Sunday, April 29, 2012

Guaifenesin/Theophylline


Pronunciation: gwye-FEN-e-sin/thee-OFF-i-lin
Generic Name: Guaifenesin/Theophylline
Brand Name: Generic only. No brands available.


Guaifenesin/Theophylline is used for:

Preventing and treating symptoms and blockage of airway due to asthma or other lung diseases such as emphysema or bronchitis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Guaifenesin/Theophylline is a combination xanthine derivative and expectorant. The xanthine derivative works by relaxing the smooth muscle surrounding the bronchial tubes (air passages) of the lungs, allowing the tubes to widen, and making breathing easier. Guaifenesin/Theophylline improves contraction of the diaphragm (the major breathing muscle). The expectorant works by increasing respiratory secretions and loosening mucus in the airways.


Do NOT use Guaifenesin/Theophylline if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Guaifenesin/Theophylline (including ethylenediamine), similar medicines (eg, aminophylline), or xanthines (eg, caffeine, chocolate)

  • you are using large amounts of other products that contain xanthine (such as chocolate or caffeinated drinks)

  • you have ulcers or a seizure disorder for which you are not taking medicine

  • you are taking dipyridamole intravenously (IV), halothane, or St. John's wort

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



Before using Guaifenesin/Theophylline:


Some medical conditions may interact with Guaifenesin/Theophylline. 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 heart problems (eg, congestive heart failure, cor pulmonale), an irregular heartbeat, a history of ulcers, fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema), liver problems, fever, viral infection, severe infection (eg, blood infection), thyroid problems, cystic fibrosis, increased acid levels in the body, brain or nerve problems, or seizures (eg, epilepsy)

  • if you are in shock

  • if you smoke, are stopping or starting smoking, or are exposed to the smoke from cigarettes or marijuana

  • if you are in the last 3 months of pregnancy

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


  • Aminoglutethimide, barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), carbamazepine, hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), isoproterenol, moricizine, propafenone, rifampin, St. John's wort, or sulfinpyrazone because they may decrease Guaifenesin/Theophylline's effectiveness

  • Allopurinol, cimetidine, disulfiram, enoxacin, estrogen, fluvoxamine, interferon alpha-a, macrolide antibiotics (eg, clarithromycin, erythromycin), methotrexate, mexiletine, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), pentoxifylline, quinolone antibiotics (eg, ciprofloxacin), tacrine, thiabendazole, ticlopidine, troleandomycin, verapamil, viloxazine, or zileuton because they may increase the risk of Guaifenesin/Theophylline's side effects

  • Ephedrine because the risk of side effects such as nausea, nervousness, and trouble sleeping may be increased

  • Halothane because the risk of side effects such as irregular heartbeat may be increased

  • Ketamine because the risk of seizures may be increased

  • Adenosine, benzodiazepines (eg, diazepam, lorazepam), dipyridamole IV, lithium, midazolam, or nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg, pancuronium) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Guaifenesin/Theophylline

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


Use Guaifenesin/Theophylline as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Some foods may change the effectiveness or increase the side effects of Guaifenesin/Theophylline. Talk to your doctor about how you should take Guaifenesin/Theophylline with regard to food. Do not suddenly change your diet or eating habits without first checking with your doctor.

  • Take Guaifenesin/Theophylline at evenly spaced times throughout the day. Taking Guaifenesin/Theophylline at the same time each day will help you remember to take it. Contact your doctor with any questions or concerns about the best way to take Guaifenesin/Theophylline.

  • If you miss a dose of Guaifenesin/Theophylline, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Guaifenesin/Theophylline.



Important safety information:


  • Use of alcohol may increase the risk of side effects of Guaifenesin/Theophylline. Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol while you are taking Guaifenesin/Theophylline.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Guaifenesin/Theophylline before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Carry an ID card at all times that says you take Guaifenesin/Theophylline.

  • Avoid large amounts of food or drink that have caffeine (eg, coffee, tea, cocoa, cola, chocolate).

  • Notify your doctor if you develop a new illness, especially if it is accompanied by fever; if a chronic illness becomes worse; if you start or stop smoking cigarettes or marijuana; or if another doctor prescribes a new medication or tells you to stop using a medication that you have already been taking.

  • Guaifenesin/Theophylline will not stop an asthma attack once one has started. Be sure to always carry appropriate rescue medicine (eg, bronchodilator inhaler) with you in case of an asthma attack.

  • If you have more than one doctor, be sure to tell each of your doctors that you are taking Guaifenesin/Theophylline.

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

  • Lab tests, including blood theophylline levels, may be performed while you use Guaifenesin/Theophylline. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Guaifenesin/Theophylline with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • Caution is advised when using Guaifenesin/Theophylline in CHILDREN; they may be more sensitive to its effects

  • Guaifenesin/Theophylline should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Guaifenesin/Theophylline while you are pregnant. Guaifenesin/Theophylline is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Guaifenesin/Theophylline, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Guaifenesin/Theophylline:


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 and temporary changes in behavior; temporary increased urination.



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); confusion; diarrhea; dizziness; fast breathing; heart rhythm problems or irregular heartbeats; nausea; persistent headache; seizures; sleeplessness; tremors; vomiting.



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


See also: Guaifenesin/Theophylline side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include agitation; chest pain; confusion; decreased urination; fast or irregular heartbeat; headache; increased thirst; irritability; loss of appetite; muscle pain or tenderness; nausea; nervousness; persistent increased urination; restlessness; seizures; severe or persistent diarrhea; stomach pain; tremors or twitching; vomiting, especially of blood.


Proper storage of Guaifenesin/Theophylline:

Store Guaifenesin/Theophylline at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), in tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not refrigerate. Keep Guaifenesin/Theophylline out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Guaifenesin/Theophylline 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 Guaifenesin/Theophylline. 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 Guaifenesin/Theophylline resources


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


Compare Guaifenesin/Theophylline with other medications


  • Asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • COPD

warfarin Intravenous



WAR-far-in


Intravenous route(Powder for Solution)

Warfarin can cause major or fatal bleeding. Regular monitoring of INR should be performed on all treated patients. Drugs, dietary changes, and other factors affect INR levels achieved with warfarin sodium therapy. Instruct patients about prevention measures to minimize risk of bleeding and to report signs and symptoms of bleeding .



Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Coumadin

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Powder for Solution

Therapeutic Class: Anticoagulant


Chemical Class: Coumarin (class)


Uses For warfarin


Warfarin injection is an anticoagulant. It is used to decrease the clotting ability of the blood and to help prevent harmful clots from forming in the blood vessels. It is often used to prevent or treat deep venous thrombosis, a condition in which harmful blood clots form in the blood vessels of the legs. These blood clots can travel to the lungs and cause a condition called pulmonary embolism. Warfarin is also used to prevent or treat blood clots that are caused by certain heart conditions or open-heart surgery. It may be used after a heart attack to prevent blood clots from forming. Although it will not dissolve blood clots that have already formed, warfarin may keep the clots from becoming larger and causing more serious problems.


warfarin is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Before Using warfarin


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 warfarin, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to warfarin 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 warfarin injection in the pediatric population. 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 warfarin injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients may require caution and an adjustment in the dose, especially those who are at risk of bleeding.


Pregnancy








Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
All TrimestersXStudies in animals or pregnant women have demonstrated positive evidence of fetal abnormalities. This drug should not be used in women who are or may become pregnant because the risk clearly outweighs any possible benefit.

Breast Feeding


Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving warfarin, 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 warfarin with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.


  • Tamoxifen

Using warfarin 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.


  • Abciximab

  • Acenocoumarol

  • Alteplase, Recombinant

  • Amiodarone

  • Anistreplase

  • Aprepitant

  • Aspirin

  • Bivalirudin

  • Capecitabine

  • Carboplatin

  • Celecoxib

  • Chamomile

  • Citalopram

  • Clopidogrel

  • Cyclophosphamide

  • Dabigatran Etexilate

  • Dalteparin

  • Danaparoid

  • Desvenlafaxine

  • Dipyridamole

  • Doxorubicin

  • Dronedarone

  • Drotrecogin Alfa

  • Enoxaparin

  • Eptifibatide

  • Escitalopram

  • Etoposide

  • Etravirine

  • Fenofibrate

  • Fenofibric Acid

  • Fish Oil

  • Fluconazole

  • Fluorouracil

  • Fluoxetine

  • Fluvoxamine

  • Garlic

  • Ginkgo

  • Imatinib

  • Infliximab

  • Influenza Virus Vaccine

  • Ketoprofen

  • Leflunomide

  • Lepirudin

  • Levofloxacin

  • Lycium

  • Marijuana

  • Mechlorethamine

  • Methotrexate

  • Methyl Salicylate

  • Metronidazole

  • Milnacipran

  • Moxifloxacin

  • Naproxen

  • Noscapine

  • Oxandrolone

  • Papaya

  • Paroxetine

  • Phenindione

  • Phenprocoumon

  • Prasugrel

  • Procarbazine

  • Proguanil

  • Reteplase, Recombinant

  • Rivaroxaban

  • Ropinirole

  • Sertraline

  • Simvastatin

  • Sitaxsentan

  • St John's Wort

  • Streptokinase

  • Sulfamethoxazole

  • Sulfisoxazole

  • Tan-Shen

  • Tenecteplase

  • Testosterone

  • Ticlopidine

  • Tinzaparin

  • Tirofiban

  • Torsemide

  • Urokinase

  • Valproic Acid

  • Venlafaxine

  • Vilazodone

  • Vincristine

  • Vindesine

Using warfarin with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Acarbose

  • Acemetacin

  • Acetaminophen

  • Allopurinol

  • Aminoglutethimide

  • Amitriptyline

  • Amoxicillin

  • Amprenavir

  • Apazone

  • Argatroban

  • Atovaquone

  • Avocado

  • Azathioprine

  • Azithromycin

  • Bee Pollen

  • Benzbromarone

  • Black Tea

  • Bosentan

  • Bromfenac

  • Butabarbital

  • Butalbital

  • Carbamazepine

  • Cefamandole

  • Cefazolin

  • Chitosan

  • Chloral Hydrate

  • Cholestyramine

  • Chondroitin

  • Cimetidine

  • Ciprofloxacin

  • Cisapride

  • Clarithromycin

  • Coenzyme Q10

  • Colesevelam

  • Curcumin

  • Cyclosporine

  • Danazol

  • Darunavir

  • Desogestrel

  • Dexamethasone

  • Dexlansoprazole

  • Dicloxacillin

  • Dienogest

  • Diflunisal

  • Disopyramide

  • Disulfiram

  • Dong Quai

  • Doxepin

  • Drospirenone

  • Duloxetine

  • Enoxacin

  • Erlotinib

  • Erythromycin

  • Esomeprazole

  • Estradiol Cypionate

  • Estradiol Valerate

  • Eterobarb

  • Ethinyl Estradiol

  • Ethynodiol Diacetate

  • Etonogestrel

  • Exenatide

  • Felbamate

  • Fluoxymesterone

  • Fluvastatin

  • Gefitinib

  • Gemcitabine

  • Gemfibrozil

  • Ginger

  • Ginseng

  • Glucosamine

  • Glyburide

  • Green Tea

  • Griseofulvin

  • Heparin

  • Ifosfamide

  • Indomethacin

  • Indoprofen

  • Isoniazid

  • Isoxicam

  • Itraconazole

  • Ivermectin

  • Ketoconazole

  • Lactulose

  • Lansoprazole

  • Levamisole

  • Levonorgestrel

  • Lopinavir

  • Lornoxicam

  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate

  • Melatonin

  • Meloxicam

  • Menthol

  • Mephobarbital

  • Mercaptopurine

  • Mesalamine

  • Mesna

  • Mestranol

  • Methyltestosterone

  • Miconazole

  • Mitotane

  • Moricizine

  • Nafcillin

  • Nalidixic Acid

  • Nelfinavir

  • Nevirapine

  • Niacin

  • Nilutamide

  • Nimesulide

  • Norelgestromin

  • Norethindrone

  • Norfloxacin

  • Norgestimate

  • Norgestrel

  • Ofloxacin

  • Omeprazole

  • Oxyphenbutazone

  • Pantoprazole

  • Phenobarbital

  • Phenylbutazone

  • Phytonadione

  • Piracetam

  • Prednisone

  • Primidone

  • Propafenone

  • Propoxyphene

  • Quetiapine

  • Ranitidine

  • Rifabutin

  • Rifampin

  • Ritonavir

  • Rofecoxib

  • Rosuvastatin

  • Roxithromycin

  • Saquinavir

  • Secobarbital

  • Sorafenib

  • Soybean

  • Soy Isoflavones

  • Soy Protein

  • Stanozolol

  • Sucralfate

  • Sulfasalazine

  • Sulfinpyrazone

  • Sulindac

  • Telithromycin

  • Tenidap

  • Terbinafine

  • Tibolone

  • Ticlopidine

  • Tigecycline

  • Tolterodine

  • Tramadol

  • Trastuzumab

  • Valdecoxib

  • Vancomycin

  • Vemurafenib

  • Vitamin A

  • Vitamin E

  • Vorinostat

  • Zafirlukast

  • Zileuton

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. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using warfarin with any of the following is usually not recommended, but may be unavoidable in some cases. If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use warfarin, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.


  • Cranberry Juice

  • Pomegranate

Using warfarin with any of the following may cause an increased risk of certain side effects but may be unavoidable in some cases. If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use warfarin, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.


  • High Protein Food

  • Noni Juice

  • Vitamin K Containing Food

Other Medical Problems


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


  • Alcohol abuse, history of or

  • Mental disorders (e.g., psychosis or senility)—Patients with these conditions or those who cannot cooperate should not be given warfarin.

  • Blood disease or bleeding problems or

  • Heart infection or

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure) or

  • Spinal anesthesia, recent or

  • Stomach or intestinal ulcer, active or

  • Stroke or

  • Surgery, recent or scheduled (e.g., surgery of the eye, brain, or spine) or

  • Threatened miscarriage—Should not be used in patients with any of these conditions. The risk of bleeding from warfarin may be increased.

  • Catheter insertion or

  • Congestive heart failure or

  • Deep venous thrombosis, heparin-induced or

  • Diabetes or

  • Falls or blows to the body or head or

  • Infection or

  • Kidney disease or

  • Liver disease or

  • Major surgery, any type or

  • Protein C deficiency (rare hereditary disease), known or suspected or

  • Thrombocytopenia, heparin-induced or

  • Trauma—Use with caution. warfarin may increase your risk of having serious problems.

Proper Use of warfarin


A nurse or other trained health professional will give you warfarin. warfarin is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.


Your doctor will only give you a few doses of warfarin, and then you may be switched to an oral medicine that works the same way. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor.


Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet. warfarin works best when you eat about the same amount of vitamin K in your food every day. Avoid big changes in how much vitamin K you eat. Some foods that have a high amount of vitamin K are asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, green leafy vegetables (such as collards, turnip greens, mustard greens, spinach, and salad greens), plums, rhubarb, and certain vegetable oils (such as soybean oil and canola oil).


Do not drink alcohol while you are receiving warfarin. Also avoid drinking cranberry juice or eating cranberry products.


Precautions While Using warfarin


It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to see if the medicine is working properly. Blood tests, such as INR, are needed to check for proper dosage and unwanted side effects. Be sure to keep all appointments.


Using warfarin while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.


Do not stop taking any of your medicines or start any new medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. Keep a list of your medicines with you at all times. This includes prescription medicines, nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines, and herbal or vitamin supplements.


Do not take other medicines that also contain warfarin. Using too much warfarin may cause serious bleeding problems.


Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using warfarin. You may need to stop using warfarin several days before having surgery or medical tests.


Check with your doctor immediately if you start to have diarrhea, fever, or any signs of infection.


warfarin may cause skin necrosis or gangrene. Call your doctor right away if you have a pain, color change, or temperature change to any area of your body. Also, call your doctor right away if you have a pain in your toes and they look purple or dark in color. These could be signs of a serious medical problem.


warfarin may increase your chance of bleeding. Check with your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising; black, tarry stools; blood in the urine or stools; or pinpoint red spots on your skin. Avoid picking your nose. If you need to blow your nose, blow it gently.


Be careful when using a regular toothbrush, dental floss, or toothpick. Your medical doctor, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Check with your medical doctor before having any dental work done.


Be careful not to cut yourself when you are using sharp objects, such as a safety razor or fingernail or toenail cutters. Avoid contact sports or other situations where bruising or injury could occur.


It is recommended that you carry identification that says you are using warfarin. If you have any questions about what kind of identification to carry, check with your doctor.


warfarin Side Effects


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


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


Less common
  • Abdominal or stomach pain with cramping

  • bleeding gums

  • blood in the urine

  • bloody stools

  • blurred vision

  • burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

  • chest pain or discomfort

  • confusion

  • coughing up blood

  • difficulty with breathing or swallowing

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

  • excessive bruising

  • headache

  • increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding

  • nosebleeds

  • paralysis

  • peeling of the skin

  • prolonged bleeding from cuts

  • red or black, tarry stools

  • red or dark brown urine

  • shortness of breath

  • sweating

  • unexplained swelling

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare
  • Arm, back, or jaw pain

  • blue-green to black skin discoloration

  • blue or purple toes

  • change in consciousness

  • chest tightness or heaviness

  • chills

  • clay-colored stools

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • fainting or loss of consciousness

  • fast or irregular breathing

  • fast or irregular heartbeat

  • fever

  • itching

  • light-colored stools

  • loss of appetite

  • nausea and vomiting

  • pain in the toes

  • pain, redness, or sloughing of the skin

  • pale skin

  • skin blisters

  • skin rash

  • small red or purple spots on the skin

  • stomach pain

  • swelling of the eyes or eyelids

  • tightness in the chest or wheezing

  • troubled breathing with exertion

  • unpleasant breath odor

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • upper right abdominal or stomach pain

  • vomiting of blood

  • yellow eyes and skin

Incidence not known
  • Painful or prolonged erection of the penis

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:


Less common
  • Joint pain

  • muscle pain

Rare
  • Bloated

  • change in taste, or bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste

  • cold intolerance

  • excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines

  • full feeling

  • general feeling of discomfort or illness

  • hair loss or thinning of the hair

  • hives or welts

  • lack or loss of strength

  • pain

  • passing gas

  • red, sore, or itching skin

  • sores, welting, or blisters

  • unusual drowsiness, dullness, or feeling of sluggishness

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: warfarin Intravenous side effects (in more detail)



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More warfarin Intravenous resources


  • Warfarin Intravenous Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Warfarin Intravenous Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Warfarin Intravenous Drug Interactions
  • Warfarin Intravenous Support Group
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Saturday, April 28, 2012

Zarzio Solution for Injection





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Zarzio 30 MU/0.5 ml solution for injection or infusion in pre-filled syringe


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each ml of solution contains 60 million units (MU) [equivalent to 600 micrograms (μg)] filgrastim*.



Each pre-filled syringe contains 30 MU (equivalent to 300 μg) filgrastim in 0.5 ml.



* recombinant methionylated human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) produced in E. coli by recombinant DNA technology.



Excipient: Each ml of solution contains 50 mg sorbitol (E420).



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for injection or infusion in pre-filled syringe



Clear, colourless to slightly yellowish solution.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



- Reduction in the duration of neutropenia and the incidence of febrile neutropenia in patients treated with established cytotoxic chemotherapy for malignancy (with the exception of chronic myeloid leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndromes) and reduction in the duration of neutropenia in patients undergoing myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation considered to be at increased risk of prolonged severe neutropenia.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim are similar in adults and children receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy.



- Mobilisation of peripheral blood progenitor cells (PBPC).



- In children and adults with severe congenital, cyclic, or idiopathic neutropenia with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 9/l, and a history of severe or recurrent infections, long term administration of filgrastim is indicated to increase neutrophil counts and to reduce the incidence and duration of infection-related events.



- Treatment of persistent neutropenia (ANC 9/l) in patients with advanced HIV infection, in order to reduce the risk of bacterial infections when other therapeutic options are inappropriate.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Filgrastim therapy should only be given in collaboration with an oncology centre which has experience in granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment and haematology and has the necessary diagnostic facilities.



The mobilisation and apheresis procedures should be performed in collaboration with an oncology-haematology centre with acceptable experience in this field and where the monitoring of haematopoietic progenitor cells can be correctly performed.



Zarzio is available in strengths of 30 MU/0.5 ml and 48 MU/0.5 ml.



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



The recommended dose of filgrastim is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day). The first dose of filgrastim should not be administered less than 24 hours following cytotoxic chemotherapy.



Daily dosing with filgrastim should continue until the expected neutrophil nadir is passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Following established chemotherapy for solid tumours, lymphomas, and lymphoid leukaemias, it is expected that the duration of treatment required to fulfil these criteria will be up to 14 days. Following induction and consolidation treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia the duration of treatment may be substantially longer (up to 38 days) depending on the type, dose and schedule of cytotoxic chemotherapy used.



In patients receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, a transient increase in neutrophil counts is typically seen 1 - 2 days after initiation of filgrastim therapy. However, for a sustained therapeutic response, filgrastim therapy should not be discontinued before the expected nadir has passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Premature discontinuation of filgrastim therapy, prior to the time of the expected neutrophil nadir, is not recommended.



Patients treated with myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation



The recommended starting dose of filgrastim is 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day). The first dose of filgrastim should not be administered less than 24 hours following cytotoxic chemotherapy and within 24 hours of bone marrow infusion.



Dose adjustments: Once the neutrophil nadir has been passed, the daily dose of filgrastim should be titrated against the neutrophil response as follows:












Absolute neutrophil count




Filgrastim dose adjustment




ANC > 1.0 x 109/l for 3 consecutive days




Reduce to 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day)




Then, if ANC remains > 1.0 x 109/l for 3 more consecutive days




Discontinue filgrastim




If the ANC decreases to < 1.0 x 109/l during the treatment period, the dose of filgrastim should be re-escalated according to the above steps


 


Mobilisation of PBPC



Patients undergoing myelosuppressive or myeloablative therapy followed by autologous PBPC transplantation



The recommended dose of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation when used alone is 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) for 5 - 7 consecutive days. Timing of leukapheresis: 1 or 2 leukaphereses on days 5 and 6 are often sufficient. In other circumstances, additional leukaphereses may be necessary. Filgrastim dosing should be maintained until the last leukapheresis.



The recommended dose of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation after myelosuppressive chemotherapy is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day) given daily from the first day after completion of chemotherapy until the expected neutrophil nadir is passed and the neutrophil count has recovered to the normal range. Leukapheresis should be performed during the period when the ANC rises from < 0.5 x 109/l to > 5.0 x 109/l. For patients who have not had extensive chemotherapy, one leukapheresis is often sufficient. In other circumstances, additional leukaphereses are recommended.



There are no prospectively randomised comparisons of the two recommended mobilisation methods (filgrastim alone or in combination with myelosuppressive chemotherapy) within the same patient population. The degree of variation between individual patients and between laboratory assays of CD34+ cells means that direct comparison between different studies is difficult. It is therefore difficult to recommend an optimum method. The choice of mobilisation method should be considered in relation to the overall objectives of treatment for an individual patient.



Normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation



For PBPC mobilisation in normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation, filgrastim should be administered at 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) for 4 - 5 consecutive days. Leukapheresis should be started at day 5 and continued until day 6 if needed in order to collect 4 x 106 CD34+ cells/kg recipient bodyweight (BW).



Severe chronic neutropenia (SCN)



Congenital neutropenia



The recommended starting dose is 1.2 MU/kg/day (12 μg/kg/day) as a single dose or in divided doses.



Idiopathic or cyclic neutropenia



The recommended starting dose is 0.5 MU/kg/day (5 μg/kg/day) as a single dose or in divided doses.



Dose adjustments



Filgrastim should be administered daily until the neutrophil count has reached and can be maintained at more than 1.5 x 109/l. When the response has been obtained, the minimal effective dose to maintain this level should be established. Long-term daily administration is required to maintain an adequate neutrophil count.



After 1 - 2 weeks of therapy, the initial dose may be doubled or halved depending upon the patient's response. Subsequently the dose may be individually adjusted every 1 - 2 weeks to maintain the average neutrophil count between 1.5 x 109/l and 10 x 109/l. A faster schedule of dose escalation may be considered in patients presenting with severe infections. In clinical studies, 97% of patients who responded had a complete response at doses of



HIV infection



Reversal of neutropenia



The recommended starting dose of filgrastim is 0.1 MU/kg/day (1 μg/kg/day) given daily with titration up to a maximum of 0.4 MU/kg/day (4 μg/kg/day) until a normal neutrophil count is reached and can be maintained (ANC > 2.0 x 109/l). In clinical studies, > 90% of patients responded at these doses, achieving reversal of neutropenia in a median of 2 days.



In a small number of patients (< 10%), doses up to 1.0 MU/kg/day (10 μg/kg/day) were required to achieve reversal of neutropenia.



Maintenance of normal neutrophil counts



When reversal of neutropenia has been achieved, the minimal effective dose to maintain a normal neutrophil count should be established. Initial dose adjustment to alternate day dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) is recommended. Further dose adjustment may be necessary, as determined by the patient's ANC, to maintain the neutrophil count at > 2.0 x 109/l. In clinical studies, dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) on 1 - 7 days per week was required to maintain the ANC > 2.0 x 109/l, with the median dose frequency being 3 days per week. Long-term administration may be required to maintain the ANC > 2.0 x 109/l.



Special populations



Patients with renal/hepatic impairment



Studies of filgrastim in patients with severe impairment of renal or hepatic function demonstrate that it exhibits a similar pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile to that seen in normal individuals. Dose adjustment is not required in these circumstances.



Paediatric patients in the SCN and cancer settings



In clinical studies 65% of patients treated for SCN were younger than 18 years. For this age-group, which mostly includes patients with congenital neutropenia, efficacy was proven. There were no differences in the safety profiles for paediatric patients treated for SCN in comparison to adults.



Data from clinical studies in paediatric patients indicate that the safety and efficacy of filgrastim are similar in both adults and children receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy.



The dosage recommendations in paediatric patients are the same as those in adults receiving myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy.



Elderly patients



In clinical investigations with filgrastim a small number of elderly patients was included. No specific studies have been performed for this patient population. Therefore, specific posology recommendations for these patients cannot be made.



Method of administration



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



Filgrastim may be administered as a daily subcutaneous injection or alternatively as a daily intravenous infusion over 30 minutes. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6. The subcutaneous route is preferred in most cases. There is some evidence from a study of single dose administration that intravenous dosing may shorten the duration of effect. The clinical relevance of this finding to multiple dose administration is not clear. The choice of route should depend on the individual clinical circumstance. In randomised clinical studies, a subcutaneous dose of 23 MU/m2/day (230 μg/m2/day) or rather 0.4 - 0.84 MU/kg/day (4 - 8.4 μg/kg/day) was used.



Patients treated with myeloablative therapy followed by bone marrow transplantation



Filgrastim is administered as an intravenous short-term infusion over 30 minutes or as a subcutaneous or intravenous continuous infusion over 24 hours, in each case after dilution in 20 ml of glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6.



Mobilisation of PBPC



Subcutaneous injection.



For the mobilisation of PBPC in patients undergoing myelosuppressive or myeloablative therapy followed by autologous PBPC transplantation the recommended dose of filgrastim may also be administered as a 24 hour subcutaneous continuous infusion. For infusions filgrastim should be diluted in 20 ml of glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution. For further instructions on dilution with glucose 50 mg/ml (5%) solution prior to infusion see section 6.6.



SCN/HIV infection



Subcutaneous injection.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Special warnings



Filgrastim should not be used to increase the dose of cytotoxic chemotherapy beyond established posology regimens (see below).



Filgrastim should not be administered to patients with severe congenital neutropenia (Kostmann's syndrome) with abnormal cytogenetics (see below).



Established cytotoxic chemotherapy



Malignant cell growth



Since investigations showed that G-CSF can promote growth of myeloid cells in vitro the following warnings should be considered.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim administration in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome, or chronic myelogenous leukaemia have not been established. Therefore filgrastim is not indicated for use in these conditions. Particular care should be taken to distinguish the diagnosis of blast transformation of chronic myeloid leukaemia from acute myeloid leukaemia.



In view of limited safety and efficacy data in patients with secondary AML, filgrastim should be administered with caution.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim administration in de novo AML patients aged < 55 years with good cytogenetics [t(8;21), t(15;17), and inv(16)] have not been established.



Leucocytosis



White blood cell counts of 100 x 109/l or greater have been observed in less than 5% of patients receiving filgrastim at doses above 0.3 MU/kg/day (3 μg/kg/day). No undesirable effects directly attributable to this degree of leucocytosis have been reported. However, in view of the potential risks associated with severe leucocytosis, a white blood cell count should be performed at regular intervals during filgrastim therapy. If leukocyte counts exceed 50 x 109/l after the expected nadir, filgrastim should be discontinued immediately. However, during the period of administration of filgrastim for PBPC mobilisation, it should be discontinued or its dose should be reduced if the leukocyte counts rise to > 70 x 109/l.



Risks associated with increased doses of chemotherapy



Special caution should be used when treating patients with high-dose chemotherapy because improved tumour outcome has not been demonstrated and intensified doses of chemotherapeutic agents may lead to increased toxicities including cardiac, pulmonary, neurologic, and dermatologic effects (please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics of the specific chemotherapy agents used).



Treatment with filgrastim alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia due to myelosuppressive chemotherapy. Because of the potential of receiving higher doses of chemotherapy (e.g. full doses on the prescribed schedule) the patient may be at greater risk of thrombocytopenia and anaemia. Regular monitoring of platelet count and haematocrit is recommended. Special care should be taken when administering single or combination chemotherapeutic agents which are known to cause severe thrombocytopenia.



The use of filgrastim-mobilised PBPCs has been shown to reduce the depth and duration of thrombocytopenia following myelosuppressive or myeloablative chemotherapy.



Other special precautions



The effects of filgrastim in patients with substantially reduced myeloid progenitors have not been studied. Filgrastim acts primarily on neutrophil precursors to exert its effect in elevating neutrophil counts. Therefore, in patients with reduced precursors, neutrophil response may be diminished (such as those treated with extensive radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or those with bone marrow infiltration by tumour).



There have been reports of Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD) and fatalities in patients receiving G-CSF after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (see section 5.1).



Mobilisation of PBPC



Prior exposure to cytotoxic agents



Patients who have undergone very extensive prior myelosuppressive therapy, followed by administration of filgrastim for mobilisation of PBPCs, may not show sufficient mobilisation of these blood cells to achieve the recommended minimum yield (6 CD34+ cells/kg) or acceleration of platelet recovery to the same degree.



Some cytotoxic agents exhibit particular toxicities to the haematopoietic progenitor pool and may adversely affect progenitor mobilisation. Agents such as melphalan, carmustine (BCNU) and carboplatin, when administered over prolonged periods prior to attempts at progenitor mobilisation may reduce progenitor yield. However, the administration of melphalan, carboplatin or BCNU together with filgrastim has been shown to be effective for progenitor mobilisation. When a PBPC transplantation is envisaged it is advisable to plan the stem cell mobilisation procedure early in the treatment course of the patient. Particular attention should be paid to the number of progenitors mobilised in such patients before the administration of high-dose chemotherapy. If yields are inadequate, as measured by the criteria above, alternative forms of treatment not requiring progenitor support should be considered.



Assessment of progenitor cell yields



In assessing the number of progenitor cells harvested in patients treated with filgrastim, particular attention should be paid to the method of quantitation. The results of flow cytometric analysis of CD34+ cell numbers vary depending on the precise methodology used and therefore, recommendations of numbers based on studies in other laboratories need to be interpreted with caution.



Statistical analysis of the relationship between the number of CD34+ cells re-infused and the rate of platelet recovery after high-dose chemotherapy indicates a complex but continuous relationship. The recommendation of a minimum yield of 6 CD34+ cells/kg is based on published experience resulting in adequate haematologic reconstitution. Yields in excess of this minimum yield appear to correlate with more rapid recovery, those below with slower recovery.



Normal donors prior to allogeneic PBPC transplantation



Mobilisation of PBPC does not provide a direct clinical benefit to normal donors and should only be considered for the purposes of allogeneic stem cell transplantation.



PBPC mobilisation should be considered only in donors who meet normal clinical and laboratory eligibility criteria for stem cell donation with special attention to haematological values and infectious disease.



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim have not been assessed in normal donors < 16 years or > 60 years.



Transient thrombocytopenia (platelets < 100 x 109/l) following filgrastim administration and leukapheresis was observed in 35% of subjects studied. Among these, two cases of platelets < 50 x 109/l were reported and attributed to the leukapheresis procedure. If more than one leukapheresis is required, particular attention should be paid to donors with platelets < 100 x 109/l prior to leukapheresis; in general apheresis should not be performed if platelets < 75 x 109/l.



Leukapheresis should not be performed in donors who are anticoagulated or who have known defects in haemostasis.



Filgrastim administration should be discontinued or its posology should be reduced if the leukocyte counts rise to > 70 x 109/l.



Donors who receive G-CSFs for PBPC mobilisation should be monitored until haematological indices return to normal.



Transient cytogenetic modifications have been observed in normal donors following G-CSF use. The significance of these changes is unknown.



Long-term safety follow-up of donors is ongoing. Nevertheless, a risk of promotion of a malignant myeloid clone can not be excluded. It is recommended that the apheresis centre perform a systematic record and tracking of the stem cell donors for at least 10 years to ensure monitoring of long-term safety.



Common but generally asymptomatic cases of splenomegaly and very rare cases of splenic rupture have been reported in healthy donors and patients following administration of G-CSFs. Some cases of splenic rupture were fatal. Therefore, spleen size should be carefully monitored (e.g. clinical examination, ultrasound). A diagnosis of splenic rupture should be considered in donors and/or patients reporting left upper abdominal pain or shoulder tip pain.



In normal donors, pulmonary adverse events (haemoptysis, pulmonary haemorrhage, pulmonary infiltrates, dyspnoea and hypoxia) have been reported very rarely in post marketing experience. In case of suspected or confirmed pulmonary adverse events, discontinuation of treatment with filgrastim should be considered and appropriate medical care given.



Recipients of allogeneic PBPCs mobilised with filgrastim



Current data indicate that immunological interactions between the allogeneic PBPC graft and the recipient may be associated with an increased risk of acute and chronic GvHD when compared with bone marrow transplantation.



SCN



Blood cell counts



Platelet counts should be monitored closely, especially during the first few weeks of filgrastim therapy. Consideration should be given to intermittent cessation or decreasing the dose of filgrastim in patients who develop thrombocytopenia, i.e. platelets consistently < 100,000/mm3.



Other blood cell changes occur, including anaemia and transient increases in myeloid progenitors, which require close monitoring of cell counts.



Transformation to leukaemia or myelodysplastic syndrome



Special care should be taken in the diagnosis of SCNs to distinguish them from other haematopoietic disorders such as aplastic anaemia, myelodysplasia, and myeloid leukaemia. Complete blood cell counts with differential and platelet counts, and an evaluation of bone marrow morphology and karyotype should be performed prior to treatment.



There was a low frequency (approximately 3%) of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or leukaemia in clinical study patients with SCN treated with filgrastim. This observation has only been made in patients with congenital neutropenia. MDS and leukaemias are natural complications of the disease and are of uncertain relation to filgrastim therapy. A subset of approximately 12% of patients who had normal cytogenetic evaluations at baseline were subsequently found to have abnormalities, including monosomy 7, on routine repeat evaluation. If patients with SCN develop abnormal cytogenetics, the risks and benefits of continuing filgrastim should be carefully weighed; Filgrastim should be discontinued if MDS or leukaemia occurs. It is currently unclear whether long-term treatment of patients with SCN will predispose patients to cytogenetic abnormalities, MDS or leukaemic transformation. It is recommended to perform morphologic and cytogenetic bone marrow examinations in patients at regular intervals (approximately every 12 months).



Other special precautions



Causes of transient neutropenia, such as viral infections should be excluded.



Splenic enlargement is a direct effect of treatment with filgrastim. 31% of patients in studies were documented as having palpable splenomegaly. Increases in volume, measured radiographically, occurred early during Filgrastim therapy and tended to plateau. Dose reductions were noted to slow or stop the progression of splenic enlargement, and in 3% of patients a splenectomy was required. Spleen size should be evaluated regularly. Abdominal palpation should be sufficient to detect abnormal increases in splenic volume.



Haematuria/proteinuria occurred in a small number of patients. Regular urine analyses should be performed to monitor this event.



The safety and efficacy in neonates and patients with autoimmune neutropenia have not been established.



HIV infection



Blood cell counts



ANC should be monitored closely, especially during the first few weeks of filgrastim therapy. Some patients may respond very rapidly and with a considerable increase in neutrophil count to the initial dose of filgrastim. It is recommended that the ANC is measured daily for the first 2 - 3 days of filgrastim administration. Thereafter, it is recommended that the ANC is measured at least twice per week for the first 2 weeks and subsequently once per week or once every other week during maintenance therapy. During intermittent dosing with 30 MU/day (300 μg/day) of filgrastim, there can be wide fluctuations in the patient's ANC over time. In order to determine a patient's trough or nadir ANC, it is recommended that blood samples are taken for ANC measurement immediately prior to any scheduled dosing with filgrastim.



Risk associated with increased doses of myelosuppressive medicinal products



Treatment with filgrastim alone does not preclude thrombocytopenia and anaemia due to myelosuppressive treatments. As a result of the potential to receive higher doses or a greater number of these medicinal products with filgrastim therapy, the patient may be at higher risk of developing thrombocytopenia and anaemia. Regular monitoring of blood counts is recommended (see above).



Infections and malignancies causing myelosuppression



Neutropenia may be due to bone marrow-infiltrating opportunistic infections such as Mycobacterium avium complex or malignancies such as lymphoma. In patients with known bone marrow-infiltrating infections or malignancy, consider appropriate therapy for treatment of the underlying condition in addition to administration of filgrastim for treatment of neutropenia. The effects of filgrastim on neutropenia due to bone marrow-infiltrating infection or malignancy have not been well established.



Other special precautions



Rare pulmonary adverse reactions, in particular interstitial pneumonia, have been reported after G-CSF administration (see section 4.8). Patients with a recent history of pulmonary infiltrates or pneumonia may be at higher risk. The onset of pulmonary signs, such as cough, fever and dyspnoea in association with radiological signs of pulmonary infiltrates and deterioration in pulmonary function may be preliminary signs of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Filgrastim should be discontinued and appropriate treatment given in these cases.



Monitoring of bone density may be indicated in patients with underlying osteoporotic bone diseases who undergo continuous therapy with filgrastim for more than 6 months.



Sickle cells crises, in some cases fatal, have been reported with the use of filgrastim in subjects with sickle cell disease. Physicians should exercise caution when considering the use of filgrastim in patients with sickle cell disease, and only after careful evaluation of the potential risks and benefits.



Increased haematopoietic activity of the bone marrow in response to growth factor therapy has been associated with transient positive bone-imaging findings. This should be considered when interpreting bone imaging results.



Excipients



Zarzio contains sorbitol. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not use this medicinal product.



In order to improve the traceability of granulocyte-colony stimulating factors (G-CSFs), the trade name of the administered product should be clearly recorded in the patient file.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



The safety and efficacy of filgrastim given on the same day as myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy have not been definitively established. In view of the sensitivity of rapidly dividing myeloid cells to myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy, the use of filgrastim is not recommended in the period from 24 hours before to 24 hours after chemotherapy. Preliminary evidence from a small number of patients treated concomitantly with filgrastim and 5-fluorouracil indicates that the severity of neutropenia may be exacerbated.



Possible interactions with other haematopoietic growth factors and cytokines have not yet been investigated in clinical studies.



Since lithium promotes the release of neutrophils, lithium is likely to potentiate the effect of filgrastim. Although this interaction has not been formally investigated, there is no evidence that such an interaction is harmful.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



There are no adequate data from the use of filgrastim in pregnant women. There are reports in the literature where the transplacental passage of filgrastim in pregnant women has been demonstrated. There is no evidence from studies in rats and rabbits that filgrastim is teratogenic. An increased incidence of embryo-loss has been observed in rabbits, but no malformation has been seen.



In pregnancy, the possible risk of filgrastim use to the foetus must be weighed against the expected therapeutic benefit.



It is not known whether filgrastim is excreted in human milk, therefore it is not recommended for use in breast-feeding women.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Filgrastim has no influence on the ability to drive and use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The most commonly reported adverse reactions to filgrastim are mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain occurring in more than 10% of patients. Musculoskeletal pain is usually controlled with standard analgesics.



Adverse reactions listed below are classified according to frequency and system organ class. Frequency groupings are defined according to the following convention: Very common (



Table 1. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in cancer patients























































Immune system disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Allergic-type reactions*, including anaphylaxis, skin rash, urticaria, angioedema, dyspnoea and hypotension




Vascular disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Hypotension (transient)



 


Rare:




Vascular disorders* including venoocclusive disease and fluid volume disturbances




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Pulmonary oedema*, interstitial pneumonia*, pulmonary infiltrates*




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Sweet's Syndrome*, cutaneous vasculitis




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




Musculoskeletal pain (mild or moderate)



 


Common:




Musculoskeletal pain (severe)



 


Very rare:




Rheumatoid arthritis exacerbation




Renal and urinary disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Micturition disorders (predominantly dysuria)




Investigations


  

 


Very common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase, blood lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) and blood uric acid increased (reversible, dose-dependent, mild or moderate)



* see below



Table 2. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in normal donors undergoing PBPC mobilisation























































Immune system disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Severe allergic reaction: anaphylaxis, angioedema, urticaria, rash




Blood and the lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Very common:



Leucocytosis (WBC > 50 x 109/l), thrombocytopenia (platelets < 100 x 109/l; transient)

 


Common:




Splenomegaly (generally asymptomatic, also in patients)



 


Uncommon:




Spleen disorder



 


Very rare:




Splenic rupture (also in patients)




Nervous system disorders


  

 


Very common:




Headache




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 


Very rare:




Haemoptysis*, pulmonary haemorrhage*, pulmonary infiltrates*, dyspnoea*, hypoxia*




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




Musculoskeletal pain (mild to moderate, transient)



 


Uncommon:




Rheumatoid arthritis and arthritic symptoms exacerbation




Investigations


  

 


Common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase and LDH increased (transient, minor)



 


Uncommon:




Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and blood uric acid increased (transient, minor)



* see below



Table 3. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in SCN patients









































































Blood and the lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Very common:




Anaemia, splenomegaly (may be progressive in a minority of cases)



 


Common:




Thrombocytopenia



 


Uncommon:




Spleen disorder




Nervous system disorders


  

 


Common:




Headache




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


  

 

Very common:


Epistaxis




Gastrointestinal disorders


  

 


Common:




Diarrhoea




Hepato-biliary disorders


  

 


Common:




Hepatomegaly




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders


  

 


Common:




Cutaneous vasculitis (during long term use), alopecia, rash




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders


  

 


Very common:




General musculoskeletal pain, bone pain



 


Common:




Osteoporosis, arthralgia




Renal and urinary disorders


  

 


Uncommon:




Haematuria, proteinuria




General disorders and administration site conditions


  

 


Common:




Injection site pain




Investigations


  

 


Very common:




Blood alkaline phosphatase, LDH and blood uric acid increased (transient), blood glucose decreased (transient, moderate)



Table 4. Adverse reactions in clinical trials in HIV Patients









Blood and lymphatic system disorders


  

 


Common:



Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Tagamet Suspension



Pronunciation: sye-MEHT-ih-deen
Generic Name: Cimetidine
Brand Name: Tagamet


Tagamet Suspension is used for:

Treating and preventing heartburn. Tagamet Suspension may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Tagamet Suspension is a histamine blocker. It works by blocking one of the chemical transmitters, which is responsible for stimulating the production of stomach acid.


Do NOT use Tagamet Suspension if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Tagamet Suspension

  • you are taking a nitrosourea (eg, streptozocin), dofetilide, or cisapride

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



Before using Tagamet Suspension:


Some medical conditions may interact with Tagamet Suspension. 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 liver or kidney problems

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


  • Many prescription medicines (eg, those used for angina, asthma, arrhythmias, blood thinning, cancer, erectile dysfunction, high blood pressure, infections, pain, psychiatric disorders, seizures, other conditions) may interact with Tagamet Suspension, increasing the risk of side effects, some potentially life-threatening.

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


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


  • Take Tagamet Suspension by mouth with or without food.

  • Shake well before each use.

  • Take Tagamet Suspension with a full glass of water (8oz/240 mL).

  • Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure this dose.

  • If you also take cephalosporin (eg, cephalexin), itraconazole, or ketoconazole, take it at least 2 hours before taking Tagamet Suspension. Check with your doctor if you have questions.

  • If you miss a dose of Tagamet Suspension and you are taking 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 Tagamet Suspension.



Important safety information:


  • Tagamet Suspension may cause drowsiness or dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Tagamet Suspension with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

  • Do not use this product if you have difficulty swallowing.

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

  • LAB TESTS, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed while you use Tagamet Suspension. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

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

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

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Tagamet Suspension while you are pregnant. Tagamet Suspension is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Tagamet Suspension.


Possible side effects of Tagamet Suspension:


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:



Diarrhea; breast growth; dizziness; drowsiness; hallucinations; headache; mental confusion; sexual difficulties.



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); black, tarry stools; vomit that looks like coffee grounds.



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


See also: Tagamet side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing; fast heartbeat; restlessness; tremors; vomiting.


Proper storage of Tagamet Suspension:

Store Tagamet Suspension at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep Tagamet Suspension out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Tagamet Suspension 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 Tagamet Suspension. 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 Tagamet resources


  • Tagamet Side Effects (in more detail)
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