Corsodyl Dental Gel

1. Name Of The Medicinal Product

Corsodyl Dental Gel

2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition

Chlorhexidine Digluconate 1.0% w/w

(equivalent to Chlorhexidine Digluconate Solution Ph Eur 5.325 % w/w)

3. Pharmaceutical Form

Oromucosal gel.

4. Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

Inhibition of formation of dental plaque.

As an aid in the treatment and prevention of gingivitis.

As an aid to maintaining oral hygiene.

For use in a post-peridontal surgery or treatment* regimen to promote gingival healing.

*NB: Use as part of a post-periodontal treatment regimen has only been adequately studied over the short term and following standard root surface instrumentation.

It is useful in the management of recurrent aphthous ulceration.

It is useful in the management of recurrent oral candidal infections.

As an aid in the prevention of dental caries in high-caries-risk patients (for example xerostomia sufferers), when used in a regimen as an adjunct to fluoride.

4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration

Adults:

Brush the teeth thoroughly with one inch of gel on a moistened toothbrush, once or twice daily for about one minute.

For the treatment of gingivitis, a course of about one month is advisable.

When used for the management of aphthous ulceration and oral candidal infections an alternative method of delivery may be required which facilitates application of the gel to affected areas. This should be used once or twice daily for about one minute. The length of treatment time should be decided on the basis of clinical response.

When used as part of a regimen to prevent dental caries the gel should be applied for 5 minutes nightly for 14 days in a close fitting tray. This treatment should be repeated every 3-4 months or as directed by the dentist. When used as part of a regimen to prevent dental caries of remaining teeth in denture wearers the gel may be applied to the fitting surface of the denture before insertion.

During the treatment of denture stomatitis the dentures should be cleansed and soaked in Corsodyl Mouthwash for 15 minutes twice daily or as directed by the dentist.

Corsodyl is incompatible with anionic agents which are usually present in conventional dentifrices. These should therefore be used before Corsodyl (rinsing the mouth and toothbrush between applications) or at a different time of day.

Children and Elderly patients

The normal adult dose is appropriate for elderly patients and children of 12 years and over unless otherwise recommended by the dentist or the physician.

Children under 12 years of age should not use the product unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

Route of administration

For oral (external) use only.

4.3 Contraindications

Corsodyl dental gel is contraindicated for patients who have previously shown a hypersensitivity reaction to Chlorhexidine or to any of the excipients in the formulation. However, such reactions are extremely rare.

4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use

For oral use only. Do not swallow. Keep out of the eyes and ears. If the gel comes into contact with the eyes, wash out promptly and thoroughly with water. In case of soreness, swelling or irritation of the mouth, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional. Corsodyl is incompatible with anionic agents which are usually present in conventional dentifrices. These should therefore be used before Corsodyl (rinsing the mouth and toothbrush between applications) or at a different time of day.

4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction

Chlorhexidine is incompatible with anionic agents.

4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation

There is no evidence of any adverse effects on the foetus arising from the use of Corsodyl during pregnancy or on infants during lactation. Therefore, no special precautions are recommended.

4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines

None have been reported or are known.

4.8 Undesirable Effects

Irritative skin reactions: Irritative skin reactions to chlorhexidine preparations can occasionally occur.

Generalised reactions: Allergic reactions, hypersensitivity & anaphylaxis to chlorhexidine have also been reported but are extremely rare.

A superficial discoloration of the dorsum of the tongue may occur. This disappears after treatment is discontinued. Discoloration of the teeth and silicate or composite restorations may also occur. The stain is not permanent and can largely be prevented by reducing the consumption of tea, coffee and red wine and brushing with a conventional toothpaste daily before using the gel. However, in certain cases a professional prophylaxis (scaling and polishing) may be required to remove the stain completely. Stained anterior tooth coloured restorations with poor margins or rough surfaces which are not adequately cleaned by professional prophylaxis may require replacement.

Transient disturbance of taste sensation and a burning sensation of the tongue may occur on initial use of the gel. These effects usually diminish with continued use.

4.9 Overdose

This has not been reported.

Accidental ingestion: Chlorhexidine taken orally is poorly absorbed. Systemic effects are unlikely even if large amounts are ingested. However, gastric lavage may be advisable using milk, raw egg, gelatin or mild soap. Employ supportive measures as appropriate.

5. Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Chlorhexidine is effective against a wide range of Gram negative and Gram positive vegetative bacteria, yeasts, dermatophyte fungi and lipophilic viruses. It is active against a wide range of important oral pathogens and is therefore effective in the treatment of many common dental conditions.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

Because of its cationic nature, chlorhexidine bonds strongly to skin, mucosa and other tissues and is thus very poorly absorbed. No detectable blood levels have been found following oral use.

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

No information further to that contained in other sections of the SPC is included.

6. Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List Of Excipients

Hydroxypropylcellulose, Macrogolglycerol hydroxystearate, Sodium acetate, Levomenthol, Peppermint oil, Isopropyl alcohol, Purified water.

6.2 Incompatibilities

Hypochlorite bleaches may cause brown stains to develop in fabrics which have previously been in contact with preparations containing chlorhexidine.

6.3 Shelf Life

Three years.

6.4 Special Precautions For Storage

Do not store above 25°C.

6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container

Collapsible internally lacquered aluminium tubes. White food grade HDPE cap, wadless with plug seal.

Tube size 50 grams.

6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling

None

Administrative Data

7. Marketing Authorisation Holder

Beecham Group plc

980 Great West Road

Brentford

Middlesex

TW8 9GS

United Kingdom

Trading as:

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Brentford, TW8 9GS, U.K.

8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)

PL 00079/0314

9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation

10 February 1994

10. Date Of Revision Of The Text

March 2009

Pronto Shampoo Kit

Generic Name: piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical (pi PER o nil bue TOX ide and pye RETH rins)

Brand Names: A-200 Lice Control, A-200 Lice Treatment, Good Sense Lice Killing Shampoo, Step 1, Lice Treatment Maximum Strength, Pronto Lice Kill System, Pronto Shampoo & Cream Rinse, Pronto Shampoo Kit, Pronto Spray, Pronto with Metal Comb, R & C Lice Treatment Kit, Rid Pediculicide, Tegrin-LT Lice Spray, Tegrin-LT Lice Treatment Kit, Tegrin-LT Shampoo, Triple X Pediculicide

What is Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

Piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins are insecticide chemicals.

Piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical (for the skin) is used to treat lice.

Piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins, or if you have an allergy to chrysanthemums or ragweed.

Check all household members for signs of lice. Lice can be spread from person to person by sharing a hairbrush, a comb, hats, or headbands. It can also be spread through head-to-head contact.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the lice infestation is completely cleared. Call your doctor if your condition does not improve, or if your symptoms get worse while using this medication.

Stop using piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins and call your doctor at once if you have severe stinging, burning, itching, swelling, or irritation where the medication is applied.

To prevent reinfection with lice, wash all clothing, hats, bed linens, stuffed toys, hair brushes, and combs in hot water with a strong cleanser to remove any mites or eggs. You may need to use a special lice control spray to treat furniture, mattresses, sports helmets, headphones, and other non-washable items. Ask your doctor of pharmacist about disinfecting your home.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical, or if you have an allergy to chrysanthemums or ragweed. It is not known whether piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins 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.

How should I use Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

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

Check for signs of lice on all household members. They may also need to be treated for lice. Lice can be spread from person to person by sharing a hairbrush, a comb, hats, or headbands. It can also be spread through head-to-head contact.

Apply the shampoo form of this medication to dry hair. Wetting the hair first may make the medication less effective. Apply the shampoo to all areas of the scalp, including behind the ears and neck. Treat hair from the roots to the ends and leave the shampoo in the hair for 10 minutes. Add warm water to form a lather and shampoo. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins shampoo is usually used once every 7 to 10 days.

You may need to use a larger amount of the shampoo if you have long hair. Follow the directions on the product label.

Keep your eyes tightly closed while using the shampoo, foam, or spray, and while rinsing it out of your hair. You may use a washcloth or towel to protect your eyes while applying the medication to your head.

Do not apply this medication to your eyebrows or eyelashes. Call your doctor if these areas become infected with lice.

Avoid inhaling the vapors from this medication. Use in a well-ventilated area.

You will need to remove any eggs (nits) from the hair shafts with a special comb. Some piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins products come provided with a nit comb. If you do not have such a comb, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Nits may not be removed effectively with a regular fine-tooth comb.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the lice infestation is completely cleared. Call your doctor if your condition does not improve, or if your symptoms get worse while using this medication.

To prevent reinfection with lice, wash all clothing, hats, bed linens, stuffed toys, hair brushes, and combs in hot water with a strong cleanser to remove any mites or eggs. You may need to use a special lice control spray to treat furniture, mattresses, sports helmets, headphones, and other non-washable items. Ask your doctor of pharmacist about disinfecting your home.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine canister away from open flame or high heat. The canister may explode if it gets too hot. Do not puncture or incinerate the can, the contents are under pressure.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while using Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

Avoid using other medications or skin products on the areas you treat with piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical, unless you doctor tells you to.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If this does happen, rinse with water. Do not use piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, irritated, or broken skin.

Avoid close contact with others until the infection has been cured. Also avoid sharing hair combs, hair accessories, hats, clothing, bed linens, pillows, and other items of personal use. Lice infestations are highly contagious.

Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins 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 piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins and call your doctor at once if you have severe stinging, burning, itching, swelling, or irritation where the medication is applied.

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  mild itching, burning, or stinging;

  
  


• 
  

  mild skin rash; or

  
  


• 
  

  numbness or tingly feeling.

  
  

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 Pronto Shampoo Kit (piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins topical)?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins. 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 Pronto Shampoo Kit resources

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

Compare Pronto Shampoo Kit with other medications

• Head Lice

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins.

ED DM Chewable Tablets

Pronunciation: klor-fen-EER-a-meen/dex -troe-meth-OR-fan/fen-ill-EF-rin
Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine/Dextromethorphan/Phenylephrine
Brand Name: ED DM

ED DM Chewable Tablets are used for:

Relieving sinus congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and cough due to colds, upper respiratory infections, and allergies. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

ED DM Chewable Tablets are a decongestant, antihistamine, and cough suppressant combination. It works by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling in the nasal passages. The antihistamine works by blocking histamine, which helps reduce symptoms, such as watery eyes and sneezing, while the cough suppressant works in the brain to help decrease the cough reflex.

Do NOT use ED DM Chewable Tablets if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in ED DM Chewable Tablets


• you have severe high blood pressure, severe heart blood vessel disease, rapid heartbeat, or severe heart problems


• you are unable to urinate or are having an asthma attack


• you take sodium oxybate (GHB) or you have taken furazolidone or a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (eg, phenelzine) within the last 14 days

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

Before using ED DM Chewable Tablets:

Some medical conditions may interact with ED DM Chewable Tablets. 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 a fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat


• if you have a history of adrenal gland problems (eg, tumor); heart problems; high blood pressure; diabetes; heart blood vessel problems; stroke; glaucoma; a blockage of your stomach, intestines, or bladder; ulcers; trouble urinating; an enlarged prostate or other prostate problems; seizures; or an overactive thyroid


• if you have a history of asthma, chronic cough, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other lung problems (eg, chronic bronchitis, emphysema), or if your cough produces large amounts of mucus

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

• Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), COMT inhibitors (eg, tolcapone), furazolidone, indomethacin, MAO inhibitors (eg, phenelzine), sodium oxybate (GHB), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because side effects of ED DM Chewable Tablets may be increased


• Digoxin or droxidopa because the risk of irregular heartbeat or heart attack may be increased


• Bromocriptine or hydantoins (eg, phenytoin) because side effects may be increased by ED DM Chewable Tablets


• Guanadrel, guanethidine, methyldopa, mecamylamine, or reserpine because their effectiveness may be decreased by ED DM Chewable Tablets

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

Use ED DM Chewable Tablets as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• ED DM Chewable Tablets may be taken with or without food.


• Chew thoroughly before swallowing.


• If you miss a dose of ED DM Chewable Tablets, 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 at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use ED DM Chewable Tablets.

Important safety information:

• ED DM Chewable Tablets may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to ED DM Chewable Tablets. Using ED DM Chewable Tablets alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.


• Do not take diet or appetite control medicines while you are taking ED DM Chewable Tablets without checking with your doctor.


• ED DM Chewable Tablets contains phenylephrine. Before you begin taking any new prescription or nonprescription medicine, read the ingredients to see if it also contains phenylephrine. If it does or if you are uncertain, contact your doctor or pharmacist.


• Do NOT exceed the recommended dose or take ED DM Chewable Tablets for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.


• If your symptoms do not improve within 5 to 7 days or if they become worse, check with your doctor.


• ED DM Chewable Tablets may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to ED DM Chewable Tablets. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.


• If you are scheduled for allergy skin testing, do not take ED DM Chewable Tablets for several days before the test because it may decrease your response to the skin tests.


• Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using ED DM Chewable Tablets.


• Use ED DM Chewable Tablets with caution in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to its effects.


• Caution is advised when using ED DM Chewable Tablets in CHILDREN because they may be more sensitive to its effects.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking ED DM Chewable Tablets, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using ED DM Chewable Tablets during pregnancy. It is unknown if ED DM Chewable Tablets are excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking ED DM Chewable Tablets.

Possible side effects of ED DM Chewable Tablets:

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:

Constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; excitability; headache; loss of appetite; nausea; nervousness or anxiety; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; vomiting; weakness.

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); difficulty urinating or inability to urinate; fast or irregular heartbeat; hallucinations; seizures; severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or headache; tremor; trouble sleeping; vision changes.

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: ED DM 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 blurred vision; confusion; hallucinations; severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or headache; severe drowsiness; seizures; unusually fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; vomiting.

Proper storage of ED DM Chewable Tablets:

Store ED DM Chewable Tablets 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 ED DM Chewable Tablets out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

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


• ED DM Chewable Tablets 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 ED DM Chewable Tablets. 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 ED DM resources

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

Compare ED DM with other medications

• Cough and Nasal Congestion

Alupent Inhalation

Generic Name: metaproterenol (Inhalation route)

met-a-proe-TER-e-nol

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Alupent

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution


• Aerosol Powder


• Aerosol Liquid

Therapeutic Class: Bronchodilator

Pharmacologic Class: Beta-2 Adrenergic Agonist

Uses For Alupent

Metaproterenol is used to treat asthma and bronchospasm in patients with bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases.

Metaproterenol belongs to the family of medicines known as adrenergic bronchodilators. Adrenergic bronchodilators are medicines that are breathed in through the mouth to open up the bronchial tubes (air passages) in the lungs. They relieve cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and troubled breathing by increasing the flow of air through the bronchial tubes.

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

Before Using Alupent

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

Allergies

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

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of metaproterenol inhalation aerosol in children younger than 12 years of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of metaproterenol inhalation aerosol in geriatric patients.

Pregnancy

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

Breast Feeding

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

Interactions with Medicines

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

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

• Acebutolol


• Alprenolol


• Arotinolol


• Atenolol


• Befunolol


• Betaxolol


• Bevantolol


• Bisoprolol


• Bopindolol


• Bucindolol


• Bupranolol


• Carteolol


• Carvedilol


• Celiprolol


• Dilevalol


• Esmolol


• Labetalol


• Landiolol


• Levobetaxolol


• Levobunolol


• Mepindolol


• Metipranolol


• Metoprolol


• Nadolol


• Nebivolol


• Nipradilol


• Oxprenolol


• Penbutolol


• Pindolol


• Propranolol


• Sotalol


• Talinolol


• Tertatolol


• Timolol

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

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

Other Medical Problems

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

• Diabetes or


• Heart or blood vessel disease or


• Hypertension (high blood pressure) or


• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or


• Seizures—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Heart rhythm problems (e.g., arrhythmia) or


• Tachycardia (fast or rapid heartbeat)—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

Proper Use of Alupent

Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. Also, do not stop using this medicine or any asthma medicine without telling your doctor. To do so may increase the chance for breathing problems.

Alupent(R) inhalation aerosol is used with a special inhaler that comes with patient instructions. Read the directions carefully before using this medicine. If you or your child do not understand the directions or are not sure how to use the inhaler, ask your doctor to show you what to do. Also, ask your doctor to check you or your child on a regular basis to make sure you are using it properly.

To use the inhaler:

• Insert the metal canister firmly and fully into the clear end of the mouthpiece.


• This mouthpiece should not be used with other inhaled medicines.


• Remove the cap and look at the mouthpiece to make sure it is clean.


• Shake the inhaler well before using.


• To inhale this medicine, first breathe out fully. Try to get as much air out of the lungs as possible.


• Put the mouthpiece just in front of your mouth with the canister upright.


• Open your mouth and breathe in slowly and deeply (like yawning). At the same time, firmly press down once on the top of the canister.


• Hold your breath for a few seconds, then breathe out slowly.


• If you are supposed to use more than one puff, wait at least 2 minutes before inhaling the second puff. Repeat these steps for the second puff, starting with shaking the inhaler.


• When you have finished all of your doses, rinse your mouth with water and spit the water out.


• Clean the inhaler mouthpiece every day with hot water. Dry it thoroughly before use.

Dosing

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

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

• For asthma and bronchospasm:
  
  • For inhalation dosage form (aerosol):
    
    • Adults and teenagers—Two to three puffs every 3 to 4 hours as needed. However, the total dose is usually not more than 12 puffs per day.
    
    
    • Children younger than 12 years of age—Use is not recommended.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

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

Storage

Store the canister at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Do not keep this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat or cold. Do not poke holes in the canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty.

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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

Precautions While Using Alupent

It is very important that your doctor check your progress or your child's progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to check for any unwanted effects.

This medicine may cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life-threatening. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child are having a cough, difficulty with breathing, shortness of breath, or wheezing after using the medicine.

Check with your doctor at once if you or your child continue to have breathing problems after using a dose of this medicine or if your condition gets worse.

Do not change your dose or stop using this medicine without asking your doctor first.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems, and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Alupent Side Effects

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

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

More common

• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

Less common

• Shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet


• trembling or shaking of the hands or feet


• worsening of asthma

Rare

• Blurred vision


• chest pain


• chills


• cough


• diarrhea


• dizziness


• fainting


• fever


• general feeling of discomfort or illness


• headache


• increased sweating


• joint pain


• loss of appetite


• muscle aches and pains


• nausea


• nervousness


• pounding in the ears


• puffiness of the face and fingers


• runny nose


• shivering


• slow or fast heartbeat


• sore throat


• sweating


• swelling


• trouble sleeping


• unusual tiredness or weakness


• vomiting

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

Symptoms of overdose

• Arm, back, or jaw pain


• chest discomfort


• chest tightness or heaviness


• confusion


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


• dry mouth


• general feeling of discomfort or illness


• shortness of breath


• sleeplessness


• unable to sleep

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

Less common

• Abdominal or stomach pain

Rare

• Bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste


• change in appetite


• drowsiness


• dry mouth or throat


• itching skin


• pain


• raised red swellings on the skin, lips, tongue, or in the throat


• tightening of the muscles


• weakness

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

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

See also: Alupent Inhalation side effects (in more detail)

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More Alupent Inhalation resources

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

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