Thursday, 31 May 2012

Cefditoren Pivoxil


Pronunciation: SEF-di-TOR-en
Generic Name: Cefditoren Pivoxil
Brand Name: Spectracef


Cefditoren Pivoxil is used for:

Treating bacterial infections.


Cefditoren Pivoxil is a cephalosporin antibiotic. It works by killing sensitive bacteria.


Do NOT use Cefditoren Pivoxil if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Cefditoren Pivoxil or to another cephalosporin (eg, cephalexin)

  • you have low levels of carnitine in your body or have a metabolic problem that may cause low levels of carnine in your body

  • you are allergic to milk protein (not lactose intolerant)

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



Before using Cefditoren Pivoxil:


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


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

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

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

  • if you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness) to a penicillin (eg, amoxicillin) or beta-lactam antibiotic (eg, imipenem)

  • if you have stomach of bowel problems (eg, inflammation), blood clotting problems, kidney or liver problems, decreased muscle mass, or poor nutrition

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Cefditoren Pivoxil. However, no specific interactions with Cefditoren Pivoxil are known at this time.


Ask your health care provider if Cefditoren Pivoxil may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Cefditoren Pivoxil:


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


  • Take Cefditoren Pivoxil by mouth with food.

  • To clear up your infection completely, continue using Cefditoren Pivoxil for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days.

  • Do not take antacids or H2 antagonists (eg, famotidine) within 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking Cefditoren Pivoxil.

  • If you miss a dose of Cefditoren Pivoxil, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Cefditoren Pivoxil.



Important safety information:


  • Cefditoren Pivoxil only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold).

  • Be sure to use Cefditoren Pivoxil for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.

  • Long-term or repeated use of Cefditoren Pivoxil may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.

  • Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.

  • Cefditoren Pivoxil may reduce the ability of your blood to clot. Avoid activities that may cause bruising or injury. Tell your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding. Tell your doctor if you have dark, tarry, or bloody stools.

  • Diabetes patients - Cefditoren Pivoxil may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

  • Diabetes patients - Cefditoren Pivoxil may cause the results of some tests for urine glucose to be wrong. Ask your doctor before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetes medicine.

  • Cefditoren Pivoxil may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are using Cefditoren Pivoxil.

  • Lab tests, including liver, kidney, or lung function, may be performed while you use Cefditoren Pivoxil. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Cefditoren Pivoxil with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • Cefditoren Pivoxil should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 12 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Cefditoren Pivoxil while pregnant. It is not known if Cefditoren Pivoxil is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Cefditoren Pivoxil, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Cefditoren Pivoxil:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Headache; mild diarrhea; nausea; stomach pain or upset; vomiting.



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

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody stools; decreased urination; easy bruising or bleeding; fever; hoarseness; red, swollen, or blistered skin; seizures; severe diarrhea; severe nausea or vomiting; severe stomach pain/cramping; unusual tiredness; vaginal discharge or itching; white spots in the mouth; yellowing of the skin or eyes.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Cefditoren Pivoxil side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include diarrhea; nausea; seizures; stomach pain; vomiting.


Proper storage of Cefditoren Pivoxil:

Store Cefditoren Pivoxil at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Cefditoren Pivoxil out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Cefditoren Pivoxil is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

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

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Cefditoren Pivoxil. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Cefditoren Pivoxil resources


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


  • Cefditoren Pivoxil Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • cefditoren Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • Spectracef Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Spectracef Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information



Compare Cefditoren Pivoxil with other medications


  • Bronchitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Skin and Structure Infection
  • Skin Infection
  • Tonsillitis/Pharyngitis

Pennox 343




Generic Name: oxytetracycline hydrochloride powder

Dosage Form: FOR ANIMAL USE ONLY

Pennox 343


Oxytetracycline HCL


SOLUBLE POWDER


A broad-spectrum antibiotic


For control and treatment of specific diseases in poultry, cattle, swine, sheep and bees.  For the marking of skeletal tissues in finfish fry and fingerlings.


This packet contains 512 grams of oxytetracycline HCL and will make:


2,560 gallons (9,690 L) containing 200 mg oxytetracycline HCL per gallon


1,280 gallons (4,845 L) containing 400 mg oxytetracycline HCL per gallon


640 gallons (2,420 L) containing 800 mg oxytetracycline HCL per gallon


For oral use only in poultry, cattle, sheep, swine and bees.


Fish should be treated by immersion.


Net Contents:  23.9 oz (677.6 g)


Restricted Drug (California) - Use Only As Directed


Not For Human Use


ANADA 200-026


APPROVED BY FDA





INDICATIONS AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE


For the control of the following diseases caused by organisms susceptible to oxytetracyline:


Add the following amount to ten gallons of stock solution when proportioner is set to meter at the rate of one ounce per gallon.



                                                                                                                          DOSAGE         PACKS/10 GALLONS STOCK SOLUTION


CHICKENS    Infectious synovilis caused by Mycoplasma synoviae                    200-400 mg/gal                              1/2-1


                      Chronic respiratory disease (CRD) and air-sac infection                  400-800 mg / gal                               1-2


                      caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Escherichia coli


                      Fowl cholera caused by Pasteurella multocida                                400-800 mg / gal                               1-2


                          



TURKEYS    Hexamiliasis caused by Hexamila meleagridis                                 200-400 mg/gal                                1/2-1


                     Infectious synovilis caused by Mycoplasma synoviae                       400 mg/gal                                      1


                     Growing Turkeys-Complicating bacterial organisms associated with   25 mg/lb body weight daily                Varies with age and


                     bluecomb (transmissible enteritis, coronaviral enteritis)                                                           (1 pack will treat 20,480 lbs of turkeys)


                          Medicate continuously at the first clinical signs of disease and continue for 7-14 consecutive days.


                          If improvement is not noted within 24-48 hours, consult a veterinarian or a diagnostic laboratory to


                          determine diagnosis and advice on dosage.  See Residue Warnings.


                



FINFISH  For the marking of skeletal tissues in finfish fry and fingerlings.


                Immerse in 200-700 mg oxytetracycline HCL (buffered)/L of water for 2-6 hours.  Solution should be tested on a small number of fish


                before full-scale use.  See Residue Warnings.


                DISPOSAL OF TREATED WATERS:  Do not discharge marking immersion water containing oxytetracycline into surface waters.


                ADVERSE REACTIONS:  Oxytetracycline HCL will acidify the water.  The pH should be maintained at an acceptable level for fish


                by the addition of a buffer.  Monitor water quality and temperature.



RESIDUE WARNINGS: Do not administer to cattle or sheep within 5 days of slaughter.  Zero day withdrawal in chickens, turkeys and swine.  Do not administer to chickens or turkeys producing eggs for human consumption.  A milk discard period has not been established for this product in lactating dairy cattle.  Do not use in female dairy cattle 20 months of age or older.  An additional withdrawal time beyond the grow-out period is not needed for finfish.  For honey bees, the drug should be fed early in the spring or fall and consumed by the bees before main honey flow begins to avoid contamination of production honey.  Remove at least 6 weeks prior to main honey flow.



RECOMMENDED STORAGE:  STORE BELOW 104 DEGREES F (40 DEGREES C).  FOR ANIMAL USE ONLY.


KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.  Not For Human Use.  Use Only As Directed.



For the control and treatment of the following diseases caused by organisms susceptible to oxytetracycline.



                                                                                                                                          

SWINE  Bacterial enteritis caused by Escherichia coli and Salmonella choleraesuis                 DOSAGE


           Bacterial pneumonia caused by Pasteurella multocida                                               Administer in the drinking water at a level of 10 mg


              For Breeding Swine:  Leptospirosis (reducing the incidence of abortions and               oxytetracycline HCL per lb of body weight daily.


              shedding of leptospira) caused by Leptospira pomona                                               Administer up to 5 days.  See Residue Warnings.



CALVES, BEEF CATTLE AND NON-LACTATING DAIRY CATTLE


            Bacterial enteritis caused by Escherichia coli                                                          Administer in the drinking water at a level of 10 mg


               Bacterial pneumonia (shipping fever complex) caused by Pasteurella multocida         oxytetracycline HCL per lb of body weight daily.


               Do not mix this product with milk or milk replacers.  Administer one hour before         Administer up to 5 days.  See Residue Warnings.


               or two hours after feeding milk or milk replacers.



SHEEP    Bacterial enteritis caused by Escherichia coli                                                       Administer in the drinking water at a level of 10 mg


                Bacterial pneumonia (shipping fever complex) caused by Pasteurella                     oxytetracycline HCL per lb of body weight daily.


                multocida                                                                                                           Administer up to 5 days.  See Residue Warings.


                               This packet will treat 51,200 lbs of swine cattle of sheep at 10 mg/lb.


HONEY BEES  For control of American Foulbrood caused by Paenibacillus larvae.             200 mg/colony

 

                          For use in European Foulbrood caused by Streptococcus pluton.                 Administer in 3 applications of 1:1 sugar syrup (equal

                      

                          CONTRAINDICATION:  Durning of uncapped brood cells has been          parts of sugar and water weight to weight) or 3 dustings

                        

                          reported to cause death of larval honey bees.  Do not dust uncapped           at 4- to 5- day intervals.  Apply dust on the outer parts

 

                          brood cells.                                                                                              or ends of the frames.  See Residue Warnings.

PRECAUTIONS:  Prepare fresh solution every 24 hours.  Use as sole source of oxytetracycline.  Not to be used for more than 14 consecutive days in chickens and turkeys or 5 consecutive days in cattle, swine or sheep.  FOR USE IN DRINKING WATER ONLY.  NOT FOR USE IN LIQUID FEED SUPPLEMENTS.



Special Note:  The concentration of drug required in medicated water must be adequate to compensate for variation in the age of the animal, feed consumption rate and the environmental temperature and humidity, each of which affects water consumption.











Pennox 343 
oxytetracycline hydrochloride   powder










Product Information
Product TypeOTC ANIMAL DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)48164-0009
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride (Oxytetracycline )Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride756.2 g  in 1 kg





Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
No Inactive Ingredients Found


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
148164-0009-9756.2 kg In 1 POUCHNone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANADAANADA20002609/01/1997


Labeler - PennField Oil Company (035138569)
Revised: 01/2011PennField Oil Company



Wednesday, 30 May 2012

St. John's wort


Generic Name: St. John's wort (SAINT JOHN'S WORT)

Brand names: St. John's Wort


What is St. John's wort?

The use of St. John's wort in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.


St. John's wort is also known as Hypericum perforatum, klamath weed, John's wort, amber touch-and-heal, goatweed, rosin rose, and milleperituis.


St. John's wort has been used in the treatment of anxiety, mild to moderate depression, stomach upset, insomnia, fluid retention, and hemorrhoids. St. John's wort has also been used topically in the treatment of nerve and muscle pain, skin inflammation, skin wounds, and burns.


St. John's wort has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of St. John's wort may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.


St. John's wort may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about St. John's wort?


Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. St. John's wort may increase the sensitivity of your skin to the sun. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

St. John's wort has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All potential risks and/or advantages of St. John's wort may not be known. Additionally, there are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.



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Who should not take St. John's wort?


Before taking St. John's wort, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have any other medical conditions, allergies (especially to plants), or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. St. John's wort may not be recommended in some situations.


Do not take St. John's wort without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. It is not known whether St. John's wort will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take St. John's wort without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. It is also not known whether St. John's wort will be harmful to a nursing infant. There is no information available regarding the use of St. John's wort by children. Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.

How should I take St. John's wort?


The use of St. John's wort in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.


If you choose to take St. John's wort, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.


Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may provide a more reliable dose of the product.


Take the pill forms of St. John's wort with a full glass of water.

Some forms of St. John's wort can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.


Use the topical forms of St. John's wort externally only. Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. Too much medicine could be dangerous. Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets, topical formulations, teas, tinctures, and others) of St. John's wort at the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of St. John's wort.

Store St. John's wort as directed on the package. In general, St. John's wort should be protected from light and moisture and stored in a sealed container.


What happens if I miss a dose?


No information is available regarding a missed dose of St. John's wort. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you require further information.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a St. John's wort overdose are not known.


What should I avoid while taking St. John's wort?


Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. St. John's wort may increase the sensitivity of your skin to the sun. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

St. John's wort may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness or dizziness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, other antihistamines, and topical medications that contain an antihistamine (e.g., anti-itch creams). Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.


St. John's wort side effects


Although uncommon, allergic reactions to St. John's wort have been reported. Stop taking St. John's wort and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.

Other less serious side effects have been more frequently reported. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience



  • increased skin sensitivity to sunlight,




  • a rash,




  • a feeling of fullness in your stomach, or




  • constipation.



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


What other drugs will affect St. John's wort?


St. John's wort may interact with many other medicines, possibly increasing side effects or resulting in decreased therapeutic effects. Do not take St. John's wort without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

  • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor such as tranylcypromine (Nardil), phenelzine (Parnate), or isocarboxazid (Marplan);




  • a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor such as citalopram (Celexa), fluvoxamine (Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft);




  • a migraine medicine such as almotriptan (Axert), frovatriptan (Frova), eletriptan (Relpax), naratriptan (Amerge), sumatriptan (Imitrex), or zolmitriptan (Zomig);




  • a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine (Surmontil);




  • furazolidone (Furoxone);




  • linezolid (Zyvox);




  • procarbazine (Matulane);




  • selegiline (Eldepryl);




  • bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban);




  • trazodone (Desyrel) or nefazodone (Serzone);




  • venlafaxine (Effexor);




  • mirtazapine (Remeron);




  • sodium oxybate (Xyrem);




  • levomethadyl acetate (Orlaam);




  • cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral, Gengraf);




  • an HIV/AIDS protease inhibitor such as indinavir (Crixivan), lopinavir-ritonavir (Kaletra), amprenavir (Agenerase), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir), or saquinavir (Fortovase, Invirase); or




  • an HIV/AIDS non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor such as delavirdine (Rescriptor), efavirenz (Sustiva), or nevirapine (Viramune).



You may not be able to take St. John's wort, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.


St. John's wort may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness or dizziness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, other antihistamines, and topical medications that contain an antihistamine (e.g., anti-itch creams). Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.


Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with St. John's wort or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal/health supplements.



More St. John's wort resources


  • St. John's wort Side Effects (in more detail)
  • St. John's wort Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • St. John's wort Drug Interactions
  • St. John's wort Support Group
  • 4 Reviews for St. John's wort - Add your own review/rating


  • St. John's Wort Natural MedFacts for Professionals (Wolters Kluwer)

  • St. John's Wort Natural MedFacts for Consumers (Wolters Kluwer)

  • St. John's Wort MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare St. John's wort with other medications


  • Depression
  • Night Terrors


Where can I get more information?


  • Your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider may have more information about St. John's wort.

See also: St. John's wort side effects (in more detail)


Tuesday, 29 May 2012

pegloticase


Generic Name: pegloticase (peg LOE ti kase)

Brand Names: Krystexxa


What is pegloticase?

Pegloticase is an enzyme that metabolizes uric acid into a harmless chemical that is eliminated from the body in urine.


Pegloticase is used to treat chronic gout. Pegloticase is usually given after other gout medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.


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


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


You should not receive pegloticase if you are allergic to it, or if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD).

To make sure you can safely receive pegloticase, tell your doctor if you have congestive heart failure.


You may be given other medications to prevent certain side effects of pegloticase. You may need to start taking these medications at least a week before you receive your pegloticase injection. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel itchy, nervous, light-headed, short of breath, or have a fast heartbeat, chest discomfort, or redness of your skin when the medicine is injected into your vein.

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


You should not receive pegloticase if you are allergic to it, or if you have glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD).

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



  • congestive heart failure;




  • other heart problems; or




  • high blood pressure.




FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether pegloticase 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 pegloticase passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using pegloticase.

How should I take pegloticase?


Pegloticase is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Pegloticase must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take at least 2 hours to complete.


You may be given other medications to prevent certain side effects of pegloticase. You may need to start taking these medications at least a week before you receive your pegloticase injection. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice.

Pegloticase is usually given once every 2 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.


When you first start using pegloticase, you may have an increase in gout flares. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 months of treatment.

Your doctor may recommend other gout medications during the first 6 months of your treatment with pegloticase.


To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood may need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with pegloticase. Visit your doctor regularly.


See also: Pegloticase dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?


Since pegloticase is given by a healthcare professional, you are not likely to miss a dose.


What happens if I overdose?


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

What should I avoid while taking pegloticase?


Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.


Pegloticase side effects


Some people receiving a pegloticase injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Infusion reactions may also occur after the injection is given. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel itchy, nervous, light-headed, short of breath, or have a fast heartbeat, chest discomfort, or redness of your skin during the injection. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • chest pain; or




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



Less serious side effects may include:



  • new gout flares;




  • nausea, vomiting, constipation;




  • easy bruising; or




  • stuffy nose, sore throat.



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.


Pegloticase Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Gout:

The recommended dose and regimen of pegloticase for adult patients is 8 mg given as an intravenous infusion every two weeks.

The pegloticase admixture should only be administered by intravenous infusion over no less than 120 minutes via gravity feed, syringe type pump, or infusion pump.

Patients should receive preinfusion medications (e.g. antihistamines, corticosteroids), to minimize the risk of anaphylaxis and infusion reactions. Pegloticase should be administered in a healthcare setting and by healthcare providers prepared to manage anaphylaxis and infusion reactions, and observe patients for an appropriate period of time after administration.


What other drugs will affect pegloticase?


There may be other drugs that can interact with pegloticase. 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 pegloticase resources


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


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

  • Pegloticase Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Pegloticase MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Pegloticase Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Krystexxa Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Krystexxa Consumer Overview



Compare pegloticase with other medications


  • Gout


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about pegloticase.

See also: pegloticase side effects (in more detail)


Friday, 25 May 2012

Mucinex Nasal Spray



oxymetazoline hydrochloride

Dosage Form: nasal solution
Mucinex®

Nasal Spray

Moisture Smart

Drug Facts



Active ingredient


Oxymetazoline hydrochloride 0.05%



Purpose


Nasal decongestant



Uses


  • temporarily relieves nasal congestion due to:
    • a cold

    • hay fever

    • upper respiratory allergies


  • promotes nasal and sinus drainage

  • temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure

  • helps clear nasal passages; shrinks swollen membranes


Warnings



Ask a doctor before use if you have


  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • thyroid disease

  • diabetes

  • trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland


When using this product


  • do not use more than directed

  • do not use for more than 3 days. Use only as directed. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen.

  • temporary discomfort such as burning, stinging, sneezing or an increase in nasal discharge may occur

  • use of this container by more than one person may spread infection


Stop use and ask a doctor if symptoms persist



If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.



Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.



Directions


  • adults and children 6 to under 12 years of age (with adult supervision): 2 or 3 sprays in each nostril not more often than every 10 to 12 hours. Do not exceed 2 doses in any 24-hour period.

  • children under 6 years of age: ask a doctor

Shake well before use. Before using the first time, remove the protective cap from the tip and prime metered pump by depressing firmly several times. To spray, hold bottle with thumb at base and nozzle between first and second fingers. Without tilting head, insert nozzle into nostril. Fully depress pump all the way down with a firm even stroke and sniff deeply. Wipe nozzle clean after use.



Other information


  • store between 20-25°C (68-77°F)

  • retain carton for future reference on full labeling


Inactive ingredients


benzalkonium chloride solution, edetate disodium, glycerin, propylene glycol, purified water, sodium phosphate dibasic, sodium phosphate monobasic, sorbitol



Questions?


1-866-MUCINEX (1-866-682-4639) You may also report side effects to this phone number.



Dist. by: Reckitt Benckiser Inc.

Parsippany, NJ 07054-0224



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 22 mL Carton


NDC 63824-122-75


Mucinex®

NASAL SPRAY


Oxymetazoline HCl 0.05%

Nasal Decongestant


Moisture

Smart®


MEMBRANE HYDRATION

TECHNOLOGY®


  • Soothes

    membranes & clears

    out excess mucus

  • Fast Relief

    of sinus pressure

    & nasal congestion

12

HOUR


3/4 FL OZ (22 mL)










MUCINEX  NASAL MOISTURE SMART
oxymetazoline hydrochloride  solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN OTC DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)63824-122
Route of AdministrationNASALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride (Oxymetazoline)Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride0.5 mg  in 1 mL





Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
No Inactive Ingredients Found


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      














Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
163824-122-751 BOTTLE In 1 CARTONcontains a BOTTLE
122 mL In 1 BOTTLEThis package is contained within the CARTON (63824-122-75)










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
OTC MONOGRAPH FINALpart34106/30/2010


Labeler - Reckitt Benckiser, Inc. (094405024)
Revised: 08/2010Reckitt Benckiser, Inc.




More Mucinex Nasal Spray resources


  • Mucinex Nasal Spray Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Mucinex Nasal Spray Dosage
  • Mucinex Nasal Spray Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Mucinex Nasal Spray Drug Interactions
  • 0 Reviews for Mucinex Nasal - Add your own review/rating


Compare Mucinex Nasal Spray with other medications


  • Nasal Congestion

Sunday, 20 May 2012

Sinemet




Generic Name: carbidopa and levodopa

Dosage Form: tablet
Sinemet®

(carbidopa-levodopa)

Tablets

Sinemet Description


Sinemet® (carbidopa-levodopa) is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and syndrome.


Carbidopa, an inhibitor of aromatic amino acid decarboxylation, is a white, crystalline compound, slightly soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 244.3. It is designated chemically as (—)-L-α-hydrazino-α-methyl-β-(3,4-dihydroxybenzene) propanoic acid monohydrate. Its empirical formula is C10H14N2O4•H2O, and its structural formula is:



Tablet content is expressed in terms of anhydrous carbidopa which has a molecular weight of 226.3.


Levodopa, an aromatic amino acid, is a white, crystalline compound, slightly soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 197.2. It is designated chemically as (—)-L-α-amino-β-(3,4-dihydroxybenzene) propanoic acid. Its empirical formula is C9H11NO4, and its structural formula is:



Sinemet is supplied as tablets in three strengths:


Sinemet 25-100, containing 25 mg of carbidopa and 100 mg of levodopa.


Sinemet 10-100, containing 10 mg of carbidopa and 100 mg of levodopa.


Sinemet 25-250, containing 25 mg of carbidopa and 250 mg of levodopa.


Inactive ingredients are hydroxypropyl cellulose, pregelatinized starch, crospovidone, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. Sinemet 10-100 and 25-250 Tablets also contain FD&C Blue #2/Indigo Carmine AL. Sinemet 25-100 Tablets also contain D&C Yellow #10 Lake.



Sinemet - Clinical Pharmacology



Mechanism of Action


Parkinson's disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder of the extrapyramidal nervous system affecting the mobility and control of the skeletal muscular system. Its characteristic features include resting tremor, rigidity, and bradykinetic movements. Symptomatic treatments, such as levodopa therapies, may permit the patient better mobility.


Current evidence indicates that symptoms of Parkinson's disease are related to depletion of dopamine in the corpus striatum. Administration of dopamine is ineffective in the treatment of Parkinson's disease apparently because it does not cross the blood-brain barrier. However, levodopa, the metabolic precursor of dopamine, does cross the blood-brain barrier, and presumably is converted to dopamine in the brain. This is thought to be the mechanism whereby levodopa relieves symptoms of Parkinson's disease.



Pharmacodynamics


When levodopa is administered orally, it is rapidly decarboxylated to dopamine in extracerebral tissues so that only a small portion of a given dose is transported unchanged to the central nervous system. For this reason, large doses of levodopa are required for adequate therapeutic effect, and these may often be accompanied by nausea and other adverse reactions, some of which are attributable to dopamine formed in extracerebral tissues.


Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids for transport across the gut wall, the absorption of levodopa may be impaired in some patients on a high protein diet.


Carbidopa inhibits decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. It does not cross the blood-brain barrier and does not affect the metabolism of levodopa within the central nervous system.


The incidence of levodopa-induced nausea and vomiting is less with Sinemet than with levodopa. In many patients, this reduction in nausea and vomiting will permit more rapid dosage titration.


Since its decarboxylase inhibiting activity is limited to extracerebral tissues, administration of carbidopa with levodopa makes more levodopa available for transport to the brain.



Pharmacokinetics


Carbidopa reduces the amount of levodopa required to produce a given response by about 75% and, when administered with levodopa, increases both plasma levels and the plasma half-life of levodopa, and decreases plasma and urinary dopamine and homovanillic acid.


The plasma half-life of levodopa is about 50 minutes, without carbidopa. When carbidopa and levodopa are administered together, the half-life of levodopa is increased to about 1.5 hours. At steady state, the bioavailability of carbidopa from Sinemet tablets is approximately 99% relative to the concomitant administration of carbidopa and levodopa.


In clinical pharmacologic studies, simultaneous administration of carbidopa and levodopa produced greater urinary excretion of levodopa in proportion to the excretion of dopamine than administration of the two drugs at separate times.


Pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), in oral doses of 10 mg to 25 mg, may reverse the effects of levodopa by increasing the rate of aromatic amino acid decarboxylation. Carbidopa inhibits this action of pyridoxine; therefore, Sinemet can be given to patients receiving supplemental pyridoxine (vitamin B6).



Indications and Usage for Sinemet


Sinemet is indicated in the treatment of the symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson's disease (paralysis agitans), post-encephalitic parkinsonism, and symptomatic parkinsonism which may follow injury to the nervous system by carbon monoxide intoxication and/or manganese intoxication. Sinemet is indicated in these conditions to permit the administration of lower doses of levodopa with reduced nausea and vomiting, with more rapid dosage titration, with a somewhat smoother response, and with supplemental pyridoxine (vitamin B6).


In some patients a somewhat smoother antiparkinsonian effect results from therapy with Sinemet than with levodopa. However, patients with markedly irregular ("on-off") responses to levodopa have not been shown to benefit from Sinemet.


Although the administration of carbidopa permits control of parkinsonism and Parkinson's disease with much lower doses of levodopa, there is no conclusive evidence at present that this is beneficial other than in reducing nausea and vomiting, permitting more rapid titration, and providing a somewhat smoother response to levodopa.


Certain patients who responded poorly to levodopa have improved when Sinemet was substituted. This is most likely due to decreased peripheral decarboxylation of levodopa which results from administration of carbidopa rather than to a primary effect of carbidopa on the nervous system. Carbidopa has not been shown to enhance the intrinsic efficacy of levodopa in parkinsonian syndromes.


In considering whether to give Sinemet to patients already on levodopa who have nausea and/or vomiting, the practitioner should be aware that, while many patients may be expected to improve, some do not. Since one cannot predict which patients are likely to improve, this can only be determined by a trial of therapy. It should be further noted that in controlled trials comparing Sinemet with levodopa, about half of the patients with nausea and/or vomiting on levodopa improved spontaneously despite being retained on the same dose of levodopa during the controlled portion of the trial.



Contraindications


Nonselective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors are contraindicated for use with Sinemet. These inhibitors must be discontinued at least two weeks prior to initiating therapy with Sinemet. Sinemet may be administered concomitantly with the manufacturer's recommended dose of an MAO inhibitor with selectivity for MAO type B (e.g., selegiline HCl) (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions).


Sinemet is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of this drug, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma.


Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Sinemet should not be used in patients with suspicious, undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.



Warnings


When Sinemet is to be given to patients who are being treated with levodopa, levodopa must be discontinued at least twelve hours before therapy with Sinemet is started. In order to reduce adverse reactions, it is necessary to individualize therapy. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section before initiating therapy.


The addition of carbidopa with levodopa in the form of Sinemet reduces the peripheral effects (nausea, vomiting) due to decarboxylation of levodopa; however, carbidopa does not decrease the adverse reactions due to the central effects of levodopa. Because carbidopa permits more levodopa to reach the brain and more dopamine to be formed, certain adverse CNS effects, e.g., dyskinesias (involuntary movements), may occur at lower dosages and sooner with Sinemet than with levodopa alone.


Levodopa alone, as well as Sinemet, is associated with dyskinesias. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction.


As with levodopa, Sinemet may cause mental disturbances. These reactions are thought to be due to increased brain dopamine following administration of levodopa. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution.


Sinemet should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease.


As with levodopa, care should be exercised in administering Sinemet to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have residual atrial, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmias. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage adjustment, in a facility with provisions for intensive cardiac care.


As with levodopa, treatment with Sinemet may increase the possibility of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage in patients with a history of peptic ulcer.



Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)


Sporadic cases of a symptom complex resembling NMS have been reported in association with dose reductions or withdrawal of therapy with Sinemet. Therefore, patients should be observed carefully when the dosage of Sinemet is reduced abruptly or discontinued, especially if the patient is receiving neuroleptics.


NMS is an uncommon but life-threatening syndrome characterized by fever or hyperthermia. Neurological findings, including muscle rigidity, involuntary movements, altered consciousness, mental status changes; other disturbances, such as autonomic dysfunction, tachycardia, tachypnea, sweating, hyper- or hypotension; laboratory findings, such as creatine phosphokinase elevation, leukocytosis, myoglobinuria, and increased serum myoglobin have been reported.


The early diagnosis of this condition is important for the appropriate management of these patients. Considering NMS as a possible diagnosis and ruling out other acute illnesses (e.g., pneumonia, systemic infection, etc.) is essential. This may be especially complex if the clinical presentation includes both serious medical illness and untreated or inadequately treated extrapyramidal signs and symptoms (EPS). Other important considerations in the differential diagnosis include central anticholinergic toxicity, heat stroke, drug fever, and primary central nervous system (CNS) pathology.


The management of NMS should include: 1) intensive symptomatic treatment and medical monitoring and 2) treatment of any concomitant serious medical problems for which specific treatments are available. Dopamine agonists, such as bromocriptine, and muscle relaxants, such as dantrolene, are often used in the treatment of NMS, however, their effectiveness has not been demonstrated in controlled studies.



Precautions



General


As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular, and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.


Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Sinemet provided the intraocular pressure is well-controlled and the patient is monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.


Dopaminergic agents, including levodopa, may be associated with somnolence and very rarely episodes of sudden onset of sleep. In some cases, these episodes may occur without awareness or warning during daily activities. Patients must be informed of this and advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines while being treated with dopaminergic agents, including levodopa. Patients who have experienced somnolence and/or an episode of sudden sleep onset must refrain from driving or operating machines (see Information for Patients).



Melanoma


Epidemiological studies have shown that patients with Parkinson's disease have a higher risk (2- to approximately 6-fold higher) of developing melanoma than the general population. Whether the increased risk observed was due to Parkinson's disease or other factors, such as drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease, is unclear.


For the reasons stated above, patients and providers are advised to monitor for melanomas frequently and on a regular basis when using Sinemet for any indication. Ideally, periodic skin examinations should be performed by appropriately qualified individuals (e.g., dermatologists).



Information for Patients


The patient should be informed that Sinemet is an immediate-release formulation of carbidopa-levodopa that is designed to begin release of ingredients within 30 minutes. It is important that Sinemet be taken at regular intervals according to the schedule outlined by the physician. The patient should be cautioned not to change the prescribed dosage regimen and not to add any additional antiparkinson medications, including other carbidopa-levodopa preparations, without first consulting the physician.


Patients should be advised that sometimes a ‘wearing-off’ effect may occur at the end of the dosing interval. The physician should be notified if such response poses a problem to lifestyle.


Patients should be advised that occasionally, dark color (red, brown, or black) may appear in saliva, urine, or sweat after ingestion of Sinemet. Although the color appears to be clinically insignificant, garments may become discolored.


The patient should be advised that a change in diet to foods that are high in protein may delay the absorption of levodopa and may reduce the amount taken up in the circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying, thus delaying the absorption of levodopa. Iron salts (such as in multivitamin tablets) may also reduce the amount of levodopa available to the body. The above factors may reduce the clinical effectiveness of the levodopa or carbidopa-levodopa therapy.


Patients should be alerted to the possibility of sudden onset of sleep during daily activities, in some cases without awareness or warning signs, when they are taking dopaminergic agents, including levodopa. Patients should be advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machinery and that if they have experienced somnolence and/or sudden sleep onset, they must refrain from these activities. (See PRECAUTIONS, General.)


There have been reports of patients experiencing intense urges to gamble, increased sexual urges, and other intense urges, and the inability to control these urges while taking one or more of the medications that increase central dopaminergic tone and that are generally used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, including Sinemet. Although it is not proven that the medications caused these events, these urges were reported to have stopped in some cases when the dose was reduced or the medication was stopped. Prescribers should ask patients about the development of new or increased gambling urges, sexual urges or other urges while being treated with Sinemet. Patients should inform their physician if they experience new or increased gambling urges, increased sexual urges, or other intense urges while taking Sinemet. Physicians should consider dose reduction or stopping the medication if a patient develops such urges while taking Sinemet.


NOTE: The suggested advice to patients being treated with Sinemet is intended to aid in the safe and effective use of this medication. It is not a disclosure of all possible adverse or intended effects.



Laboratory Tests


Abnormalities in laboratory tests may include elevations of liver function tests such as alkaline phosphatase, SGOT (AST), SGPT (ALT), lactic dehydrogenase, and bilirubin. Abnormalities in blood urea nitrogen and positive Coombs test have also been reported. Commonly, levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and uric acid are lower during administration of Sinemet than with levodopa.


Sinemet may cause a false-positive reaction for urinary ketone bodies when a test tape is used for determination of ketonuria. This reaction will not be altered by boiling the urine specimen. False-negative tests may result with the use of glucose-oxidase methods of testing for glucosuria.


Cases of falsely diagnosed pheochromocytoma in patients on carbidopa-levodopa therapy have been reported very rarely. Caution should be exercised when interpreting the plasma and urine levels of catecholamines and their metabolites in patients on levodopa or carbidopa-levodopa therapy.



Drug Interactions


Caution should be exercised when the following drugs are administered concomitantly with Sinemet.


Symptomatic postural hypotension occurred when Sinemet was added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive drugs. Therefore, when therapy with Sinemet is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive drug may be required.


For patients receiving MAO inhibitors (Type A or B), see CONTRAINDICATIONS. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and carbidopa-levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to carbidopa-levodopa alone (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).


There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Sinemet.


Dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones, risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these drugs with Sinemet should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response.


Iron salts may reduce the bioavailability of levodopa and carbidopa. The clinical relevance is unclear.


Although metoclopramide may increase the bioavailability of levodopa by increasing gastric emptying, metoclopramide may also adversely affect disease control by its dopamine receptor antagonistic properties.



Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility


In a two-year bioassay of Sinemet, no evidence of carcinogenicity was found in rats receiving doses of approximately two times the maximum daily human dose of carbidopa and four times the maximum daily human dose of levodopa.


In reproduction studies with Sinemet, no effects on fertility were found in rats receiving doses of approximately two times the maximum daily human dose of carbidopa and four times the maximum daily human dose of levodopa.



Pregnancy



Pregnancy Category C. No teratogenic effects were observed in a study in mice receiving up to 20 times the maximum recommended human dose of Sinemet. There was a decrease in the number of live pups delivered by rats receiving approximately two times the maximum recommended human dose of carbidopa and approximately five times the maximum recommended human dose of levodopa during organogenesis. Sinemet caused both visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits at all doses and ratios of carbidopa/levodopa tested, which ranged from 10 times/5 times the maximum recommended human dose of carbidopa/levodopa to 20 times/10 times the maximum recommended human dose of carbidopa/levodopa.


There are no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women. It has been reported from individual cases that levodopa crosses the human placental barrier, enters the fetus, and is metabolized. Carbidopa concentrations in fetal tissue appeared to be minimal. Use of Sinemet in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the drug be weighed against possible hazards to mother and child.



Nursing Mothers


In a study of one nursing mother with Parkinson’s disease, excretion of levodopa in human breast milk was reported. Therefore, caution should be exercised when Sinemet is administered to a nursing woman.



Pediatric Use


Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Use of the drug in patients below the age of 18 is not recommended.



Adverse Reactions


The most common adverse reactions reported with Sinemet have included dyskinesias, such as choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements, and nausea.


The following other adverse reactions have been reported with Sinemet:


Body as a Whole


Chest pain, asthenia.


Cardiovascular


Cardiac irregularities, hypotension, orthostatic effects including orthostatic hypotension, hypertension, syncope, phlebitis, palpitation.


Gastrointestinal


Dark saliva, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dyspepsia, dry mouth, taste alterations.


Hematologic


Agranulocytosis, hemolytic and non-hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia.


Hypersensitivity


Angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, bullous lesions (including pemphigus-like reactions).


Musculoskeletal


Back pain, shoulder pain, muscle cramps.


Nervous System/Psychiatric


Psychotic episodes including delusions, hallucinations, and paranoid ideation, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS, see WARNINGS), bradykinetic episodes ("on-off" phenomenon), confusion, agitation, dizziness, somnolence, dream abnormalities including nightmares, insomnia, paresthesia, headache, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, pathological gambling, increased libido including hypersexuality, impulse control symptoms. Convulsions also have occurred; however, a causal relationship with Sinemet has not been established.


Respiratory


Dyspnea, upper respiratory infection.


Skin


Rash, increased sweating, alopecia, dark sweat.


Urogenital


Urinary tract infection, urinary frequency, dark urine.


Laboratory Tests


Decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit; abnormalities in alkaline phosphatase, SGOT (AST), SGPT (ALT), lactic dehydrogenase, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), Coombs test; elevated serum glucose; white blood cells, bacteria, and blood in the urine.


Other adverse reactions that have been reported with levodopa alone and with various carbidopa-levodopa formulations, and may occur with Sinemet are:


Body as a Whole


Abdominal pain and distress, fatigue.


Cardiovascular


Myocardial infarction.


Gastrointestinal


Gastrointestinal pain, dysphagia, sialorrhea, flatulence, bruxism, burning sensation of the tongue, heartburn, hiccups.


Metabolic


Edema, weight gain, weight loss.


Musculoskeletal


Leg pain.


Nervous System/Psychiatric


Ataxia, extrapyramidal disorder, falling, anxiety, gait abnormalities, nervousness, decreased mental acuity, memory impairment, disorientation, euphoria, blepharospasm (which may be taken as an early sign of excess dosage; consideration of dosage reduction may be made at this time), trismus, increased tremor, numbness, muscle twitching, activation of latent Horner's syndrome, peripheral neuropathy.


Respiratory


Pharyngeal pain, cough.


Skin


Malignant melanoma (see also CONTRAINDICATIONS), flushing.


Special Senses


Oculogyric crises, diplopia, blurred vision, dilated pupils.


Urogenital


Urinary retention, urinary incontinence, priapism.


Miscellaneous


Bizarre breathing patterns, faintness, hoarseness, malaise, hot flashes, sense of stimulation.


Laboratory Tests


Decreased white blood cell count and serum potassium; increased serum creatinine and uric acid; protein and glucose in urine.



Overdosage


Management of acute overdosage with Sinemet is the same as management of acute overdosage with levodopa. Pyridoxine is not effective in reversing the actions of Sinemet.


General supportive measures should be employed, along with immediate gastric lavage. Intravenous fluids should be administered judiciously and an adequate airway maintained. Electrocardiographic monitoring should be instituted and the patient carefully observed for the development of arrhythmias; if required, appropriate antiarrhythmic therapy should be given. The possibility that the patient may have taken other drugs as well as Sinemet should be taken into consideration. To date, no experience has been reported with dialysis; hence, its value in overdosage is not known.


Based on studies in which high doses of levodopa and/or carbidopa were administered, a significant proportion of rats and mice given single oral doses of levodopa of approximately 1500-2000 mg/kg are expected to die. A significant proportion of infant rats of both sexes are expected to die at a dose of 800 mg/kg. A significant proportion of rats are expected to die after treatment with similar doses of carbidopa. The addition of carbidopa in a 1:10 ratio with levodopa increases the dose at which a significant proportion of mice are expected to die to 3360 mg/kg.



Sinemet Dosage and Administration


The optimum daily dosage of Sinemet must be determined by careful titration in each patient. Sinemet tablets are available in a 1:4 ratio of carbidopa to levodopa (Sinemet 25-100) as well as 1:10 ratio (Sinemet 25-250 and Sinemet 10-100). Tablets of the two ratios may be given separately or combined as needed to provide the optimum dosage.


Studies show that peripheral dopa decarboxylase is saturated by carbidopa at approximately 70 to 100 mg a day. Patients receiving less than this amount of carbidopa are more likely to experience nausea and vomiting.



Usual Initial Dosage


Dosage is best initiated with one tablet of Sinemet 25-100 three times a day. This dosage schedule provides 75 mg of carbidopa per day. Dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day, as necessary, until a dosage of eight tablets of Sinemet 25-100 a day is reached.


If Sinemet 10-100 is used, dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. However, this will not provide an adequate amount of carbidopa for many patients. Dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (2 tablets q.i.d.) is reached.



How to Transfer Patients from Levodopa


Levodopa must be discontinued at least twelve hours before starting Sinemet. A daily dosage of Sinemet should be chosen that will provide approximately 25% of the previous levodopa dosage. Patients who are taking less than 1500 mg of levodopa a day should be started on one tablet of Sinemet 25-100 three or four times a day. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of levodopa is one tablet of Sinemet 25-250 three or four times a day.



Maintenance


Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. At least 70 to 100 mg of carbidopa per day should be provided. When a greater proportion of carbidopa is required, one tablet of Sinemet 25-100 may be substituted for each tablet of Sinemet 10-100. When more levodopa is required, Sinemet 25-250 should be substituted for Sinemet 25-100 or Sinemet 10-100. If necessary, the dosage of carbidopa/levodopa 25-250 may be increased by one-half or one tablet every day or every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with total daily dosages of carbidopa greater than 200 mg is limited.


Because both therapeutic and adverse responses occur more rapidly with Sinemet than with levodopa alone, patients should be monitored closely during the dose adjustment period. Specifically, involuntary movements will occur more rapidly with Sinemet than with levodopa. The occurrence of involuntary movements may require dosage reduction. Blepharospasm may be a useful early sign of excess dosage in some patients.



Addition of Other Antiparkinsonian Medications


Standard drugs for Parkinson's disease, other than levodopa without a decarboxylase inhibitor, may be used concomitantly while Sinemet is being administered, although dosage adjustments may be required.



Interruption of Therapy


Sporadic cases of a symptom complex resembling Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) have been associated with dose reductions and withdrawal of Sinemet. Patients should be observed carefully if abrupt reduction or discontinuation of Sinemet is required, especially if the patient is receiving neuroleptics. (See WARNINGS.)


If general anesthesia is required, Sinemet may be continued as long as the patient is permitted to take fluids and medication by mouth. If therapy is interrupted temporarily, the patient should be observed for symptoms resembling NMS, and the usual daily dosage may be administered as soon as the patient is able to take oral medication.



How is Sinemet Supplied


No. 3916A — Sinemet 25-100 Tablets are yellow, round, uncoated tablets that are coded “650” on one side and plain on the other. They are supplied as follows:


          NDC 0006-3916-68 bottles of 100.


No. 3915 — Sinemet 10-100 Tablets are light dapple-blue, round, uncoated tablets that are coded “647” on one side and plain on the other. They are supplied as follows:


          NDC 0006-3915-68 bottles of 100.


No. 3917 — Sinemet 25-250 Tablets are light dapple-blue, round, uncoated tablets that are coded “654” on one side and plain on the other. They are supplied as follows:


          NDC 0006-3917-68 bottles of 100.



Storage and Handling


Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.


Dispense in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.


Rx Only


Manufactured for:

Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of

MERCK & CO., INC., Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA


By:

Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Morgantown, WV 26505, USA


Issued February 2011


9998301


Copyright © 1996 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

All rights reserved



This is a representative sample of the packaging. Please see How Supplied section for a complete list of available packaging.


PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - Bottle Label 10 mg/100 mg


Sinemet®

(carbidopa-levodopa) Tablets


10 mg/100 mg


Rx only


100 Tablets


NDC 0006-3915-68


Each tablet contains 10 mg carbidopa (anhydrous equivalent) and 100 mg levodopa.


USUAL ADULT DOSAGE: See Package Insert.


Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.


Dispense in a tightly closed, light-resistant container. This is a bulk package and not intended for dispensing. Package not child resistant.


Manuf. for: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of

MERCK & CO., INC.

Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA


By: Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Morgantown, WV 26505, USA


7001127201

100 | No. 3915




PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - Bottle Label 25 mg/100 mg


Sinemet®

(carbidopa-levodopa) Tablets


25 mg/100 mg


Rx only


100 Tablets


NDC 0006-3916-68


Each tablet contains 25 mg carbidopa (anhydrous equivalent) and 100 mg levodopa.


USUAL ADULT DOSAGE: See Package Insert.


Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.


Dispense in a tightly closed, light-resistant container. This is a bulk package and not intended for dispensing. Package not child resistant.


Manuf. for: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of

MERCK & CO., INC.

Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA


By: Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Morgantown, WV 26505, USA


7001127301

100 | No. 3916A




PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - Bottle Label 25 mg/250 mg


Sinemet®

(carbidopa-levodopa) Tablets


25 mg/250 mg


Rx only


100 Tablets


NDC 0006-3917-68


Each tablet contains 25 mg carbidopa (anhydrous equivalent) and 250 mg levodopa.


USUAL ADULT DOSAGE: See Package Insert.


Store at 25°C (77°F), excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture.


Dispense in a tightly closed, light-resistant container. This is a bulk package and not intended for dispensing. Package not child resistant.


Manuf. for: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of

MERCK & CO., INC.

Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889, USA


By: Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Morgantown, WV 26505, USA


7001127401

100 | No. 3917










Sinemet 
carbidopa and levodopa  tablet










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0006-3915
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    











Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
CARBIDOPA (CARBIDOPA)CARBIDOPA10 mg
LEVODOPA (LEVODOPA)LEVODOPA100 mg




















Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
MAGNESIUM STEARATE 
STARCH, CORN 
HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE 
CROSPOVIDONE 
FD&C BLUE NO. 2 
INDIGOTINDISULFONATE SODIUM 
ALUMINUM OXIDE 


















Product Characteristics
ColorBLUE (light dapple-blue)Scoreno score
ShapeROUND (round)Size8mm
FlavorImprint Code647
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
10006-3915-68100 TABLET In 1 BOTTLENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA01755505/02/1975







Sinemet 
carbidopa and levodopa  tablet










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0006-3916
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    











Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
CARBIDOPA (CARBIDOPA)CARBIDOPA25 mg
LEVODOPA (LEVODOPA)LEVODOPA100 mg


















Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
MAGNESIUM STEARATE 
STARCH, CORN 
HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE 
CROSPOVIDONE 
D&C YELLOW NO. 10 
ALUMINUM OXIDE 


















Product Characteristics
ColorYELLOW (yellow)Scoreno score
ShapeROUND (round)Size8mm
FlavorImprint Code650
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
10006-3916-68100 TABLET In 1 BOTTLENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA01755505/02/1975





Sinemet 
carbidopa and levodopa  tablet










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0006-3917
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    











Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
CARBIDOPA (CARBIDOPA)CARBIDOPA25 mg
LEVODOPA (LEVODOPA)LEVODOPA250 mg




















Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
MAGNESIUM STEARATE 
STARCH, CORN 
FD&C BLUE NO. 2 
HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE 
CROSPOVIDONE 
INDIGOTINDISULFONATE SODIUM 
ALUMINUM OXIDE 














Product Characteristics
ColorBLUE (light dapple-blue)Scoreno score
ShapeROUND (round)Size10mm
FlavorImprint Code654