Drug Facts

Drugs from A to Z Topics

Archive for August, 2007


08/22, 2007

Precautions to be taken while Using Cromolyn Sodium Information

Type of Drug:

Respiratory inhalant.

How the Cromolyn Sodium Works:

Cromolyn sodium is an antiasthmatic, antiallergic stabilizer of mast cells, which release histamine and slow-reacting substances of anaphylaxis. The decreased release of these and other chemicals assist in preventing constriction (narrowing) of the breathing airways in asthma and allergy attacks.

Uses of The Cromolyn Sodium:

Cromolyn Sodium and Intal: To prevent symptoms in the management of bronchial asthma, exercise-induced bronchospasm (spasm of breathing airways in the lungs), and acute bronchospasm due to environmental pollution and known allergens (chemicals that may produce an asthmatic or allergic reaction).

Nasalcrom: To prevent or treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis (eg, runny, itchy, stuffy nose; sneezing).

Unlabeled Uses: Oral use of cromolyn is being evaluated in patients with food allergies, eczema, ulcers, hives (chronic), and postexercise-induced bronchospasms.

Precautions:

Pregnancy: Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: It is not known if cromolyn appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness for use in children under 6 (nasal solution), 5 (aerosol), or 2 (nebulizer) years of age have not been established.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking cromolyn. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. Isoproterenol interacts with this medicine.

Side Effects of Cromolyn Sodium:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Aerosol: Dizziness; dry or irritated throat; joint swelling and pain; painful or difficult urination; urinary frequency; hives; skin inflammation; excessive eye tearing; swollen parotid gland.

Nasal Solution: Nasal stinging; nasal burning; postnasal drip.

Nebulizer Solution: Drowsiness; serum sickness; stomach ache.

Other: Headache; nausea; cough; wheezing; nasal irritation; sneezing; nosebleed; bad taste in mouth; rash.

Guidelines for Use:

  • Use exactly as prescribed.
  • Not for the treatment of an existing asthma attack. Only use when an asthma attack is under control and you can breathe well.
  • Notify your doctor if coughing, wheezing, or other unusual symptoms Occur.
  • Blow your nose before administering the nasal solution. If congested, use a shortacting topical decongestant before the solution. Nasal solution may cause mild stinging or sneezing, but this rarely requires stop­ping therapy.
  • Instructions for use of inhalation devices accompany each product.
  • Use continuously. Effectiveness depends on regularity of use. Do not stop therapy suddenly. Consult your doctor before stopping the drug.
  • To prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm - Administer no longer than 1 hour before beginning exercise.
  • If a dose is missed, inhale it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Improvement ordinarily occurs within the first 4 weeks of use. Improvement should be apparent by a decrease in the severity of symptoms and the need for other therapy (eg, oral steroids, inhaled bronchodilators).
  • Long-term use is justified if cromolyn produces a significant reduction in frequency or severity of symptoms, permits reduction of doses Dr elimination of oral steroids, or improves management of patients experiencing intolerable side effects from other asthma drugs.
  • If allergic rhinitis (eg, runny nose) is seasonal, continue treatment throughout exposure period. If it is year-round, continuous use may be necessary. Cromolyn use may decrease or eliminate the need for anti­histamines or decongestants.
  • Store nebulizer solution, aerosol, and nasal solution at room temperature, away from light. Do not use nebulizer solution if it is discolored or contains particles. Do not puncture the aerosol container or store near heat, cold, or open flame. Keep away from children.


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08/14, 2007

Amphetamines - Guidelines for Using Amphetamines

Type of Drug:

Central nervous system stimulants: “Bennies,” “dexies,” “speed”, or “crystal.”

How the Drug Works:

These synthetic drugs are a stronger form of the natural body stimulant adrenaline. They work by altering natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain and can affect other body systems (eg, circulatory system) in high doses.

Uses:

Indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity that includes other remedial measures (psychological, educational, social) for a stabilizing effect in children 3 to 16 years of age with a behavioral syndrome characterized by moderate to severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional 13 ability, and impulsivity.

To improve wakefulness in patients with excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy.

Methamphetamine only: For short term (eg, a few weeks) use in a weight reduction program based on caloric restriction, for patients who have failed alternative therapy (eg, repeated diets, group programs, other drugs).

Unlabeled Uses: Dextroamphetamine has been used to treat cocaine dependence and autism.

Precautions:

Use with caution in the following situations: High blood pressure Turreted syndrome

Abuse: Amphetamines have a high potential for abuse. Use in weight reduction programs only when alternative therapy (diets, group programs, other drugs) has been ineffective. Use for prolonged periods may lead to drug dependence.

Attention deficit disorders: Drug treatment is not indicated in all cases. The decision to use amphetamines depends on the chronicity and severity of the child’s symptoms and appropriateness for his/her age. When symptoms are associated with acute stress reactions, treatment with amphetamines is usually not indicated.

Chronic intoxication: Severe skin rash, marked sleeplessness, irritability, hyperactivity, personality changes, disorganization of thoughts, poor concentration, hallucinations, and compulsive behavior often occur. The most severe side effect of chronic intoxication is psychosis, often indistinguishable from paranoid schizophrenia.

Diabetes: Insulin requirements may be altered with the use of amphetamines and diet restriction.

Do not use: Do not use to combat fatigue or to replace rest.

Drug dependence: Tolerance, extreme dependence and severe social disability have occurred with amphetamine abuse. Patients may gradually increase the dosage to many times that recommended. Abrupt discontinuation following a long period of using high doses results in extreme fatigue, mental depression, and changes in sleep habits.

Pregnancy: Adequate studies have not been done in pregnant women, or animal studies may have shown a risk to the fetus. Birth defects have been reported with amphetamine use in pregnancy. Usually If clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh the possible hazardsto the fetus. Infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight may experience symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal demonstrated by restlessness including agitation and weakness.

Breastfeeding: Amphetamines appear in breast milk. Discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Long-term effects in children have not been well established.

Amphetamines are not recommended in children younger than 3 years of age. Do not use methamphetamine as a weight loss medication in children younger than 12 years of age. Extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules are indicated for children 6 years of age and older. Effects of extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules in children 3 to 5 years of age have not been studied. In psychotic children, amphetamines may worsen symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder. Amphetamines may precipitate or worsen Tourette syndrome. Monitor growth during treatment. Chronic administration may be associated with growth inhibition.

Tartrazine: Some of these products may contain tartrazine dye (FD&C Yellow No.5), which can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Check package labeling when available or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any overthe-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking this medicine. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs and drug classes interact with amphetamines:

  • Antihypertensives (eg, methyldopa)
  • Furazolidone (Furoxone)
  • Guanethidine (lsmelin)
  • MAOls (eg, phenelzine)
  • Phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (eg, fluoxetine)
  • Urinary acidifiers (eg, ammonium chloride)
  • Urinary alkalinizers (eg, acetazolamide)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many amphetamine users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dosage, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Diarrhea; constipation; appetite loss; dry mouth; unpleasant taste sensation; indigestion; nausea; vomiting.

Nervous System: Dizziness; sleeplessness; depression; irritability; restlessn; nervousness; headache; tremor; exacerbation of motor and phOnic tics and Tourette syndrome; exaggerated sense of well-being; overvaluation; difficulty moving; unpleasant feelings; weakness; drowsiness between doses or after stopping medicine.

Circulatory System : pounding in the chest (palpitation); rapid or irregular heartbeat; high blood presser.

Other: Impotence; changes in sex drive; hives; weight loss; suppression of growth in children (long-term use).

Guidelines for Use:

  • Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
  • Do not change the dose or stop taking, unless directed by your doctor.
  • Do not take more frequently than prescribed. These drugs can be addicting.
  • Do not chew or crush sustained- or extended-release products.
  • Extended-release amphetamine mixture capsules may be taken whole, or the capsule may be opened and the entire contents sprinkled on applesauce. The sprinkled applesauce should then be consumed immediately; it should not be stored. Take the applesauce with sprinkled beads in its entirety without chewing. The dose of a single capsule should not be divided.
  • May cause insomnia. Avoid taking these medications late in the day.
  • This medicine may cause dizziness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
  • May cause nervousness, restlessness, sleeplessness, dizziness, appetite loss, dry mouth, and digestive tract disturbances. Contact your doctor if these become troublesome.
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Do not take any prescription or OTC medications or dietary supplements, unless directed by your doctor.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, become pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
  • Use of many of these drugs to improve athletic skills, mental alertness, or to stay awake is dangerous and illegal. Never share drugs with others.
  • Attention deficit disorder in children - Your doctor may occasionally interrupt drug therapy to determine if there is a recurrence of symptoms.
  • Weight control - Appropriate lifestyle changes (eg, diet and exercise) should be made while on therapy in order to avoid continued use of the drug.
  • Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F) in a tight, light-resistant container.

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08/06, 2007

Intranasal Steroids Drug - How does Intranasal Steroids Works?

Type of Drug:

Nasal corticosteroids; anti-inflammatory agents.

How the Drug Works:

Intranasal steroids for inhalation shrink swollen and irritated nasal tissue primarily by reducing inflammation, but also by constricting blood vessels of the nasal mucosa.

Uses:

To relieve nasal symptoms of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis (eg, hay fever), which involves inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal passages. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include itching of the nose and eyes, runny nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion, and sneezing.

Budesonide and beclomethasone (spray): Used to treat non allergic perennial rhinitis in adults.

Precautions:

Changing from other dosage forms: Patients on long-term oral corticosteroids may lose their body’s natural ability to produce corticosteroid hormones. Switching or lessening current doses may cause symptoms of withdrawal (eg, joint or muscle pain, tiredness, depression). Therefore, taper dosage of oral steroid gradually and only with the instruction of a doctor.

Intranasal steroids: Intranasal steroids are absorbed into the blood stream.

Using higher than recommended doses may interfere with normal adrenal functions.

Nasal decongestants: In the presence of excessive nasal congestion, the drug may fail to reach the site of intended action. In such cases, use a nasal decongestant spray just before use during the first 2 to 3 days of therapy. Do not use a nasal decongestant spray for more than 3 consecutive days.

Pregnancy: Adequate studies have not been done in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.

Breastfeeding: It is not known whether these drugs are excreted in breast milk. Other corticosteroids do appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in children under 3 years of age (mometasone), under 4 years of age (fluticasone), or under 6 years of age (beclomethasone, budesonide, flunisolide, triamcinolone) have not been established. Use is not recommended. May Suppress growth in children and teenagers with extended use.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any over­ the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking these drugs. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs or drug classes interacts with these drugs:

  • Cytochrome P-450 3A4 inhibitors (eg, erythromycin, ketoconazole, ritonavir)
  • Glucocorticoids (eg, prednisone)
  • Immunosuppressants (eg, methotrexate)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Nervous System: Headache; light-headedness; dizziness; nervousness.

Digestive Tract: Nausea; vomiting; dry mouth; indigestion; diarrhea; stomach pain.

Eyes or Ocular: Watery eyes; eye disorders; eye infection; cataracts; dry or irritated eyes; glaucoma; blurred vision.

Respiratory System: Nasal or throat irritation; stinging; burning; dryness; nosebleed; runny nose; sneezing (especially in children); blood in nasal mucus; congestion; asthma; increased cough; sore throat; thrush or sores in nose or throat; nasal pain; difficulty breathing; wheezing.

Other: Joint or muscle pain; weakness; depression; sense of smell or taste changes; earache; ringing in ears; painful menstruation; fever; flu-like symptoms; aches and pains; herpes simplex; hoarseness; infection; voice changes; facial swelling; hives; rash; itching.

Guidelines for Use:

  • Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
  • Do not stop taking or change the dose, unless instructed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
  • Read and follow patient instructions provided with these products.
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless instructed by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Effects are not immediate. Product requires daily use, and improvement usually occurs in a few days. Improvement time varies with each patient. Consult your doctor if condition does not improve or worsens after 3 weeks of daily use.
  • May cause irritation and drying of nasal mucosa. Contact your doctor if symptoms do not improve, if the condition worsens, if sneezing or nasal irritation occurs, or if symptoms do not improve within 3 weeks.
  • Report any unusual fever, muscle or joint pain, weakness, sneezing, dizziness, nasal irritation, depression, or fluid retention to your doctor.
  • Clear nasal passages prior to use by blowing the nose. If nasal pas­sages are congested or blocked, use a decongestant nasal spray just before use to ensure adequate penetration of the spray. Do not use the decongestant nasal spray for more than 3 consecutive days.
  • Clean outer portion of the nose with a damp tissue and wash hands with soap and water after drug administration.
  • Infection of the nose and throat by a fungus (Candida albicans) has been associated with chronic use. Such infection (thrush) may require stop­ping the intranasal steroid to treat the infection.
  • Avoid exposure to chickenpox, measles, or other infections. Consult your doctor immediately if exposed.
  • Nasal polyps - Treatment may have to be continued for several weeks or more before results can be fully assessed. Recurrence of symptoms due to polyps can occur after stopping treatment, depending on the severity of the disease.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, become pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • Lab tests may be required if you are using this medicine for several months. Be sure to keep appointments.
  • Beclomethasone - Beneficial effects may decrease when the aerosol canister is cold. This medicine comes in different strengths and dos­age forms. Products and use may not be interchangeable.
  • Budesonide - Store with valve upward. After opening aluminum pouch, use within 6 months. Avoid storage in areas of high humidity.
  • Fluticasone - Do not exceed more than 2 sprays per nostril per day. Adolescents and children should start at one spray per nostril per day.
  • Mometasone -In patients with known seasonal allergies, preventive use is recommended 2 to 4 weeks prior to the start of pollen season. Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F) in a dry place. Store mometasone at 36° to 77° F. Protect from light and moisture.


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08/01, 2007

Treatment and Diagnosis for Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents

Type of Drug:

Beta-blockers; antihypertensives; drugs used to lower high blood pressure; antianginal drugs; antiarrhythmic drugs.

How the Drug Works:

Beta-adrenergic blocking agents interfere with the action of adrenalin and similar chemicals on heart muscle contraction (heart may beat with less force and pump out less blood) and nerve conduction in the heart (heart may beat more slowly and regularly). Beta-adrenergic blocking agents reduce the amount of work the heart has to do (reduces angina chest pain) and the amount of blood the heart pumps out (lowers elevated blood pressure) and stabilize heart rhythm in conditions in which the heart is beating too fast or irregularly (antiarrhythmic effects).

Precautions:

Discontinuing therapy: When discontinuing these medications, slowly reduce the dose over 1 to 2 weeks. Sudden discontinuation of these drugs has caused worsening of angina (chest pain), heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, and death. Other serious withdrawal symptoms include: sweating, palpitations (pounding in the chest), headache, tremulous­ness, discomfort, and allergy to catecholamines. If discontinued suddenly, beta-blockers may mask the signs of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). If thyroid patients stop taking these medications too suddenly, symptoms of hyperthyroidism (eg, a rapid pulse) may occur.

Diabetes: These products can mask some of the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as rapid heart rate and tremors, and alter blood sugar levels. It may be necessary for your doctor to alter your dose of diabetic medications while taking beta-blockers.

Proarrhythmia: Betapace AF can cause or worsen ventricular arrhythmias, a different type of heartbeat that can be dangerous and even cause death. To minimize the risk of this heartbeat, patients should be placed in a medical facility that can provide cardiac resuscitation, continuous ECG monitoring, and calculations of creatinine clearance for a minimum of 3 days when starting or restarting therapy.

Allergic reaction: Patients with a history of allergic reactions to various allergens may be unresponsive to the usual doses of epinephrine used to treat the allergic reaction.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate or well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible hazards to the fetus.

Atenolol acebutlolol and sotalol Acebutolol crosses the placenta; reduced birth weight and decreased blood pressure and heart rate have occurred.

Breastfeeding: Acebutolol, atenolol, betaxolol, metoprolol, nadolol, pindolol, propranolol, sotalol, and timolol appear in breast milk. It is not known if carteolol, bisoprolol, or penbutolol appear in breast milk. Discontinue nursing when taking any beta-blockers.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any over the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements with beta­blockers. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs and drug classes interact with beta-blockers:

Classes interact with beta-blockers:

  • Alltacids (eg, aluminum carbonate)
  • Antiarrhythmics (eg, quinidine)
  • Antidiabetic drugs, oral (eg, glipizide)
  • Calcium channel blockers (eg, verapamil)
  • hydantoins (eg, phenytoin)
  • hydralazine (eg, Apresoline)
  • insulin lidocaine (eg, Xylocaine)
  • NSAIDs (eg, ibuprofen)
  • penicillins (eg, ampicillin)
  • phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine)
  • Cimetidine (eg, tagamet)
  • Clonidine (eg, Catapres)
  • Colestipol (eg, Colestid)
  • Epinephine (eg, Adrenalin)
  • Ergot alkaloids (eg, ergotamine)
  • Prazosin (eg, Minipress)
  • Propafenone (eg, Rythmol)
  • Rifamycins (eg, rifampin)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (eg, paroxetine)
  • Theophyllines (eg, aminophylline)
  • Thioamines (eg, methimazole)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many beta-blocker users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Nausea; vomiting; stomach pain; gas; bloating; diarrhea; constipation; heartburn; indigestion; stomach cramping; appetite changes; dry mouth; colon or rectal problems.

Nervous System: Depression; anxiety; nervousness; disorientation; confusion; fainting; weakness; dizziness; catatonia; vertigo (feeling of whirling motion); lightheadedness; fatigue; sleeplessness; drowsiness; lethargy; sleep disturbances; nightmares; abnormal, vivid dreams; hallucinations; short-term memory loss; decreased concentration; sedation; headache; emotional lability; mood changes; behavior changes; slurred speech.

Circulatory System: Changes in heart rate; decreased heart rate; irregular heart rate; heart rhythm abnormalities; chest pain; palpitations (pounding in the chest); cold extremities; changes in blood pressure; heart arrest; heart block; congestive heart failure; abnormal ECG; decreased blood platelets; decreased white blood cells; blood clot; vein inflammation; stroke.

Respiratory System: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; cough; nasal congestion; wheezing; upper respiratory infection; sinus infection; fluid in the lungs; bronchitis; asthma; bronchospasm; sore or inflamed throat; throat spasms.

Skin: Rash; swelling; flushing or paleness; abnormal skin sensations (eg, burning, prickling, tingling); increased or decreased skin sensitivity to stimulation; itching and irritation; hair loss; sweating; dry skin; numbness of the hands.

Muscular System: Aching or painful joints and muscles; back pain; limb pain; shoulder pain; muscle weakness; muscle cramps or twitching; tremor.

Urinary and Reproductive Tract: Painful urination; inability to urinate; frequent urination; urinary tract infection; excessive urination at night; sexual problems; decreased sex drive; impotence.

Other: Fever; weight changes; changes in blood sugar levels; infection; swelling of arms and legs; general body discomfort; decreased exercise tolerance; gout; cold - or flulike symptoms

Guidelines for Use:

  • Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
  • Do not stop taking or change the dose unless directed by your doctor. Abrupt withrawal has resulted in worsening of angina and ventricular arrhythmias and can cause myocardial infarction and death.
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to do so by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Do not chew or crush sustained-release or extended-release products.
  • Diabetes - May mask some signs of low blood sugar (eg, rapid heart rate, tremors) or alter blood glucose levels.
  • Glaucoma - May reduce intraocular pressure and interfere with the glaucoma screening test.
  • Consult your pharmacist or doctor before using dietary supplements or other prescription or nonprescription products including nasal decongestants, diet aids, and nonprescription cold preparations.
  • May cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity.
  • Notify your doctor if you experience difficulty breathing (especially on exertion or when lying down), night cough, swelling of the extremities, slow pulse rate, dizziness, light-headedness, fainting, confusion, depression, rash, fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, fatigue with exertion, cough, fast heartbeat, severe diarrhea, or unusual bleeding.
  • Inform your doctor or dentist of therapy before any type of surgery.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, become pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • Brand interchange - Do not change from one brand of this drug to another without consulting your pharmacist or doctor. For example, Betapace and Betapace AF are not interchangeable.
  • Nadolol, pindolol, acebutolol, atenolol, carteolol, bisoprolol, betaxolol, and
  • May be taken without regard to meals.
  • Metoprolol and propranolol - Take consistently with or without food at the same time each day.
  • Propranolollntensol- Mix prescribed dose with liquid or semi-solid food such as water, juices, soda or soda-like beverages, applesauce, or pudding. Use calibrated dropper to measure dose. Administer entire amount of mixture immediately after mixing. Do not store mixture after mixing.
  • Sotalol- Food may reduce absorption. Take on an empty stomach.
  • Sotalol - To reduce the risk of induced arrhythmias, patients should be placed in a medical facility that can provide cardiac resuscitation, continuous ECG monitoring, and calculations of creatine clearance for a minimum of 3 days when starting or restarting therapy.
  • Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F). Avoid excessive heat. Protect from light, moisture, and freezing.

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