Tuesday 31 July 2012

Niacinamide Gel


Pronunciation: NYE-a-sin-a-mide
Generic Name: Niacinamide
Brand Name: Nicomide-T


Niacinamide Gel is used for:

Treating acne.


Niacinamide Gel is a vitamin B supplement. Exactly how Niacinamide Gel works is unknown.


Do NOT use Niacinamide Gel if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Niacinamide Gel

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



Before using Niacinamide Gel:


Some medical conditions may interact with Niacinamide Gel. 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

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


Ask your health care provider if Niacinamide Gel 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 Niacinamide Gel:


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


  • Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser or other cleansing product prescribed by your doctor and completely dry.

  • Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed.

  • Wash your hands immediately after using Niacinamide Gel.

  • If you miss a dose of Niacinamide Gel, use 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 use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Niacinamide Gel.



Important safety information:


  • Niacinamide Gel is for external use only. Avoid getting Niacinamide Gel in your eyes. If you get Niacinamide Gel in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with cool tap water.

  • Follow up with your doctor after 8 to 12 weeks to monitor your progress.

  • Do not use any other medicines or special cleansers on your skin unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Makeup and other acne medicines may be applied over Niacinamide Gel as directed by your doctor.

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


Possible side effects of Niacinamide Gel:


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:



Dry skin.



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); irritation.



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.



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.


Proper storage of Niacinamide Gel:

Store Niacinamide Gel at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Niacinamide Gel out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Niacinamide Gel 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 Niacinamide Gel. 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 Niacinamide resources


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


Compare Niacinamide with other medications


  • Rosacea

Cefalexin 250mg Capsules





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Cefalexin 250 mg Capsules BP


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



250 mg Cefalexin (as monohydrate)



For excipients, see 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Capsules, hard



Size 2 grey/orange capsule containing white powder printed CHX 250.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Cefalexin is indicated in the treatment of the following infections due to susceptible micro-organisms: respiratory tract infections; otitis media; skin and soft tissue infections; bone and joint infections; genito-urinary infections, including acute prostatitis; dental infections.



Cefalexin is active against the following organisms in vitro: beta-haemolytic streptococci; staphylococci, including coagulase-positive, coagulase-negative and penicillinase-producing strains; streptococcus pneumoniae; escherichia coli; proteus mirabilis; klebsiella species, haemophilus influenzae; branhamella catarrhalis.



Most strains of enterococci (streptococcus faecalis) and a few strains of staphylococci are resistant to cefalexin. It is not active against most strains of enterobacter species, morganella morganii and pr. Vulgaris. It has no activity against pseudomonas or herellea species. When tested by in vitro methods, staphylococci exhibit cross-resistance between cefalexin and methicillin-type antibiotics.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults



The adult dosage ranges from 1-4g daily in divided doses; most infections will respond to a dosage of 500mg every 8 hours. For skin and soft tissue infections, streptococcal pharyngitis and mild, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, the usual dosage is 250mg every 6 hours, or 500mg every 12 hours. For more severe infections or those caused by less susceptible organisms, larger doses may be needed. If daily doses of cefalexin greater than 4g are required parenteral cephalosporins, in appropriate doses, should be considered.



Elderly



As for adults. Reduce dosage if renal function is markedly impaired.



Children



The usual recommended daily dosage for children is 25-50mg/kg (10-20mg/lb) in divided doses. For skin and soft tissue infections, streptococcal pharyngitis and mild, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, the total daily dose may be divided and administered every 12 hours. For most infections the following schedule is suggested:










Children under 5 years:




125mg every 8 hours.



 

 


Children 5 years and over:




250mg every 8 hours.



In severe infections, the dosage may be doubled. In the therapy of otitis media, clinical studies have shown that a dosage of 75-100mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses is required. In the treatment of beta-haemolytic streptococcal infections, a therapeutic dose should be administered for at least 10 days.



Route of administration



Oral



4.3 Contraindications



Cefalexin is contraindicated in patients with known allergy to the cephalosporins group of antibiotics.



Cefalexin should be given cautiously to patients who have shown hypersensitivity to other drugs. Cephalosporins should be given with caution to penicillin



Cefalexin is contraindicated in patients with porphyria.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



If an allergic reaction to cefalexin occurs the drug should be discontinued and the patient treated with the appropriate agents. Prolonged use of cefalexin may result in the overgrowth of non



Cefalexin should be administered with caution in the presence of markedly impaired renal function. Careful clinical and laboratory studies should be made because safe dosage may be lower than that usually recommended.



A false positive reaction for glucose in the urine may occur with Benedict's or Fehling's solutions or with copper sulphate test tablets.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Probenecid causes reduced excretion of cefalexin, leading to increased plasma concentration.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Although laboratory and clinical studies have shown no evidence of teratogenicity, caution should be exercised when prescribing for the pregnant patient.



Usage in nursing mothers: The excretion of cefalexin in human breast milk increased up to 4 hours following a 500mg dose. The drug reached a maximum level of 4 micrograms/ml then decreased gradually and had disappeared 8 hours after administration. Caution should be exercised when cefalexin is administered to a nursing woman.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Gastro-intestinal-nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain have occurred. Diarrhoea has been reported infrequently. It is rarely severe enough to warrant cessation of therapy. Colitis, including rare instances of pseudomembranous colitis, has been reported.



Hypersensitivity - Allergies (in the form of rash, urticaria and angio-oedema), and rarely erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been observed. These reactions usually subside upon discontinuation of the drug. Anaphylaxis has also been reported.



Haematological - eosinophilia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and positive Coombe's test have been reported.



Hepatic - slight elevations of AST and ALT have been observed. As with some penicillins and some other cephalosporins, transient hepatitis and cholestatic jaundice have been reported rarely.



Miscellaneous - other reactions have included genital and anal pruritus, genital moniliasis, vaginitis and vaginal discharge, dizziness, fatigue, headache, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, arthralgia, arthritis and joint disorder. Reversible interstitial nephritis has been reported rarely.



4.9 Overdose



Symptoms of overdosage may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhoea and haematuria.



Treatment of overdosage



In the event of severe overdosage, general supportive care is recommended including close clinical and laboratory monitoring of haematological, renal and hepatic functions and coagulation status until the patient is stable.



Unless 5 - 10 times the normal total daily dose has been ingested, gastro-intestinal decontamination should not be necessary.



There have been reports of haematuria without impairment of renal function in children accidentally ingesting more than 3.5g of cefalexin in a day. Treatment has been supportive (fluids) and no sequence have been reported.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Cefalexin is bactericidal and has antimicrobial activity similar to that of cephaloridine or cephalothin against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Cefalexin is almost completely absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract and produces peak plasma concentrations about 1 hour after administration. A dose of 500mg produces a mean peak plasma concentration of about 18 micrograms per ml, about the same as the concentration produced by an equal dose of cephaloridine given intramuscularly and greater than that produced by cephalothin. If cefalexin is taken with food there is delayed and slightly reduced absorption and there may be delayed elimination from the plasma. About 10 to 15% of a dose is bound to plasma proteins.



The biological half-life has been reported to range from 0.6 to at least 1.2 hours and this increases with reduced renal function. About 80% or more of a dose is excreted unchanged in the urine in the first 6 hours by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion; urinary concentrations greater than 1mg per ml have been achieved after a dose of 500mg. Probenecid delays urinary excretion and has been reported to increase biliary excretion. Cefalexin is widely distributed in the body but does not enter the cerebrospinal fluid in significant quantities unless the meninges are inflamed. It diffuses across the placenta and small quantities are found in the milk of nursing mothers. Therapeutically effective concentrations may be found in the bile.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Not applicable



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Lactose



Magnesium stearate



Capsule shell



Black iron oxide (E172)



Titanium dioxide (E171)



Erythrosin (E127)



Quinoline yellow (E104)



Gelatin



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



36 months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 25°C.



Keep the container tightly closed (for bottles).



Store in the original package (for blisters).



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Each container consists of a polypropylene tubular container with an open end equipped to accept a polyethylene closure, with a tamper-evident tear strip, or PVC/aluminium blisters, or PVDC coated PVC/ Aluminium blisters (60g/m2 PVDC on 250μm PVC/20μm Al) of an appropriate size to accommodate 7, 14, 20, 21, 28, 30, 50, 56, 60, 100, or 500 capsules. Not all sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special instructions



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Milpharm Limited,



Ares,



Odyssey Business Park,



West End Road,



South Ruislip HA4 6QD,



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16363/0118



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



04/03/2009



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



04/03/2009




Sunday 29 July 2012

Pepcid Complete


Generic Name: famotidine, calcium, and magnesium (fam OH ti deen, KAL see um, mag NEE see um)

Brand Names: Dual Action Complete, Pepcid Complete


What is Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?

Famotidine is in a group of drugs called histamine-2 blockers. Famotidine works by decreasing the amount of acid the stomach produces.


Calcium and magnesium are naturally occurring minerals that neutralize acid in the stomach.


The combination of famotidine, calcium, and magnesium is used to relieve heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach.


Famotidine, calcium, and magnesium may also be used for conditions other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?


Heartburn can be confused with early symptoms of heart attack. Seek emergency medical attention if you have chest pain or heavy feeling, dizziness, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, sweating, nausea or vomiting, and a general ill feeling.


You should not use this medication if you have trouble swallowing, vomiting with blood, bloody or tarry stools, or if you are allergic to famotidine or similar medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or nizatidine (Axid).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using famotidine, calcium, and magnesium if you have nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, unusual weight loss, wheezing or trouble breathing when you have heartburn, or if you have had heartburn for longer than 3 months.


Do not use more than two tablets in 24 hours.

Stop using famotidine, calcium, and magnesium if stomach pain continues or if you need to take this product for more than 14 days. You may have a more serious stomach condition that requires different treatment.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?


Heartburn can be confused with early symptoms of heart attack. Seek emergency medical attention if you have chest pain or heavy feeling, dizziness, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, sweating, nausea or vomiting, and a general ill feeling.


You should not use this medication if you have:

  • trouble swallowing;




  • vomiting with blood;




  • black, bloody, or tarry stools;




  • if you are allergic to famotidine or similar medications such as ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), or nizatidine (Axid).



Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using famotidine, calcium, and magnesium if you have:



  • nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain;




  • unusual weight loss;




  • wheezing or trouble breathing when you have heartburn; or




  • if you have had heartburn for longer than 3 months.



If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to used famotidine, calcium, and magnesium, or you need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.


It is not known whether famotidine, calcium, and magnesium is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Famotidine, calcium, and magnesium may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication to treat a child younger than 12 years of age.

How should I take Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow your doctor's instructions.


The chewable tablet must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.


The usual dose of famotidine, calcium, and magnesium is one tablet as needed, up to twice per day.


Do not use more than two tablets in 24 hours.

Stop using famotidine, calcium, and magnesium if stomach pain continues or if you need to take this product for more than 14 days. You may have a more serious stomach condition that requires different treatment.


In addition to taking this medication, other tips for managing heartburn include:



  • Do not lie flat or bend over soon after eating.




  • Do not eat late at night, or just before bedtime.




  • Eat slowly and do not eat big meals.




  • If you smoke, quit smoking.




  • If you are overweight, lose weight.




  • Raise the read of your bed.




  • Wear loose fitting clothing around your stomach.



Certain foods or drinks are more likely to cause heartburn, such as chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, some fruits and vegetables, and rich, spicy, fatty, or fried foods.


Store famotidine, calcium, and magnesium at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed 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.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fast heart rate, or fainting.


What should I avoid while taking Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?


Do not take famotidine, calcium, and magnesium together with regular famotidine (Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Pepcid RPD) or another acid reducer; or


Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking this medication and call your doctor at once if:

  • your heartburn gets worse; or




  • you still have heartburn after 2 weeks of taking famotidine, calcium, and magnesium.



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 Pepcid Complete (famotidine, calcium, and magnesium)?


Tell your doctor about all other medications you use. Famotidine, calcium, and magnesium can make it harder for your body to absorb certain drugs. Your other medications may not work as well if you take them with famotidine, calcium, and magnesium.


There may be other drugs that can interact with famotidine, calcium, and magnesium. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Pepcid Complete resources


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


  • Pepcid Complete MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Dual Action Complete Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Pepcid Complete with other medications


  • GERD


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about famotidine, calcium, and magnesium.

See also: Pepcid Complete side effects (in more detail)


Saturday 28 July 2012

Hylenex


Generic Name: hyaluronidase (Subcutaneous route, Injection route)

hye-al-ure-ON-i-dase

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Amphadase

  • Hydase

  • Hylenex

  • Vitrase

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Powder for Solution

  • Solution

Therapeutic Class: Tissue Permeability Modifier


Pharmacologic Class: Enzyme


Uses For Hylenex


Hyaluronidase is a natural substance found in the body. Hyaluronidase is collected from either cows or pigs. It is cleaned up to remove animal substances. Hyaluronidase is a spreading substance. Hyaluronidase is used with other drugs given under the skin to improve their uptake by the body. This method of drug delivery is only used when the drug cannot be given by injection into a vein.


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


Before Using Hylenex


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


This medicine has been tested in children and, in effective doses, has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems than it does in adults.


Geriatric


This medicine has been tested and has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.


Pregnancy








Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
All TrimestersCAnimal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding


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


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Benzocaine

  • Bupivacaine

  • Butacaine

  • Chloroprocaine

  • Cocaine

  • Dibucaine

  • Etidocaine

  • Lidocaine

  • Mepivacaine

  • Prilocaine

  • Procaine

  • Proparacaine

  • Propoxycaine

  • Ropivacaine

  • Tetracaine

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 hyaluronidase. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems.


Proper Use of hyaluronidase

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


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 injection dosage form:
    • For better uptake of other drugs:
      • Adults—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.



Storage


Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.


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 Hylenex


Some people may be allergic to this medicine. Tell your doctor if you develop red or itching skin or if you have trouble breathing after you receive hyaluronidase.


Hylenex 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:


Rare
  • Cough

  • difficulty swallowing

  • dizziness

  • fast heartbeat

  • hives or welts

  • itching

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

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

  • redness of skin

  • shortness of breath

  • skin rash

  • tightness in chest

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • wheezing

Symptoms of Overdose

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


  • Blurred vision

  • chills

  • confusion

  • dizziness

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

  • fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

  • flushing

  • nausea

  • redness of skin

  • swelling

  • unusually warm skin

  • sweating

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • vomiting

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


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

Incidence not known
  • Swelling

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: Hylenex 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 Hylenex resources


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


  • Hylenex MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Hylenex Consumer Overview

  • Hyaluronidase Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Amphadase Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Amphadase MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Amphadase Consumer Overview

  • Vitrase Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Vitrase Consumer Overview



Compare Hylenex with other medications


  • Extravasation
  • Hypodermoclysis
  • Subcutaneous Urography

Avandia



Generic Name: rosiglitazone (row zi GLI ta zone)

Brand Names: Avandia


What is rosiglitazone?

Rosiglitazone is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels.


Rosiglitazone is for people with type 2 diabetes. Rosiglitazone is sometimes used in combination with other medicines, but it is not for treating type 1 diabetes.


Rosiglitazone is not recommended for use with insulin.


Taking rosiglitazone may increase your risk of serious heart problems, such as heart attack or stroke. Therefore, rosiglitazone is available only to certain people with type 2 diabetes that cannot be controlled with other diabetes medications.

Rosiglitazone is available only under a special program called Avandia-Rosiglitazone Medicines Access Program. You must be registered in the program and sign documents stating that you understand the risks and benefits of taking this medication.


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


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


Taking rosiglitazone may increase your risk of serious heart problems, such as heart attack or stroke. Therefore, rosiglitazone is available only to certain people with type 2 diabetes that cannot be controlled with other diabetes medications.

Rosiglitazone is available only under a special program called Avandia-Rosiglitazone Medicines Access Program. You must be registered in the program and sign documents stating that you understand the risks and benefits of taking this medication.


Do not use rosiglitazone if you have type 1 diabetes, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment with insulin).

Before taking rosiglitazone, tell your doctor if you have congestive heart failure or heart disease, a history of heart attack or stroke, liver disease, or eye problems caused by diabetes.


Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them: headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, tremors, irritability, or trouble concentrating. Women may also be more likely than men to have bone fractures in the upper arm, hand, or foot while taking rosiglitazone. Talk with your doctor if you are concerned about this possibility.

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


Do not use rosiglitazone if you have type 1 diabetes, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment with insulin).

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



  • congestive heart failure or heart disease;




  • a history of heart attack or stroke;




  • liver disease; or




  • eye problems caused by diabetes.




Women may be more likely than men to have bone fractures in the upper arm, hand, or foot while taking rosiglitazone. Talk with your doctor if you are concerned about this possibility. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether rosiglitazone will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Some women using rosiglitazone have started having menstrual periods, even after not having a period for a long time due to a medical condition. You may be able to get pregnant if your periods restart. Talk with your doctor about the need for birth control. It is not known whether rosiglitazone 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 rosiglitazone?


Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.


Rosiglitazone is usually taken in the morning and evening. You may take the medicine with or without food.


Rosiglitazone is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Your doctor may also recommend other medicines to treat your diabetes.


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


Your blood sugar will need to be checked often, and you may need other blood tests at your doctor's office. Visit your doctor regularly.


Your medication needs may change if you become sick or injured, if you have a serious infection, or if you have any type of surgery. Your doctor may want you to stop taking rosiglitazone for a short time if any of these situations affect you.


Take care not to let your blood sugar get too low. You may have hypoglycemia if you skip a meal, exercise too long, drink alcohol, or are under stress.


Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them: headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, tremors, irritability, or trouble concentrating.

Always keep a source of sugar available in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. If you have severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, use an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.


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

See also: Avandia 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.

Symptoms of severe hypoglycemia include extreme weakness, confusion, tremors, sweating, trouble speaking, blurred vision, nausea, fainting, and seizure (convulsions).


What should I avoid while taking rosiglitazone?


Avoid drinking alcohol. It can lower your blood sugar.

Rosiglitazone side effects


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

  • feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;




  • swelling or rapid weight gain;




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




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




  • blurred vision;




  • increased thirst or hunger, urinating more than usual; or




  • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, weakness.



Less serious side effects may include:



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




  • headache; or




  • back pain.



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 rosiglitazone?


You may be more likely to have hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) if you take rosiglitazone with other drugs that can raise blood sugar, such as:



  • isoniazid;




  • diuretics (water pills);




  • steroids (prednisone and others);




  • phenothiazines (Compazine and others);




  • thyroid medicine (Synthroid and others);




  • birth control pills and other hormones;




  • seizure medicines (Dilantin and others); and




  • diet pills or medicines to treat asthma, colds, or allergies.



You may be more likely to have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if you take rosiglitazone with other drugs that can lower blood sugar, such as:



  • probenecid (Benemid);




  • some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);




  • aspirin or other salicylates (including Pepto-Bismol);




  • a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven, and others);




  • sulfa drugs (Bactrim, Septra, Sulfatrim, SMX-TMP, and others);




  • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI); or




  • other oral diabetes medications, especially acarbose (Precose), metformin (Glucophage), miglitol (Glyset), pioglitazone (Actos, Duetact, Actoplus Met), or other drugs that contain rosiglitazone (Avandaryl, Avandamet).



Some medications may interact with rosiglitazone. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:



  • delavirdine (Rescriptor);




  • gemfibrozil (Lopid);




  • nicardipine (Cardene);




  • tolbutamide (Orinase);




  • antifungal medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or miconazole (Oravig);




  • pain or arthritis medicine such as flurbiprofen (Ansaid), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), indomethacin (Indocin), mefenamic acid (Ponstel), or piroxicam (Feldene);




  • antibiotics such as rifampin (Rifater, Rifadin, Rifamate) or sulfisoxazole (Pediazole, and others); or




  • seizure medicine such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol) or phenobarbital (Solfoton).



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


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


  • Avandia Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Avandia Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Avandia Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Avandia Consumer Overview

  • Avandia MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Rosiglitazone Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Avandia with other medications


  • Diabetes, Type 2
  • Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease


Where can I get more information?


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

See also: Avandia side effects (in more detail)


Friday 27 July 2012

Eporatio 1,000 IU





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Eporatio 1,000 IU/0.5 ml solution for injection in pre


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



One pre-filled syringe contains 1,000 international units (IU) (8.3 µg) epoetin theta in 0.5 ml solution for injection corresponding to 2,000 IU (16.7 µg) epoetin theta per ml.



Epoetin theta (recombinant human erythropoietin) is produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells (CHO



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for injection (injection) in pre



The solution is clear and colourless.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



- Treatment of symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure in adult patients.



- Treatment of symptomatic anaemia in adult cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Special requirements



Epoetin theta treatment should be initiated by physicians experienced in the above-mentioned indications.



Routes of administration



The solution can be administered subcutaneously (SC) or intravenously (IV). Subcutaneous use is preferable in patients who are not undergoing haemodialysis, in order to avoid puncturing peripheral veins. If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, the same route of administration should be used. Epoetin theta should be administered by the subcutaneous route to cancer patients with non



Posology



Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure



Anaemia symptoms and sequelae may vary with age, gender, and overall burden of disease; a physician's evaluation of the individual patient's clinical course and condition is necessary. Epoetin theta should be administered either subcutaneously or intravenously in order to increase haemoglobin level to not greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l).



Due to intra-patient variability, occasional individual haemoglobin values for a patient above and below the desired haemoglobin level may be observed. Haemoglobin variability should be addressed through dose management, with consideration for the haemoglobin target range of 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). A sustained haemoglobin level of greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should be avoided; guidance for appropriate dose adjustment if haemoglobin values exceeding 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) are observed are described below.



A rise in haemoglobin of greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) over a four week period should be avoided. If the rise in haemoglobin is greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) in 4 weeks or the haemoglobin value exceeds 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), the dose should be reduced by 25 to 50%. It is recommended that haemoglobin be monitored every two weeks until levels have stabilised and periodically thereafter. If the haemoglobin level continues to increase, therapy should be interrupted until the haemoglobin level begins to decrease, at which point therapy should be restarted at a dose approximately 25% below the previously administered dose.



In the presence of hypertension or existing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular or peripheral vascular diseases, the increase in haemoglobin and the target haemoglobin value should be determined individually taking into account the clinical picture.



Treatment with epoetin theta is divided into two stages.



Correction phase



Subcutaneous administration: The initial posology is 20 IU/kg body weight 3 times per week. The dose may be increased after 4 weeks to 40 IU/kg, 3 times per week, if the increase in haemoglobin is not adequate (< 1 g/dl [0.62 mmol/l] within 4 weeks). Further increases of 25% of the previous dose may be made at monthly intervals until the individual target haemoglobin level is obtained.



Intravenous administration: The initial posology is 40 IU/kg body weight 3 times per week. The dose may be increased after 4 weeks to 80 IU/kg, 3 times per week, and by further increases of 25% of the previous dose at monthly intervals, if needed.



For both routes of administration, the maximum dose should not exceed 700 IU/kg body weight per week.



Maintenance phase



The dose should be adjusted as necessary to maintain the individual target haemoglobin level between 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), whereby a haemoglobin level of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should not be exceeded. If a dose adjustment is required to maintain the desired haemoglobin level, it is recommended that the dose be adjusted by approximately 25%.



Subcutaneous administration: The weekly dose can be given as one injection per week or three times per week.



Intravenous administration: Patients who are stable on a three times weekly dosing regimen may be switched to twice-weekly administration.



If the frequency of administration is changed, haemoglobin level should be monitored closely and dose adjustments may be necessary.



The maximum dose should not exceed 700 IU/kg body weight per week.



If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, haemoglobin level should be monitored closely and the same route of administration should be used.



Patients should be monitored closely to ensure that the lowest approved dose of epoetin theta is used to provide adequate control of the symptoms of anaemia.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



Epoetin theta should be administered by the subcutaneous route to patients with anaemia (e.g. haemoglobin concentration



Due to intra-patient variability, occasional individual haemoglobin values for a patient above and below the desired haemoglobin level may be observed. Haemoglobin variability should be addressed through dose management, with consideration for the haemoglobin target range of 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). A sustained haemoglobin level of greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should be avoided; guidance for appropriate dose adjustment if haemoglobin values exceeding 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) are observed are described below.



The recommended initial dose is 20,000 IU, independent of bodyweight, given once-weekly. If, after 4 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin value has increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l), the current dose should be continued. If the haemoglobin value has not increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l) a doubling of the weekly dose to 40,000 IU should be considered. If, after an additional 4 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin increase is still insufficient an increase of the weekly dose to 60,000 IU should be considered.



The maximum dose should not exceed 60,000 IU per week.



If, after 12 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin value has not increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l), response is unlikely and treatment should be discontinued.



If the rise in haemoglobin is greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) in 4 weeks or the haemoglobin level exceeds 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), the dose should be reduced by 25 to 50%. Treatment with epoetin theta should be temporarily discontinued if haemoglobin levels exceed 13 g/dl (8.07 mmol/l). Therapy should be reinitiated at approximately 25% lower than the previous dose after haemoglobin levels fall to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) or below.



Therapy should be continued up to 4 weeks after the end of chemotherapy.



Patients should be monitored closely to ensure that the lowest approved dose of epoetin theta is used to provide adequate control of the symptoms of anaemia.



Special populations



Paediatric patients



There is no experience in children and adolescents.



Method of administration



The solution can be administered subcutaneously or intravenously. Subcutaneous use is preferable in patients who are not undergoing haemodialysis, in order to avoid puncturing peripheral veins. If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, the same route of administration should be used. In cancer patients with non



Subcutaneous injections should be given into the abdomen, arm or thigh.



Eporatio is supplied in a single use pre-filled syringe. The solution should be visually inspected prior to use. Only clear, colourless solutions without particles should be used. The solution for injection should not be shaken. It should be allowed to reach a comfortable temperature (15 °C



Eporatio must not be mixed with other medicinal products (see section 6.2).



The injection sites should be rotated and the injection performed slowly to avoid discomfort at the site of injection.



4.3 Contraindications



- Hypersensitivity to the active substance, other epoetins and derivatives or to any of the excipients.



- Uncontrolled hypertension.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



General



Supplementary iron therapy is recommended for all patients with serum ferritin values below 100 µg/l or with transferrin saturation below 20%. To ensure effective erythropoiesis, iron status has to be evaluated for all patients prior to and during treatment.



Non-response to therapy with epoetin theta should prompt a search for causative factors. Deficiencies of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12 reduce the effectiveness of epoetins and should therefore be corrected. Intercurrent infections, inflammatory or traumatic episodes, occult blood loss, haemolysis, aluminium intoxication, underlying haematological diseases or bone marrow fibrosis may also compromise the erythropoietic response. A reticulocyte count should be considered as part of the evaluation.



Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA)



If typical causes of non-response are excluded, and the patient has a sudden drop in haemoglobin associated with reticulocytopenia, an examination of anti-erythropoietin antibodies and the bone marrow for diagnosis of pure red cell aplasia should be considered. Discontinuation of treatment with epoetin theta should be taken into account.



PRCA caused by neutralising anti-erythropoietin antibodies has been reported in association with erythropoietin therapy. These antibodies have been shown to cross-react with all epoetins, and patients suspected or confirmed to have neutralising antibodies to erythropoietin should not be switched to epoetin theta (see section 4.8).



Hypertension



Patients on epoetin theta therapy can experience an increase in blood pressure or aggravation of existing hypertension particularly during the initial treatment phase.



Therefore, in patients treated with epoetin theta, special care should be taken to monitor closely and control blood pressure. Blood pressure should be controlled adequately before initiation and during therapy to avoid acute complications, such as hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms (e.g. headaches, confused state, speech disturbances, impaired gait) and related complications (seizures, stroke), which may also occur in individual patients with otherwise normal or low blood pressure. If these reactions occur, they require the immediate attention of a physician and intensive medical care. Particular attention should be paid to sudden sharp migraine-like headaches as a possible warning signal.



Increases in blood pressure may require treatment with antihypertensive medicinal products or a dose increase of existing antihypertensive medicinal products. In addition, a reduction of the administered dose of epoetin theta needs to be considered. If blood pressure values remain high, temporary interruption of epoetin theta therapy may be required. Once hypertension has been controlled with more intensified therapy, epoetin theta therapy should be re-started at a reduced dose.



Misuse



Misuse of epoetin theta by healthy persons may lead to an excessive increase in haemoglobin and haematocrit. This may be associated with life-threatening cardiovascular complications.



Special populations



Due to limited experience, the efficacy and safety of epoetin theta could not be assessed in patients with impaired liver function or homozygous sickle cell anaemia.



In clinical trials, patients over 75 years of age had a higher incidence of serious and severe adverse events irrespective of a causal relationship to treatment with epoetin theta. Furthermore, deaths were more frequent in this patient group compared to younger patients.



Laboratory monitoring



It is recommended that haemoglobin measurement, a complete blood count and platelet count be performed regularly.



Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure



The use of epoetin theta in nephrosclerotic patients not yet undergoing dialysis should be defined individually, as a possible accelerated progression of renal failure cannot be ruled out with certainty.



During haemodialysis, patients treated with epoetin theta may require increased anticoagulation treatment to prevent clotting of the arterio-venous shunt.



In patients with chronic renal failure, the maintenance haemoglobin concentration should not exceed the upper limit of the target haemoglobin concentration recommended in section 4.2. In clinical trials, an increased risk of death and serious cardiovascular events was observed when epoetins were administered to target a haemoglobin level in excess of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). Controlled clinical trials have not shown significant benefits attributable to the administration of epoetins when the haemoglobin concentration is increased beyond the level necessary to control symptoms of anaemia and to avoid blood transfusion.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



Effect on tumour growth



Epoetins are growth factors that primarily stimulate red blood cell production. Erythropoietin receptors may be expressed on the surface of a variety of tumour cells. As with all growth factors, there is a concern that epoetins could stimulate the growth of any type of malignancy (see section 5.1).



In several controlled studies, epoetins have not been shown to improve overall survival or decrease the risk of tumour progression in patients with anaemia associated with cancer. In controlled clinical studies, use of epoetins has shown:









 

- shortened time to tumour progression in patients with advanced head and neck cancer receiving radiation therapy when administered to target a haemoglobin level in excess of 14 g/dl (8.69 mmol/l),

 

- shortened overall survival and increased deaths attributed to disease progression at 4 months in patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving chemotherapy when administered to target a haemoglobin value of 12

 

- increased risk of death when administered to target a haemoglobin value of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) in patients with active malignant disease receiving neither chemotherapy nor radiation therapy.


Epoetins are not indicated for use in this patient population.



In view of the above, in some clinical situations blood transfusion should be the preferred treatment for the management of anaemia in patients with cancer. The decision to administer recombinant erythropoietins should be based on a benefit-risk assessment with the participation of the individual patient, which should take into account the specific clinical context. Factors that should be considered in this assessment should include the type of tumour and its stage, the degree of anaemia, life



Excipients



This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per pre-filled syringe, i.e. essentially 'sodium-free'.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No interaction studies have been performed.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



For epoetin theta no clinical data on exposed pregnancies are available. Animal studies with other epoetins do not indicate direct harmful effects with respect to pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development (see section 5.3). Caution should be exercised when prescribing to pregnant women.



It is unknown whether epoetin theta is excreted in human breast milk, but data in neonates show no absorption or pharmacological activity of erythropoietin when given together with breast milk. A decision on whether to continue/discontinue breast-feeding or to continue/discontinue therapy with epoetin theta should be made taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding to the child and the benefit of epoetin theta therapy for the woman.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Epoetin theta has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The safety of epoetin theta has been evaluated based on results from clinical studies including 972 patients.



Approximately 9% of patients can be expected to experience an adverse reaction. The most frequent undesirable effects are hypertension, influenza-like illness and headache.



Adverse reactions listed below are classified according to System Organ Class. Frequency groupings are defined according to the following convention:















Very common:


Common:


Uncommon:


Rare:


Very rare:

< 1/10,000;

Not known:

cannot be estimated from the available data.














































System organ class




Adverse reaction




Frequency


 


Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure




Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy


  


Blood and lymphatic system disorders




Thromboembolic events







 




Not known




Shunt thrombosis




Common







 


 


Immune system disorders




Hypersensitivity reactions




Not known


 


Nervous system disorders




Headache




Common


 


Vascular disorders




Hypertension




Common


 


Hypertensive crisis




Common







 


 


Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders




Skin reactions




Common


 


Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders




Arthralgia







 




Common




General disorders and administration site conditions




Influenza-like illness




Common


 


Shunt thrombosis may occur, especially in patients who have a tendency to hypotension or whose arterio-venous fistulae exhibit complications (e.g. stenoses, aneurisms) (see section 4.4).



One of the most frequent adverse reactions during treatment with epoetin theta is an increase in blood pressure or aggravation of existing hypertension particularly during the initial treatment phase. Hypertension occurs in chronic renal failure patients more often during the correction phase than during the maintenance phase. Hypertension can be treated with appropriate medicinal products (see section 4.4).



Hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms (e.g. headaches, confused state, speech disturbances, impaired gait) and related complications (seizures, stroke) may also occur in individual patients with otherwise normal or low blood pressure (see section 4.4).



Skin reactions such as rash, pruritus or injection site reactions may occur.



Symptoms of influenza-like illness such as fever, chills and asthenic conditions have been reported.



Certain adverse reactions have not yet been observed with epoetin theta, but are generally accepted as being attributable to epoetins:



In isolated cases in patients with chronic renal failure, neutralising anti-erythropoietin antibody-mediated PRCA associated with therapy with other epoetins has been reported. If PRCA is diagnosed, therapy with epoetin theta must be discontinued and patients should not be switched to another recombinant epoetin (see section 4.4).



4.9 Overdose



The therapeutic margin of epoetin theta is very wide. In the case of overdose, polycythaemia can occur. In the event of polycythaemia, epoetin theta should be temporarily withheld.



If severe polycythaemia occurs, conventional methods (phlebotomy) may be indicated to reduce the haemoglobin level.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Other anti-anaemic preparations, ATC code: B03XA01



Mechanism of action



Human erythropoietin is an endogenous glycoprotein hormone that is the primary regulator of erythropoiesis through specific interaction with the erythropoietin receptor on the erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. It acts as a mitosis-stimulating factor and differentiation hormone. The production of erythropoietin primarily occurs in and is regulated by the kidney in response to changes in tissue oxygenation. Production of endogenous erythropoietin is impaired in patients with chronic renal failure and the primary cause of their anaemia is erythropoietin deficiency. In patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy the aetiology of anaemia is multifactorial. In these patients, erythropoietin deficiency and a reduced response of erythroid progenitor cells to endogenous erythropoietin both contribute significantly towards their anaemia.



Epoetin theta is identical in its amino acid sequence and similar in its carbohydrate composition (glycosylation) to endogenous human erythropoietin.



Preclinical efficacy



The biological efficacy of epoetin theta has been demonstrated after intravenous and subcutaneous administration in various animal models in vivo (mice, rats, dogs). After administration of epoetin theta, the number of erythrocytes, the haematocrit values and reticulocyte counts increase.



Clinical efficacy and safety



Symptomatic anaemia associated chronic renal failure



Data from correction phase studies in 284 chronic renal failure patients show that the haemoglobin response rates (defined as haemoglobin levels above 11 g/dl at two consecutive measurements) in the epoetin theta group (88.4% and 89.4% in studies in patients on dialysis and not yet undergoing dialysis, respectively) were comparable to epoetin beta (86.2% and 81.0%, respectively). The median time to response was similar in the treatment groups with 56 days in haemodialysis patients and 49 days in patients not yet undergoing dialysis.



Two randomised controlled studies were conducted in 270 haemodialysis patients and 288 patients not yet undergoing dialysis, who were on stable treatment with epoetin beta. Patients were randomised to continue their current treatment or to be converted to epoetin theta (same dose as epoetin beta) in order to maintain their haemoglobin levels. During the evaluation period (weeks 15 to 26), the mean and median level of haemoglobin in patients treated with epoetin theta was virtually identical to their baseline haemoglobin level. In these two studies, 180 haemodialysis patients and 193 patients not undergoing dialysis were switched from maintenance phase treatment with epoetin beta to treatment with epoetin theta for a period of six months showing stable haemoglobin values and a similar safety profile as epoetin beta. In the clinical studies, patients not yet undergoing dialysis (subcutaneous administration) discontinued the study more frequently than haemodialysis patients (intravenous administration) as they had to terminate the study when starting dialysis.



In two long-term studies, the efficacy of epoetin theta was evaluated in 124 haemodialysis patients and 289 patients not yet undergoing dialysis. The haemoglobin levels remained within the desired target range and epoetin theta was well tolerated over a period of up to 15 months.



In the clinical studies, pre-dialysis patients were treated once-weekly with epoetin theta, 174 patients in the maintenance phase study and 111 patients in the long-term study.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



409 cancer patients receiving chemotherapy were included in two prospective, randomised double



Effect on tumour growth



Erythropoietin is a growth factor that primarily stimulates red cell production. Erythropoietin receptors may be expressed on the surface of a variety of tumour cells.



Survival and tumour progression have been examined in five large controlled studies involving a total of 2,833 patients, of which four were double-blind placebo-controlled studies and one was an open-label study. Two of the studies recruited patients who were being treated with chemotherapy. The target haemoglobin concentration in two studies was> 13 g/dl; in the remaining three studies it was 12



Data from three placebo-controlled clinical studies in 586 anaemic cancer patients conducted with epoetin theta, showed no negative effect of epoetin theta on survival. During the studies, mortality was lower in the epoetin theta group (6.9%) compared to placebo (10.3%).



A systematic review has also been performed involving more than 9,000 cancer patients participating in 57 clinical trials. Meta-analysis of overall survival data produced a hazard ratio point estimate of 1.08 in favour of controls (95% CI: 0.99, 1.18; 42 trials and 8,167 patients). An increased relative risk of thromboembolic events (RR 1.67, 95% CI: 1.35, 2.06; 35 trials and 6,769 patients) was observed in patients treated with recombinant human erythropoietin. There is therefore consistent evidence to suggest that there may be significant harm to patients with cancer who are treated with recombinant human erythropoietin. The extent to which these outcomes might apply to the administration of recombinant human erythropoietin to patients with cancer, treated with chemotherapy to achieve haemoglobin concentrations less than 13 g/dl, is unclear because few patients with these characteristics were included in the data reviewed.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



General



The pharmacokinetics of epoetin theta have been examined in healthy volunteers, in patients with chronic renal failure and in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. The pharmacokinetics of epoetin theta are independent of age or gender.



Subcutaneous administration



Following subcutaneous injection of 40 IU/kg body weight epoetin theta at three different sites (upper arm, abdomen, thigh) in healthy volunteers, similar plasma level profiles were observed. The extent of absorption (AUC) was slightly greater after injection in the abdomen in comparison to the other sites. The maximum concentration is reached after an average of 10 to 14 hours and the average terminal half-life ranges from approximately 22 to 41 hours.



Average bioavailability of epoetin theta after subcutaneous administration is approximately 31% compared with intravenous administration.



In pre-dialysis patients with chronic renal failure following subcutaneous injection of 40 IU/kg body weight, the protracted absorption results in a concentration plateau, whereby the maximum concentration is reached after an average of approximately 14 hours. The terminal half-life is higher than after intravenous administration, with an average of 25 hours after single dosing and 34 hours in steady state after repeated dosing three times weekly, without leading to an accumulation of epoetin theta.



In cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, after repeated subcutaneous administration of 20,000 IU epoetin theta once-weekly, the terminal half-life is 29 hours after the first dose and 28 hours in steady state. No accumulation of epoetin theta was observed.



Intravenous administration



In patients with chronic renal failure undergoing haemodialysis, the elimination half-life of epoetin theta is 6 hours after single dosing and 4 hours in steady state after repeated intravenous administration of 40 IU/kg body weight epoetin theta three times weekly. No accumulation of epoetin theta was observed. Following intravenous administration, the volume of distribution approximates to total blood volume.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Non-clinical data with epoetin theta reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of safety pharmacology and repeated-dose toxicity.



Non-clinical data with other epoetins reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of genotoxicity and toxicity to reproduction.



In reproductive toxicity studies performed with other epoetins, effects interpreted as being secondary to decreased maternal body weight were observed at doses sufficiently in excess to the recommended human dose.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate



Sodium chloride



Polysorbate 20



Trometamol



Hydrochloric acid (6 M) (for pH adjustment)



Water for injections



6.2 Incompatibilities



In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products.



6.3 Shelf Life



2 years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C).



Do not freeze.



Keep the pre-filled syringe in the outer carton in order to protect from light.



For the purpose of ambulatory use, the patient may remove the product from the refrigerator and store it at a temperature not above 25 °C for a single period of up to 7 days without exceeding the expiry date. Once removed from the refrigerator, the medicinal product must be used within this period or disposed of.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



1,000 IU



0.5 ml of solution in a pre-filled syringe (type I glass) with a tip cap (bromobutyl rubber), a plunger stopper (teflonised chlorobutyl rubber), an injection needle (stainless steel) and with or without a pre



Pack sizes of 6 pre-filled syringes with or without safety device.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



The pre



Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



ratiopharm GmbH



Graf-Arco-Straße 3



89079 Ulm



Germany



info@ratiopharm.de



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



EMEA/H/C/0010350000/01



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



Date of first authorisation: 29 October 2009



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) http://www.emea.europa.eu/.




Sunday 22 July 2012

Lidocaine Pad


Pronunciation: LYE-doe-kane/HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone
Generic Name: Lidocaine/Hydrocortisone
Brand Name: LidaMantle HC


Lidocaine Pad is used for:

Reducing pain, itching, redness, and swelling associated with minor skin conditions (eg, insect bites, abrasions). It is also used to reduce pain, itching, and discomfort due to hemorrhoids or other anal conditions. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Lidocaine Pad is a corticosteroid and anesthetic combination. The corticosteroid works by reducing swelling, redness, and itching. The anesthetic works by helping to decrease soreness and discomfort.


Do NOT use Lidocaine Pad if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Lidocaine Pad or to similar medicines (eg, dibucaine)

  • you have a tuberculous or fungal skin infection, a herpes simplex skin infection, chickenpox, shingles, or a skin infection following smallpox vaccination

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



Before using Lidocaine Pad:


Some medical conditions may interact with Lidocaine Pad. 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 any anesthetic medicine

  • if you have a history of thinning skin, skin infection, or other skin disorders

  • if you have recently received a vaccination or if you have ever had a positive tuberculin (TB) skin test

  • if you have liver problems or very poor health

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


  • Class IA antiarrhythmics (eg, disopyramide) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Lidocaine Pad

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


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


  • Clean the affected area as directed before you apply Lidocaine Pad.

  • Apply Lidocaine Pad to the affected area as directed by your doctor.

  • If you miss a dose of Lidocaine Pad and you are using it regularly, use 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 use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Lidocaine Pad.



Important safety information:


  • Lidocaine Pad is for external use only. Do not get it in your eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. If you get it in your eyes, rinse at once with cool tap water. Protect the eye until the numbness goes away.

  • If your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse, check with your doctor.

  • Do NOT use more than the recommended dose, apply more often, or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.

  • If you use topical products too often, your condition may become worse.

  • Lidocaine Pad may cause a numbing effect at the application site. Do not scratch, rub, or expose the area to extreme hot or cold temperature until the numbness is gone.

  • Lidocaine Pad has a corticosteroid in it. Before you start any new medicine, check the label to see if it has a corticosteroid in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

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

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

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

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


Possible side effects of Lidocaine Pad:


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:



Mild stinging, burning, redness of the skin; skin discoloration.



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); excessive irritation; skin infection (eg, redness, swelling, pus discharge).



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


See also: Lidocaine 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. Lidocaine Pad may be harmful if swallowed.


Proper storage of Lidocaine Pad:

Store Lidocaine Pad at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Protect from freezing. Keep Lidocaine Pad out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Lidocaine Pad 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 Lidocaine Pad. 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 Lidocaine resources


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


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