Tuesday 9 October 2012

Ammonia and Ipecacuanha Mixture BP 1999





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Ammonia and Ipecacuanha Mixture BP 1999


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate 100.0 mg per 5ml dose



Ipecacuanha Tincture BP 1999 0.15 ml per 5 ml dose



For full list of excipients, see 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Oral solution.



A dark brown liquid



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the symptomatic relief of productive coughs.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Oral.



Dose and dosage schedule



Adults, the elderly and children over 12 years: 10- 20ml, repeated after 4 hours if required. Not more than 4 doses to be taken in any 24 hours.



4.3 Contraindications



Contraindicated in patients with known sensitivity to ipecacuanha, ammonium salts or any of the other ingredients. Contraindicated in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, cardiovascular disorders, patients in shock or at risk from seizures.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Do not exceed the stated dose.



If symptoms persist consult your doctor.



Keep all medicines away from children.



Discard any unused mixture 2 months after opening.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



None known.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



As with all medicines, use should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, and in lactation unless recommended by a doctor.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



No or negligible influence.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Large doses of ipecacuanha or ammonium salts may cause nausea and vomiting, however, these effects would not be expected to occur when this preparation is taken at the recommended dose.



4.9 Overdose



Large doses of ammonium salts irritate the gastric mucosa and may result in nausea and vomiting. Excessive doses of ammonium salts may give rise to hepatic encephalopathy, however, this effect is unlikely to occur after oral administration.



Large doses of ipecacuanha irritate the gastro-intestinal tract and may give rise to persistent bloody vomiting, and diarrhoea.



Absorption of emetine, which is most likely if vomiting does not occur after emetic doses of ipecacuanha, may have adverse effects on the heart, such as conduction abnormalities or myocardial infarction. These, combined with dehydration due to vomiting may cause vasomotor collapse followed by death. Chronic abuse of ipecacuanha may result in cardiotoxicity and myopathy due to the accumulation of emetine, and recovery may be prolonged due to its slow elimination.



After acute overdosage of ipecacuanha, activated charcoal should be given to delay absorption, followed by gastric lavage if necessary. Excessive vomiting should be controlled by administration of an anti-emetic and fluid and electrolyte imbalance corrected if necessary.



Overdose with this preparation is unlikely to occur due to the low concentrations of the active ingredients present.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



R05C A04 – Cough and cold preparations, expectorants



Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate is an expectorant used to aid relief of productive coughs.



Ipecacuanha is an expectorant, and in larger doses an emetic.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Ammonium Hydrogen Carbonate is metabolised to produce urea and free bicarbonate.



Emetine, one of the major alkaloids of ipecacuanha is excreted or metabolised slowly, it has been detected in urine 40 – 60 days after discontinuation of treatment.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



There are no pre-clinical data of relevance to the prescriber which are additional to that already included in other sections of the SPC.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Liquorice Liquid Extract



Camphor Water Concentrated



Anise Water Concentrated



Chloroform



Purified Water



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



18 months unopened.



2 months after first opening.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 25°C. Discard any unused mixture 2 months after opening.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



200 ml: Amber glass bottle with plastic 28mm tamper evident child resistant closure with EPE /Saranex liner.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Thornton & Ross Ltd



Linthwaite Laboratories



Huddersfield



HD7 5QH



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00240/6458R



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



15th June 1988



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



01/05/2011




Friday 5 October 2012

Amphojel


Generic Name: aluminum hydroxide (a LOO mi num hye DROX ide)

Brand Names: Alternagel


What is Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?

Aluminum is a naturally occurring mineral. Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid.


Aluminum hydroxide is used to treat symptoms of increased stomach acid, such as heartburn, upset stomach, sour stomach, or acid indigestion. Aluminum hydroxide is also used to reduce phosphate levels in people with certain kidney conditions.


Aluminum hydroxide may be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?


Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, severe constipation, if you are dehydrated, or if you drink alcohol frequently.


Do not take aluminum hydroxide for longer than 2 weeks without your doctor's advice.

Avoid taking other medications at the same time you take aluminum hydroxide. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?


Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have:


  • kidney disease, a history of kidney stones;


  • severe constipation;




  • if you are dehydrated; or




  • if you drink alcohol frequently.




It is not known whether aluminum hydroxide is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Aluminum hydroxide may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?


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.


Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Aluminum hydroxide is usually taken between meals or at bedtime.


Do not take aluminum hydroxide for longer than 2 weeks without your doctor's advice. Store aluminum hydroxide at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Since antacids are usually taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


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

Overdose symptoms may include severe constipation, weight loss, confusion, mood changes, or urinating less than usual or not at all.


What should I avoid while taking Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?


Avoid taking other medications at the same time you take aluminum hydroxide. Antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs.


Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide) side effects


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

  • severe stomach pain or constipation;




  • bloody, black, or tarry stools;




  • coughing up blood that looks like coffee grounds;




  • pain when you urinate;




  • extreme drowsiness; or




  • tired feeling, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness.



Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.


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 Amphojel (aluminum hydroxide)?


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



More Amphojel resources


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


Compare Amphojel with other medications


  • Duodenal Ulcer
  • Erosive Esophagitis
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
  • GERD
  • Hyperphosphatemia
  • Indigestion
  • Peptic Ulcer
  • Stomach Ulcer
  • Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about aluminum hydroxide.

See also: Amphojel side effects (in more detail)


scopolamine



Generic Name: scopolamine (skoe PAH lah meen)

Brand Names: Scopace


What is scopolamine?

Scopolamine is an anticholinergic medicine. Scopolamine has many effects in the body including decreasing the secretion of fluids, slowing the stomach and intestines, and dilation of the pupils.


Scopolamine is used to relieve nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness and recovery from anesthesia and surgery. Scopolamine may also be used in the treatment of parkinsonism, spastic muscle states, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, and other conditions.


Scopolamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


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


Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Scopolamine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while using scopolamine. In rare cases, unusual reactions to ordinary doses of scopolamine have occurred including confusion, agitation, rambling speech, hallucinations, paranoid behaviors, and delusions. In the case of such a reaction, stop using scopolamine and seek medical attention.

Who should not use scopolamine?


Do not use scopolamine without first talking to your doctor if you have
  • kidney disease,

  • liver disease,


  • an enlarged prostate,




  • difficulty urinating,




  • a stomach obstruction,




  • heart disease,




  • bladder problems, or




  • glaucoma.



You may not be able to use scopolamine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.


Scopolamine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether scopolamine will harm an unborn baby. Do not use scopolamine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether scopolamine passes into breast milk. Do not use scopolamine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Scopolamine is not recommended for use by children. Children are more sensitive to the side effects of scopolamine. Elderly individuals may be more likely to experience side effects from scopolamine.

How should I use scopolamine?


Use scopolamine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.


Take each dose with a full glass of water.


Store scopolamine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


What happens if I miss a dose?


Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a scopolamine overdose include drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, fever excitability, seizures or convulsions, hallucinations, coma, and death.


What should I avoid while using scopolamine?


Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Scopolamine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while using scopolamine.

Scopolamine side effects


Stop using scopolamine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);




  • pain and redness of the eyes with dilated pupils; or




  • difficulty urinating.




In rare cases, unusual reactions to ordinary doses of scopolamine have occurred including confusion, agitation, rambling speech, hallucinations, paranoid behaviors, and delusions. In the case of such a reaction, stop using scopolamine and seek medical attention.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use scopolamine and talk to your doctor if you experience



  • drowsiness;




  • dizziness;




  • dry mouth;




  • restlessness;




  • blurred vision;




  • dilated pupils;




  • dry or itchy eyes;




  • flushing; or




  • fast heartbeats.



Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, and poor coordination have been reported when treatment that has lasted more than a few days is discontinued. If you use scopolamine for more than a few days, be aware that these side effects may occur when you stop.


Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Scopolamine Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Nausea/Vomiting:

General antiemetic use: 0.3 to 0.65 mg administered IV, intramuscularly or subcutaneously every 6 to 8 hours as needed.

Post-operative nausea and vomiting use: apply one scopolamine 1.5 mg transdermal disc behind the ear the evening before the scheduled surgery. The disc should remain in place for 24 hours after surgery before discarding.

If using scopolamine transdermal on an obstetrics patient, apply the disc one hour prior to scheduled Cesarean section to limit exposure to the infant.

Usual Adult Dose for Motion Sickness:

Apply one scopolamine 1.5 mg transdermal disc behind the ear at least 4 hours prior to exposure every 3 days as needed.

Usual Adult Dose for Parkinsonian Tremor:

0.4 to 0.8 mg orally every 8 hours as needed.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Nausea/Vomiting:

1 to 12 years: 6 mcg/kg/dose (maximum dose: 0.3 mg/dose) administered IV, IM or subcutaneous every 6 to 8 hours as needed.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Motion Sickness:

Greater than 12 years: apply one scopolamine 1.5 mg transdermal disc behind the ear at least 4 hours prior to exposure every 3 days as needed.


What other drugs will affect scopolamine?


Scopolamine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines (including meclizine), sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are using, and do not use any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines without first talking to your doctor.


Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with scopolamine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.



More scopolamine resources


  • Scopolamine Dosage
  • Scopolamine Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Scopolamine Drug Interactions
  • Scopolamine Support Group
  • 32 Reviews for Scopolamine - Add your own review/rating


  • scopolamine Transdermal Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Scopolamine MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Scopolamine Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Scopace Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information



Compare scopolamine with other medications


  • Motion Sickness
  • Nausea/Vomiting
  • Parkinsonian Tremor


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist has more information about scopolamine written for health professionals that you may read.


Wednesday 3 October 2012

Amoxicillin/Clavulanate


Pronunciation: a-MOX-i-SIL-in/KLAV-ue-la-nate
Generic Name: Amoxicillin/Clavulanate
Brand Name: Augmentin


Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is used for:

Treating infections caused by certain bacteria.


Amoxicillin/Clavulanate is a penicillin antibiotic. It works by killing sensitive bacteria.


Do NOT use Amoxicillin/Clavulanate if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Amoxicillin/Clavulanate or another penicillin antibiotic (eg, ampicillin)

  • you have a history of liver problems or yellowing of the eyes or skin caused by Amoxicillin/Clavulanate

  • you have infectious mononucleosis (mono)

  • you are taking a tetracycline antibiotic (eg, doxycycline)

  • you have recently received or will be receiving live oral typhoid vaccine

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



Before using Amoxicillin/Clavulanate:


Some medical conditions may interact with Amoxicillin/Clavulanate. 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 allergies, asthma, hay fever, or hives

  • if you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness) to a cephalosporin (eg, cephalexin) or another beta-lactam antibiotic (eg, imipenem)

  • if you have kidney problems or gonorrhea

  • if you have a history of liver problems or yellowing of the eyes or skin

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


  • Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) because the risk of bleeding may be increased

  • Probenecid because it may increase the amount of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate in your blood

  • Chloramphenicol, macrolide antibiotics (eg, erythromycin), sulfonamides (eg, sulfamethoxazole), or tetracycline antibiotics (eg, doxycycline) because they may decrease Amoxicillin/Clavulanate's effectiveness

  • Methotrexate because the risk of its side effects may be increased by Amoxicillin/Clavulanate

  • Live oral typhoid vaccine or hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) because their effectiveness may be decreased by Amoxicillin/Clavulanate

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


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


  • Take Amoxicillin/Clavulanate by mouth at the start of a meal to decrease the chance of stomach upset.

  • To clear up your infection completely, take Amoxicillin/Clavulanate for the full course of treatment. Keep taking it even if you feel better in a few days.

  • If you miss a dose of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate, 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 Amoxicillin/Clavulanate.



Important safety information:


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

  • Amoxicillin/Clavulanate only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold).

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

  • Long-term or repeated use of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.

  • Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may rarely occur. This may develop while you use the antibiotic or within several months after you stop using it. Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.

  • Hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using Amoxicillin/Clavulanate. To prevent pregnancy, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms).

  • Brown, yellow, or gray tooth discoloration has occurred rarely in some patients taking Amoxicillin/Clavulanate. It occurred most often in children. The discoloration was reduced or removed by brushing or dental cleaning in most cases. Contact your doctor if you experience this effect.

  • Diabetes patients - Amoxicillin/Clavulanate may cause the results of some tests for urine glucose to be wrong. Ask your doctor before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetes medicine.

  • Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed if you use Amoxicillin/Clavulanate for a long period of time. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Amoxicillin/Clavulanate with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially patients with kidney problems.

  • Use Amoxicillin/Clavulanate with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 10 years old who have diarrhea or an infection of the stomach or bowel.

  • Amoxicillin/Clavulanate should not be used in CHILDREN who weigh less than 88 lbs (40 kg); safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

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


Possible side effects of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate:


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; nausea; 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); bloody stools; confusion; dark urine; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe diarrhea; stomach pain or cramps; unusual bruising or bleeding; vaginal discharge or irritation; yellowing of the skin or eyes.



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: Amoxicillin/Clavulanate 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 decreased urination; severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; stomach pain; unusual drowsiness.


Proper storage of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate:

Store Amoxicillin/Clavulanate at or below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Amoxicillin/Clavulanate out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Amoxicillin/Clavulanate 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 Amoxicillin/Clavulanate. 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 Amoxicillin/Clavulanate resources


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


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