatment



Interactions occur by several mechanisms including:



1) Inhibition of cytochrome P450-linked mixed function oxygenase system:



Ranitidine at usual therapeutic doses does not potentiate the actions of drugs which are inactivated by this enzyme system such as diazepam, lidocaine, phenytoin, propanolol and theophylline.



There have been reports of altered prothrombin time with coumarin anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin). Due to the narrow therapeutic index, close monitoring of increased or decreased prothrombin time is recommended during concurrent treatment with ranitidine.



2) Competition for renal tubular secrection:



Since ranitidine is partially eliminated by the cationic system, it may affect the clearance of other drugs eliminated by this route. High doses of ranitidine (e.g. such as those used in the treatment of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome) may reduce the excretion of procainamide and N-acetylprocainamide resulting in increased plasma level of these drugs.



3) Alteration of gastric pH:



The bioavailability of certain drugs may be affected. This can result in either an increase in absorption (e.g. triazolam, midazolam, glipizide) or a decrease in absorption (e.g. ketoconazole, atazanavir, delaviridine, gefitnib).



There is no evidence of an interaction between ranitidine and -amoxicillin or metronidazole



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Ranitidine crosses the placenta but therapeutic doses administered to obstetric patients in labour or undergoing caesarean section have been without any adverse effect on labour, delivery or subsequent neonatal progress. It is excreted in human breast milk.



Like other drugs it should only be used during pregnancy and nursing if considered essential.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The following convention has been utilised for the classification of undesirable effects: very common (>1/10), common (>1/100, <1/10), uncommon (>1/1000, <1/100), rare (>1/10,000, <1/1000), very rare ( <1/10,000).



Adverse event frequencies have been estimated from spontaneous reports from post-marketing data.



Blood & lymphatic system Disorders



Very Rare:



Blood count changes (leucopenia, thrombocytopenia). These are usually reversible. Agranulocytosis or pancytopenia, sometimes with marrow hypoplasia or marrow aplasia.



Immune System Disorders



Rare:



Hypersensitivity reactions (urticaria, angioneurotic oedema, fever, bronchospasm, hypotension and chest pain).



Very Rare:



Anaphylactic shock



These events have been reported after a single dose.



Psychiatric Disorders



Very Rare:



Reversible mental confusion, depression and hallucinations.



These have been reported predominantly in severely ill and elderly patients.



Nervous System Disorders



Very Rare:



Headache (sometimes severe), dizziness and reversible involuntary movement disorders.



Eye Disorders



Very Rare:



Reversible blurred vision.



There have been reports of blurred vision, which is suggestive of a change in accommodation.



Cardiac Disorders



Very Rare:



As with other H2 receptor antagonists bradycardia and A-V Block.



Vascular Disorders



Very Rare:



Vasculitis.



Gastrointestinal Disorders



Very Rare:



Acute pancreatitis. Diarrhoea.



Hepatobiliary Disorders



Rare:



Transient and reversible changes in liver function tests.



Very Rare:



Hepatitis (hepatocellular, hepatocanalicular or mixed) with or without jaundice, these were usually reversible.



Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders



Rare:



Skin Rash.



Very Rare:



Erythema multiforme, alopecia.



Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders



Very Rare:



Musculoskeletal symptoms such as arthralgia and myalgia.



Renal and Urinary Disorders



Very rare:



Acute interstitial nephritis.



Reproductive System and Breast Disorders



Very Rare:



Reversible impotence. Breast symptoms in men.



The safety of ranitidine has been assessed in children aged 0 to 16 years with acid-related disease and was generally well tolerated with an adverse event profile resembling that in adults. There are limited long term safety data available, in particular regarding growth and development.



4.9 Overdose



Ranitidine is very specific in action and accordingly no particular problems are expected following overdosage. Symptomatic and supportive therapy should be given as appropriate



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic Group: H2-Receptor Antagonists-ATC Code: A02BA02



Ranitidine is a specific rapidly acting histamine H2-receptor antagonist. It inhibits basal and stimulated secretion of gastric acid, reducing both the volume and the acid and pepsin content of the secretion. Ranitidine has a relatively long duration of action and so a single 150mg dose effectively suppressing gastric acid secretion for 12 hours.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



The bioavailabililty of ranitidine is consistently about 50%. Absorption of ranitidine after oral administration is rapid and peak plasma concentrations are usually achieved within 2-3 hours of administration. Absorption is not significantly impaired by food or antacids. Ranitidine is not extensively metabolised. Elimination of the drug is primarily by tubular secretion. The elimination half-life of ranitidine is 2-3 hours. In balanced studies with 150 mg 3H-Ranitidine 60-70% of an oral dose was excreted in urine and 25% in faeces. Analysis of urine excretion in the first 24 hours after dosing showed that 35% of the oral dose was eliminated unchanged. About 6% of the dose is excreted as the N-oxide, 2% as the S-oxide, 2% as desmethyl ranitidine and 1-2% as the furoic acid analogue..



Special Patient Populations



Children (3 years and above)



Limited pharmacokinetic data have shown that there are no significant differences in half-life (range for children 3 years and above: 1.7 - 2.2 h) and plasma clearance (range for children 3 years and above: 9 - 22 ml/min/kg) between children and healthy adults receiving oral ranitidine when correction is made for body weight.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



No additional data of relevance



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Microcrystalline cellulose; hypromellose; croscarmellose sodium; castor oil; colloidal anhydrous silica; purified talc; magnesium stearate; ferric oxide yellow (E172) ; titanium dioxide (E171).



6.2 Incompatibilities



None reported



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store in the original container



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Ranitidine Tablets are packed in cold-form blister sheets (structure from outer to inner side: oriented polyamide/aluminium foil/hard PVC film with a backing of aluminium foil coated with heat seal lacquer) in the following pack sizes:-



Blister sheets of five tablets each, in boxes of 5 tablets per carton.



Blister sheets of seven tablets each, in boxes of 7, 14, 28, 56, 98 and 112 tablets per carton.



Blister sheets of eight tablets each, in boxes of 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56, 64, 72, 80, 88 and 96 tablets per carton.



Blister sheets of ten tablets each, in boxes of 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 80, 100 and 120 tablets per carton.



Blister sheets of fifteen tablets each, in boxes of 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 and 120 tablets per carton.



Blister sheets of thirty tablets each, in boxes of 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 tablets per carton.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Milpharm Limited,



Ares,



Odyssey Business Park,



West End Road,



South Ruislip HA4 6QD,



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16363/0069



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



08/01/2009



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



30/06/2010




Saturday, 14 July 2012

clotrimazole



Generic Name: clotrimazole (kloe TRIM a zole)

Brand Names: Mycelex Troche


What is clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication. It is like an antibiotic but is used to treat yeast (fungal) infections.


Oral clotrimazole is used to treat and prevent yeast infections of the mouth and throat.


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


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


Take all of the clotrimazole that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.

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


Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take clotrimazole, or you may need a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment.


Clotrimazole is not absorbed through your stomach. It will not treat fungal infections in any part of your body other than your mouth and throat. Talk to your doctor if you have another type of fungal infection such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, or a vaginal yeast infection.


Oral clotrimazole is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether clotrimazole will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether clotrimazole will harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. The safety and effectiveness of clotrimazole have not been established for children younger than 3 years of age.

How should I take clotrimazole?


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


The troches should be allowed to dissolve slowly in your mouth. Suck on one troche at a time until it is completely dissolved, usually 30 minutes.


Do not chew or swallow the troches whole.

The troches are usually used five times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.


Store clotrimazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a clotrimazole overdose are unknown.


What should I avoid while taking clotrimazole?


There are no restrictions on foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with clotrimazole unless your doctor directs otherwise.


Clotrimazole side effects


Stop taking clotrimazole and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Side effects are not likely to occur with clotrimazole. Continue to take clotrimazole and talk to your doctor if you experience



  • nausea or stomach upset,




  • vomiting,




  • itching, or




  • an unpleasant sensation in the mouth.



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.


Clotrimazole Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Oral Thrush:

Treatment: 10 mg troche orally 5 times a day for 14 days.

Prophylaxis: 10 mg orally 3 times a day for immunosuppressed patients that include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or steroid therapy utilized in the treatment of leukemia, solid tumors, or renal transplantation. Continue treatment for the duration of chemotherapy or until steroids are reduced to maintenance levels.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Oral Thrush:

Greater than 3 years:

Treatment: 10 mg troche orally 5 times a day for 14 days.

Prophylaxis: 10 mg orally 3 times a day for immunosuppressed patients that include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or steroid therapy utilized in the treatment of leukemia, solid tumors, or renal transplantation. Continue treatment for the duration of chemotherapy or until steroids are reduced to maintenance levels.


What other drugs will affect clotrimazole?


Since clotrimazole is not absorbed by your body, drug interactions are not expected. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.



More clotrimazole resources


  • Clotrimazole Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Clotrimazole Drug Interactions
  • Clotrimazole Support Group
  • 5 Reviews for Clotrimazole - Add your own review/rating


  • clotrimazole Mucous membrane, oral Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Clotrimazole Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Clotrimazole Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Clotrimazole Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Clotrimazole Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare clotrimazole with other medications


  • Oral Thrush


Where can I get more information?


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


Wednesday, 11 July 2012

Konakion MM Paediatric





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Konakion MM Paediatric 2mg/0.2ml


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each ampoule contains 2mg phytomenadione in 0.2ml.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



The ampoule solution is clear to slightly opalescent, pale yellow in colour and contains the active constituent in a mixed micelles vehicle of glycocholic acid and lecithin.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Konakion MM Paediatric is indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) in neonates and infants.



Konakion MM Paediatric can be used, following specialist advice from a haematologist, as an antidote to anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type in infants and children. For use as an antidote to anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type in adolescents and adults, refer to Konakion MM Ampoules 10mg/ml.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Prophylaxis of vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB)



Healthy neonates of 36 weeks gestation and older:



Either:



- 1mg administered by intramuscular injection at birth or soon after birth



or



- 2mg orally at birth or soon after birth. The oral dose should be followed by a second dose of 2mg at 4-7 days.



Exclusively breast-fed babies who received oral Konakion at birth: In addition to the doses at birth and at 4-7 days, a further 2mg oral dose should be given 1 month after birth. Further monthly 2mg oral doses until formula feeding is introduced have been advised, but no safety or efficacy data exist for these additional doses.



Preterm neonates of less than 36 weeks gestation weighing 2.5kg or greater, and term neonates at special risk: 1mg IM or IV at birth or soon after birth, the size and frequency of further doses depending on coagulation status.



Preterm neonates of less than 36 weeks gestation weighing less than 2.5kg: 0.4mg/kg (equivalent to 0.04ml/kg) IM or IV at birth or soon after birth, see dosing table below. This parenteral dose should not be exceeded (see Special warnings and special precautions for use). The frequency of further doses should depend on coagulation status.



CAUTION: care is required when calculating and measuring the dose in relation to the baby's weight (10x errors are common).



Dosing information for preterm babies at birth for the prophylaxis of VKDB






















Weight of the baby




Dose of vitamin K at birth




Injection volume




1kg




0.4mg




0.04ml




1.5kg




0.6mg




0.06ml




2kg




0.8mg




0.08ml




2.5kg




1mg




0.1ml




Over 2.5kg




1mg




0.1ml



Therapy of early and/or late vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB)



Initially 1mg IV and further doses as required, depending on clinical picture and coagulation status. Konakion therapy may need to be accompanied by a more immediate effective treatment, such as transfusion of blood or blood clotting factors to compensate for severe blood loss and delayed response to vitamin K1.



Antidote therapy to anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type



There have been no dose ranging studies performed to recommend a specific dose of Konakion MM Paediatric used as an antidote to anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type in infants and children. Suggested doses are detailed below. Konakion MM Paediatric must be administered by intravenous injection in these patients. It is advisable that a haematologist is consulted about appropriate investigation and treatment in any infant or child in whom Konakion MM Paediatric is being considered.



For patients on warfarin therapy, therapeutic intervention must consider the reason for the patient being on warfarin and whether or not anticoagulant therapy has to be continued (e.g. in a patient with mechanical heart valve or repeated thrombo-embolic complications) as vitamin K administration is likely to interfere with anticoagulation with warfarin for 2 - 3 weeks. For patients continuing to receive warfarin, the suggested dose for the partial reversal of anticoagulation is 30 micrograms/kg administered by IV injection. Konakion MM Paediatric is only suitable for the administration of doses of 30 micrograms/kg in children weighing over 13 kg.



The suggested dose of vitamin K for patients requiring a complete reversal of a warfarin overdose is 250



Method of administration



Konakion MM Paediatric can be administered by intramuscular or intravenous injection or by oral administration depending on the indication.



Parenteral use: For the administration of injection volumes of 0.04ml (0.4mg) to 0.1ml (1mg), 0.5ml syringes with 0.01ml gradations are recommended, see section 6.6 Instructions for use/handling.



Administration of Konakion MM Paediatric by i.v. infusion is not recommended because Konakion MM Paediatric must not be diluted or mixed with other parenteral medications. However, Konakion MM Paediatric may be administered by injecting the dose into the lower part of an infusion set containing 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride running at Incompatibilities.



Oral use: For oral administration, oral dispensers are provided in the pack. After breaking the ampoule open, 0.2ml of solution should be withdrawn into the oral dispenser until it reaches the mark on the dispenser (0.2ml = 2mg vitamin K). Drop the contents of the dispenser directly into the baby's mouth by pressing the plunger.



4.3 Contraindications



Use in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of the constituents.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



At the time of use, the ampoule contents should be clear. Following incorrect storage, the contents may become turbid or present a phase-separation. In this case the ampoule must no longer be used.



Parenteral administration to premature babies weighing less than 2.5kg may increase the risk for the development of kernicterus (bilirubin encephalopathy).



Infants with cholestatic disease must receive Konakion MM Paediatric by intramuscular or intravenous injection since oral absorption is impaired in these patients.



Konakion MM Paediatric must be administered by intravenous injection when used as an antidote to anticoagulant drugs of the coumarin type, as intramuscular injections may result in significant bleeding in these patients.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No significant interactions are known other than antagonism of coumarin anticoagulants.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Not applicable.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



There are only few unconfirmed reports on the occurrence of possible anaphylactoid reactions after IV injection of Konakion MM. Local irritation may occur at the injection site but is unlikely due to the small injection volume. Rarely, injection site reactions may occur which may be severe, including inflammation, atrophy and necrosis.



4.9 Overdose



There is no known clinical syndrome attributable to hypervitaminosis of vitamin K1.



The following adverse events have been reported concerning overdose with use of Konakion in neonates and infants: jaundice, hyperbilirubinaemia, increase GOT and GGT, abdominal pain, constipation, soft stools, malaise, agitation and cutaneous eruption. The causality of those cannot be established. The majority of these adverse events were considered non-serious and resolved without any treatment.



Treatment of suspected overdose should be aimed at alleviating symptoms.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Konakion MM is a preparation of synthetic phytomenadione (vitamin K1). The presence of vitamin K1 is essential for the formation within the body of prothrombin, factor VII, factor IX and factor X, and of the coagulation inhibitors, protein C and protein S.



Vitamin K1 does not readily cross the placental barrier from mother to child and is poorly excreted in breast milk.



Lack of vitamin K1 leads to an increased tendency to haemorrhagic disease in the newborn. Vitamin K1 administration, which promotes synthesis of the above-mentioned coagulation factors by the liver, can reverse an abnormal coagulation status due to vitamin K1 deficiency.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



In the mixed micelle solution, vitamin K1 is solubilised by means of a physiological colloidal system consisting of lecithin and a bile acid.



Following oral administration vitamin K1 is absorbed from the small intestine. The systemic availability following oral dosing is approximately 50%, with a wide range of interindividual variability. Absorption is limited in the absence of bile.



After intramuscular administration vitamin K1 release into the circulation is prolonged, i.e. the IM route acts as a depot. A single 1mg IM dose results in comparable vitamin K1 concentrations at 1 month as two 2 mg doses (one given at birth and the other at one week).



Vitamin K1 accumulates predominantly in the liver, is up to 90% bound to lipoproteins in the plasma and is stored in the body only for short periods of time.



Vitamin K1 is transformed to more polar metabolites, such as phytomenadione-2,3-epoxide.



The half-life of vitamin K1 in plasma is approximately 72 hours in neonates and about 1.5 to 3 hours in adults. Vitamin K1 is excreted in bile and urine as the glucuronide and sulphate conjugates.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



None applicable.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Glycocholic acid, lecithin, sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid and water.



6.2 Incompatibilities



Incompatibilities have been observed with diluted Konakion MM solution and certain siliconised syringes, therefore, Konakion MM Paediatric must not be diluted before injection.



Do not dilute with sodium chloride containing solutions as precipitation may occur, see section 4.2 Posology and Method of Administration.



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Konakion MM Paediatric ampoule solution should be stored below 25°C and be protected from light. The solution should not be frozen. Do not use if the solution is turbid.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Amber glass ampoules containing 2mg phytomenadione in 0.2ml. Plastic oral dispensers. Packs of 1, 5 or 10.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



See section 4.2 Posology and method of administration, section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use and section 6.2 Incompatibilities for advice regarding the administration of Konakion MM Paediatric.



Undiluted Konakion MM Paediatric is compatible with 0.5ml syringes supplied by B.Braun.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



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



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00031/0346



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



11 March 2008



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



March 2008



LEGAL STATUS



POM


Konakion is a registered trade mark



Item Code




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
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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


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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


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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.

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