Terconazole Suppositories

Pronunciation: ter-KON-a-zole
Generic Name: Terconazole
Brand Name: Terazol 3

Terconazole Suppositories are used for:

Treating vaginal yeast infections in women.

Terconazole Suppositories are an antifungal agent. It works by weakening the fungal cell membrane and killing sensitive fungi that cause yeast infections.

Do NOT use Terconazole Suppositories if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Terconazole Suppositories

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

Before using Terconazole Suppositories:

Some medical conditions may interact with Terconazole Suppositories. 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 a history of liver disease

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

Ask your health care provider if Terconazole Suppositories 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 Terconazole Suppositories:

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

• An extra patient leaflet is available with Terconazole Suppositories. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.


• Terconazole Suppositories are for vaginal use only.


• Filling the applicator - Break off suppository from the plastic strip. Pull the plastic completely apart at the notched end. Place the flat end of the suppository into the open end of the applicator as shown.


• Using the applicator - Lie on your back with your knees drawn up toward your chest. Holding the applicator by the ribbed end of the barrel, gently insert it into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go. Press the plunger to release the suppository into the vagina. Remove the applicator from the vagina.


• Cleaning the applicator - After each use, you should thoroughly clean the applicator by following this procedure: Pull the plunger out of the barrel. Wash both pieces with lukewarm, soapy water, and dry them thoroughly. Put the applicator back together by gently pushing the plunger into the barrel as far as it will go.


• To insert without the applicator - Lie on your back with your knees drawn up toward your chest. Place the suppository on the tip of your finger. Insert the suppository gently.


• Terconazole Suppositories works best if it is used at the same time each day.


• To clear up your infection completely, use Terconazole Suppositories for the full course of treatment. Keep using it even if you feel better in a few days.


• If you miss a dose of Terconazole Suppositories, 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 Terconazole Suppositories.

Important safety information:

• You can use the medication even if you are having your menstrual period. However, you should not use tampons because they may absorb the medication. Instead, use external pads or napkins until you have finished your medication. You may also wish to wear a sanitary napkin if the vaginal medicine leaks.


• Dry the genital area thoroughly after showering, bathing, or swimming. Change out of a wet bathing suit or damp exercise clothes as soon as possible. A dry environment is less likely to encourage the growth of yeast.


• Terconazole Suppositories may decrease the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms.


• If your infection clears up and occurs again in a few weeks, see your doctor.


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


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


• Terconazole Suppositories should not be used 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 Terconazole Suppositories while you are pregnant. It is not known if Terconazole Suppositories are found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Terconazole Suppositories.

Possible side effects of Terconazole Suppositories:

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:

Body pain; burning or itching of the vagina; headache.

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); chills; flu-like symptoms (headache; tiredness; muscle aches; fever); vaginal sensitivity or irritation.

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

See also: Terconazole 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.

Proper storage of Terconazole Suppositories:

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

General information:

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


• Terconazole Suppositories are 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 Terconazole Suppositories. 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 Terconazole resources

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

Compare Terconazole with other medications

• Vaginal Yeast Infection

Asperger Syndrome Medications

Definition of Asperger Syndrome: Asperger syndrome is often considered a high functioning form of autism. Persons with this syndrome have impaired social interactions, limited repetitive patterns of behavior, and often are clumsy. Motor milestones may be delayed.

Drugs associated with Asperger Syndrome

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

Learn more about Asperger Syndrome

Medical Encyclopedia:

• Asperger syndrome

Drug List:

Risperdal

Risperdal-M-Tab-Orally-Disintegrating-Tablets

Zyprexa

Zyprexa-Zydis-Orally-Disintegrating-Tablets

FML Forte

Pronunciation: flure-oh-METH-oh-lone
Generic Name: Fluorometholone
Brand Name: Examples include Fluor-Op and FML Forte

FML Forte is used for:

Treating inflammation (swelling, warmth, redness, pain) of the eyes and eyelids.

FML Forte is a corticosteroid. Exactly how FML Forte works is unknown.

Do NOT use FML Forte if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in FML Forte


• you have a viral infection of the eye (eg, herpes), a fungal or tuberculosis infection of the eye, certain untreated eye infections (eg, infections producing pus or discharge), or vaccinia or chickenpox infection

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

Before using FML Forte:

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

• if you are pregnant, plan 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 thinning of the eye tissues (eg, cornea, sclera), other eye problems (eg, glaucoma, cataracts, nerve damage), or diabetes


• if you have recently had cataract surgery

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with FML Forte. Because little, if any, of FML Forte is absorbed into the blood, the risk of it interacting with another medicine is low.

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

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

• Shake well before each use.


• To use FML Forte, first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back. Using your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Immediately use your finger to apply pressure to the inside corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Do not blink. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. To prevent germs from contaminating your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including your eye. Keep the container tightly closed.


• Do not wear soft contact lenses while you are using FML Forte. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer's directions and check with your doctor before using them.


• If your doctor prescribed more than 1 eye medicine, find out the best order for using each medicine.


• If you miss a dose of FML Forte, 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 FML Forte.

Important safety information:

• FML Forte may cause blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to FML Forte.


• If your condition does not improve within 2 days or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.


• LAB TESTS, including eye pressure, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.


• Use FML Forte with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 2 years of age. Safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using FML Forte during pregnancy. It is unknown if FML Forte is excreted in breast milk after use in the eye. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using FML Forte, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of FML Forte:

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:

Blurred vision; taste changes; temporary burning or stinging.

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

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); changes in vision; continuing blurred vision; discharge from eyes; eye pain, itching, redness, swelling, irritation, or sores not present when you began using FML Forte.

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: FML Forte 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.

Proper storage of FML Forte:

Store FML Forte below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep FML Forte out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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


• FML Forte 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 FML Forte. 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 FML Forte resources

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

Compare FML Forte with other medications

• Eye Dryness/Redness
• Eye Redness/Itching
• Eyelash Hypotrichosis

Supartz injection

Generic Name: sodium hyaluronate (injection) (SO dee um HYE al yoo RON ate)

Brand Names: Euflexxa, Hyalgan, Supartz

What is sodium hyaluronate?

Sodium hyaluronate is similar to the fluid that surrounds the joints in your body. This fluid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints.

Sodium hyaluronate is used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

Sodium hyaluronate is usually given after other arthritis medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

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

What is the most important information I should know about sodium hyaluronate?

You should not receive sodium hyaluronate if you are allergic to it, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.

Before you receive a sodium hyaluronate injection, tell your doctor if you have blood clots or circulation problems in your legs, or an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.

For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, high-impact sports, or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving sodium hyaluronate?

You should not receive sodium hyaluronate if you are allergic to it, or if you have an infection in your knee or in the skin around your knee.

To make sure you can safely receive sodium hyaluronate, tell your doctor if you have:

• 
  

  blood clots or circulation problems in your legs; or

  
  


• 
  

  an allergy to birds, feathers, or egg products.

  
  

It is not known whether sodium hyaluronate 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 sodium hyaluronate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is sodium hyaluronate given?

Sodium hyaluronate is injected directly into your knee joint. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Sodium hyaluronate is usually given once every week for 3 to 5 weeks. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

To prevent pain and swelling, your doctor may recommend resting your knee or applying ice for a short time after your injection.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your sodium hyaluronate injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving sodium hyaluronate?

For at least 48 hours after your injection, avoid jogging, strenuous activity, or high-impact sports such as soccer or tennis. Also avoid weight-bearing activity or standing for longer than 1 hour at a time. Ask your doctor how long to wait before you resume these activities.

Sodium hyaluronate side effects

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

• 
  

  severe pain or swelling around the knee after the injection;

  
  


• 
  

  fast heart rate, sweating, chills or shaking; or

  
  


• 
  

  heavy feeling, anxiety, confusion.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  warmth, pain, stiffness, swelling, or puffiness where the medicine was injected;

  
  


• 
  

  nausea, stomach pain;

  
  


• 
  

  headache;

  
  


• 
  

  back pain;

  
  


• 
  

  numbness or tingly feeling;

  
  


• 
  

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

  
  


• 
  

  tired feeling; or

  
  


• 
  

  itching or skin irritation around the knee.

  
  

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 sodium hyaluronate?

There may be other drugs that can interact with sodium hyaluronate. 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 Supartz resources

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

Compare Supartz with other medications

• Osteoarthritis

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor can provide more information about sodium hyaluronate.

See also: Supartz side effects (in more detail)

Nembutal

Generic Name: pentobarbital (PEN toe BAR bi tal)

Brand Names: Nembutal Sodium

What is Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

Pentobarbital is in a group of drugs called barbiturates (bar-BIT-chur-ates). Pentobarbital slows the activity of your brain and nervous system.

Pentobarbital is used short-term to treat insomnia. Pentobarbital is also used as an emergency treatment for seizures, and to cause you to fall asleep for surgery.

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

What is the most important information I should know about Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to pentobarbital, or if you have porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

Before using pentobarbital, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, chronic pain, severe or uncontrolled asthma or COPD, a history of mental illness or suicide attempt, or a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Pentobarbital may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Pentobarbital should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Pentobarbital can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can also add to sleepiness caused by pentobarbital. Pentobarbital can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while using pentobarbital.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to pentobarbital, or if you have porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

• liver disease;


• kidney disease;


• 
  

  chronic pain;

  
  


• 
  

  severe or uncontrolled asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder);

  
  


• 
  

  a history of depression, mental illness, or suicide attempt; or

  
  


• 
  

  a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

  
  

Pentobarbital may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Pentobarbital should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use pentobarbital without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Pentobarbital may cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother uses the medication during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Pentobarbital can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormone method of birth control (such as a condom, diaphragm, spermicide) to prevent pregnancy while using pentobarbital. Pentobarbital can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medication.

How should I take Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

Pentobarbital is given as an injection into a muscle or vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to inject your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used in giving the medicine.

When injected into a vein, pentobarbital must be given slowly.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Do not stop using pentobarbital suddenly after using it long-term, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when you stop using pentobarbital.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

If you store pentobarbital at home, keep it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep track of how much of this medicine has been used. Pentobarbital is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since pentobarbital is often used only when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are using the medication regularly, 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 use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of pentobarbital can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include pinpoint or dilated pupils, weak or limp feeling, urinating less than usual or not at all, fast heart rate, slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop).

What should I avoid while taking Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

Pentobarbital can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can add to sleepiness caused by pentobarbital, which could be dangerous.

Nembutal (pentobarbital) side effects

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

• 
  

  confusion, hallucinations;

  
  


• 
  

  weak or shallow breathing;

  
  


• 
  

  slow heart rate, weak pulse; or

  
  


• 
  

  feeling like you might pass out.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  problems with memory or concentration;

  
  


• 
  

  excitement, irritability, or aggression (especially in children or older adults);

  
  


• 
  

  loss of balance or coordination;

  
  


• 
  

  nightmares;

  
  


• 
  

  nausea, vomiting, constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  headache; or

  
  


• 
  

  "hangover" effect (drowsiness the day after a dose).

  
  

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 Nembutal (pentobarbital)?

Before using pentobarbital, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can cause add to sleepiness caused by pentobarbital, which could be dangerous.

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

• 
  

  a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

  
  


• 
  

  doxycycline (Adoxa, Doryx, Mondox, Oracea, Vibramycin, and others);

  
  


• 
  

  other seizure medications such as divalproex (Depakote), phenytoin (Dilantin), or valproic acid (Depakene);

  
  


• 
  

  an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);

  
  


• 
  

  griseofulvin (Grisactin, Fulvicin PG, Grifulvin V);

  
  


• 
  

  birth control pills or hormone replacement estrogens; or

  
  


• 
  

  steroids such as prednisone (Orasone, Deltasone), prednisolone (Prelone, Delta Cortef), methylprednisolone (Medrol), and others.

  
  

This is not a complete list and there may be other drugs that can interact with pentobarbital. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

More Nembutal resources

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

• Nembutal Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Nembutal Monograph (AHFS DI)

Compare Nembutal with other medications

• Insomnia
• Sedation
• Status Epilepticus

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about pentobarbital.

See also: Nembutal side effects (in more detail)

Kuvan

Pronunciation: SAP-roe-TER-in
Generic Name: Sapropterin
Brand Name: Kuvan

Kuvan is used for:

Reducing blood phenylalanine levels in certain patients with phenylketonuria. It is used along with a diet that is low in phenylalanine.

Kuvan is a form of BH4. It helps to activate phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), the enzyme that breaks down phenylalanine in the body.

Do NOT use Kuvan if:

• you have had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in Kuvan

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

Before using Kuvan:

Some medical conditions may interact with Kuvan. 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, fever, poor nutrition, or anorexia

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

• Levodopa because seizures, irritability, or overstimulation may occur


• Methotrexate because it may decrease Kuvan's effectiveness


• Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (eg, sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Kuvan

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

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

• An extra patient leaflet is available with Kuvan. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.


• Take Kuvan by mouth with food.


• Do not chew or swallow the tablet whole. Dissolve the tablet in 4 to 8 oz (120 to 240 mL) of cold water or apple juice. Drink within 15 minutes.


• It may take a few minutes for the medicine to dissolve. You may crush or stir the tablet to make it dissolve faster.


• The tablet may not dissolve completely. There may be small pieces floating on top of the water or apple juice. This is normal and safe for you to swallow.


• You may still see small pieces of the tablet in the cup after you take your dose. If this occurs, rinse the container with an additional small amount of water or juice and drink the contents to ensure the entire dose is taken.


• Take Kuvan at about the same time each day.


• Continue to take Kuvan even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.


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

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

Important safety information:

• Kuvan may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Kuvan with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.


• Follow the diet program given to you by your health care provider. Do not make any changes to your dietary phenylalanine intake without discussing it with your doctor first.


• If you have a fever or you are sick, your blood phenylalanine level may go up. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if this occurs. Your dose may need to be adjusted.


• The tablets may change over time to a light yellow color. This is normal and not cause for concern.


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


• Kuvan should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 4 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Kuvan while you are pregnant. It is not known if Kuvan is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Kuvan.

Possible side effects of Kuvan:

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; headache; nausea; runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; stomach pain; vomiting.

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

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); blood in the stool; chest pain; fainting; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; numbness of an arm or leg; seizures; severe or persistent stomach pain; shortness of breath; signs of urinary tract infection (eg, back pain; difficult, frequent, or painful urination); sudden severe headache or vomiting; swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet.

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: Kuvan 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.

Proper storage of Kuvan:

Store Kuvan at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store in original bottle with the cap closed tightly. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not remove the small packet (desiccant) included with your tablets; it absorbs moisture. Keep Kuvan out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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


• Kuvan 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 Kuvan. 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 Kuvan resources

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

• Kuvan Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Kuvan Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Kuvan Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Kuvan Consumer Overview

Compare Kuvan with other medications

• Phenylketonuria

Hectorol

Pronunciation: dox-ehr-kal-SIFF-eh-role
Generic Name: Doxercalciferol
Brand Name: Hectorol

Hectorol is used for:

Lowering elevated parathyroid hormone levels in patients undergoing kidney dialysis.

Hectorol is a synthetic form of vitamin D. It works by promoting the proper absorption and use of calcium and phosphate by the body, as well as normal bone development and maintenance. It also helps regulate parathyroid hormone levels and is involved in magnesium metabolism.

Do NOT use Hectorol if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Hectorol


• you have a tendency toward high calcium levels or evidence of vitamin D overdose (eg, weakness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, muscle pain, bone pain, metallic taste, loss of appetite)


• you have high levels of calcium, phosphate, or vitamin D in your blood

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

Before using Hectorol:

Some medical conditions may interact with Hectorol. 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 hardening of the arteries, heart problems, liver disease, or if you are on kidney dialysis

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

• Magnesium-containing antacids because the risk of high blood magnesium levels may be increased


• Erythromycin or ketoconazole because the effectiveness of Hectorol may be decreased


• Digoxin because the risk of its side effects may be increased by Hectorol


• Glutethimide or phenobarbital because they may increase the risk of Hectorol's side effects

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

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

• An extra patient leaflet is available with Hectorol. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.


• Hectorol is usually given as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you will be using Hectorol at home, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use Hectorol. Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.


• Do not use Hectorol if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged.


• Do not take an antacid that has magnesium in it while you are using Hectorol.


• Use Hectorol regularly to receive the most benefit from it.


• Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal.


• If you miss a dose of Hectorol, 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 Hectorol.

Important safety information:

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


• Check with your doctor before taking any medicine, including vitamins, containing vitamin D while you are taking Hectorol.


• Follow the diet and exercise program given to you by your health care provider.


• Lab tests, including calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphate, and parathyroid hormone blood levels or urine calcium levels, may be performed while you use Hectorol. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.


• Hectorol should not be used 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 Hectorol while you are pregnant. It is not known if Hectorol is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Hectorol.

Possible side effects of Hectorol:

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:

Abscess; difficulty sleeping; joint pain; stomach upset; weight gain.

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); constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; excessive thirst; excessive urination; headache; irregular heartbeat; itching; loss of appetite; metallic taste; muscle or bone pain; nausea; seizures; shortness of breath; slow heartbeat; swelling; vomiting; weakness.

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: Hectorol 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 constipation; drowsiness; dry mouth, gums, or eyes; excessive thirst; excessive urination; fever; severe or persistent headache, dizziness, or blurred vision; irregular heartbeat; loss of appetite; metallic taste; mood or mental changes; nausea; ringing in the ears; seizures; sensitivity to light; severe stomach or back pain with nausea and vomiting; unusual tiredness or weakness; weight loss.

Proper storage of Hectorol:

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

General information:

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


• Hectorol 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 Hectorol. 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 Hectorol resources

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

• Hectorol Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Hectorol Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Hectorol Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)


• Hectorol Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Doxercalciferol Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Hectorol with other medications

• Secondary Hyperparathyroidism