Saturday, October 6, 2012

Triazine anticonvulsants


A drug may be classified by the chemical type of the active ingredient or by the way it is used to treat a particular condition. Each drug can be classified into one or more drug classes.

Triazine anticonvulsants act on presynaptic sodium channels and inhibit the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, glutamate and aspartate. Triazine anticonvulsants are used to treat absence seizures, partial seizures, tonic-clonic seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

See also

Medical conditions associated with triazine anticonvulsants:

  • Anxiety
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Depression
  • Migraine Prevention
  • Restless Legs Syndrome
  • Schizoaffective Disorder
  • Seizure Prevention

Drug List:

Friday, October 5, 2012

Schering-Plough


Address


Schering-Plough,
2000 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, NJ 07033-0530

Contact Details

Phone: (908) 298-4000
Website: http://www.schering-plough.com/
Careers: http://www.schering-plough.com...

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Antipseudomonal penicillins


A drug may be classified by the chemical type of the active ingredient or by the way it is used to treat a particular condition. Each drug can be classified into one or more drug classes.

Antipseudomonal penicillins are antimicrobial agents, which are used to treat pseudomonal infections. They have the activity of penicillins and aminopenicillins, and additional activity against Pseudomonas, Enterococcus and Klebsiella.


Antipseudomonal penicillins are usually given with beta-lactamase inhibitors because like other penicillins they are susceptible to hydrolysis by beta-lactamases (therefore are not consistently active against Staphylococcus, some gram-negative rods and certain beta-lactamse producing gram-negative anaerobes).


These penicillins when given with aminoglycosides work effectively and avoid development of resistance strains of bacteria.

See also

Medical conditions associated with antipseudomonal penicillins:

  • Bladder Infection
  • Bone infection
  • Cesarean Section
  • Febrile Neutropenia
  • Gonococcal Infection, Uncomplicated
  • Hysterectomy
  • Intraabdominal Infection
  • Joint Infection
  • Kidney Infections
  • Meningitis
  • Nosocomial Pneumonia
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
  • Peritonitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Pneumonia with Cystic Fibrosis
  • Prostatitis
  • Septicemia
  • Skin Infection
  • Surgical Prophylaxis
  • Urinary Tract Infection

Drug List:

Abelcet



amphotericin B lipid complex

Dosage Form: injection
Abelcet® (Amphotericin B Lipid Complex Injection) 100 mg

Abelcet Description


Abelcet® is a sterile, pyrogen-free suspension for intravenous infusion. Abelcet® consists of amphotericin B complexed with two phospholipids in a 1:1 drug-to-lipid molar ratio. The two phospholipids, l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPG), are present in a 7:3 molar ratio. Abelcet® is yellow and opaque in appearance, with a pH of 5 - 7.


NOTE: Liposomal encapsulation or incorporation in a lipid complex can substantially affect a drug’s functional properties relative to those of the unencapsulated or nonlipid-associated drug. In addition, different liposomal or lipid-complexed products with a common active ingredient may vary from one another in the chemical composition and physical form of the lipid component. Such differences may affect functional properties of these drug products.


Amphotericin B is a polyene, antifungal antibiotic produced from a strain of Streptomyces nodosus. Amphotericin B is designated chemically as [1R-(1R*, 3S*, 5R*, 6R*, 9R*, 11R*, 15S*, 16R*, 17R*, 18S*, 19E, 21E, 23E, 25E, 27E, 29E, 31E, 33R*, 35S*, 36R*, 37S*)]-33-[(3-Amino-3, 6-dideoxy- β-D-mannopyranosyl) oxy]-1,3,5,6,9,11,17,37-octahydroxy-15,16,18-trimethyl-13-oxo-14,39-dioxabicyclo[33.3.1] nonatriaconta-19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31-heptaene-36-carboxylic acid.


It has a molecular weight of 924.09 and a molecular formula of C47H73NO17. The structural formula is:



Abelcet® is provided as a sterile, opaque suspension in 20 mL glass, single-use vials. Each 20 mL vial contains 100 mg of amphotericin B (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION), and each mL of Abelcet® contains:


Amphotericin B USP 5.0 mg


l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) 3.4 mg


l-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPG) 1.5 mg


Sodium Chloride USP 9.0 mg


Water for Injection USP, q.s. 1 mL


MICROBIOLOGY


Mechanism of Action


The active component of Abelcet®, amphotericin B, acts by binding to sterols in the cell membrane of susceptible fungi, with a resultant change in the permeability of the membrane. Mammalian cell membranes also contain sterols, and damage to human cells is believed to occur through the same mechanism of action.


Activity in vitro and in vivo


Abelcet® shows in vitro activity against Aspergillus sp. (n=3) and Candida sp. (n=10), with MICs generally <1 μg/mL. Depending upon the species and strain of Aspergillus and Candida tested, significant in vitro differences in susceptibility to amphotericin B have been reported (MICs ranging from 0.1 to >10 mg/mL). However, standardized techniques for susceptibility testing for antifungal agents have not been established, and results of susceptibility studies do not necessarily correlate with clinical outcome.


Abelcet® is active in animal models against Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, C. guillermondii, C. stellatoideae, and C. tropicalis, Cryptococcus sp., Coccidioidomyces sp., Histoplasma sp., and Blastomyces sp. in which end-points were clearance of microorganisms from target organ(s) and/or prolonged survival of infected animals.


Drug Resistance


Fungal species with decreased susceptibility to amphotericin B have been isolated after serial passage in culture media containing the drug, and from some patients receiving prolonged therapy. Although the relevance of drug resistance to clinical outcome has not been established, fungal species which are resistant to amphotericin B may also be resistant to Abelcet®.



Abelcet - Clinical Pharmacology


Pharmacokinetics


The assay used to measure amphotericin B in the blood after the administration of Abelcet® does not distinguish amphotericin B that is complexed with the phospholipids of Abelcet® from amphotericin B that is uncomplexed.


The pharmacokinetics of amphotericin B after the administration of Abelcet® are nonlinear. Volume of distribution and clearance from blood increase with increasing dose of Abelcet®, resulting in less than proportional increases in blood concentrations of amphotericin B over a dose range of 0.6-5 mg/kg/day. The pharmacokinetics of amphotericin B in whole blood after the administration of Abelcet® and amphotericin B desoxycholate are:





























Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Amphotericin B in Whole Blood


in Patients Administered Multiple Doses of Abelcet® or Amphotericin B Desoxycholate
Pharmacokinetic ParameterAbelcet® 5 mg/kg/day for 5-7 days Mean ± SDAmphotericin B

0.6 mg/kg/day for 42 daysa Mean ± SD
Peak Concentration ( μg/mL)1.7 ± 0.8 (n=10)b1.1 ± 0.2 (n=5)
Concentration at End of Dosing Interval (μg/mL)0.6 ± 0.3 (n=10b0.4 ± 0.2 (n=5)
Area Under Blood Concentration-Time Curve

(AUC0-24h) (μg*h/mL)


14.0 ± 7.0 (n=14)b,c


17.1 ± 5 (n=5)
Clearance (mL/h*kg)436.0.± 188.5 (n=14)b,c38.0 ± 15 (n=5)
Apparent Volume of Distribution (Vdarea) (L/kg)131.0.± 57.7 (n=8)c5.0.± 2.8 (n=5)
Terminal Elimination Half-Life (h)173.4 ± 78.0 (n=8)c91.1 ± 40.9 (n=5)
Amount Excreted in Urine Over 24 h After Last Dose (% of dose)d

0.9 ± 0.4 (n=8)c


9.6 ± 2.5 (n=8)

 a Data from patients with mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Infusion rate was 0.25 mg/kg/h.


b Data from studies in patients with cytologically proven cancer being treated with chemotherapy or neutropenic patients with

presumed or proven fungal infection. Infusion rate was 2.5 mg/kg/h.


c Data from patients with mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Infusion rate was 4 mg/kg/h.


d Percentage of dose excreted in 24 hours after last dose.


The large volume of distribution and high clearance from blood of amphotericin B after the admistration of Abelcet® probably reflect uptake by tissues. The long terminal elimination half-life probably reflects a slow redistribution from tissues. Although amphotericin B is excreted slowly, there is little accumulation in the blood after repeated dosing. AUC of amphotericin B increased approximately 34% from day 1 after the administration of Abelcet® 5 mg/kg/day for 7 days. The effect of gender or ethnicity on the pharmacokinetics of Abelcet® has not been studied.


Tissue concentrations of amphotericin B have been obtained at autopsy from one heart transplant patient who received three doses of Abelcet® at 5.3 mg/kg/day:




















Concentration in Human Tissues


Organ

Amphotericin B


Tissue Concentration (µg/g)
Spleen290.0
Lung222.0
Liver196.0
Lymph Node7.6
Kidney6.9
Heart 05.
Brain1.6

 This pattern of distribution is consistent with that observed in preclinical studies in dogs in which greatest concentrations of amphotericin B after Abelcet® administration were observed in the liver, spleen, and lung; however, the relationship of tissue concentrations of amphotericin B to its biological activity when administered as Abelcet® is unknown.


Special Populations


Hepatic Impairment: The effect of hepatic impairment on the disposition of Abelcet® is not known.


Renal Impairment: The effect of renal impairment on the disposition of Abelcet® is not known. The effect of dialysis on the elimination of Abelcet® has not been studied; however, amphotericin B is not removed by hemodialysis when administered as amphotericin B desoxycholate.


Pediatric and Elderly Patients:  The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of pediatric patients (≤16 years of age) and elderly patients (≥65 years of age) have not been studied.



Indications and Usage for Abelcet


Abelcet® is indicated for the treatment of invasive fungal infections in patients who are refractory to or intolerant of conventional amphotericin B therapy. This is based on open-label treatment of patients judged by their physicians to be intolerant to or failing conventional amphotericin B therapy (See DESCRIPTION OF CLINICAL STUDIES).


DESCRIPTION OF CLINICAL STUDIES


Fungal Infections


Data from 473 patients were pooled from three open-label studies in which Abelcet® was provided for the treatment of patients with invasive fungal infections who were judged by their physicians to be refractory to or intolerant of conventional amphotericin B, or who had preexisting nephrotoxicity. Results of these studies demonstrated effectiveness of Abelcet® in the treatment of invasive fungal infections as a second line therapy.


Patients were defined by their individual physician as being refractory to or failing conventional amphotericin B therapy based on overall clinical judgement after receiving a minimum total dose of 500 mg of amphotericin B. Nephrotoxicity was defined as a serum creatinine that had increased to >2.5 mg/dL in adults and >1.5 mg/dL in pediatric patients, or a creatinine clearance of <25 mL/min while receiving conventional amphotericin B therapy.


Of the 473 patients, four were enrolled more than once; each enrollment contributed separately to the denominator. The median age was 39 years (range of <1 to 93 years); 307 patients were male and 166 female. Patients were Caucasian (381, 81%), African-American (41, 9%), Hispanic (27, 6%), Asian (10, 2%), and various other races (14, 3%). The median baseline neutrophil count was 4,000 PMN/mm3; of these, 101 (21%) had a baseline neutrophil count <500/mm3.


Two-hundred eighty-two patients of the 473 patients were considered evaluable for response to therapy; the other 191 patients were excluded on the basis of unconfirmed diagnosis, confounding factors, concomitant systemic antifungal therapy, or receiving 4 doses or less of Abelcet®. For evaluable patients, the following fungal infections were treated (n=282): aspergillosis (n=111), candidiasis (n=87), zygomycosis (n=25), cryptococcosis (n=16), and fusariosis (n=11). There were fewer than 10 evaluable patients for each of several other fungal species treated.


For each type of fungal infection listed above there were some patients successfully treated. However, in the absence of controlled studies it is unknown how response would have compared to either continuing conventional amphotericin B therapy or the use of alternative antifungal agents.


Renal Function: Patients with aspergillosis who initiated treatment with Abelcet® when serum creatinine was above 2.5 mg/dL experienced a decline in serum creatinine during treatment (Figure 1). Serum creatinine levels were also lower during treatment with Abelcet® when compared to the serum creatinine levels of patients treated with conventional amphotericin B in a retrospective historical control study. Meaningful statistical testing of the differences between these two groups is precluded since these data were obtained from two separate studies.



[ ]= Number of patients at each time point.


Note: These curves do not represent the clinical course of a given patient, but that of an open-label cohort of patients.



[ ]= Number of patients at each time point.


Note: These curves do not represent the clinical course of a given patient, but that of an open-label cohort of patients.


In a randomized study of Abelcet® for the treatment of invasive candidiasis in patients with normal baseline renal function, the incidence of nephrotoxicity was significantly less for Abelcet® at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day than for conventional amphotericin B at a dose of 0.7 mg/kg/day.


Despite generally less nephrotoxicity of Abelcet® observed at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day compared with conventional amphotericin B therapy at a dose range of 0.6-1 mg/kg/day, dose-limiting renal toxicity may still be observed with Abelcet®. Renal toxicity of doses greater than 5 mg/kg/day of Abelcet® has not been formally studied.



Contraindications


Abelcet® is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to amphotericin B or any other component in the formulation.



Warnings


Anaphylaxis has been reported with amphotericin B desoxycholate and other amphotericin B-containing drugs. Anaphylaxis has been reported with Abelcet® with an incidence rate of <0.1%. If severe respiratory distress occurs, the infusion should be immediately discontinued. The patient should not receive further infusions of Abelcet®.



Precautions



General:


As with any amphotericin B-containing product, during the initial dosing of Abelcet®, the drug should be administered under close clinical observation by medically trained personnel.


Acute reactions including fever and chills may occur 1 to 2 hours after starting an intravenous infusion of Abelcet®. These reactions are usually more common with the first few doses of Abelcet® and generally diminish with subsequent doses. Infusion has been rarely associated with hypotension, bronchospasm, arrhythmias, and shock.



Laboratory Tests:


Serum creatinine should be monitored frequently during Abelcet® therapy (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). It is also advisable to regularly monitor liver function, serum electrolytes (particularly magnesium and potassium), and complete blood counts.



Drug Interactions:


No formal clinical studies of drug interactions have been conducted with Abelcet®. However, when administered concomitantly, the following drugs are known to interact with amphotericin B; therefore, the following drugs may interact with Abelcet®:


Antineoplastic agents: Concurrent use of antineoplastic agents and amphotericin B may enhance the potential for renal toxicity, bronchospasm, and hypotension. Antineoplastic agents should be given concomitantly with Abelcet® with great caution.


Corticosteroids and corticotropin (ACTH): Concurrent use of corticosteroids and corticotropin (ACTH) with amphotericin B may potentiate hypokalemia which could predispose the patient to cardiac dysfunction. If used concomitantly with Abelcet®, serum electrolytes and cardiac function should be closely monitored.


Cyclosporin A: Data from a prospective study of prophylactic Abelcet® in 22 patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation suggested that concurrent initiation of cyclosporin A and Abelcet® within several days of bone marrow ablation may be associated with increased nephrotoxicity.


Digitalis glycosides: Concurrent use of amphotericin B may induce hypokalemia and may potentiate digitalis toxicity. When administered concomitantly with Abelcet®, serum potassium levels should be closely monitored.


Flucytosine: Concurrent use of flucytosine with amphotericin B-containing preparations may increase the toxicity of flucytosine by possibly increasing its cellular uptake and/or impairing its renal excretion. Flucytosine should be given concomitantly with Abelcet® with caution. 


Imidazoles (e.g., ketoconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, fluconazole, etc.): Antagonism between amphotericin B and imidazole derivatives such as miconazole and ketoconazole, which inhibit ergosterol synthesis, has been reported in both in vitro and in vivo animal studies. The clinical significance of these findings has not been determined. 


Leukocyte transfusions: Acute pulmonary toxicity has been reported in patients receiving intravenous amphotericin B and leukocyte transfusions. Leukocyte transfusions and Abelcet® should not be given concurrently.


Other nephrotoxic medications: Concurrent use of amphotericin B and agents such as aminoglcosides and pentamidine may enhance the potential for drug-induced renal toxicity. Aminoglycosides and pentamidine should be used concomitantly with Abelcet® only with great caution. Intensive monitoring of renal function is recommended in patients requiring any combination of nephrotoxic medications.


Skeletal muscle relaxants: Amphotericin B-induced hypokalemia may enhance the curariform effect of skeletal muscle relaxants (e.g., tubocurarine) due to hypokalemia. When administered concomitantly with Abelcet®, serum potassium levels should be closely monitored.


Zidovudine: Increased myelotoxicity and nephrotoxicity were observed in dogs when either Abelcet® (at doses 0.16 or 0.5 times the recommended human dose) or amphotericin B desoxycholate (at 0.5 times the recommended human dose) were administered concomitantly with zidovudine for 30 days. If zidovudine is used concomitantly with Abelcet®, renal and hematologic function should be closely monitored.



Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, and Impairment of Fertility:


No long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of Abelcet®. The following in vitro (with and without metabolic activation) and in vivo studies to assess Abelcet® for mutagenic potential were conducted: bacterial reverse mutation assay, mouse lymphoma forward mutation assay, chromosomal aberration assay in CHO cells, and in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. Abelcet® was found to be without mutagenic effects in all assay systems. Studies demonstrated that Abelcet® had no impact on fertility in male and female rats at doses up to 0.32 times the recommended human dose (based on body surface area considerations).



Pregnancy:


There are no reports of pregnant women having been treated with Abelcet®. Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category B: Reproductive studies in rats and rabbits at doses of Abelcet® up to 0.64 times the human dose revealed no harm to the fetus. Because animal reproductive studies are not always predictive of human response, and adequate and well-controlled studies have not been conducted in pregnant women, Abelcet® should be used during pregnancy only after taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.



Nursing Mothers:


It is not known whether Abelcet® is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breast-fed infants from Abelcet®, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.



Pediatric Use:


One hundred eleven children (2 were enrolled twice and counted as separate patients), age 16 years and under, of whom 11 were less than 1 year, have been treated with Abelcet® at 5 mg/kg/day in two open-label studies and one small, prospective, single-arm study. In one single-center study, 5 children with hepatosplenic candidiasis were effectively treated with 2.5 mg/kg/day of Abelcet®. No serious unexpected adverse events have been reported.



Geriatric Use:


Forty-nine elderly patients, age 65 years or over, have been treated with Abelcet® at 5 mg/kg/day in two open-label studies and one small, prospective, single-arm study. No serious unexpected adverse events have been reported.



Adverse Reactions


The total safety data base is composed of 921 patients treated with Abelcet® (5 patients were enrolled twice and counted as separate patients), of whom 775 were treated with 5 mg/kg/day. Of these 775 patients, 194 patients were treated in four comparative studies; 25 were treated in open-label, non-comparative studies; and 556 patients were treated in an open-label, emergency-use program. Most had underlying hematologic neoplasms, and many were receiving multiple concomitant medications. Of the 556 patients treated with Abelcet®, 9% discontinued treatment due to adverse events regardless of presumed relationship to study drug.


In general, the adverse events most commonly reported with Abelcet® were transient chills and/or fever during infusion of the drug.




























































Adverse Eventsa with an Incidence of ≥3% (N=556)
Adverse EventPercentage (%) of Patients
Chills18
Fever14
Increased Serum Creatinine11
Multiple Organ Failure11
Nausea9
Hypotension8
Respiratory Failure8
Vomiting8
Dyspnea7
Sepsis7
Diarrhea6
Headache6
Heart Arrest6
Hypertension5
Hypokalemia5
Infection5
Kidney Failure5
Pain5
Thrombocytopenia5
Anemia4
Bilirubinemia4
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage4
Leukopenia4
Rash4
Respiratory Disorder4
Chest Pain3
Nausea and Vomiting3

 aThe causal association between these adverse events and Abelcet® is uncertain.


The following adverse events have also been reported in patients using Abelcet® in open-label, uncontrolled clinical studies. The causal association between these adverse events and Abelcet® is uncertain.


Body as a whole: malaise, weight loss, deafness, injection site reaction including inflammation


Allergic: bronchospasm, wheezing, asthma, anaphylactoid and other allergic reactions


Cardiopulmonary: cardiac failure, pulmonary edema, shock, myocardial infarction, hemoptysis, tachypnea, thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolus, cardiomyopathy, pleural effusion, arrhythmias including ventricular fibrillation.


Dermatological: maculopapular rash, pruritus, exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme


Gastrointestinal: acute liver failure, hepatitis, jaundice, melena, anorexia, dyspepsia, cramping, epigastric pain, veno-occlusive liver disease, diarrhea, hepatomegaly, cholangitis, cholecystitis


Hematologic: coagulation defects, leukocytosis, blood dyscrasias including eosinophilia


Musculoskeletal: myasthenia, including bone, muscle, and joint pains


Neurologic: convulsions, tinnitus, visual impairment, hearing loss, peripheral neuropathy, transient vertigo, diplopia, encephalopathy, cerebral vascular accident, extrapyramidal syndrome and other neurologic symptoms


Urogenital: oliguria, decreased renal function, anuria, renal tubular acidosis, impotence, dysuria


Serum electrolyte abnormalities: hypomagnesemia, hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, hypercalcemia


Liver function test abnormalities: increased AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, LDH


Renal function test abnormalities: increased BUN


Other test abnormalities: acidosis, hyperamylasemia, hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia, hypophosphatemia


To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-888-393-4584 or by email at drugsafety@sigmatau.com or contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch.



Overdosage


Amphotericin B desoxycholate overdose has been reported to result in cardio-respiratory arrest. Fifteen patients have been reported to have received one or more doses of Abelcet® between 7-13 mg/kg. None of these patients had a serious acute reaction to Abelcet®. If an overdose is suspected, discontinue therapy, monitor the patient’s clinical status, and administer supportive therapy as required. Abelcet® is not hemodialyzable.



Abelcet Dosage and Administration


The recommended daily dosage for adults and children is 5 mg/kg given as a single infusion. Abelcet® should be administered by intravenous infusion at a rate of 2.5 mg/kg/h. If the infusion time exceeds 2 hours, mix the contents by shaking the infusion bag every 2 hours.


Renal toxicity of Abelcet®, as measured by serum creatinine levels, has been shown to be dose dependent. Decisions about dose adjustments should be made only after taking into account the overall clinical condition of the patient.


Preparation of Admixture for Infusion: Shake the vial gently until there is no evidence of any yellow sediment at the bottom. Withdraw the appropriate dose of Abelcet® from the required number of vials into one or more sterile syringes using an 18-gauge needle. Remove the needle from each syringe filled with Abelcet® and replace with the 5-micron filter needle supplied with each vial. Each filter needle may be used to filter the contents of up to four 100 mg vials. Insert the filter needle of the syringe into an IV bag containing 5% Dextrose Injection USP, and empty the contents of the syringe into the bag. The final infusion concentration should be 1 mg/mL. For pediatric patients and patients with cardiovascular disease the drug may be diluted with 5% Dextrose Injection to a final infusion concentration of 2 mg/mL. Before infusion, shake the bag until the contents are thoroughly mixed. Do not use the admixture after dilution with 5% Dextrose Injection if there is any evidence of foreign matter. Vials are for single use. Unused material should be discarded. Aseptic technique must be strictly observed throughout handling of Abelcet®, since no bacteriostatic agent or preservative is present.


DO NOT DILUTE WITH SALINE SOLUTIONS OR MIX WITH OTHER DRUGS OR ELECTROLYTES as the compatibility of Abelcet® with these materials has not been established. An existing intravenous line should be flushed with 5% Dextrose Injection before infusion of Abelcet®, or a separate infusion line should be used. DO NOT USE AN IN-LINE FILTER.


The diluted ready-for-use admixture is stable for up to 48 hours at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) and an additional 6 hours at room temperature.



How is Abelcet Supplied


Single-use vials along with 5-micron filter needles are individually packaged.


100 mg of Abelcet® in 20 mL of suspension NDC 57665-101-41



Storage


Prior to admixture, Abelcet® should be stored at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) and protected from exposure to light. Do not freeze. Abelcet® should be retained in the carton until time of use.


The admixed Abelcet® and 5% Dextrose Injection may be stored for up to 48 hours at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) and an additional 6 hours at room temperature. Do not freeze. Any unused material should be discarded.


U.S. Patent Nos. 4,973,465


5,616,334


6,406,713



Manufactured by: Sigma-Tau PharmaSource, Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46268.


Distributed by: Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals Inc., Gaithersburg, MD 20878.


Revised 05/2010



PACKAGE/LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL


NDC 57665-101-41


100 mg


Abelcet®


(amphotericin B Lipid Complex Injection)


Lipid


Formulation


For Intravenous Use Only


5 mg/mL


Contents:

One 100 mg vial

One filter needle


Manufactured by Sigma-Tau PharmaSource, Inc.

Indianapolis, IN 46268


Distributed by Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Gaithersburg, MD 20878


U.S. PATENT NOS. 4,973,465 5,616,334 6,406,713


Lot:

Exp:


C-101-41-US-L


Each mL of Abelcet contains:

Amphotericin B USP 5 mg

L-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) 3.4 mg

L-α-dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol (DMPG) 1.5 mg

Sodium Chloride USP 9 mg

Water for Injection USP, q.s. 1 mL


Preparation


Abelcet must be added to 5% Dextrose Injection USP before intravenous infusion.

See package insert for complete directions.


Dosage


See package insert for dosage and administration information.


Storage


Store between 2° and 8°C (36° to 46° F).

Do not freeze. Protect from light. Single-use vial.


Rx Only.


Carton Label










Abelcet 
amphotericin b, dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine, dl- and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol, dl-  injection










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)57665-101
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUSDEA Schedule    














Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
AMPHOTERICIN B (AMPHOTERICIN B)AMPHOTERICIN B5 mg  in 1 mL
DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE, DL- (DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE, DL-)DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLCHOLINE, DL-3.4 mg  in 1 mL
DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLGLYCEROL, DL- (DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLGLYCEROL, DL-)DIMYRISTOYLPHOSPHATIDYLGLYCEROL, DL-1.5 mg  in 1 mL








Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
SODIUM CHLORIDE 
WATER 


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      














Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
157665-101-411 VIAL In 1 CARTONcontains a VIAL
120 mL In 1 VIALThis package is contained within the CARTON (57665-101-41)










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA05072410/18/2010


Labeler - Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (068301431)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Xellia Pharmaceuticals AS561816174API MANUFACTURE









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Sigma-Tau Pharmasource, Inc.961822389MANUFACTURE
Revised: 10/2010Sigma-Tau Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

More Abelcet resources


  • Abelcet Side Effects (in more detail)
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  • Abelcet Drug Interactions
  • Abelcet Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Abelcet - Add your own review/rating


  • Abelcet Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Abelcet MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



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  • Aspergillosis, Invasive
  • Blastomycosis
  • Candida Infections, Systemic
  • Coccidioidomycosis
  • Cryptococcosis
  • Histoplasmosis
  • Leishmaniasis

Cardioselective beta blockers


A drug may be classified by the chemical type of the active ingredient or by the way it is used to treat a particular condition. Each drug can be classified into one or more drug classes.

Beta adrenergic blocking agents prevent stimulation of the beta adrenergic receptors at the nerve endings of the sympathetic nervous system and therefore decrease the activity of the heart. They block sympathetic stimulation of the heart and reduce systolic pressure, heart rate, cardiac contractility and output, so decrease myocardial oxygen demand and increase exercise tolerance.


Beta adrenergic blocking agents are used to treat angina, control abnormal heart rhythms and to reduce high blood pressure. However, blocking of the beta receptors may cause bronchial constriction therefore care has to be taken with the use of beta blockers in patients with respiratory conditions.


Cardioselective beta blockers (beta1- selective blockers) have a clinical advantage in that they mainly affect the heart, which predominantly has beta1 receptors. The effect of broncho-constriction is less with beta1 selective blockers, as the bronchial muscle has more beta2 receptors, however the danger of broncho-constriction cannot be totally ignored, as they are not totally selective.

See also

Medical conditions associated with cardioselective beta blockers:

  • Alcohol Withdrawal
  • Angina
  • Angina Pectoris Prophylaxis
  • Anxiety
  • Atrial Fibrillation
  • Atrial Flutter
  • Benign Essential Tremor
  • Esophageal Variceal Hemorrhage Prophylaxis
  • Heart Attack
  • Heart Failure
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Intra- or Post-op SVT or Hypertension
  • Left Ventricular Dysfunction
  • Migraine Prevention
  • Mitral Valve Prolapse
  • Premature Ventricular Depolarizations
  • Supraventricular Tachycardia
  • Ventricular Tachycardia

Drug List:

Atrophic Vaginitis Medications


Definition of Atrophic Vaginitis: Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation or irritation of the vagina caused by thinning and shrinking of the tissues of the vagina and decreased lubrication of the vaginal walls. This is due to a lack of estrogen. More...

Drugs associated with Atrophic Vaginitis

The following drugs and medications are in some way related to, or used in the treatment of Atrophic Vaginitis. This service should be used as a supplement to, and NOT a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

See sub-topics

Topics under Atrophic Vaginitis

  • Vaginal Dryness (0 drugs)

Learn more about Atrophic Vaginitis





Drug List:

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Zostrix-HP


Generic Name: capsaicin topical (kap SAY sin TOP i kal)

Brand Names: Axsain, Capsicum Oleoresin, Capsin, Capzasin Back and Body, Capzasin Quick Relief, Capzasin-HP, Capzasin-P, Castiva Warming, Dolorac, Icy Hot PM, Icy Hot with Capsaicin, Menthac Arthritis Cream with Capsaicin, Qutenza, Salonpas Gel-Patch, Salonpas Pain Patch with Capsaicin, Sloan's Liniment, Trixaicin, Trixaicin HP, Zostrix, Zostrix Diabetic Foot Pain, Zostrix Foot Pain, Zostrix Neuropathy, Zostrix Sports, Zostrix-HP


What is Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?

Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin is used in medicated creams and lotions to relieve muscle or joint pain.


Capsaicin used on the body causes a sensation of heat that activates certain nerve cells. With regular use of capsaicin, this heating effect reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical that acts as a pain messenger in the body.


Capsaicin topical is used for temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, or backaches. Capsaicin topical is also used to treat nerve pain (neuralgia) in people who have had herpes zoster, or "shingles."


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


What is the most important information I should know about Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?


Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using capsaicin topical if you have any allergies or serious medical conditions. Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.


Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation, which is usually mild and should lessen over time with continued use. If the burning sensation causes significant discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water. Stop using the medication and call your doctor if you have severe burning or redness where the medicine was applied.


Avoid getting capsaicin topical in your mouth or eyes or near your nose.

Do not apply to open wounds or irritated skin, and avoid getting the medicine on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come into contact with sensitive areas of your body.


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. Accidental swallowing of capsaicin can cause problems with swallowing or breathing.

It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine regularly before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed.


Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medication for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?


Do not use this medication if you are allergic to chili peppers, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to capsaicin topical.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist about using capsaicin topical if you have any allergies (especially to plants), or if you have a serious medical condition.


It is not known whether capsaicin topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether capsaicin topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not apply capsaicin topical to your breast area if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old without the advice of a doctor.

How should I use Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?


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.


Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation wherever it is applied. This sensation is usually mild and should gradually lessen over time with continued regular use of the medicine.


Do not apply capsaicin topical to open wounds, or to skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or otherwise irritated. Do not get this medication in your mouth or eyes, or near your nose where you might inhale it. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse thoroughly with water.

Also avoid getting this medication on contact lenses, dentures, and other items that come into contact with sensitive areas of your body.


To keep the medication from getting on your fingers when you apply it, you may use a rubber glove, finger cot, cotton ball, or clean tissue to apply the medicine.


Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you apply capsaicin topical.


When using capsaicin topical cream or lotion, apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub in gently until completely absorbed.


To use capsaicin topical liquid or stick, uncap the applicator and press it firmly on your skin to apply the medication. Massage gently onto the affected are until completely absorbed.


Capsaicin topical may be used up to 4 times daily or as directed on the medicine label.


To apply a capsaicin topical patch, remove the liner and apply the patch to your skin over the area of pain. Press the edges firmly into place. Remove the patch and apply a new patch 1 or 2 times daily if needed.


Wash your hands with soap and water immediately after applying capsaicin topical or handling the topical patch. If you have applied the medicine to your hands or fingers to treat pain in those areas, wait at least 30 minutes before washing your hands. Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or heating pad, which can increase the burning sensation. You may cover the skin with clothing.

Avoid taking a bath or shower within 1 hour before or after you apply capsaicin topical to your skin. Also avoid swimming or vigorous exercise. Warm water or perspiration can increase the burning sensation caused by capsaicin.


If the burning sensation caused by capsaicin is painful or causes significant discomfort, wash the treated skin area with soap and cool water.


It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine regularly before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Pain relief should occur gradually as the substance P in your body is decreased in the nerve cells.


Call your doctor if your pain does not improve after using this medication for 7 days, or if your symptoms get worse or get better and then come back in a few days. Store capsaicin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat, in a place where children and pets cannot get to it.

Capsaicin topical liquid is flammable. Do not use or store near fire or open flame.


What happens if I miss a dose?


Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply capsaicin more than 4 times in one day, or use extra medicine to make up a missed dose .


A missed dose of capsaicin topical will not cause harm but may make the medication less effective reducing substance P and relieving your pain.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed it.

Accidental swallowing of capsaicin can cause severe burning in or around the mouth, watery eyes, runny nose, and trouble swallowing or breathing.


Applying too much capsaicin topical to the skin can cause severe burning or redness.


What should I avoid while using Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?


Avoid inhaling the odor or dried residue of capsaicin topical. Inhaling capsaicin can cause coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes, and can irritate your throat or lungs.


Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, nose, genitals, or rectum until the medication has been washed off your hands. Also avoid handling food while the medication is still on your hands.


Avoid exposing treated skin to sunlight, sunlamps, tanning beds, or a hot tub. Capsaicin can cause a burning sensation that may be made worse by heat.

Do not use other medicated skin products, including muscle pain creams or lotions, on areas where you have applied capsaicin, unless your doctor has told you to.


Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical) side effects


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

  • severe burning or irritation where the medicine was applied;




  • skin redness where the medicine was applied; or




  • trouble breathing or swallowing (after accidental inhalation of capsaicin odor or dried residue).



Less serious side effects may include a mild burning sensation that can last for several hours or days, especially after your first use of capsaicin topical.


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 Zostrix-HP (capsaicin topical)?


It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied capsaicin. But many drugs can interact with each other. 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 Zostrix-HP resources


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


  • Axsain Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Axsain Topical Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Capzasin-P Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Qutenza Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Qutenza Consumer Overview

  • Qutenza Patch MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Zostrix-HP with other medications


  • Diabetic Nerve Damage
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Pain
  • Persisting Pain, Shingles


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about capsaicin topical.

See also: Zostrix-HP side effects (in more detail)


Vasodilators


A drug may be classified by the chemical type of the active ingredient or by the way it is used to treat a particular condition. Each drug can be classified into one or more drug classes.

Vasodilators are agents that widen the blood vessels therefore cause a decrease in vascular resistance and an increase in blood flow. They may act by activation of the vasomotor center in the brain, which brings about relaxation of the smooth muscle in the blood vessel walls or they can act locally on blood vessel smooth muscle cells.


Vasodilators are used to treat hypertension, angina and congestive heart failure.

See also

Medical conditions associated with vasodilators:

  • Anal Fissure and Fistula
  • Angina
  • Angina Pectoris Prophylaxis
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Heart Attack
  • Heart Failure
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Hypertensive Emergency
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus
  • Raynaud's Syndrome

Drug List:

Monday, October 1, 2012

QS Plus





Dosage Form: topical liquid
QS Plus 6575 Drug Facts and Label

Drug Facts Box OTC-Active Ingredient Section


benzethonium chloride USP 0.2%



Drug Facts Box OTC-Indications & Usage Section


For hand-washing to decrease bacteria on the skin, only when water is not available



Drug Facts Box OTC-Warnings Section


For external use only



Drug Facts Box OTC-Purpose Section


Antiseptic



Drug Facts Box-OTC When Using Section


do not get into eyes


if contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water



Drug Facts Box-OTC Stop Use Section


irritation and redness develop



Drug Facts Box-OTC Keep Out Of Reach Of Children Section


If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away



Drug Facts Box-OTC Dosage & Administration Section


press pump twice to deliver two squirts (about a quarter size) of foaming product onto the palm of your hand


rub hands together until dry


wash hands with soap and water at earliest opportunity



Drug Facts Box-OTC Inactive Ingredient Section


water, glycerine, dimethicone, DMDM hydantoin, iodopropynl butylcarbamate, fragrance



QS Plus 6575 18 ounce label


657518PA.jpg   QS Plus 18 ounce bottle









QS Plus  
benzethonium chloride  liquid










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN OTC DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)62257-575
Route of AdministrationTOPICALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE (BENZETHONIUM)BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE2 mg  in 1 mL














Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
WATER 
GLYCERIN 
DIMETHICONE 
1,3-DIMETHYLOL-5,5-DIMETHYL-HYDANTOIN 
IODOPROPYNYL BUTYLCARBAMATE 


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      














































Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
162257-575-101000 mL In 1 CARTRIDGENone
262257-575-121000 mL In 1 BAGNone
362257-575-13800 mL In 1 BAGNone
462257-575-143785 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
562257-575-15946 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
662257-575-16236 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
762257-575-17532 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
862257-575-1850 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
962257-575-24115 mL In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
1062257-575-55208200 mL In 1 DRUMNone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
OTC monograph not finalpart33306/30/2003


Labeler - ABC Compounding Co., Inc. (003284353)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
ABC Compounding Co., Inc.003284353manufacture
Revised: 01/2010ABC Compounding Co., Inc.



Lamotrigine Dispersible Tablets 5mg, 25mg and 100mg (Actavis UK Ltd)





Lamotrigine 5mg, 25mg and 100mg dispersible tablets




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



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

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

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

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




In this leaflet



  • 1. What Lamotrigine tablets is and what it is used for

  • 2. Before you take Lamotrigine tablets

  • 3. How to take Lamotrigine tablets

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Lamotrigine tablets

  • 6. Further information





What Lamotrigine tablets is and what it is used for



Lamotrigine tablets belong to a group of medicines called anti-epileptics. It is used to treat two conditions - epilepsy and bipolar disorder.




Lamotrigine tablets treats epilepsy by blocking the signals in the brain that trigger epileptic seizures (fits).



  • For adults and children aged 13 years and over, Lamotrigine tablets can be used on its own or with other medicines, to treat epilepsy. Lamotrigine tablets can also be used with other medicines to treat the seizures that occur with a condition called Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

  • For children aged between 2 and 12 years, Lamotrigine tablets can be used with other medicines, to treat those conditions. It can be used on its own to treat a type of epilepsy called typical absence seizures.

Lamotrigine tablets also treats bipolar disorder.



People with bipolar disorder (sometimes called manic depression) have extreme mood swings, with periods of mania (excitement or euphoria) alternating with periods of depression (deep sadness or despair). For adults aged 18 years and over, Lamotrigine tablets can be used on its own or with other medicines, to prevent the periods of depression that occur in bipolar disorder. It is not yet known how Lamotrigine tablets works in the brain to have this effect.






Before you take Lamotrigine tablets:




Do not take Lamotrigine tablets if you:



  • are allergic (hypersensitive) to lamotrigine or any of the other ingredients of Lamotrigine tablets (listed in Section 6)

If this applies to you: Tell your doctor, and don’t take Lamotrigine tablets





Take special care with Lamotrigine tablets



Your doctor needs to know before you take Lamotrigine tablets if you:



  • have problems with your kidneys

  • suffer from liver problems, as your doctor may need to decrease your dose

  • have ever developed a rash when you’ve taken lamotrigine or other medicines for epilepsy

  • are already taking medicine that contains lamotrigine

  • have Parkinsons disease.

If any of these applies to you: Tell your doctor, who may decide to lower your dose or that Lamotrigine tablets, is not suitable for you.





Watch out for important symptoms



If you develop any of these symptoms after you start taking Lamotrigine tablets, get a doctor’s help straight away:



  • an unusual skin reaction, such as redness or rashes

  • a sore mouth or eyes

  • a high temperature (fever), flu-like symptoms or drowsiness

  • swelling around your face, or swollen glands in your neck, armpit or groin

  • unexpected bleeding or bruising, or your fingers turning blue

  • a sore throat or more infections (such as colds) than usual.

These symptoms are more likely to happen during the first few months of treatment with Lamotrigine tablets, especially if you start on too high a dose or if your dose is increased too quickly, or if you’re taking Lamotrigine tablets with another medicine called valproate. Children are more likely to be affected than adults.



The symptoms listed above can develop into more serious problems, such as organ failure or a very severe skin condition, if they are not treated.



If you notice any of these symptoms: See a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may decide to carry out tests on your liver, kidneys or blood, and may tell you to stop taking Lamotrigine tablets





Thoughts of harming yourself or suicide



Anti-epileptic medicines are used to treat several conditions, including epilepsy and bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder can sometimes have thoughts of harming themselves or committing suicide. If you have bipolar disorder, you may be more likely to think like this:



  • when you first start treatment

  • if you have previously had thoughts about harming yourself or about suicide

  • if you are under 25 years old.

If you have distressing thoughts or experiences, or if you notice that you feel worse or develop new symptoms while you're taking Lamotrigine tablets: See a doctor as soon as possible or go to the nearest hospital for help.



A small number of people being treated with anti-epileptics such as Lamotrigine tablets have also had thoughts of harming or killing themselves. If at any time you have these thoughts, immediately contact your doctor.





If you’re taking Lamotrigine tablets for epilepsy



The seizures in some types of epilepsy may occasionally become worse or happen more often while you’re taking Lamotrigine
tablets Some patients may experience severe seizures, which may cause serious health problems. If your seizures happen more
often, or if you experience a severe seizure while you’re taking Lamotrigine tablets:



See a doctor as soon as possible.



Lamotrigine tablets should not be given to people aged under 18 years to treat bipolar disorder. Medicines to treat depression and other mental health problems increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviour in children and adolescents aged under 18 years.





Taking other medicines



Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, if you’ve taken any recently, or if you start taking new ones - these include herbal medicines or other medicines you bought without a prescription.



If you are taking certain medicines, your doctor may need to check the dose of Lamotrigine tablets. These include:



  • oxcarbazepine, felbamate, gabapentin, levetiracetam, pregabalin, topiramate or zonisamide, used to treat epilepsy

  • lithium, used to treat mental health problems

  • bupropion, used to treat mental health problems or to stop smoking

Tell your doctor if you are taking any of these.



Some medicines interact with Lamotrigine tablets or make it more likely that you’ll have side effects. These include:



  • valproate, used to treat epilepsy and mental health problems

  • carbamazepine, used to treat epilepsy and mental health problems

  • phenytoin, primidone or phenobarbitone, used to treat epilepsy

  • olanzapine, used to treat mental health problems

  • risperidone, used to treat mental health problems

  • rifampicin, which is an antibiotic

  • a combination of lopinavir and ritonavir, used to treat Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection

  • hormonal contraceptives, such as the Pill (see below).

Tell your doctor if you are taking, or if you start or stop taking any of these.



Hormonal contraceptives (such as the Pill) can affect the way Lamotrigine tablets works



Your doctor may recommend that you use a particular type of hormonal contraceptive, or another method of contraception,
such as condoms, a cap or a coil. If you are using a hormonal contraceptive like the Pill, your doctor may take samples of your blood to check the level of Lamotrigine tablets If you plan to start using a hormonal contraceptive: Talk to your doctor, who will discuss suitable methods of contraception with you.



Lamotrigine tablets can also affect the way hormonal contraceptives work, although it’s unlikely to make them less
effective. If you are using a hormonal contraceptive and you notice any changes in your menstrual pattern, such as breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods: Tell your doctor. These may be signs that Lamotrigine tablets is affecting the way your contraceptive is working.





Pregnancy and breast feeding



Talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant, if you might be pregnant, or if you’re planning to become pregnant.



You should not stop treatment for your epilepsy while you’re pregnant. However, there is an increased risk of birth defects in babies whose mothers took Lamotrigine tablets during pregnancy. These defects include cleft lip or cleft palate. Your doctor may advise you to take extra folic acid if you’re planning to become pregnant and while you’re pregnant.



Pregnancy may also alter the effectiveness of Lamotrigine tablets, so your doctor may take samples of your blood to check the level of Lamotrigine tablets, and may adjust your dose.



Talk to your doctor if you’re breast feeding or planning to breast feed. The active ingredient of Lamotrigine tablets passes into breast milk and may affect your baby. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of breast feeding while you’re taking Lamotrigine tablets, and will check your baby from time to time if you decide to breast feed.





Driving and using machines



Lamotrigine tablets can cause dizziness and double vision.



Don’t drive or operate machines unless you are sure you’re not affected.



If you have epilepsy, talk to your doctor about driving and using machines.






How to take Lamotrigine tablets:



Always use Lamotrigine tablets exactly as your doctor has told you to. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you’re not sure.




How much Lamotrigine tablets to take



It may take a while to find the best dose of Lamotrigine tablets for you. The dose you take will depend on:



  • your age

  • whether you are taking Lamotrigine tablets with other medicines

  • whether you have problems with your kidneys or liver.

Your doctor will start you on a low dose, and gradually increase the dose over a few weeks until you reach a dose that works for you (called the effective dose). Never take more Lamotrigine tablets than your doctor tells you to.



The usual effective dose of Lamotrigine tablets for adults and children aged over 12 years is between 100mg and 400mg each day.



For children aged 2 to 12 years, the effective dose depends on their body weight - usually, it’s between 1mg and 15mg for each kilogram of the child’s weight, up to a maximum of 400mg daily.





How to take your dose of Lamotrigine tablets:



Take your dose of Lamotrigine tablets once or twice a day, as your doctor advises. You can take it with or without food.



Always take the full dose that your doctor has prescribed. Never take only part of a tablet.



You can take Lamotrigine tablets by swallowing them whole with a little water, by chewing them, or by dissolving them in water:





If you chew the tablet:



You may need to drink a little water at the same time to help the tablet dissolve in your mouth. Then drink some more water to make sure you have swallowed all the medicine.





To make a liquid medicine:



Put the tablet in a glass with at least enough water to cover the whole tablet.



Either stir to dissolve, or wait for about a minute, until the tablet is fully dissolved.



Drink all the liquid.



Add a little more water to the glass and drink that, to make sure you’ve taken all the medicine.





If you take more Lamotrigine tablets than you should



If anyone takes too much Lamotrigine tablets: Contact a doctor or pharmacist immediately. If possible, show them the Lamotrigine tablets packet.



Someone who has taken too much Lamotrigine tablets may have any of these symptoms:



  • rapid, uncontrollable eye movements (nystagmus)

  • clumsiness and lack of co-ordination, affecting their balance (ataxia)

  • loss of consciousness or coma.




If you forget to take Lamotrigine tablets:



Don’t take extra tablets or a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.





If you have missed taking a dose of Lamotrigine tablets:



Ask your doctor for advice on how to start taking it again. It’s important that you do this.





Don’t stop taking Lamotrigine tablets without advice



Take Lamotrigine tablets for as long as your doctor recommends. Don’t stop unless your doctor advises you to.





If you are taking Lamotrigine tablets for epilepsy



To stop taking Lamotrigine tablets, it is important that your dose is reduced gradually, over about 2 weeks. If you suddenly stop taking Lamotrigine tablets, your epilepsy may come back or get worse.





If you are taking Lamotrigine tablets for bipolar disorder



Lamotrigine tablets may take some time to work, so you are unlikely to feel better straight away. If you stop taking Lamotrigine tablets, your dose will not need to be reduced gradually. But you should still talk to your doctor first, if you want to stop taking Lamotrigine tablets.






Possible side effects



Like all medicines, Lamotrigine tablets can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.



Allergic reaction or potentially serious skin reaction: get a doctor’s help straight away



A small number of people taking Lamotrigine tablets get an allergic reaction or potentially serious skin reaction, which may develop into more serious, and even life-threatening, problems if they are not treated. Symptoms of these reactions include:



  • skin rashes or redness

  • a sore mouth or eyes

  • a high temperature (fever), flu-like symptoms or drowsiness

  • swelling around your face, or swollen glands in your neck, armpit or groin

  • unexpected bleeding or bruising, or your fingers turning blue

  • a sore throat, or more infections (such as colds) than usual.

In many cases, these symptoms will be signs of less serious side effects. But you must be aware that they are potentially serious - so, if you notice any of these symptoms: See a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may decide to carry out tests on your liver, kidneys or blood, and may tell you to stop taking Lamotrigine tablets




Very common side effects: (affects more than 1 in 10 people):



  • headache

  • feeling dizzy

  • feeling sleepy or drowsy

  • clumsiness and lack of co-ordination (ataxia)

  • double vision or blurred vision

  • feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting)

  • skin rash.




Common side effects: (affects less than 1 in 10 people):



  • aggression or irritability

  • rapid, uncontrollable eye movements (nystagmus)

  • shaking or tremors

  • difficulty in sleeping

  • diarrhoea

  • dry mouth

  • feeling tired

  • pain in your back or joints, or elsewhere.




Rare side effects: (affects less than 1 in 1,000 people):



  • itchy eyes, with discharge and crusty eyelids (conjunctivitis)

  • a rare skin condition, with severe blisters, and bleeding from the lips, eyes, mouth, nose and genital area (Stevens-Johnson syndrome).




Very rare side effects: (affects less than 1 in 10,000 people):



  • hallucinations ('seeing' or 'hearing' things that aren't really there)

  • confusion or agitation

  • feeling 'wobbly' or unsteady when you move about

  • uncontrollable body movements (tics), uncontrollable muscle spasms affecting the eyes, head and torso (choreoathetosis), or other unusual body movements such as jerking, shaking or stiffness


  • a severe skin reaction, starting with a painful red area, developing into large blisters then peeling of layers of skin (toxic epidermal necrolysis)


  • in people who already have epilepsy, seizures happening more often


  • changes in liver function, which will show up in blood tests, or liver failure

  • changes which may show up in blood tests - including reduced numbers of red blood cells (anaemia), reduced numbers of white blood cells (leucopoenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis), reduced numbers of platelets (thrombocytopenia), reduced numbers of all these types of cell (pancytopenia), and a disorder of the bone marrow called aplastic anaemia


  • a disorder of blood clotting, which can cause unexpected bleeding or bruising (disseminated intravascular coagulation)

  • a high temperature (fever)

  • swelling around the face (oedema) or swollen glands in the neck, armpit or groin (lymphadenopathy)

  • in people who already have Parkinson's disease, worsening of the symptoms.




If you get side effects



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






How to store Lamotrigine tablets



Keep out of the sight and reach of children.



Do not use after the expiry date shown on the blisters, carton or bottle. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.



Do not store above 30°C. Store in the original packaging.



If you have any unwanted tablets, don’t dispose of them in your waste water or your household rubbish. Take them back to your pharmacist, who will dispose of them in a way that won’t harm the environment.





Further information




What Lamotrigine tablets contain



The active substance (the ingredient that makes the medicine work) is lamotrigine. Each tablet contains either 5mg, 25mg or 100mg of the active substance.



The other ingredients are magnesium carbonate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, hydroxypropyl cellulose, sodium saccharin, crospovidone, guar gum, blackcurrant flavour and magnesium stearate.





What Lamotrigine tablets looks like and contents of the pack



Lamotrigine tablets are white to almost white, round, flat, uncoated tablets.



Available pack sizes are 28 or 56 tablets.





Marketing Authorisation Holder




Actavis

Barnstaple

EX32 8NS

UK





Manufacturer




Actavis hf

Reykjavikurvegur 78 IS-220

Hafnarfjordur

Iceland





Revision date November 2008






Actavis

Barnstaple

EX32 8NS

UK



ACTPL047