Arcoxia 30mg, 60 mg, 90 mg & 120 mg Film-coated Tablets

ARCOXIA 30 mg film-coated tablets

ARCOXIA 60 mg film-coated tablets

ARCOXIA 90 mg film-coated tablets

ARCOXIA 120 mg film-coated tablets

Etoricoxib

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

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


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


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


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

In this leaflet:

1. What ARCOXIA is and what it is used for

2. Before you take ARCOXIA

3. How to take ARCOXIA

4. Possible side effects

5. How to store ARCOXIA

6. Further information

What Arcoxia Is And What It Is Used For

• ARCOXIA is one of a group of medicines called selective COX-2 inhibitors. These belong to a family of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).


• ARCOXIA helps to reduce the pain and swelling (inflammation) in the joints and muscles of people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and gout.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. It results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. This causes swelling (inflammation), pain, tenderness, stiffness and disability.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long term inflammatory disease of the joints. It causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and increasing loss of movement in the joints it affects. It may also cause inflammation in other areas of the body.

What is gout?

Gout is a disease of sudden, recurring attacks of very painful inflammation and redness in the joints. It is caused by deposits of mineral crystals in the joint.

What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease of the spine and large joints.

Before You Take Arcoxia

Do not take ARCOXIA:

• if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to etoricoxib or any of the other ingredients of ARCOXIA (see Further information, section 6)


• if you are allergic to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin and COX-2 inhibitors (see Possible Side Effects, section 4)


• if you have a current stomach ulcer or bleeding in your stomach or intestines


• if you have serious liver disease


• if you have serious kidney disease


• if you are or could be pregnant or are breast-feeding (see ‘Pregnancy and breast feeding’)


• if you are under 16 years of age


• if you have inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, or Colitis


• if your doctor has diagnosed heart problems including heart failure (moderate or severe types), angina (chest pain) or if you have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, peripheral arterial disease (poor circulation in legs or feet due to narrow or blocked arteries), or any kind of stroke (including mini-stroke, transient ischaemic attack or TIA). Etoricoxib may slightly increase your risk of heart attack and stroke and this is why it should not be used in those who have already had heart problems or stroke


• if you have high blood pressure that has not been controlled by treatment (check with your doctor or nurse if you are not sure whether your blood pressure is adequately controlled)

If you think any of these are relevant to you, do not take the tablets until you have consulted your doctor.

Take special care with ARCOXIA

ARCOXIA may not be suitable for you, or you may need to be monitored regularly while taking it if any of the following apply to you:

• You have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers.


• You are dehydrated, for example by a prolonged bout of vomiting or diarrhoea.


• You have swelling due to fluid retention.


• You have a history of heart failure, heart attack or any other form of heart disease.


• You have a history of stroke or mini stroke.


• You have a history of high blood pressure. ARCOXIA can increase blood pressure in some people, especially in high doses, and your doctor will want to check your blood pressure from time to time.


• You have any history of liver or kidney disease.


• You are being treated for an infection. ARCOXIA can mask or hide a fever, which is a sign of infection.


• You are a woman trying to become pregnant.


• You are elderly (i.e., over 65 years of age).


• You have diabetes, high cholesterol, or are a smoker. These can increase your risk of heart disease.

If you are not sure if any of the above apply to you, talk to your doctor before taking ARCOXIA to see if this medicine is suitable for you.

ARCOXIA works equally well in older and younger adult patients. If you are elderly (i.e., over 65 years of age), your doctor will want to appropriately keep a check on you. No dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Taking other medicines

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

In particular if you are taking any of the following medicines, your doctor may want to monitor you to check that your medicines are working properly, once you start taking ARCOXIA:

• medicines that thin your blood (anticoagulants), such as warfarin


• rifampicin (an antibiotic)


• methotrexate (a drug used for suppressing the immune system, and often used in rheumatoid arthritis)


• medicines used to help control high blood pressure and heart failure called ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, examples include enalapril and ramipril, and losartan and valsartan


• lithium (a medicine used to treat some types of depression)


• diuretics (water tablets)


• ciclosporin or tacrolimus (drugs used for suppressing the immune system)


• digoxin (a medicine for heart failure and irregular heart rhythm)


• minoxidil (a drug used to treat high blood pressure)


• salbutamol tablets or oral solution (a medicine for asthma)


• birth control pills


• hormone replacement therapy


• aspirin, the risk of stomach ulcers is greater if you take ARCOXIA with aspirin.
  
  
  • ARCOXIA can be taken with low-dose aspirin. If you are currently taking low-dose aspirin to prevent heart attacks or stroke, you should not stop taking aspirin until you talk to your doctor
  • do not take high dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medicines while taking ARCOXIA

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

ARCOXIA tablets must not be taken during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, do not take the tablets. If you become pregnant, stop taking the tablets and consult your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are unsure or need more advice.

It is not known if ARCOXIA is excreted in human milk. If you are breast-feeding, or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor before taking ARCOXIA. If you are using ARCOXIA, you must not breast-feed.

Driving and using machines

Dizziness and sleepiness have been reported in some patients taking ARCOXIA.

Do not drive if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.

Do not use any tools or machines if you experience dizziness or sleepiness.

Important information about some of the ingredients of ARCOXIA

ARCOXIA contains lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you are unable to tolerate some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

How To Take Arcoxia

Always take ARCOXIA exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

ARCOXIA Tablets should not be taken by children or adolescents under 16 years of age.

Take ARCOXIA Tablets by mouth once a day. ARCOXIA can be taken with or without food.

Do not take more than the recommended dose for your condition. Your doctor will want to discuss your treatment from time to time. It is important that you use the lowest dose that controls your pain and you should not take ARCOXIA for longer than necessary. This is because the risk of heart attacks and strokes might increase after prolonged treatment, especially with high doses.

Osteoarthritis

The recommended dose is 30 mg once a day, increase to a maximum of 60 mg once a day if needed.

Rheumatoid arthritis

The recommended dose is 90 mg once a day.

Gout

The recommended dose is 120 mg once a day which should only be used for the acute painful period, limited to a maximum of 8 days treatment.

Ankylosing spondylitis

The recommended dose is 90 mg once a day.

People with liver problems

• If you have mild liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg a day.


• If you have moderate liver disease, you should not take more than 60 mg every other day or 30 mg a day.

If you take more ARCOXIA than you should

You should never take more tablets than the doctor recommends. If you do take too many ARCOXIA tablets, you should seek medical attention immediately.

If you forget to take ARCOXIA

It is important to take ARCOXIA as your doctor has prescribed. If you miss a dose, just resume your usual schedule the following day. Do not take a double dose to make up for the forgotten tablet.

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

Possible Side Effects

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

If you develop any of these signs you should stop ARCOXIA and talk to your doctor immediately:

• shortness of breath, chest pains, or ankle swelling appear or if they get worse


• yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) – these are signs of liver problems


• severe or continual stomach pain or your stools become black


• an allergic reaction- which can include skin problems such as ulcers or blistering, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing

The following side effects can occur during treatment with ARCOXIA:

Common (occurring in greater than 1 out of 100 and less than 1 out of 10 people)

Weakness and fatigue, dizziness, headache, flu-like illness, diarrhoea, wind, nausea, indigestion (dyspepsia), stomach pain or discomfort, heartburn, changes in blood tests related to your liver, swelling of the legs and/or feet due to fluid retention (oedema), increased blood pressure, palpitations, bruising.

Uncommon (occurring in greater than 1 out of 1000 and less than 1 out of 100 people)

Stomach or bowel bloating, chest pain, heart failure, feeling of tightness, pressure or heaviness in the chest (angina pectoris), heart attack, stroke, mini-stroke (transient ischaemic attack), abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation), upper respiratory infection, high levels of potassium in your blood, changes in blood or urine tests relating to your kidney, changes in your bowel habits including constipation, dry mouth, mouth ulcers, taste alteration, gastroenteritis, gastritis, stomach ulcer, being sick (vomiting), irritable bowel syndrome, inflammation of the esophagus, blurred vision, eye irritation and redness, nose bleed, ringing in the ears, vertigo, appetite increases or decreases, weight gain, muscle cramp/spasm, muscle pain/stiffness, inability to sleep, sleepiness, numbness or tingling, anxiety, depression, decreases in mental sharpness, breathlessness, cough, swelling of the face, flushing, skin rash or itchy skin, urinary tract infection, platelets decreased, decreased number of red blood cells, decreased number of white blood cells.

Rare (occurring in greater than 1 out of 10,000 and less than 1 out of 1000 people)

Low blood levels of sodium, redness of the skin.

Very Rare (occurring in less than 1 out of 10,000 people)

Allergic reactions (which may be serious enough to require immediate medical attention) including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing, bronchospasm (wheezing or shortness of breath), severe skin reactions, inflammation of the stomach lining or stomach ulcers that can become serious and may lead to bleeding, liver problems, serious kidney problems, severe increase in blood pressure, confusion, seeing, feeling or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations).

Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data)

Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), inflammation of the pancreas, fast heart rate.

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

How To Store Arcoxia

Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Do not use ARCOXIA after the expiry date which is stated on the pack. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.

Bottles: Keep the container tightly closed in order to protect from moisture.

Blisters: Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture.

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

Further Information

What ARCOXIA contains

• The active substance is etoricoxib. Each film coated tablet contains 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg of etoricoxib.


• The other ingredients are:
  
  Core: calcium hydrogen phosphate (anhydrous), croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose.
  
  Tablet coating: carnauba wax, lactose monohydrate, hypromellose, titanium dioxide (E171), triacetin.
  
  The 30-, 60- and 120-mg tablets also contain yellow ferric oxide (E172, colouring agent) and indigo carmine lake (E132, colouring agent).

What ARCOXIA looks like and contents of the pack

ARCOXIA Tablets are available in four strengths:

30 mg blue-green, apple-shaped, biconvex film coated tablets marked ‘ACX 30’ on one side and ‘101’ on the other.

60 mg dark green, apple-shaped, biconvex film coated tablets marked ‘ARCOXIA 60’ on one side and ‘200’ on the other.

90 mg white, apple-shaped, biconvex film coated tablets marked ‘ARCOXIA 90’ on one side and ‘202’ on the other.

120 mg pale-green, apple-shaped, biconvex film coated tablets marked ‘ARCOXIA 120’ on one side and ‘204’ on the other.

Pack sizes:

30 mg:

Pack sizes of 2, 7, 14, 20, 28 tablets or multi-packs containing 98 (2 packs of 49) tablets in blisters.

60, 90, 120 mg:

Pack sizes of 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 50, 84, 100 tablets or multi-packs containing 98 (2 packs of 49) tablets in blisters; or 30 and 90 tablets in bottles.

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer

The Marketing Authorisation Holder in the UK and Malta is

Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd

Hertford Road

Hoddesdon

Herts

EN11 9BU

UK

Manufacturer:

Merck Sharp & Dohme BV

Waarderweg 39

2031 BN Haarlem

Holland

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

Austria Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg-Filmtabletten

Belgium Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg, comprimés pelliculés

Bulgaria ARCOXIA

Czech Rep. ARCOXIA 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg

Cyprus Arcoxia 30, 60, 90, 120 mg

Denmark Arcoxia

Estonia Arcoxia

Finland Arcoxia 30, 60, 90 ja 120 mg tabletti, kalvopäällysteinen

France Arcoxia 30 mg, comprimé pelliculé

Germany ARCOXIA 30/60/90/120 mg Filmtabletten

Greece ARCOXIA 30mg, 60mg, 90mg,120mg film-coated tablets

Hungary Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg filmtabletta

Iceland Arcoxia

Ireland Arcoxia 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg film-coated tablets

Italy Arcoxia 30, 60, 90, 120 mg compresse rivestite con film

Latvia Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg un 120 mg apvalkotās tablets

Lithuania Arcoxia 30, 60, 90, 120 mg plėvele dengtos tabletės

Luxembourg Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg, comprimés pelliculés

Malta ARCOXIA 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg film-coated tablets

Netherlands Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg

Norway Arcoxia

Poland ARCOXIA 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg tabletki powlekane

Portugal ARCOXIA 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg comprimidos revestidos por película

Romania ARCOXIA 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg, comprimate filmate

Slovakia ARCOXIA 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, 120 mg

Slovenia Arcoxia 30/60/90/120 mg filmsko obložene tablete

Spain Arcoxia 30, 60, 90 y 120 mg comprimidos recubiertos con película

Sweden Arcoxia 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg och 120 mg filmdragerade tabletter

United Kingdom ARCOXIA 30, 60, 90 or 120 mg film-coated tablets

This leaflet was last approved in April 2010.

denotes registered trademark of

Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.

a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc.

Whitehouse Station

NJ

USA

© Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited 2010. All rights reserved.

ARCOXIA PIL.ACX.10.UK.3292

tolcapone

Generic Name: tolcapone (TOLE ka pone)

Brand Names: Tasmar

What is tolcapone?

When used with carbidopa and levodopa (Atamet, Parcopa, Sinemet), tolcapone increases levels of levodopa in the body.

Tolcapone is used together with carbidopa and levodopa to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control.

This medication is usually reserved for use only in people who have used carbidopa and levodopa without success in treating their Parkinson's disease.

Tolcapone is usually given to people who are already taking carbidopa and levodopa but have not had successful treatment of symptoms.

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

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

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to tolcapone, if you have liver disease, or if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.

Serious or fatal side effects on the liver have occurred in some people taking this medication. You may be required to read and sign a Patient Consent form before you get a prescription for tolcapone.

Call your doctor at once if you have nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of tolcapone. Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by tolcapone. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these other medicines. Do not stop using tolcapone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using tolcapone.

You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking this medication. Talk with your doctor if you believe you have any intense or unusual urges while taking tolcapone.

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

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to tolcapone, or if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.

Serious or fatal side effects on the liver have occurred in some people taking tolcapone. You may be required to read and sign a Patient Consent form before you get a prescription for tolcapone.

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

• liver disease; or


• 
  

  if you have ever had muscle damage or fever and confusion caused by a medication.

  
  

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a tolcapone dose adjustment or special tests:

• 
  

  low blood pressure; or

  
  


• 
  

  kidney disease.

  
  

You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking tolcapone. It is not known whether the medicine actually causes this effect. Talk with your doctor if you believe you have any intense or unusual urges while taking tolcapone.

Tolcapone may cause hallucinations (the sensation of hearing or seeing something that is not there), most commonly among elderly people. Call your doctor if you experience hallucinations.

Some people taking Parkinson's disease medications have developed skin cancer (melanoma). However, people with Parkinson's disease may have a higher risk of melanoma. Talk to your doctor about this risk and what skin symptoms to watch for. You may need to have regular skin exams.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether tolcapone 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 tolcapone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take tolcapone without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take tolcapone?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Tolcapone must be taken together with carbidopa and levodopa. Tolcapone used alone will not treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

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

Tolcapone is usually taken three times a day. The first dose is taken with your first daily dose of carbidopa and levodopa. The second and third doses of tolcapone are taken 6 and 12 hours later.

Tolcapone may be taken with or without food.

To be sure this medicine is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. Your liver and kidney function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 weeks of using tolcapone.

Do not stop using tolcapone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using tolcapone. Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from moisture and heat.

See also: Tolcapone dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

What should I avoid while taking tolcapone?

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

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of tolcapone.

Tolcapone side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  feeling like you might pass out;

  
  


• 
  

  fever, stiff muscles, confusion, and sweating (especially when you first start taking tolcapone);

  
  


• 
  

  hallucinations;

  
  


• 
  

  tremors (uncontrolled shaking);

  
  


• 
  

  tight feeling in your chest, trouble breathing;

  
  


• 
  

  pain or burning when you urinate;

  
  


• 
  

  severe or ongoing diarrhea; or

  
  


• 
  

  muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness with fever or flu symptoms and dark colored urine.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  diarrhea or constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  dry mouth;

  
  


• 
  

  headache, tired feeling;

  
  


• 
  

  unusual skin changes;

  
  


• 
  

  dizziness, drowsiness;

  
  


• 
  

  cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat;

  
  


• 
  

  sleep problems (insomnia), dreaming more than usual; or

  
  


• 
  

  agitation or anxiety.

  
  

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.

Tolcapone Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Parkinson's Disease:

Initial:
100 mg orally three times daily, always taken together with the first dose of the day of levodopa/carbidopa.

What other drugs will affect tolcapone?

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by tolcapone. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these other medicines, or any other Parkinson's medications..

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

• 
  

  apomorphine (Apokyn);

  
  


• 
  

  a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

  
  


• 
  

  desipramine (Norpramin);

  
  


• 
  

  dobutamine (Dobutrex);

  
  


• 
  

  epinephrine (Epi-Pen, and others);

  
  


• 
  

  isoproterenol (Isuprel, Medihaler-Iso); or

  
  


• 
  

  methyldopa (Aldomet).

  
  

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

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

• tolcapone Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Tolcapone Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)


• Tolcapone Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Tolcapone MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Tasmar Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare tolcapone with other medications

• Parkinson's Disease

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about tolcapone.

See also: tolcapone side effects (in more detail)

Epiduo

Generic Name: adapalene and benzoyl peroxide (Topical application route)

a-DAP-a-leen, BEN-zoe-il per-OX-ide

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Epiduo

Available Dosage Forms:

• Gel/Jelly

Therapeutic Class: Antiacne

Chemical Class: Retinoid

Uses For Epiduo

Adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination is used to treat acne. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne and by keeping the skin pores clean (tiny openings on the skin).

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before Using Epiduo

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

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination in children younger than 12 years of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

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

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Interactions with Medicines

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

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Eczema (skin disorder) or


• Sunburn—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

Proper Use of Epiduo

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause your skin to become irritated. You may need to use this medicine for several weeks or months before your skin starts to look better. Applying extra medicine will not make it work faster.

This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.

To use:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.


• Before applying this medicine, wash the affected area of your skin with water and a mild soap. Rinse well and pat dry.


• Apply a small amount of the medicine to each affected area of the skin (e.g., forehead, chin, cheeks, chest, shoulders), and gently rub it in.

Dosing

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

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

• For topical dosage form (gel):
  
  • For acne:
    
    • Adults, teenagers, and children 12 years of age and older—Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) of the skin once a day.
    
    
    • Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Precautions While Using Epiduo

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it.

This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, wind, and cold weather. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. You may need to wear protective clothing, such as a hat.

Skin reactions such as dryness, redness, scaling, burning, or stinging can occur when you use this medicine. Use a moisturizer as needed to lessen these skin problems.

Do not use any other medicines on the treated skin areas without asking your doctor. Avoid using any skin care products that can dry or irritate your skin. These include rough skin cleansers, hair removal products, soaps or cosmetics that cause dryness, or products that contain alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime.

Do not use "waxing" as a hair removal method on skin areas treated with this medicine.

Allow this medicine to dry completely before getting dressed. This medicine may cause bleaching of clothes or hair.

Epiduo Side Effects

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

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

More common

• Dryness and peeling of the skin


• flushing or redness of the skin


• unusually warm skin

Less common

• Blistering, burning, crusting, or flaking of the skin


• burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at the application site


• scaling, severe redness, or swelling of the skin

Incidence not known

• Pain of the skin


• sunburn

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

Incidence not known

• Burning, dry, or itching eyes


• change in the color of the treated skin


• discharge or excessive tearing


• redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid


• skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing


• swelling of the face

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Epiduo side effects (in more detail)

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

More Epiduo resources

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

• Epiduo Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Epiduo Gel MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Epiduo Consumer Overview

Compare Epiduo with other medications

• Acne

Welltuss HC

Generic Name: chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine (KLOR fe NEER a meen, HYE droe KOE done, SOO doe ee FED rin)

Brand Names: Cordron-HC, Cordron-HC NR, Detuss, Hydrocof-HC, Hydron PCS, Hyphed, JayCof-HC, Notuss-Forte, P-V-Tussin Syrup, Q-V Tussin, Welltuss HC, Zutripro

What is Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

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

Hydrocodone is a narcotic cough medicine.

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

The combination of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sinus congestion, and cough caused by the common cold or flu.

Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

Do not take this medication 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. Serious, life threatening side effects can occur if you use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine. Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share hydrocodone with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

Do not take this medication 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. Serious, life threatening side effects can occur if you use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. You should not use chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine if you are allergic to it.

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

• 
  

  asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;

  
  


• liver or kidney disease;


• 
  

  heart disease or high blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  diabetes;

  
  


• 
  

  a thyroid disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  curvature of the spine;

  
  


• 
  

  a history of head injury or brain tumor;

  
  


• 
  

  epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

  
  


• 
  

  low blood pressure;

  
  


• 
  

  glaucoma;

  
  


• 
  

  gallbladder disease;

  
  


• 
  

  Addison's disease or other adrenal gland disorders;

  
  


• 
  

  enlarged prostate, urination problems;

  
  


• 
  

  mental illness; or

  
  


• 
  

  a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

  
  

Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share hydrocodone with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine will harm an unborn baby. Hydrocodone may cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine. It is not known whether chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

You may take this medication with or without food.

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

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

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

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, feeling restless or nervous, vomiting, stomach pain, warmth or tingly feeling, seizure (convulsions), pinpoint pupils, confusion, cold and clammy skin, weak pulse, shallow breathing, fainting, or breathing that stops.

What should I avoid while taking Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

Chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine.

Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• 
  

  severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness;

  
  


• 
  

  fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats;

  
  


• 
  

  shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;

  
  


• 
  

  confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;

  
  


• 
  

  feeling like you might pass out;

  
  


• 
  

  urinating less than usual or not at all;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, chest pain, shortness of breath, seizure); or

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  dry mouth;

  
  


• 
  

  blurred vision;

  
  


• 
  

  dizziness, drowsiness;

  
  


• 
  

  problems with memory or concentration;

  
  


• 
  

  sleep problems (insomnia);

  
  


• 
  

  ringing in your ears;

  
  


• 
  

  warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin; or

  
  


• 
  

  skin rash or itching.

  
  

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 Welltuss HC (chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine.

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

• 
  

  blood pressure medication;

  
  


• 
  

  cimetidine (Tagamet);

  
  


• 
  

  rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane);

  
  


• 
  

  zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT);

  
  


• 
  

  an antidepressant;

  
  


• 
  

  a diuretic (water pill);

  
  


• 
  

  medication to treat irritable bowel syndrome;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  seizure medication such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil), pimozide (Orap), or thioridazine (Mellaril).

  
  

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine. 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 Welltuss HC resources

• Welltuss HC Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Welltuss HC Drug Interactions
• 0 Reviews for Welltuss HC - Add your own review/rating

• Histinex PV Liquid MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Hyphed Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Tussend MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Zutripro Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Zutripro Consumer Overview

Compare Welltuss HC with other medications

• Cough and Nasal Congestion

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, and pseudoephedrine.

phenol Oromucosal

FEE-nol

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Assure Sore Throat


• Cheracol Sore Throat


• Chloraseptic


• Isodettes Sore Throat


• Oralseptic


• Osco Sore Throat


• Painalay

Available Dosage Forms:

• Spray


• Lozenge/Troche

Therapeutic Class: Analgesic

Uses For phenol

Phenol is used to relieve pain and irritation caused by sore throat, sore mouth, or canker sores.

phenol is available without a prescription; however, your doctor may have special instructions on the proper use and dose for your medical problem.

Before Using phenol

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

Allergies

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

Pediatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of phenol in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children below 3 years of age.

Geriatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of phenol in geriatric patients.

Interactions with Medicines

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

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Infection in or around your mouth or


• Large sores in or around your mouth—The chance of side effects may be increased.

Proper Use of phenol

Use phenol exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of phenol, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than directed. To do so may increase the chance of absorption into the body and the risk of side effects.

phenol should be used only for problems being treated by your doctor or conditions listed in the package directions. Check with your doctor before using it for other problems, especially if you think that an infection may be present.

Be careful not to get any of phenol in your eyes because it can cause severe eye irritation. If any of the medicine does get in your eyes, wash it with water and check with your doctor right away. Also, be very careful not to inhale (breathe in) the medicine.

To use:

• Apply or spray to the affected area.


• Remain in place for at least 15 seconds, then spit the medicine out of your mouth.

Do not use phenol for more than 2 days without checking first with your doctor.

Dosing

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

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

• For oromucosal dosage form (spray):
  
  • For sore throat or mouth pain:
    
    • Adults and children 12 years of age and older—Spray 5 times to the affected area every 2 hours.
    
    
    • Children 3 to 12 years of age—Spray 3 times to the affected area every 2 hours.
    
    
    • Children younger than 3 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

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

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Precautions While Using phenol

If your condition does not improve within 7 days, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.

After spraying phenol to the mouth or throat of your child, watch the child carefully to make sure that he or she does not get any of the medicine into his or her eyes or he or she does not inhale the spray.

Stop using phenol and check with your doctor right away if you have difficulty with breathing; fever; skin rash; or worsening of pain, redness, swelling, or irritation in or around the mouth.

Call your doctor right away if you start to have a severe sore throat or sore throat that occurs with a high fever, headache, nausea, or vomiting. These maybe signs of an infection.

phenol Side Effects

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

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

Incidence not known

• Difficulty with breathing


• fever


• headache


• nausea


• rash


• swelling


• vomiting


• worsening of pain, redness, swelling, or irritation in or around the mouth

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: phenol Oromucosal side effects (in more detail)

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

More phenol Oromucosal resources

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

Compare phenol Oromucosal with other medications

• Tonsillitis/Pharyngitis

Paire OB Plus DHA

Generic Name: prenatal multivitamins (PRE nay tal VYE ta mins)

Brand Names: Advance Care Plus, Bright Beginnings, Cavan Folate, Cavan One, Cavan-Heme OB, Cenogen Ultra, CitraNatal Rx, Co Natal FA, Complete Natal DHA, Complete-RF, CompleteNate, Concept OB, Docosavit, Dualvit OB, Duet, Edge OB, Elite OB 400, Femecal OB, Folbecal, Folcaps Care One, Folivan-OB, Foltabs, Gesticare, Icar Prenatal, Icare Prenatal Rx, Inatal Advance, Infanate DHA, Kolnatal DHA, Lactocal-F, Marnatal-F, Maternity, Maxinate, Mission Prenatal, Multi-Nate 30, Multinatal Plus, Nata 29 Prenatal, Natachew, Natafort, Natelle, Neevo, Nestabs, Nexa Select with DHA, Novanatal, NovaStart, O-Cal Prenatal, OB Complete, OB Natal One, Ob-20, Obtrex DHA, OptiNate, Paire OB Plus DHA, PNV Select, PNV-Total, PR Natal 400, Pre-H-Cal, Precare, PreferaOB, Premesis Rx, PrenaCare, PrenaFirst, PrenaPlus, Prenatabs OBN, Prenatabs Rx, Prenatal 1 Plus 1, Prenatal Elite, Prenatal Multivitamins, Prenatal Plus, Prenatal S, Prenatal-U, Prenate Advanced Formula, Prenate DHA, Prenate Elite, Prenavite FC, PreNexa, PreQue 10, Previte Rx, PrimaCare, Pruet DHA, RE OB Plus DHA, Renate, RightStep, Rovin-NV, Se-Care, Se-Natal One, Se-Plete DHA, Se-Tan DHA, Select-OB, Seton ET, Strongstart, Stuart Prenatal with Beta Carotene, Tandem OB, Taron-BC, Tri Rx, TriAdvance, TriCare, Trimesis Rx, Trinate, Triveen-PRx RNF, UltimateCare Advance, Ultra-Natal, Vemavite PRX 2, VeNatal FA, Verotin-BY, Verotin-GR, Vinacal OR, Vinatal Forte, Vinate Advanced (New Formula), Vinate AZ, Vinate Care, Vinate Good Start, Vinate II (New Formula), Vinate III, Vinate One, Vitafol-OB, VitaNatal OB plus DHA, Vitaphil, Vitaphil Aide, Vitaphil Plus DHA, Vitaspire, Viva DHA, Vol-Nate, Vol-Plus, Vol-Tab Rx, Vynatal F.A., Zatean-CH, Zatean-PN

What are Paire OB Plus DHA (prenatal multivitamins)?

There are many brands and forms of prenatal vitamin available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Prenatal vitamins are a combination of many different vitamins that are normally found in foods and other natural sources.

Prenatal vitamins are used to provide the additional vitamins needed during pregnancy. Minerals may also be contained in prenatal multivitamins.

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

What is the most important information I should know about prenatal vitamins?

There are many brands and forms of prenatal vitamin available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Never take more than the recommended dose of a multivitamin. Avoid taking any other multivitamin product within 2 hours before or after you take your prenatal vitamins. Taking similar vitamin products together at the same time can result in a vitamin overdose or serious side effects.

Many multivitamin products also contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Minerals (especially taken in large doses) can cause side effects such as tooth staining, increased urination, stomach bleeding, uneven heart rate, confusion, and muscle weakness or limp feeling. Read the label of any multivitamin product you take to make sure you are aware of what it contains.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of vitamins A, D, E, or K can cause serious or life-threatening side effects and can also harm your unborn baby. Certain minerals contained in a prenatal multivitamin may also cause serious overdose symptoms or harm to the baby if you take too much.

Overdose symptoms may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, hair loss, peeling skin, tingly feeling in or around your mouth, changes in menstrual periods, weight loss, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, severe back pain, blood in your urine, pale skin, and easy bruising or bleeding.

Do not take this medication with milk, other dairy products, calcium supplements, or antacids that contain calcium. Calcium may make it harder for your body to absorb certain ingredients of the multivitamin.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking prenatal vitamins?

Many vitamins can cause serious or life-threatening side effects if taken in large doses. Do not take more of this medication than directed on the label or prescribed by your doctor.

Before taking prenatal vitamins, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.

You may need to continue taking prenatal vitamins if you breast-feed your baby. Ask your doctor about taking this medication while breast-feeding.

How should I take prenatal vitamins?

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

Never take more than the recommended dose of prenatal vitamins.

Many multivitamin products also contain minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Minerals (especially taken in large doses) can cause side effects such as tooth staining, increased urination, stomach bleeding, uneven heart rate, confusion, and muscle weakness or limp feeling. Read the label of any multivitamin product you take to make sure you are aware of what it contains.

Take your prenatal vitamin with a full glass of water.

Swallow the regular tablet or capsule whole. Do not break, chew, crush, or open it.

The chewable tablet must be chewed or allowed to dissolve in your mouth before swallowing. You may also allow the chewable tablet to dissolve in drinking water, fruit juice, or infant formula (but not milk or other dairy products). Drink this mixture right away.

Use prenatal vitamins regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep prenatal vitamins in their original container. Storing vitamins in a glass container can ruin the medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of vitamins A, D, E, or K can cause serious or life-threatening side effects and can also harm your unborn baby. Certain minerals contained in a prenatal multivitamin may also cause serious overdose symptoms or harm to the baby if you take too much.

Overdose symptoms may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, hair loss, peeling skin, tingly feeling in or around your mouth, changes in menstrual periods, weight loss, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, severe back pain, blood in your urine, pale skin, and easy bruising or bleeding.

What should I avoid while taking prenatal vitamins?

Avoid taking any other multivitamin product within 2 hours before or after you take your prenatal vitamins. Taking similar vitamin products together at the same time can result in a vitamin overdose or serious side effects.

Avoid the regular use of salt substitutes in your diet if your multivitamin contains potassium. If you are on a low-salt diet, ask your doctor before taking a vitamin or mineral supplement.

Do not take this medication with milk, other dairy products, calcium supplements, or antacids that contain calcium. Calcium may make it harder for your body to absorb certain ingredients of the prenatal vitamin.

Prenatal vitamins 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.

When taken as directed, prenatal vitamins are not expected to cause serious side effects. Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  upset stomach;

  
  


• 
  

  headache; or

  
  


• 
  

  unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

  
  

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 prenatal vitamins?

Vitamin and mineral supplements can interact with certain medications, or affect how medications work in your body. Before taking a prenatal vitamin, tell your doctor if you also use:

• 
  

  diuretics (water pills);

  
  


• 
  

  heart or blood pressure medications;

  
  


• 
  

  tretinoin (Vesanoid);

  
  


• 
  

  isotretinoin (Accutane, Amnesteen, Clavaris, Sotret);

  
  


• 
  

  trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Cotrim, Bactrim, Gantanol, Gantrisin, Septra, TMP/SMX); or

  
  


• 
  

  an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Naprelan, Treximet), celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), indomethacin (Indocin), meloxicam (Mobic), and others.

  
  

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with prenatal vitamins. 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 Paire OB Plus DHA resources

• Paire OB Plus DHA Side Effects (in more detail)
• Paire OB Plus DHA Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Paire OB Plus DHA Drug Interactions
• 0 Reviews for Paire OB Plus DHA - Add your own review/rating

• Paire OB Plus DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Cal-Nate MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• CareNatal DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• CitraNatal 90 DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• CitraNatal Assure Prescribing Information (FDA)


• CitraNatal Harmony Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Concept DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Docosavit Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Duet DHA with Ferrazone MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Folbecal MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Folcal DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Folcaps Care One Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Gesticare DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Gesticare DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Inatal Advance Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Inatal Ultra Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Multi-Nate DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Multi-Nate DHA Extra Prescribing Information (FDA)


• MultiNatal Plus MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Natelle One Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Neevo Caplets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Neevo DHA MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• OB Complete 400 MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• PreNexa MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• PreNexa Prescribing Information (FDA)


• PreferaOB Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Prenatal Plus Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Prenatal Plus Iron Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Prenate Elite MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Prenate Elite Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Prenate Elite tablets


• Prenate Essential Prescribing Information (FDA)


• PrimaCare Advantage MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• PrimaCare ONE capsules


• PrimaCare One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Renate DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Se-Natal 19 Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Se-Natal 19 Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Tandem DHA Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Tandem OB Prescribing Information (FDA)


• TriAdvance Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Triveen-One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Triveen-PRx RNF Prescribing Information (FDA)


• UltimateCare ONE NF Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Ultra NatalCare MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Vinate AZ Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Vitafol-One MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Zatean-CH Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare Paire OB Plus DHA with other medications

• Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation during Pregnancy/Lactation

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about prenatal vitamins.

See also: Paire OB Plus DHA side effects (in more detail)

Anthraforte 3% Topical

Generic Name: anthralin (Topical route)

AN-thra-lin

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Drithocreme


• Dritho-Scalp


• Psoriatec


• Zithranol-RR

In Canada

• Anthraforte 2%


• Anthraforte 3%


• Anthrascalp

Available Dosage Forms:

• Paste


• Ointment


• Cream

Therapeutic Class: Antipsoriatic

Uses For Anthraforte 3%

Anthralin is used to treat psoriasis. It may also be used to treat other skin conditions as determined by your doctor.

In the U.S., this medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

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

• Alopecia areata (patchy hair loss)

Before Using Anthraforte 3%

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

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Studies on this medicine have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of anthralin in children with use in other age groups.

Geriatric

Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of anthralin in the elderly with use in other age groups.

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Interactions with Medicines

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

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Skin diseases or problems (other)—Anthralin may make the condition worse

Proper Use of anthralin

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain anthralin. It may not be specific to Anthraforte 3%. Please read with care.

Keep this medicine away from the eyes and mucous membranes, such as the mouth and the inside of the nose.

Do not apply this medicine to blistered, raw, or oozing areas of the skin or scalp.

Do not use this medicine on your face or sex organs or in the folds and creases of your skin. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Use this medicine only as directed. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

Anthralin may be used in different ways. In some cases, it is applied at night and allowed to remain on the affected areas overnight, then washed off the next morning or before the next application. In other cases, it may be applied and allowed to remain on the affected areas for a short period of time (usually 10 to 30 minutes), then washed off. (This is called short contact treatment.) Make sure you understand exactly how you are to use this medicine. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Anthralin may cause irritation of normal skin. If it does, petrolatum may be applied to the skin or scalp around the affected areas for protection.

Apply a thin layer of anthralin to only the affected area of the skin or scalp and rub in gently and well.

Immediately after applying this medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.

For patients using anthralin for short contact (usually 10 to 30 minutes) treatment:

• After applying anthralin, allow the medicine to remain on the affected area for 10 to 30 minutes or as directed by your doctor. Then remove the medicine by bathing, if the anthralin was applied to the skin, or by shampooing, if it was applied to the scalp.

For patients using the cream form of anthralin for overnight treatment:

• If anthralin cream is applied to the skin, any medicine remaining on the affected areas the next morning should be removed by bathing.


• If anthralin cream is applied to the scalp, shampoo to remove the scales and any medicine remaining on the affected areas from the previous application. Dry the hair and, after parting, rub the cream into the affected areas. Check with your doctor to see when the cream should be removed.

For patients using the ointment form of anthralin for overnight treatment:

• If anthralin ointment is applied to the skin at night, any ointment remaining on the affected areas the next morning should be removed with warm liquid petrolatum followed by bathing.


• If anthralin ointment is applied to the scalp at night, shampoo the next morning to clean the scalp.

Dosing

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

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

• For psoriasis:
  
  • For cream dosage form:
    
    • Adults—Apply to the dry, affected area(s) of the skin once a day, preferably at night, or as directed by your doctor. Wash medicine off skin at the proper time.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  
  • For ointment dosage form:
    
    • Adults—Apply to the dry, affected area(s) of the skin once a day or as directed by your doctor. Wash medicine off skin at the proper time.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Precautions While Using Anthraforte 3%

Anthralin may stain the skin, hair, fingernails, clothing, bed linens, or bathtub or shower. The stain on the skin or hair will wear off in several weeks after you stop using this medicine. Some ways to prevent or lessen anthralin staining include:

• Wear plastic gloves when you apply this medicine.


• Avoid getting the medicine on your clothing or on bed linens. Ask your doctor if you can wear a plastic cap while sleeping if you apply your medicine to your scalp at bedtime.


• Remove any medicine on the surface of the bathtub or shower stall by immediately rinsing it with hot water after bathing or showering. Afterwards wash the bathtub or shower stall with a household cleanser to remove any remaining deposits.

Anthraforte 3% Side Effects

Anthralin has been shown to cause tumors in animals. However, there have been no reports of anthralin causing tumors in humans.

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

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Redness or other skin irritation of treated or uninvolved skin not present before use of this medicine

Rare

• Skin rash

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

More Anthraforte 3% Topical resources

• Anthraforte 3% Topical Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Anthraforte 3% Topical Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Anthraforte 3% Topical - Add your own review/rating

Compare Anthraforte 3% Topical with other medications

• Psoriasis