SOP Verifikaso

Drug Information: Acebutolol
(a se byoo' toe lole)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
Do not stop taking acebutolol without talking to your doctor first. If acebutolol is stopped
suddenly, it may cause chest pain or heart attack in some people.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Acebutolol is used to treat high blood pressure. It relaxes your blood vessels so your heart
doesn't have to pump as hard. Acebutolol also is used to treat an irregular heartbeat.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for
more information.
How should this medicine be used?
Acebutolol comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken once or twice a day.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to
explain any part you do not understand. Take acebutolol exactly as directed. Do not take
more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Acebutolol controls your condition but does not cure it. Continue to take acebutolol even if
you feel well. Do not stop taking acebutolol without talking to your doctor.
Other uses for this medicine
Acebutolol is also used sometimes to treat chest pain (angina). Talk to your doctor about the
possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking acebutolol,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acebutolol or any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications
you are taking, especially medications for migraine headaches, diabetes, asthma,
allergies, colds, or pain; other medications for high blood pressure or heart disease;
reserpine; and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease; asthma or
other lung diseases; diseases of the blood vessels; severe allergies; diabetes; or an
overactive thyroid gland.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If
you become pregnant while taking acebutolol, call your doctor.
 if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you
are taking acebutolol.
 you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate
machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
 remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor
prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next
dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double
dose to make up for a missed one.
1
What side effects can this medication cause?
Acebutolol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
 excessive tiredness
 headache
 constipation
 diarrhea
 upset stomach
 muscle aches
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
 shortness of breath or wheezing

 swelling of the feet and lower legs
 chest pain
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and
Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist
about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be
checked regularly to determine your response to acebutolol. Your doctor may ask you to
check your pulse (heart rate). Ask your pharmacist or doctor to teach you how to take your
pulse. If your pulse is faster or slower than it should be, call your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have
about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-
the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or
other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if
you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Sectral®
Last Revised - 04/01/2003

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007
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Drug Information: Acetaminophen and Codeine
(a set a mee' noe fen) (koe' deen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
This monograph has been discontinued. Please see the codeine monograph for information
about this medication.
This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderate pain.
more information.
The combination of acetaminophen and codeine comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to
take by mouth. It usually is taken every 6 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not
understand. Take acetaminophen and codeine exactly as directed.
Codeine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer
period than your doctor tells you to.
Before taking acetaminophen and codeine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, codeine, sulfite
or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); antidepressants; medications for
cough, cold, or allergies; other pain relievers; sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers;
and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of
alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention.
you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and codeine, call your doctor.
are taking acetaminophen and codeine.
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take
acetaminophen and codeine regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it.
However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Acetaminophen and codeine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these
symptoms are severe or do not go away:
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
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 constipation
 stomach pain
 rash
 difficulty urinating
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
 difficulty breathing
 mood changes
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage; do not take more than 4000 mg of
acetaminophen per day.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Capital and Codeine®  Phenaphen with  Tylenol with Codeine

Codeine (No.3 and (No. 2, No. 3, No. 4)®
No.4)®
Other name(s):
 APAP and Codeine

Drug Information: Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone
4
(a set a mee' noe fen) (hye droe koe' done)
This combination of drugs is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.
more information.
The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid
to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4-6 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take acetaminophen and hydrocodone exactly as directed.
Hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a
longer period than your doctor tells you to.
Before taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, codeine,
hydrocodone, sulfite, or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); antidepressants; medications for
cough, cold, or allergies; other pain relievers; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers;
and vitamins.
you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone, call your
doctor.
are taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
 you should know that this drug may make you drowsy and dizzy; do not drive a car or
operate heavy machinery until you know how acetaminophen and hydrocodone
affects you.
 talk to your doctor about the safe use of alcohol. Alcohol may alter the effectiveness
of acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
acetaminophen and hydrocodone regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember
it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Acetaminophen and hydrocodone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these
 lightheadedness
 dizziness
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 constipation
 stomach pain
 rash
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 mood changes
Keep all appointments with your doctor. If your pain is not controlled or continues, call your
doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Anexsia®  Lortab®  Vicodin®

 Co-gesic®  Norco®
 Zydone®
 Lorcet-HD®  Panacet®
Other name(s):
 APAP and Hydrocodone

Drug Information: Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene
6
(a set a mee' noe fen) (proe pox' i feen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
Propoxyphene in high doses, taken by itself or in combination with other drugs, has been
associated with drug-related deaths. Do not take propoxyphene in combination with other
drugs that cause drowsiness: alcohol, tranquilizers, sleep aids, antidepressant drugs, or
antihistamines. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your
doctor tells you to.
This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. The drug also will help
treat fever.
more information.
The combination of acetaminophen and propoxyphene comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It

usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label
carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take
acetaminophen and propoxyphene exactly as directed.
Propoxyphene can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a
Before taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, propoxyphene,
sulfite, or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); anticoagulants ('blood thinners')
such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or
allergies; sedatives; seizure medications; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene, call your
doctor.
are taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene.
acetaminophen and propoxyphene regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember
it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Acetaminophen and propoxyphene may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
7
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 constipation
 stomach pain
 rash
 mood changes
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Darvocet-N®  Genagesic®
 E-Lor®  Wygesic®
Other name(s):
 APAP and Propoxyphene

Drug Information: Acetaminophen, Butalbital, and Caffeine
8
(a set a mee' noe fen) (byoo tal' bi tal) (kaf' een)
This combination of drugs is used to relieve tension headaches.
more information.
The combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine comes as a capsule and tablet to
take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine exactly as directed. Do not take
more than six tablets or capsules in 1 day. If you think that you need more to relieve your
symptoms, call your doctor.
This medication can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a
Before taking acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, butalbital,
caffeine, or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin
(Coumadin), antidepressants, antihistamines, pain medications, sedatives, sleeping
pills, tranquilizers, and vitamins. Many nonprescription pain relievers contain
acetaminophen. Too much of this drug can be harmful.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease, porphyria, or depression.
you become pregnant while taking this medication, call your doctor.
Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine may cause an upset stomach. Take this medicine
with food or milk.
Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of
these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 stomach pain
 depression
 lightheadedness
 confusion
9
 skin rash
 itching
Store it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Do not let anyone else take your medication. This medication is a controlled substance.
Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have
any questions.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Amaphen®  Endolor®  Medigesic®

 Anoquan®  Esgic®
 Repan®
 Butace®  Fioricet®

Drug Information: Acetaminophen
10
URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a681004.html
(a set a mee' noe fen)
Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches,
menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, and reactions to
vaccinations (shots), and to reduce fever. Acetaminophen may also be used to relieve the
pain of osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by the breakdown of the lining of the joints).
Acetaminophen is in a class of medications called analgesics (pain relievers) and antipyretics
(fever reducers). It works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body.
Acetaminophen comes as a tablet, chewable tablet, capsule, suspension or solution (liquid),

drops (concentrated liquid), extended-release (long-acting) tablet, and orally disintegrating
tablet (tablet that dissolves quickly in the mouth), to take by mouth, with or without food.
Acetaminophen also comes as a suppository to use rectally. Acetaminophen is available
without a prescription, but your doctor may prescribe acetaminophen to treat certain
conditions. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label carefully, and ask your
doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acetaminophen exactly
as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than directed on the package
label or prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount may cause
damage to your liver.
If you are giving acetaminophen to your child, read the package label carefully to make sure
that it is the right product for the age of the child. Do not give children acetaminophen
products that are made for adults. Some products for adults and older children may contain
too much acetaminophen for a younger child. Drops made for infants are more concentrated
(much more medication in each drop) than liquids made for older children. Check the
package label to find out how much medication the child needs. If you know how much your
child weighs, give the dose that matches that weight on the chart. If you don't know your
child's weight, give the dose that matches your child's age. Ask your child's doctor if you don't
know how much medication to give your child.
Acetaminophen comes in combination with other medications to treat cough and cold
symptoms. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which product is best for your
symptoms. Check nonprescription cough and cold product labels carefully before using two
or more products at the same time. These products may contain the same active
ingredient(s) and taking them together could cause you to receive an overdose. This is
especially important if you will be giving cough and cold medications to a child.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not split, chew, crush, or dissolve them.
Place the orally disintegrating tablet ('Meltaways') in your mouth and allow to dissolve or
chew it before swallowing.
Shake the suspension and drops well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use the
measuring cup provided by the manufacturer to measure each dose of the solution or
suspension, and use the dosing device provided to measure each dose of the drops. Use the
dosing device to slowly release the drops directly into the child's mouth near the inner cheek.
Do not mix the drops with baby formula.
To insert an acetaminophen suppository into the rectum, follow these steps:
 Remove the wrapper.

 Dip the tip of the suppository in water.
 Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A left-handed
person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee.)
 Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about ½ to 1 inch in infants
and children and 1 inch in adults. Hold it in place for a few moments.
 Stand up after about 15 minutes. Wash your hands thoroughly and resume your
normal activities.
Stop taking acetaminophen and call your doctor if your symptoms get worse, you develop
new or unexpected symptoms, including redness or swelling, your pain lasts for more than 10
11
days, or your fever gets worse or lasts more than 3 days. Also stop giving acetaminophen to
your child and call your child's doctor if your child develops new symptoms, including redness
or swelling, or your child's pain lasts for longer than 5 days, or fever get worse or lasts longer
than 3 days.
Do not give acetaminophen to a child who has a sore throat that is severe or does not go
away, or that occurs along with fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. Call the child's
doctor right away, because these symptoms may be signs of a more serious condition.
Acetaminophen may also be used in combination with aspirin and caffeine to relieve the pain
associated with migraine headache.
more information.
Before taking acetaminophen,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, any other
medications, or any of the ingredients in the product. Ask your pharmacist or check
the label on the package for a list of ingredients.
 do not take two or more products that contain acetaminophen at the same time.
Many prescription and nonprescription medications contain acetaminophen in
combination with other medications. Read the package labels or ask your doctor or
pharmacist to be sure that you do not take more than one product that contains
acetaminophen at a time.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications,
vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
Be sure to mention anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin);
isoniazid (INH); certain medications for seizures including carbamazepine (Tegretol),
phenobarbital, and phenytoin (Dilantin); medications for pain, fever, coughs, and
colds; and phenothiazines (medications for mental illness and nausea). Your doctor
may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side
effects.
 tell your doctor if you have any serious medical condition.
you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen, call your doctor.
 if you drink three or more alcoholic beverages every day, ask your doctor if you
should take acetaminophen. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of
alcoholic beverages while taking acetaminophen.
 you should know that combination acetaminophen products for cough and colds that
contain nasal decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants, and expectorants
should not be used in children younger than 2 years of age. Use of these
medications in young children can cause serious and life-threatening effects or
death. In children 2 through 11 years of age, combination cough and cold products
should be used carefully and only according to the directions on the label.
 if you have phenylketonuria (PKU, a inherited condition in which a special diet must
be followed to prevent mental retardation), you should know that some brands of
acetaminophen chewable tablets may be sweetened with aspartame. a source of
phenylalanine.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
This medication is usually taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take
acetaminophen regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is
almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing
schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
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Acetaminophen may cause side effects.
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your
doctor immediately:
 rash
 hives
 itching
 swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
 hoarseness
 difficulty breathing or swallowing
Acetaminophen may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual
problems while you are taking this medication.
If someone takes more than the recommended dose of acetaminophen, get medical help
immediately, even if the person does not have any symptoms. Symptoms of overdose may
include:
 nausea
 vomiting
 loss of appetite
 sweating
 extreme tiredness
 unusual bleeding or bruising
 pain in the upper right part of the stomach
 yellowing of the skin or eyes
 flu-like symptoms
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are
taking acetaminophen.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about acetaminophen.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
13
 Acephen®  Genapap®  Tylenol® Arthritis Pain
 Anacin® Aspirin Free  Genapap® Children's Extended Relief
Maximum Strength  Genapap® Drops Caplets®
Tablets® Infant's  Tylenol® Meltaways
 Capital® and Codeine  Genapap® Extra Children's
 Endocet® Strength Caplets®  Tylenol® Concentrated
 Excedrin P.M.®  Genapap® Extra Drops Infant's
Caplets® Strength Tablets  Tylenol® Extra
 Excedrin P.M.®  Genapap® Gel-Coat Strength Adult
Geltabs® Caplets®  Tylenol® Extra
 Excedrin P.M.®  Genebs® Strength Caplets®
Tablets  Genebs® Extra  Tylenol® Extra
 Excedrin® Extra- Strength Caplets® Strength Gelcaps®
Strength Caplets®  Genebs® Extra  Tylenol® Extra
 Excedrin® Extra- Strength Tablets Strength Geltabs®
Strength Tablets  Goody's® Extra  Tylenol® Extra
 Excedrin® Migraine Strength Tablets Strength Tablets
Caplets®  Goody's® Fast Pain  Tylenol® Meltaways
 Excedrin® Migraine Relief Tablets Junior Strength
Geltabs  Goody's® Headache  Tylenol® Suspension
 Excedrin® Migraine Powders Children's
Tablets  Liquiprin® Drops  Tylenol® with Codeine
 FeverAll® Children's  Roxicet® Elixir
 FeverAll® Infants'  Supac®  Tylenol® with Codeine
 FeverAll® Junior No. 3
Strength  Tylenol®  Tylenol® with Codeine
No. 4
 Gelpirin®  Tylox®
 Vanquish® Caplets®
 Wygesic®
Brand name(s) of combination products:
 Allerest® No Drowsiness containing  Phrenilin® Forte containing

Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine Acetaminophen and Butalbital
Hydrochloride  Premsyn PMS® Caplets® containing
 Axocet® containing Acetaminophen Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, and
and Butalbital Pyrilamine Maleate
 Benadryl® Severe Allergy and Sinus  Sedapap® containing Acetaminophen
Headache Maximum Strength and Butalbital
Caplets® containing Acetaminophen,  Sinarest® No Drowsiness Tablets
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, and containing Acetaminophen and
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
 Bupap® containing Acetaminophen  Sine-Off® Maximum Strength No
and Butalbital Drowsiness Formula Caplets®
 Dristan® Cold No Drowsiness containing Acetaminophen and
Formula Maximum Strength Caplets® Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
containing Acetaminophen and  Sinutab® containing Acetaminophen
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride and Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
 Duradrin® containing Acetaminophen,  Sinutab® Sinus Medication Maximum
Dichloralphenazone, and Strength Without Drowsiness Tablets
Isometheptene Mucate containing Acetaminophen and
 Excedrin® Aspirin-Free Caplets® Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
containing Acetaminophen and  Sominex® Pain Relief Formula
Caffeine containing Acetaminophen and
 Excedrin® Aspirin-Free Geltabs® Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
containing Acetaminophen and  St. Joseph® Cold Tablets for Children
Caffeine containing Acetaminophen and
 Excedrin® Quicktabs® containing Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride
Acetaminophen and Caffeine  Sudafed® Sinus & Headache
 I.D.A.® containing Acetaminophen, Caplets® containing Acetaminophen
Dichloralphenazone, and and Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
Isometheptene Mucate  Sudafed® Sinus & Headache
 Midol® Menstrual Formula Maximum Maximum Strength Tablets containing
Strength Caplets® containing Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, and Hydrochloride
14
Pyrilamine Maleate  Tylenol® Allergy Sinus NightTime
 Midol® Menstrual Formula Maximum Maximum Strength Caplets®
Strength Gelcaps® containing containing Acetaminophen,
Acetaminophen, Caffeine, and Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride, and
Pyrilamine Maleate Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride
 Midol® PMS Maximum Strength  Tylenol® Flu NightTime Maximum
Caplets® containing Acetaminophen, Strength Gelcaps® containing
Pamabrom, and Pyrilamine Maleate Acetaminophen, Diphenhydramine
 Midol® PMS Maximum Strength Hydrochloride, and Pseudoephedrine
Gelcaps® containing Acetaminophen, Hydrochloride
Pamabrom, and Pyrilamine Maleate  Tylenol® PM Extra Strength Caplets®
 Midol® Teen Menstrual Formula containing Acetaminophen and
Caplets® containing Acetaminophen Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
and Pamabrom  Tylenol® PM Extra Strength Gelcaps®
 Midrin® containing Acetaminophen, containing Acetaminophen and
Dichloralphenazone, and Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
Isometheptene Mucate  Tylenol® PM Extra Strength Geltabs®
 Ornex® Caplets® containing containing Acetaminophen and
Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
Hydrochloride  Tylenol® Sinus Geltabs® Maximum
 Ornex® Maximum Strength Caplets® Strength Tablets containing
containing Acetaminophen and Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine
Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride Hydrochloride
 Pamprin® Maximum Pain Relief  Tylenol® Sinus Medication Maximum
Caplets® containing Acetaminophen, Strength Geltabs® containing
Magnesium Salicylate, and Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine
Pamabrom Hydrochloride
 Pamprin® Multi-Symptom containing  Tylenol® Sinus Medication Maximum-
Acetaminophen, Pamabrom, and Strength Caplets® containing
Pyrilamine Maleate Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine
 Percogesic® containing Hydrochloride
Acetaminophen and Phenyltoloxamine  Tylenol® Sinus Medication Maximum-
Citrate Strength Gelcaps® containing
 Percogesic® Extra Strength Caplets® Acetaminophen and Pseudoephedrine
containing Acetaminophen and Hydrochloride
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride  Tylenol® Women's Caplets®
containing Acetaminophen and
 Phrenilin® containing Acetaminophen Pamabrom
and Butalbital  Ultracet® containing Acetaminophen
and Tramadol Hydrochloride
 Women's Tylenol® Menstrual Relief

Caplets® containing Acetaminophen
and Pamabrom

Drug Information: Acetazolamide Oral
15
(a set a zole' a mide)
Acetazolamide is used to treat glaucoma, a condition in which increased pressure in the eye
can lead to gradual loss of vision. Acetazolamide decreases the pressure in the eye.
Acetazolamide is also used to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms (upset stomach,
headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue) of altitude (mountain)
sickness. Acetazolamide is used with other medicines to reduce edema (excess water
retention) and to help control seizures in certain types of epilepsy.
more information.
Acetazolamide comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take acetazolamide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you are taking the extended-release (long-acting) form of acetazolamide (Diamox Sequels),
do not crush or chew the capsules.
Before taking acetazolamide,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetazolamide, sulfa drugs,
diuretics ('water pills'), or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially amphetamines, aspirin, cyclosporine (Neoral,
Sandimmune), medications for depression or irregular heartbeat, diflunisal (Dolobid),
digoxin (Lanoxin), diuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), phenobarbital,
primidone (Mysoline), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, liver, or kidney disease; or
diabetes.
you become pregnant while taking acetazolamide, call your doctor immediately.
are taking acetazolamide.
 plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective
clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Acetazolamide may make your skin sensitive to
sunlight.
dose to make up for the missed one.
Acetazolamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe
or do not go away:
 upset stomach
 vomiting
16
 numbness and tingling
 increased thirst and urination
 drowsiness
 headache
 confusion
 fever
 rash
 blood in urine
 painful urination
 seizures
 sore throat
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain tests
to check your response to acetazolamide.
Do not let anyone else to take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Diamox® Sequels®

Drug Information: Acyclovir
17
(ay sye' kloe veer)
Acyclovir is used to decrease pain and speed the healing of sores or blisters in people who
have varicella (chickenpox), herpes zoster (shingles; a rash that can occur in people who
have had chickenpox in the past), and first-time or repeat outbreaks of genital herpes (a
herpes virus infection that causes sores to form around the genitals and rectum from time to
time). Acyclovir is also sometimes used to prevent outbreaks of genital herpes in people who
are infected with the virus. Acyclovir is in a class of antiviral medications called synthetic
nucleoside analogues. It works by stopping the spread of the herpes virus in the body.
Acyclovir will not cure genital herpes and may not stop the spread of genital herpes to other
people.
Acyclovir comes as a tablet, a capsule, and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is

usually taken with or without food two to five times a day for 5 to 10 days, starting as soon as
possible after your symptoms begin. When acyclovir is used to prevent outbreaks of genital
herpes, it is usually taken two to five times a day for up to 12 months. Take acyclovir at
around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acyclovir
exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer time
than prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
Your symptoms should improve during your treatment with acyclovir. Call your doctor if your
symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Take acyclovir until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking
acyclovir too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated or may
become more difficult to treat.
Acyclovir is also sometimes used to treat eczema herpeticum (a skin infection caused by the
herpes virus) to treat and prevent herpes infections of the skin, eyes, nose, and mouth in
patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and to treat oral hairy leukoplakia
(condition that causes hairy white or gray-colored patches on the tongue or inside of the
cheek).
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.
Before taking acyclovir,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex),
any other medications, or any of the ingredients in acyclovir. Ask your pharmacist for
a list of the ingredients.
vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
Be sure to mention any of the following: amphotericin B (Fungizone); aminoglycoside
antibiotics such as amikacin (Amikin), gentamicin (Garamycin), kanamycin (Kantrex),
neomycin (Nes-RX, Neo-Fradin), paramomycin (Humatin), streptomycin, and
tobramycin (Tobi, Nebcin); aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn);
cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); medications to treat HIV or AIDS such as
zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT); pentamidine (NebuPent); probenecid (Benemid);
sulfonamides such as sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim); tacrolimus
(Prograf); and vancomycin. Many other medications may also interact with acyclovir,
so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, even those
that do not appear on this list. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your
medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
18
 tell your doctor if there is a possibility you may be dehydrated from a recent illness or
activity, or if you have or have ever had problems with your immune system; human
immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV); acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
(AIDS); or kidney disease.
you become pregnant while taking acyclovir, call your doctor.
 if you are taking acyclovir to treat genital herpes, you should know that genital herpes
can be spread through sexual contact even if you don't have blisters or other
symptoms and possibly even if you are taking acyclovir. Talk to your doctor about
ways to stop the spread of genital herpes and about whether your partner(s) should
receive treatment.
Drink plenty of fluids while you are taking acyclovir.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take any remaining doses for that day
at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed
dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a
missed one.
Acyclovir may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 diarrhea
 dizziness
 tiredness
 agitation
 pain, especially in the joints
 hair loss
 changes in vision
doctor immediately:
 hives
 rash or blisters
 itching
 hoarseness
 fast heartbeat
 weakness
 pale skin
 difficulty sleeping
 fever, sore throat, chills, cough, and other signs of infection
 unusual bruising or bleeding
 blood in the urine
 stomach pain or cramps
 bloody diarrhea
 decreased urination
 headache
 hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
 confusion
 aggressive behavior
 difficulty speaking
 numbness, burning, or tingling in the arms or legs
 temporary inability to move parts of your body
 shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
 seizures
19
 loss of consciousness
Acyclovir may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
while you are taking this medication.
Symptoms of overdose may include:
 agitation
 seizures
 extreme tiredness
 swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab
tests to check your response to acyclovir.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Zovirax®
Other name(s):
 Acycloguanosine  ACV

Drug Information: Albuterol

(al byoo' ter ole)
20
Albuterol is used to prevent and treat wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness
caused by lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD;
a group of diseases that affect the lungs and airways). Albuterol is in a class of medications
called bronchodilators. It works by relaxing and opening the air passages to the lungs to
make breathing easier.
Albuterol comes as a tablet, a syrup, and an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to take by

mouth. The tablets and syrup are usually taken three or four times a day. The extended-
release tablets are usually taken once every 12 hours. Take albuterol at around the same
times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor
or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take albuterol exactly as directed.
Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole with plenty of water or other liquid. Do not split,
chew, or crush them.
Your doctor may start you on a low dose of albuterol and gradually increase your dose.
Albuterol may help control your symptoms but will not cure your condition. Continue to take
albuterol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking albuterol without talking to your doctor.
Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or if you feel that albuterol no longer controls your
symptoms.
information.
Before taking albuterol,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to albuterol, any other medications,
or any of the ingredients in albuterol tablets, extended-release tablets, or capsules.
Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
Be sure to mention any of the following: beta blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin),
labetalol (Normodyne), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard), and
propranolol (Inderal); digoxin (Lanoxin); diuretics ('water pills'); epinephrine (Epipen,
Primatene Mist); other oral and inhaled medications for asthma and medications for
colds. Also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the following medications
or have stopped taking them within the past two weeks: antidepressants such as
amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine
(Norpramin), doxepin (Adapin, Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Aventyl,
Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), and trimipramine (Surmontil); and monoamine
oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, including isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil),
selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate). Your doctor
may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side
effects.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had an irregular heartbeat, heart disease,
high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism (condition in which there is too much thyroid
hormone in the body), diabetes, or seizures.
you become pregnant while taking albuterol, call your doctor.
 you should know that albuterol sometimes causes wheezing and difficulty breathing.
If this happens, call your doctor right away. Do not use albuterol again unless your
doctor tells you that you should.
21
Albuterol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 nervousness
 shakiness
 dizziness
 headache
 uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
 muscle cramps
 excessive motion or activity
 sudden changes in mood
 nosebleed
 nausea
 increased or decreased appetite
 difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
 pale skin
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
 fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat

 chest pain
 fever
 blisters or rash
 hives
 itching
 increased difficulty breathing
 difficulty swallowing
 hoarseness
Albuterol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
while taking this medication.
 seizures
 chest pain
 fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat
 nervousness
 headache
 dry mouth
 nausea
 dizziness
22
 lack of energy
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 VoSpire ER®
Other name(s):
 salbutamol

Drug Information: Allopurinol

(al oh pure' i nole)
23
Allopurinol is used to treat gout, high levels of uric acid in the body caused by certain cancer
medications, and kidney stones. Allopurinol is in a class of medications called xanthine
oxidase inhibitors. It works by reducing the production of uric acid in the body. High levels of
uric acid may cause gout attacks or kidney stones. Allopurinol is used to prevent gout attacks,
not to treat them once they occur.
Allopurinol comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day,
preferably after a meal. To help you remember to take allopurinol, take it around the same
time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor
or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take allopurinol exactly as directed.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of allopurinol and gradually increase your
dose, not more than once a week.
It may take several months or longer before you feel the full benefit of allopurinol. Allopurinol
may increase the number of gout attacks during the first few months that you take it, although
it will eventually prevent attacks. Your doctor may prescribe another medication such as
colchicine to prevent gout attacks for the first few months you take allopurinol. Continue to
take allopurinol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking allopurinol without talking to your
doctor.
Allopurinol is also sometimes used to treat seizures, pain caused by pancreas disease, and
certain infections. It is also sometimes used to improve survival after bypass surgery, to
reduce ulcer relapses, and to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. Talk to your doctor
about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
information.
Before taking allopurinol,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to allopurinol or any other
medications.
vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to
mention any of the following: amoxicillin (Amoxil, Trimox); ampicillin (Polycillin,
Principen); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); cancer
chemotherapy drugs such as cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) and mercaptopurine
(Purinethol); chlorpropamide (Diabinese); diuretics ('water pills'); medications that
suppress the immune system such as azathioprine (Imuran) and cyclosporine
(Neoral, Sandimmune); other medications for gout such as probenecid (Benemid)
and sulfinpyrazone (Anturane); and tolbutamide (Orinase). Your doctor may need to
change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease or heart failure.
you become pregnant while taking allopurinol, call your doctor.
 you should know that allopurinol may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate
machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
 ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic beverages while you are taking
allopurinol. Alcohol may decrease the effectiveness of allopurinol.
Drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids each day while taking allopurinol unless
directed to do otherwise by your doctor.
24
Allopurinol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 upset stomach
 diarrhea
 drowsiness
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you
experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
 skin rash
 painful urination
 irritation of the eyes
 swelling of the lips or mouth
 fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
 unexpected weight loss
 itching
Allopurinol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab
tests to check your body's response to allopurinol.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Aloprim®  Zyloprim®
Drug Information: Alprazolam

(al pray' zoe lam)

25
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Alprazolam is in a class of
medications called benzodiazepines. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the
brain.
Alprazolam comes as a tablet and a concentrated solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It usually
is taken two to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and
ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take alprazolam
exactly as directed.
To take the concentrated liquid, use only the dropper that came with your prescription. Draw
into the dropper the amount prescribed for one dose. Squeeze the dropper contents into a
liquid or semi-solid food such as water, juice, soda, applesauce, or pudding. Stir the liquid or
food gently for a few seconds. The concentrated liquid will blend completely with the food.
Drink or eat the entire mixture immediately. Do not store for future use.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of alprazolam and gradually increase your
dose, not more than once every 3 or 4 days.
Alprazolam can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose or take it more often or for a
longer time than your doctor tells you to. Do not stop taking alprazolam without talking to your
doctor. Suddenly stopping to take alprazolam may worsen your condition and cause
withdrawal symptoms (anxiousness, sleeplessness, irritability, and seizures). Withdrawal
symptoms may be worse if you take more than 4 mg of alprazolam every day. Your doctor will
decrease your dose gradually.
Alprazolam also is used sometimes to treat depression, fear of open spaces (agoraphobia),
and premenstrual syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this
medication for your condition.
information.
Before taking alprazolam,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide
(Librium, Librax), clonazepam (Klonopin), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam
(Valium), estazolam (ProSom), flurazepam (Dalmane), halazepam (Paxipam),
lorazepam (Ativan), oxazepam (Serax), prazepam (Centrax), quazepam (Doral),
temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), or any other medications.
 do not take alprazolam if you are taking itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole
(Nizoral).
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription
medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Be sure to mention any of the following: amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone);
antidepressants ('mood elevators') such as desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine
(Tofranil), and nefazodone (Serzone); antifungals such as fluconazole (Diflucan);
antihistamines; cimetidine (Tagamet); clarithromycin (Biaxin); cyclosporine (Neoral,
Sandimmune); diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac); ergotamine (Cafatine, Cafergot,
Wigraine, others); erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin); isoniazid (INH,
Nydrazid); medications for mental illness and seizures; nicardipine (Cardene);
nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia); oral contraceptives (birth control pills); propoxyphene
(Darvon); selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine (Prozac,
Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft); sedatives;
sleeping pills; and tranquilizers. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had glaucoma; depression; or lung, kidney,
or liver disease.
you become pregnant while taking alprazolam, call your doctor immediately.
are taking alprazolam.
26
 you should know that alprazolam may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or
operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
 remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.
Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.
Alprazolam may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 drowsiness
 light-headedness
 tiredness
 dizziness
 irritability
 talkativeness
 dry mouth
 increased salivation
 changes in sex drive or ability
 changes in appetite
 weight changes
 seizures
 seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinating)
 severe skin rash
 memory problems
 confusion
 problems with coordination
Alprazolam may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
27
 drowsiness
 confusion
 problems with coordination
 coma
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Alprazolam Intensol®  Xanax®

Drug Information: Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium

Hydroxide
(a loo' mi num hye drox' ide) (mag nee' zhum hye drox' ide)
28
Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are antacids used together to relieve
heartburn, acid indigestion, and stomach upset. They may be used to treat these symptoms
in patients with peptic ulcer, gastritis, esophagitis, hiatal hernia, or too much acid in the
stomach (gastric hyperacidity). They combine with stomach acid and neutralize it. Aluminum
hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are available without a prescription.
more information.
This medication comes as a chewable tablet and liquid to take by mouth. Chew tablets
thoroughly; do not swallow them whole. Drink a full glass of water after taking the tablets.
Shake the oral liquid well before each use to mix the medicine evenly. The liquid may be
mixed with water or milk.
Follow the directions on the package label or on your prescription label carefully, and ask
your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take aluminum
hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide antacids exactly as directed. Do not take more or less
of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not take antacids for more than
1-2 weeks unless prescribed by your doctor.
Before taking aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide antacids,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aluminum hydroxide and
magnesium hydroxide antacids or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially aspirin, cinoxacin (Cinobac), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), digoxin
(Lanoxin), diazepam (Valium), enoxacin (Penetrex), ferrous sulfate (iron), fluconazole
(Diflucan), indomethacin, isoniazid (INH), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole
(Nizoral), levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), nalidixic acid (NegGram),
norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), tetracycline
(Achromycin, Sumycin), and vitamins. If your doctor tells you to take antacids while
taking these medications, do not take them within 2 hours of taking an antacid.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
you become pregnant while taking aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide
antacids, call your doctor.
If you are taking this medication for an ulcer, follow the diet prescribed by your doctor
carefully.
If you are taking scheduled doses of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, take the
missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to
make up for a missed one.
Side effects from aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are not common. To avoid
the chalky taste, take with water or milk. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe
or do not go away:
 diarrhea
 constipation
 unusual tiredness
 muscle weakness
29
If you are taking this medication under a doctor's care, keep all appointments with your
doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Alamag®  Mag-Al®  Rulox®
 Maalox®  Mylanta®

Drug Information: Amantadine

(a man' ta deen)
30
Amantadine is used to treat Parkinson's disease and conditions similar to those of
Parkinson's disease. It also is used to prevent and treat respiratory infections caused by
influenza A virus.
more information.
Amantadine comes as a capsule and liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice
a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or
pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amantadine exactly as directed.
Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop
taking amantadine without talking to your doctor.
If this medication causes insomnia (difficulty sleeping), take the last dose several hours
before bedtime.
Before taking amantadine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amantadine or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially benztropine (Cogentin), hydrochlorothiazide with
triamterene (Maxzide, Dyazide), medication for depression, other medication for
Parkinson's disease, medication for spasms of the stomach or intestines, stimulants,
trihexyphenidyl (Artane), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have epilepsy or any other type of seizures, or have ever had
heart, kidney, or liver disease, heart failure, low blood pressure, recurring skin rash,
or mental illness.
you become pregnant while taking amantadine, call your doctor immediately.
Amantadine may cause harm to the fetus.
 this medicine may cause blurred vision; be careful when driving or doing things
requiring alertness.
Amantadine may cause an upset stomach. Take amantadine with food or milk.
Amantadine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 blurred vision
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
 faintness
 trouble sleeping
If you experience any of the following side effects, call your doctor immediately:
 depression or anxiety
 swelling of the hands, legs, or feet
 shortness of breath
 rash
31
Do not freeze. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your
pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
tests to check your response to amantadine.
about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the
amantadine, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Symmetrel®  Symmetrel® Syrup

Drug Information: Aminophylline

(am in off'' i lin)
32
Aminophylline is used to prevent and treat wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty
breathing caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases. It
relaxes and opens air passages in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
more information.
Aminophylline comes as a tablet and syrup to take by mouth and a suppository to insert
rectally. It usually is taken every 6, 8, or 12 hours. Follow the directions on your prescription
label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take aminophylline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often
than prescribed by your doctor.
Take the tablets or oral liquid with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour
before or 2 hours after a meal. Do not chew or crush the long-acting tablets; swallow them
whole.
Aminophylline controls symptoms of asthma and other lung diseases but does not cure them.
Continue to take aminophylline even if you feel well. Do not stop taking aminophylline without
talking to your doctor.
To insert a rectal suppository, follow these steps:

 Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A left-handed
person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee.)
 Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about 1/2-1 inch in infants
 Stand up after about 15 minutes. Wash your hands thoroughly and resume your
normal activities.
Aminophylline is sometimes used to treat breathing problems in premature infants. Talk to

your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your baby's condition.
Before taking aminophylline,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aminophylline or any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription medications you are taking,
especially allopurinol (Zyloprim), azithromycin (Zithromax) carbamazepine (Tegretol),
cimetidine (Tagamet), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), clarithromycin (Biaxin), diuretics ('water
pills'), erythromycin, lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), oral contraceptives, phenytoin
(Dilantin), prednisone (Deltasone), propranolol (Inderal), rifampin (Rifadin),
tetracycline (Sumycin), and other medications for infections or heart disease.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what nonprescription medications and vitamins you
are taking, especially nonprescription medications containing ephedrine, epinephrine,
phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, or pseudoephedrine. Many nonprescription
products contain these drugs (e.g., diet pills and medications for colds and asthma),
so check labels carefully. Do not take these medications without talking to your
doctor; they can increase the side effects of aminophylline.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had seizures, heart disease, an overactive or
underactive thyroid gland, high blood pressure, or liver disease or if you have a
history of alcohol abuse.
you become pregnant while taking aminophylline, call your doctor.
 tell your doctor if you use tobacco products. Cigarette smoking may affect the
effectiveness of aminophylline.
33
Drinking or eating foods high in caffeine, like coffee, tea, cocoa, and chocolate, may increase
the side effects caused by aminophylline. Avoid large amounts of these substances while you
are taking aminophylline.
dose to make up for a missed one. If you become severely short of breath, call your doctor.
Aminophylline may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe
or do not go away.
 upset stomach
 stomach pain
 diarrhea
 headache
 restlessness
 insomnia
 irritability
 vomiting
 increased or rapid heart rate
 irregular heartbeat
 seizures
 skin rash
tests to check your response to aminophylline.
Do not change from one brand of aminophylline to another without talking to your doctor.
emergencies.

34
Drug Information: Amiodarone Oral
(a mee' oh da rone)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
35
Amiodarone may cause lung disease that can be serious or life-threatening.Tell your doctor if
you have or have ever had any type of lung disease. If you experience any of the following
symptoms, call your doctor immediately: fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, cough,
coughing up blood, and any other breathing problems. Amiodarone also may cause liver
disease. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease. If your experience any of
the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: upset stomach, vomiting, dark colored
urine, excessive tiredness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, itching, or pain in the upper right part
of the stomach.Amiodarone may cause your irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia) to worsen or
may cause you to develop new arrhythmias. Tell your doctor if you have ever been dizzy or
lightheaded or have fainted because your heartbeat was too slow and if you have or have ever
had low levels of potassium in your blood; heart or thyroid disease; or any problems with your
heart rhythm other than the irregular heartbeat being treated. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if
you are taking any of the following medications: antifungals such as fluconazole (Diflucan),
ketoconazole (Nizoral), and itraconazole (Sporanox); azithromycin (Zithromax); beta blockers
such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetalol (Normodyne), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol
(Corgard), and propranolol (Inderal); calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine (Norvasc),
diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac, others), felodipine (Plendil), isradipine (DynaCirc),
nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), nimodipine (Nimotop), nisoldipine
(Sular), and verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan); cisapride (Propulsid); clarithromycin
(Biaxin); diuretics ('water pills'); dofetilide (Tikosyn); erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin,
Erythrocin); fluoroquinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gatifloxacin (Tequin),
levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), norfloxacin (Noroxin),
ofloxacin (Floxin), and sparfloxacin (Zagam); other medications for irregular heartbeat such as
digoxin (Lanoxin), disopyramide (Norpace), flecainide (Tambocor), phenytoin (Dilantin),
procainamide (Procanbid, Pronestyl), quinidine (Quinidex) and sotalol (Betapace); and
thioridazine (Mellaril). If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
lightheadedness; fainting; fast, slow, or pounding heartbeat; or feeling that your heart has
skipped a beat.You will probably be hospitalized for one week or longer when you begin your
treatment with amiodarone. Your doctor will monitor you carefully during this time and for as
long as you continue to take amiodarone. Your doctor will probably start you on a high dose of
amiodarone and gradually decrease your dose as the medication begins to work. Your doctor
may decrease your dose during your treatment if you develop side effects. Follow your
doctor's directions carefully.Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your
doctor will order certain tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, and electrocardiograms (EKGs,
tests that record the electrical activity of the heart) before and during your treatment to be sure
that it is safe for you to take amiodarone and to check your body's response to the
medication.Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information
sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin treatment with amiodarone and each time you refill
your prescription. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have
any questions.You also can obtain the Medication Guide from the FDA website:
http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/SAFETY/2005/Cordarone_Med_Guide.pdf.Talk to your doctor
about the risks of taking amiodarone.
Amiodarone is used to treat and prevent certain types of ventricular arrhythmias (abnormal
heart rhythm). Amiodarone is in a class of medications called antiarrhythmics. It works by
relaxing overactive heart muscles.
Amiodarone comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. Your
doctor will tell you to take amiodarone with or without food; be sure to take it the same way
each time. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or
pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amiodarone exactly as directed.
Amiodarone controls arrhythmias but does not cure them. Continue to take amiodarone even
if you feel well. Do not stop taking amiodarone without talking to your doctor. If you suddenly
stop taking amiodarone, your condition may get worse.
information.
36
Before taking amiodarone,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amiodarone, iodine, any other
drugs, or corn.
vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking. Be sure to mention the
medications listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING and any of the following:
antidepressants ('mood elevators') such as fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem),
fluvoxamine (Luvox), nefazodone (Serzone); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as
warfarin (coumadin); cholesterol lowering medications such as atorvastatin (Lipitor),
cholestyramine (Questran), lovastatin (Mevacor), simvastatin (Zocor); cimetidine
(Tagamet); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); danazol (Danocrine); delavirdine
(Rescriptor); dextromethorphan (a medication in many cough preparations);
dexamethasone (Decadron); fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic); HIV protease inhibitors such
as indinavir (Crixivan), and ritonavir (Norvir); isoniazid (INH, Nydrazid); medications
for diabetes; medications for pain; medications for seizures such as carbamazepine
(Tegretol), ethosuximide (Zarontin), phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton), phenytoin
(Dilantin); metronidazole (Flagyl); methotrexate (Rheumatrex); oral contraceptives
(birth control pills); rifabutin (Mycobutin); rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); troglitazone
(Rezulin); troleandomycin (TAO); and zafirlukast (Accolate). Your doctor may have to
 tell your doctor what herbal products you are taking, especially St. John's wort.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had problems with your blood pressure.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
You should use a reliable method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are
taking amiodarone. If you become pregnant while taking amiodarone, call your doctor
immediately. You should not breastfeed while you are taking amiodarone. Talk to your
doctor if you plan to become pregnant or breastfeed during the first several months
after your treatment because amiordarone may remain in your body for some time
after you stop taking it.
 if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you
are taking amiodarone.
 plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight or sunlamps and to
wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Amiodarone may make your
skin sensitive to sunlight. Exposed skin may turn blue-gray and may not return to
normal even after you stop using this medication.
 you should know that amiodarone may cause vision problems including permanent
blindness. Be sure to have regular eye exams during your treatment and call your
doctor if you have any changes with your eyes or notice any changes in your vision.
 you should know that amiodarone may remain in your body for several months after
your stop taking it. You may continue to experience side effects of amiodarone during
this time. Be sure to tell your health care provider who treats you or prescribes any
medication for you during this time that you have recently stopped taking
amiodarone.
Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication.
Amiodarone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 vomiting
 constipation
 headache
37
 decreased sex drive
 flushing
 dry eyes
 changes in ability to taste and smell
 changes in amount of saliva
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, or those
listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:
 rash
 weight loss or gain
 restlessness
 intolerance to heat or cold
 thinning hair
 excessive sweating
 changes in menstrual cycle
 swelling in the front of the neck (goiter)
 decreased vision or changes in your ability to see such as blurred vision or seeing
halos
 eyes are sensitive to light
 eye pain
 shaking hands that you can not control
 movements that you can not control
 poor coordination or trouble walking
 numbness or tingling in the hands, legs, and feet
 muscle weakness
Laboratory animals who were given amiodarone developed thyroid tumors. It is not known if
amiodarone increases the risk of developing thyroid tumors in humans.
Talk to your doctor about the risk of taking amiodarone.
Amiodarone may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
Protect this medication from light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer
needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
 slow heartbeat
 upset stomach
 blurred vision
 lightheadedness
 fainting
38
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Cordarone®  Pacerone®

Drug Information: Amitriptyline and Perphenazine

(a mee trip' ti leen) (per fen' a zeen)
Amitriptyline (an antidepressant or mood elevator) and perphenazine (a tranquilizer) are used
together to treat depression, anxiety, and agitation.
39
more information.
Amitriptyline and perphenazine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken two to
four times a day and may be taken with or without food. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take amitriptyline and perphenazine exactly as directed. Do not take more or
less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take amitriptyline and perphenazine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking
amitriptyline and perphenazine without talking to your doctor, especially if you have taken
large doses for a long time. Your doctor probably will want to decrease your dose gradually.
This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt.
Before taking amitriptyline and perphenazine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amitriptyline and perphenazine or
any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are
taking or have taken within the last 2 weeks, especially anticoagulants [warfarin
(Coumadin)]; antihistamines; cimetidine (Tagamet); estrogens; fluoxetine (Prozac);
lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); MAO inhibitors [phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine
(Parnate)]; levodopa (Sinemet, Larodopa); medication for high blood pressure,
seizures, Parkinson's disease, diabetes, asthma, colds, or allergies; methylphenidate
(Ritalin); muscle relaxants; oral contraceptives; sedatives; sleeping pills; thyroid
medications; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had glaucoma, an enlarged prostate,
difficulty urinating, seizures, an overactive thyroid gland, or liver, kidney, or heart
disease.
you become pregnant while taking amitriptyline and perphenazine, call your doctor
immediately.
are taking amitriptyline and perphenazine.
 tell your doctor if you use tobacco products. Cigarette smoking may decrease the
effectiveness of this drug.
If you take several doses per day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it and take
any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost time for
the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule.
If you take amitriptyline and perphenazine once a day at bedtime and do not remember to
take it until the next morning, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
Side effects from amitriptyline and perphenazine are common:
 upset stomach
 drowsiness
 weakness or tiredness
 excitement or anxiety
 insomnia
 nightmares
 dry mouth
 skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual
 changes in appetite or weight
40
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
 constipation
 frequent urination
 blurred vision
 jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms

 slow or difficult speech
 shuffling walk
 persistent fine tremor or inability to sit still
 fever
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
tests to check your response to amitriptyline and perphenazine.
Brand name(s):
 Etrafon®  Triavil®

Drug Information: Amitriptyline

URL of this page: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682388.html
(a mee trip' ti leen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
41
A small number of children, teenagers, and young adults (up to 24 years of age) who took
antidepressants ('mood elevators') such as amitriptyline during clinical studies became suicidal
(thinking about harming or killing oneself or planning or trying to do so). Children, teenagers,
and young adults who take antidepressants to treat depression or other mental illnesses may
be more likely to become suicidal than children, teenagers, and young adults who do not take
antidepressants to treat these conditions. However, experts are not sure about how great this
risk is and how much it should be considered in deciding whether a child or teenager should
take an antidepressant. Children younger than 18 years of age should not normally take
amitriptyline, but in some cases, a doctor may decide that amitriptyline is the best medication
to treat a child's condition.You should know that your mental health may change in unexpected
ways when you take amitriptyline or other antidepressants even if you are an adult over age
24. You may become suicidal, especially at the beginning of your treatment and any time that
your dose is increased or decreased. You, your family, or your caregiver should call your
doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: new or worsening
depression; thinking about harming or killing yourself, or planning or trying to do so; extreme
worry; agitation; panic attacks; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; aggressive behavior;
irritability; acting without thinking; severe restlessness; and frenzied abnormal excitement. Be
sure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the
doctor when you are unable to seek treatment on your own.Your healthcare provider will want
to see you often while you are taking amitriptyline, especially at the beginning of your
treatment. Be sure to keep all appointments for office visits with your doctor.The doctor or
pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when
you begin treatment with amitriptyline. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or
pharmacist if you have any questions. You also can obtain the Medication Guide from the FDA
website: http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/antidepressants/antidepressants_MG_2007.pdf.No
matter your age, before you take an antidepressant, you, your parent, or your caregiver should
talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treating your condition with an
antidepressant or with other treatments. You should also talk about the risks and benefits of
not treating your condition. You should know that having depression or another mental illness
greatly increases the risk that you will become suicidal. This risk is higher if you or anyone in
your family has or has ever had bipolar disorder (mood that changes from depressed to
abnormally excited) or mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood) or has thought about or
attempted suicide. Talk to your doctor about your condition, symptoms, and personal and
family medical history. You and your doctor will decide what type of treatment is right for you.
Amitriptyline is used to treat symptoms of depression. Amitriptyline is in a class of

medications called tricyclic antidepressants. It works by increasing the amounts of certain
natural substances in the brain that are needed to maintain mental balance.
Amitriptyline comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken one to four times a day.
Take amitriptyline at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take amitriptyline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of amitriptyline and gradually increase your
dose.
It may take a few weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of amitriptyline. Continue to
take amitriptyline even if you feel well. Do not stop taking amitriptyline without talking to your
doctor. If you suddenly stop taking amitriptyline, you may experience withdrawal symptoms
such as nausea, headache, and lack of energy. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose
gradually.
Amitriptyline is also sometimes used to treat eating disorders and post-herpetic neuralgia (the
burning, stabbing pains, or aches that may last for months or years after a shingles infection).
Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
information.
42
Before taking amitriptyline,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amitriptyline or any other
medications.
 tell your doctor if you are taking cisapride (Propulsid) (not available in the U.S.) or
monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine
(Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), or if
you have taken an MAO inhibitor during the past 14 days. Your doctor will probably
tell you that you should not take amitriptyline.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription
medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Be sure to mention any of the following: antihistamines; cimetidine (Tagamet); diet
pills; disulfiram (Antabuse); guanethidine (Ismelin); ipratropium (Atrovent); quinidine
(Quinidex); medications for irregular heartbeats such as flecainide (Tambocor) and
propafenone (Rythmol); medications for anxiety, asthma, colds, irritable bowel
disease, mental illness, nausea, Parkinson's disease, seizures, ulcers, or urinary
problems; other antidepressants; phenobarbital (Bellatal, Solfoton); sedatives;
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as citalopram (Celexa),
fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline
(Zoloft); sleeping pills; thyroid medications; and tranquilizers. Tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you have stopped taking fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem) in the past 5
weeks.Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you
carefully for side effects.
 tell your doctor if you have recently had a heart attack. Your doctor will probably tell
you not to take amitriptyline.
 tell your doctor if you drink large amounts of alcohol and if you have or have ever had
glaucoma (an eye condition); an enlarged prostate (a male reproductive gland);
difficulty urinating; seizures; an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism); diabetes;
schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of
interest in life, and strong or inappropriate emotions); or liver, kidney, or heart
disease.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become
pregnant while taking amitriptyline, call your doctor. Do not breast-feed while you are
taking amitriptyline.
are taking amitriptyline.
 you should know that amitriptyline may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or
Amitriptyline may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 nausea
 vomiting
 drowsiness
 nightmares
 headaches
43
 dry mouth
 constipation
 blurred vision
 pain, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
 confusion
 unsteadiness
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms or those

 dizziness or faintness
 weakness or numbness of an arm or a leg
 crushing chest pain
 rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
 severe skin rash or hives
 swelling of the face and tongue
 jaw, neck, and back muscle spasms
 fainting
 seizures
 hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
Amitriptyline may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
 seizures
 coma (loss of consciousness for a period of time)
 confusion
 problems concentrating
 hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
 agitation
 drowsiness
 rigid muscles
 vomiting
 fever
 cold body temperature
44
tests to check your body's response to amitriptyline.
emergencies.
 Limbitrol® (containing amitriptyline  Limbitrol® DS (containing amitriptyline

and chlordiazepoxide) and chlordiazepoxide)

Drug Information: Amlodipine

(am loe' di peen)
Amlodipine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood
pressure and chest pain (angina). Amlodipine is in a class of medications called calcium
channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does
not have to pump as hard. It controls chest pain by increasing the supply of blood to the
45
heart. If taken regularly, amlodipine controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it
starts. Your doctor may prescribe a different medication to take when you have chest pain.
Amlodipine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. To help you
remember to take amlodipine, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions
on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you
do not understand. Take amlodipine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take
it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of amlodipine and gradually increase your
dose.
Amlodipine controls high blood pressure and chest pain (angina) but does not cure them.
Continue to take amlodipine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking amlodipine without
talking to your doctor.
information.
Before taking amlodipine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amlodipine or any other
medications.
vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease.
you become pregnant while taking amlodipine, call your doctor.
If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
Amlodipine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:

 headache
 upset stomach
 stomach pain
 dizziness or lightheadedness
 drowsiness
 flushing (feeling of warmth)
 more frequent or more severe chest pain

 fainting
46
 dizziness
 fainting
 rapid heartbeat
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to
determine your response to amlodipine.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Norvasc®
 Caduet® (containing Amlodipine and  Exforge® (containing Amlodipine and

Atorvastatin) Valsartan)

Drug Information: Amoxapine

(a mox' a peen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
A small number of children, teenagers, and young adults (up to 24 years of age) who took
antidepressants ('mood elevators') such as amoxapine during clinical studies became suicidal
(thinking about harming or killing oneself or planning or trying to do so). Children, teenagers,
and young adults who take antidepressants to treat depression or other mental illnesses may
47
be more likely to become suicidal than children, teenagers, and young adults who do not take
antidepressants to treat these conditions. However, experts are not sure about how great this
risk is and how much it should be considered in deciding whether a child or teenager should
take an antidepressant. Children younger than 18 years of age should not normally take
amoxapine, but in some cases, a doctor may decide that amoxapine is the best medication to
treat a child's condition.You should know that your mental health may change in unexpected
ways when you take amoxapine or other antidepressants even if you are an adult over age 24.
You may become suicidal, especially at the beginning of your treatment and any time that your
dose is increased or decreased. You, your family, or your caregiver should call your doctor
right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: new or worsening depression;
thinking about harming or killing yourself, or planning or trying to do so; extreme worry;
agitation; panic attacks; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; aggressive behavior;
irritability; acting without thinking; severe restlessness; and frenzied abnormal excitement. Be
sure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the
doctor when you are unable to seek treatment on your own.Your healthcare provider will want
to see you often while you are taking amoxapine, especially at the beginning of your treatment.
Be sure to keep all appointments for office visits with your doctor.The doctor or pharmacist will
give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin
treatment with amoxapine. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if
you have any questions. You also can obtain the Medication Guide from the FDA website:
http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/antidepressants/antidepressants_MG_2007.pdf.No matter your
age, before you take an antidepressant, you, your parent, or your caregiver should talk to your
doctor about the risks and benefits of treating your condition with an antidepressant or with
other treatments. You should also talk about the risks and benefits of not treating your
condition. You should know that having depression or another mental illness greatly increases
the risk that you will become suicidal. This risk is higher if you or anyone in your family has or
has ever had bipolar disorder (mood that changes from depressed to abnormally excited) or
mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood) or has thought about or attempted suicide. Talk to
your doctor about your condition, symptoms, and personal and family medical history. You and
your doctor will decide what type of treatment is right for you.
Amoxapine is used to treat depression. Amoxapine is in a class of medications called tricyclic

antidepressants (TCAs). It works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in
the brain that are needed to maintain mental balance.
Amoxapine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken one or more times a day. If
you take amoxapine once a day, you should take it at bedtime. Try to take amoxapine at
around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take
amoxapine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than
prescribed by your doctor.
It may take several weeks or longer for you to feel the full effect of amoxapine. Continue to
take amoxapine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking amoxapine without talking to your
doctor. Your doctor probably will want to decrease your dose gradually.
information.
Before taking amoxapine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amoxapine, doxepin (Sinequan),
any other medications, or any of the inactive ingredients in amoxapine tablets. Ask
your doctor or pharmacist for a list of the inactive ingredients.
 tell your doctor if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as
isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar),
and tranylcypromine (Parnate), or if you have stopped taking an MAO inhibitor within
48
the past 14 days. Your doctor will probably tell you not to take amoxapine. If you stop
taking amoxapine, you should wait at least 14 days before you start to take an MAO
inhibitor.
Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as
warfarin (Coumadin); antihistamines; cimetidine (Tagamet); flecainide (Tambocor);
levodopa (Sinemet, Larodopa); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for high blood
pressure, seizures, Parkinson's disease, asthma, colds, or allergies; methylphenidate
(Ritalin); muscle relaxants; propafenone (Rhythmol); quinidine; sedatives; selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram
(Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), and
sertraline (Zoloft); sleeping pills; thyroid medications; and tranquilizers. Your doctor
may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you more carefully for
side effects.
 tell your doctor if you are being treated with electroshock therapy (procedure in which
small electric shocks are administered to the brain to treat certain mental illnesses)
and if you have or have ever had a heart attack, glaucoma (an eye disease), an
enlarged prostate (a male reproductive organ), difficulty urinating, seizures, an
overactive thyroid gland, or liver, kidney, or heart disease.
you become pregnant while taking amoxapine, call your doctor immediately.
are taking amoxapine.
 you should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or
Amoxapine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of the following symptoms are
severe or do not go away:
 nausea
 drowsiness
 nightmares
 dry mouth
 skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual
 constipation
 blurred vision
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms or those
 muscle stiffness
 confusion
 fast or irregular heartbeat
 shuffling walk
 uncontrollable shaking or moving of a part of the body
 fever
 rash
49
Amoxapine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
while you are taking this medication.
 seizures
 coma (loss of consciousness for a period of time)
emergencies.

Drug Information: Amoxicillin

(a mox i sil' in)
Amoxicillin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as pneumonia;

bronchitis; gonorrhea; and infections of the ears, nose, throat, urinary tract, and skin. It is also
used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, a bacteria that causes
ulcers. Amoxicillin is in a class of medications called penicillin-like antibiotics. It works by
50
stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, and other viral
infections.
Amoxicillin comes as a capsule, a tablet, a chewable tablet, a suspension (liquid), and

pediatric drops to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 12 hours (twice a day) or every 8
hours (three times a day) with or without food. To help you remember to take amoxicillin, take
it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amoxicillin
exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by
your doctor.
Shake the liquid and pediatric drops well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use
the bottle dropper to measure the dose of pediatric drops. The pediatric drops and liquid may
be placed on a child's tongue or added to formula, milk, fruit juice, water, ginger ale, or other
cold liquid and taken immediately.
The chewable tablets should be crushed or chewed thoroughly before they are swallowed.
The tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole and taken with a full glass of water.
Take amoxicillin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Stopping amoxicillin
too soon may cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
Amoxicillin also is used sometimes to prevent anthrax infection after exposure and to treat
anthrax infection of the skin and chlamydia infections during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor
about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
information.
Before taking amoxicillin,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amoxicillin, penicillin,
cephalosporins, or any other medications.
mention any of the following: chloramphenicol (Chlormycetin), other antibiotics, and
probenecid (Benemid). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, allergies, asthma, hay
fever, hives, or phenylketonuria.
you become pregnant while taking amoxicillin, call your doctor.
Amoxicillin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
51
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 diarrhea

 hives
 seizures
 pale skin
 lack of energy
Amoxicillin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
Store the capsules and tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture
(not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. The
liquid medication preferably should be kept in the refrigerator, but it may be stored at room
temperature. Throw away any unused medication after 14 days. Do not freeze. Talk to your
tests to check your body's response to amoxicillin.
If you are diabetic, use Clinistix or TesTape (not Clinitest) to test your urine for sugar while
taking this medication.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you
still have symptoms of infection after you finish the amoxicillin, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Amoxil®  Trimox®
 Amoxil® Pediatric Drops  Trimox® Pediatric Drops

52
Drug Information: Ampicillin Oral
(am pi sil' in)
Ampicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria such
as pneumonia; bronchitis; and ear, lung, skin, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not
work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
53
more information.
Ampicillin comes as a capsule, liquid, and pediatric drops to take by mouth. It is usually taken
every 6 hours (four times a day). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ampicillin
exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by
your doctor.
Shake the liquid and pediatric drops well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use
the bottle dropper to measure the dose of pediatric drops. The pediatric drops and liquid may
be placed on a child's tongue or added to formula, milk, fruit juice, water, ginger ale, or other
cold liquid and taken immediately.
The capsules should be swallowed whole and taken with a full glass of water.
Continue to take ampicillin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking ampicillin without talking
to your doctor.
Before taking ampicillin,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ampicillin, penicillin, or any other
drugs.
you are taking, especially other antibiotics, allopurinol (Lopurin), anticoagulants
('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin), atenolol (Tenormin), oral
contraceptives, probenecid (Benemid), rifampin, sulfasalazine, and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, allergies,
asthma, blood disease, colitis, stomach problems, or hay fever.
you become pregnant while taking ampicillin, call your doctor.
are taking ampicillin.
Take ampicillin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Ampicillin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 upset stomach
 diarrhea
 vomiting
 mild skin rash

 itching
 hives
 wheezing
54
 vaginal infection
Store the capsules at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the
bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep liquid
medicine in the refrigerator, tightly closed, and throw away any unused medication after 14
days. Do not freeze. The liquid is good for 7 days at room temperature. Talk to your
tests to check your response to ampicillin.
If you are diabetic, use Clinistix or TesTape (not Clinitest) to test your urine for sugar while
taking this drug.
still have symptoms of infection after you finish the ampicillin, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Principen®

Drug Information: Ascorbic Acid

(a skor' bik)
Ascorbic acid is used to prevent and treat scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C in
the body.
55
more information.
Ascorbic acid comes in extended-release (long-acting) capsules and tablets, lozenges, syrup,
chewable tablets, and liquid drops to be given by mouth. It usually is taken once a day.
Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your
doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ascorbic acid exactly as
directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Some tablets should be chewed; other tablets and capsules should be swallowed with a full
glass of water.
It may take up to 3 weeks for symptoms of scurvy to improve.
Before taking ascorbic acid,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ascorbic acid or any other drugs.
you are taking, including other vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney stones. Diabetics should talk to
their doctor or pharmacist for the correct way to test their urine while taking large
amounts of ascorbic acid.
you become pregnant while taking ascorbic acid, call your doctor.
Some forms of ascorbic acid contain sodium and should be avoided if you are on a sodium-
or salt-restricted diet.
Your doctor may suggest changes in your diet to give you more vitamin C.
Ascorbic acid may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if either of these symptoms is severe
or does not go away:
 diarrhea
 upset stomach
56
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Cecon® Drops  Cevi-Bid®
 Cenolate®  Vicks® Vitamin C Drops
Other name(s):
 Vitamin C

Drug Information: Aspirin and Codeine

(as' pir in) (koe' deen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
This monograph has been discontinued. Please see the codeine monograph for information
57
about this medication.
This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderately severe pain.
more information.
The combination of aspirin and codeine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is
taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and
ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take aspirin and
codeine exactly as directed.
Codeine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer
period than your doctor tells you to.
Before taking aspirin and codeine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aspirin, codeine, sulfite, or any
other drugs.
you are taking, especially other pain relievers; anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such
as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; corticosteroids; MAO inhibitors [phenelzine
(Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate)]; medications for cough, cold, or allergies;
medications for diabetes, arthritis, or gout; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and
vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a bleeding disorder (hemophilia, von
Willebrand's disease), ulcer disease, liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism,
anemia, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary problems.
you become pregnant while taking aspirin and codeine, call your doctor.
are taking aspirin and codeine.
Aspirin and codeine may cause an upset stomach. Take aspirin and codeine with food or
milk.
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take aspirin and
codeine regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do
not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Aspirin and codeine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are
severe or do not go away:
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
58
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 constipation
 stomach pain
 rash or itching
 ringing in the ears or decreased hearing
 abnormal bruising or bleeding
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Empirin with Codeine®
Other name(s):
 ASA and Codeine

Drug Information: Aspirin, Butalbital, and Caffeine

(as' pir in) (byoo tal' bi tal) (kaf' een)
This combination of drugs is used to relieve tension headaches.
59
more information.
The combination of aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine comes as a capsule and tablet to take by
mouth. It usually is taken every 4 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription
label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine exactly as directed. Do not take more than six tablets or
capsules in 1 day. If you think that you need more to relieve your symptoms, call your doctor.
This medication can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a
longer time than your doctor tells you to.
Before taking aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aspirin, butalbital, caffeine, other
pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin), or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially acetazolamide (Diamox); anticoagulants ('blood thinners')
such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants; antihistamines; corticosteroids such
as prednisone; medications for arthritis, gout, diabetes, or pain; methotrexate;
sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, porphyria, bleeding
problems, nasal polyps, ulcers, or a history of depression.
you become pregnant while taking this medication, call your doctor.
Aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine may cause an upset stomach. Take this medicine with food or
milk.
Aspirin, butalbital, and caffeine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these
 drowsiness
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 stomach pain
 lightheadedness
 confusion
 skin rash
 itching
 ringing in the ears
 bloody or black stools
60
Store it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Do not let anyone else take your medication. This medication is a controlled substance.
Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have
any questions.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Fiorinal®

Drug Information: Aspirin

(as' pir in)
Prescription aspirin is used to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused
by swelling of the lining of the joints), osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by breakdown of the
61
lining of the joints), systemic lupus erythematosus (condition in which the immune system
attacks the joints and organs and causes pain and swelling) and certain other rheumatologic
conditions (conditions in which the immune system attacks parts of the body).
Nonprescription aspirin is used to reduce fever and to relieve mild to moderate pain from
headaches, menstrual periods, arthritis, colds, toothaches, and muscle aches.
Nonprescription aspirin is also used to prevent heart attacks in people who have had a heart
attack in the past or who have angina (chest pain that occurs when the heart does not get
enough oxygen). Nonprescription aspirin is also used to reduce the risk of death in people
who are experiencing or who have recently experienced a heart attack. Nonprescription
aspirin is also used to prevent ischemic strokes (strokes that occur when a blood clot blocks
the flow of blood to the brain) or mini-strokes (strokes that occur when the flow of blood to the
brain is blocked for a short time) in people who have had this type of stroke or mini-stroke in
the past. Aspirin will not prevent hemorrhagic strokes (strokes caused by bleeding in the
brain). Aspirin is in a group of medications called salicylates. It works by stopping the
production of certain natural substances that cause fever, pain, swelling, and blood clots.
Aspirin is also available in combination with other medications such as antacids, pain
relievers, and cough and cold medications. This monograph only includes information about
the use of aspirin alone. If you are taking a combination product, read the information on the
package or prescription label or ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Prescription aspirin comes as an extended-release tablet (tablet that releases medication

slowly over a period of time). Nonprescription aspirin comes as a regular tablet, an enteric-
coated, delayed-release tablet (tablet that first begins to release medication some time after it
is taken), a chewable tablet, and a gum to take by mouth and a suppository to use rectally.
Prescription aspirin is usually taken two or more times a day. Nonprescription aspirin is
usually taken once a day to lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Nonprescription aspirin
is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed to treat fever or pain. Follow the directions on
the package or prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part you do not understand. Take aspirin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or
take it more often than directed by the package label or prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or
chew them.
Swallow the tablets with a full glass of water.
Chewable aspirin tablets may be chewed, crushed, or swallowed whole. Drink a full glass of
water, immediately after taking these tablets.
Ask a doctor before you give aspirin to your child or teenager. Aspirin may cause Reye's
syndrome (a serious condition in which fat builds up on the brain, liver, and other body
organs) in children and teenagers, especially if they have a virus such as chicken pox or the
flu.
If you have had oral surgery or surgery to remove your tonsils in the last 7 days, talk to your
doctor about which types of aspirin are safe for you.
Delayed-release tablets begin to work some time after they are taken. Do not take delayed-
release tablets for fever or pain that must be relieved quickly.
Stop taking aspirin and call your doctor if your fever lasts longer than 3 days, if your pain lasts
longer than 10 days, or if the part of your body that was painful becomes red or swollen. You
may have a condition that must be treated by a doctor.
To insert an aspirin suppository into the rectum, follow these steps:

 Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (If you are left-
handed, lie on your right side and raise your left knee.)
 Using your finger, insert the suppository into the rectum, about 1/2 to 1 inch in infants
62
 Do not stand up for at least 15 minutes. Then wash your hands thoroughly and
resume your normal activities.
Aspirin is also sometimes used to treat rheumatic fever (a serious condition that may develop
after a strep throat infection and may cause swelling of the heart valves) and Kawasaki
disease (an illness that may cause heart problems in children). Aspirin is also sometimes
used to lower the risk of blood clots in patients who have artificial heart valves or certain other
heart conditions and to prevent certain complications of pregnancy.
Before taking aspirin,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aspirin, other medications for
pain or fever, tartrazine dye, or any other medications.
Be sure to mention any of the following: acetazolamide (Diamox); angiotensin-
converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors such as benazepril (Lotensin), captopril
(Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril),
moexipril (Univasc), perindopril, (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), and
trandolapril (Mavik); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin)
and heparin; beta blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetalol (Normodyne),
metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard), and propranolol (Inderal);
diuretics ('water pills'); medications for diabetes or arthritis; medications for gout such
as probenecid and sulfinpyrazone (Anturane); methotrexate (Trexall); other non
steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as naproxen (Aleve,
Naprosyn); phenytoin (Dilantin); and valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote). Your
doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you more
carefully for side effects.
 if you are taking aspirin on a regular basis to prevent heart attack or stroke, do not
take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to treat pain or fever without talking to your doctor. Your
doctor will probably tell you to allow some time to pass between taking your daily
dose of aspirin and taking a dose of ibuprofen.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma, frequent stuffed or runny nose,
or nasal polyps (growths on the linings of the nose). If you have these conditions,
there is a risk that you will have an allergic reaction to aspirin. Your doctor may tell
you that you should not take aspirin.
 tell your doctor if you often have heartburn, upset stomach, or stomach pain and if
you have or have ever had ulcers, anemia, bleeding problems such as hemophilia, or
kidney or liver disease.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, especially if you are in the last few months of
your pregnancy, you plan to become pregnant, or you are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking aspirin, call your doctor. Aspirin may harm the fetus
and cause problems with delivery if it is taken during the last few months of
pregnancy.
are taking aspirin.
 if you drink three or more alcoholic drinks every day, ask your doctor if you should
take aspirin or other medications for pain and fever.
If your doctor has told you to take aspirin on a regular basis and you miss a dose, take the
missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to
make up for a missed one.
63
Aspirin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 nausea
 vomiting
 stomach pain
 heartburn
doctor immediately:
 hives
 rash
 swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
 wheezing or difficulty breathing
 hoarseness
 fast heartbeat
 fast breathing
 cold, clammy skin
 ringing in the ears
 loss of hearing
 bloody vomit
 vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds
 bright red blood in stools
 black or tarry stools
Aspirin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you experience any unusual
problems while you are taking this medication.
Store aspirin suppositories in a cool place or in a refrigerator. Throw away any medication
that is outdated or no longer needed and any tablets that have a strong vinegar smell. Talk to
your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
 burning pain in the throat or stomach

 vomiting
 fever
 restlessness
 irritability
 talking a lot and saying things that do not make sense
 fear or nervousness
 dizziness
 double vision
 confusion
 abnormally excited mood
 hallucination (seeing things or hearing voices that are not there)
 seizures
 drowsiness
 loss of consciousness for a period of time
64
If you are taking prescription aspirin, do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your
pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Adprin B® Tri-Buffered  Bayer® Aspirin  Genacote® Maximum

Caplets® Regimen Regular Strength
 Alka-Seltzer® Strength Caplets®  Goody's® Body Pain
Effervescent Pain  Bayer® Aspirin Tablets Powders
Reliever and Antacid  Bufferin® Arthritis  Goody's® Extra
 Alka-Seltzer® Extra Strength Caplets® Strength Headache
Strength Effervescent  Bufferin® Enteric Low Powders
Pain Reliever and Dose Caplets®  Goody's® Extra
Antacid  Bufferin® Extra Strength Tablets
 Alka-Seltzer® Strength  Halfprin®
Flavored Effervescent  Bufferin® Tablets  Magnaprin® Arthritis
Pain Reliever and  Darvon® Compound Strength
Antacid Pulvules®  Magnaprin® Improved
 Ascriptin® Arthritis  Easprin®  Norwich® Aspirin
Pain Caplets®  Ecotrin®  Norwich® Aspirin
 Ascriptin® Enteric  Ecotrin® Adult Low Maximum Strength
Adult Low Strength Strength  PC-CAP®
 Ascriptin® Enteric  Ecotrin® Maximum  Percodan®
Regular Strength Strength  Percodan®-Demi
 Ascriptin® Maximum  Endodan®  Roxiprin®
Extra Strength  Excedrin® Extra-  St. Joseph® Aspirin
Caplets® Strength Caplets® Adult Chewable®
 Ascriptin® Regular  Excedrin® Extra-  Supac®
Strength Strength Geltabs  Sureprin®
 Aspergum®  Excedrin® Extra-  Talwin® Compound
 Bayer ® Aspirin with Strength Tablets Caplets®
Calcium Regimen  Excedrin® Migraine  Vanquish® Caplets®
Caplets® Caplets®
 Bayer® Aspirin  Excedrin® Migraine
Arthritis Pain Regimen  ZORprin®
Geltabs
Extra Strength  Excedrin® Migraine
Caplets® Tablets
 Bayer® Aspirin  Gelpirin®
Caplets®
 Bayer® Aspirin Extra
Strength Caplets®  Genacote®
Strength Gelcaps®
Strength Tablets
 Bayer® Aspirin
Gelcaps®
 Bayer® Aspirin Plus
Buffered Extra
Strength Caplets®
 Bayer® Aspirin
Regimen Adult Low
Strength
 Bayer® Aspirin
Regimen Children's
Chewable
65
 Aggrenox® containing Aspirin and  Equagesic® containing Aspirin and

Dipyridamole Meprobamate
 Alka-Seltzer® Plus Cold & Sinus  Fiorinal® containing Aspirin, Butalbital,
Medicine Effervescent containing and Caffeine
Aspirin and Phenylpropanolamine  Fiorinal® with Codeine containing
Bitartrate Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, and
 Anacin® Caplets® containing Aspirin Codeine Phosphate
and Caffeine  Fiortal® containing Aspirin, Butalbital,
 Anacin® Maximum Strength and Caffeine
containing Aspirin and Caffeine  Fortabs® containing Aspirin,
 Anacin® Tablets containing Aspirin Butalbital, and Caffeine
and Caffeine  Micrainin® containing Aspirin and
 BC® Powder Arthritis Strength Meprobamate
containing Aspirin, Caffeine, and  P-A-C® Analgesic containing Aspirin
Salicylamide and Caffeine
 BC® Powder containing Aspirin,  Stanback® Powder containing Aspirin,
Caffeine, and Salicylamide Caffeine, and Salicylamide
 Butalbital Compound® containing
Aspirin, Butalbital, and Caffeine  Synalgos®-DC containing Aspirin,
 Cope® containing Aspirin and Caffeine, and Dihydrocodeine
Caffeine Bitartrate
 Damcontaining Aspirin and

Hydrocodone Bitartrate
Other name(s):
 Acetylsalicylic acid

Drug Information: Atenolol

(a ten' oh lole)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
Do not stop taking atenolol without talking to your doctor. Suddenly stopping atenolol may
66
cause chest pain, heart attack, or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor will probably decrease your
dose gradually.
Atenolol is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure.
It also is used to prevent angina (chest pain) and treat heart attacks. Atenolol is in a class of
medications called beta blockers. It works by slowing the heart rate and relaxing the blood
vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard.
Atenolol comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. To help
you remember to take atenolol, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions
on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you
do not understand. Take atenolol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
Atenolol controls high blood pressure and angina but does not cure them. It may take 1-2
weeks before you feel the full benefit of atenolol. Continue to take atenolol even if you feel
well. Do not stop taking atenolol without talking to your doctor.
Atenolol is also used sometimes to prevent migraine headaches and to treat alcohol
withdrawal, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks
of using this medication for your condition.
information.
Before taking atenolol,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atenolol or any other
medications.
mention any of the following: calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem (Cardizem,
Dilacor, Tiazac, others) and verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan); clonidine (Catapres);
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin
(Indocin); and reserpine (Serpalan, Serpasil, Serpatabs). Your doctor may need to
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma or other lung disease; diabetes;
severe allergies; an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism); pheochromocytoma;
heart failure; a slow heart rate; circulation problems; or heart or kidney disease.
you become pregnant while taking atenolol, call your doctor immediately.
are taking atenolol.
 you should know that if you have allergic reactions to different substances, your
reactions may be worse while you are using atenolol, and your allergic reactions may
not respond to the usual doses of injectable epinephrine.
If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
67
Atenolol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 dizziness
 lightheadedness
 tiredness
 drowsiness
 depression
 upset stomach
 diarrhea
 unusual weight gain
 fainting
Atenolol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems
 lack of energy
 wheezing
 slow heartbeat
 fainting
 unusual weight gain
 shakiness
 dizziness
 rapid heartbeat
 sweating or confusion
 blurred vision
 headache
 numbness or tingling of the mouth
 weakness
 pale color
 sudden hunger
68
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to
determine your response to atenolol. Your doctor may ask you to check your pulse (heart
rate). Ask your pharmacist or doctor to teach you how to take your pulse. If your pulse is
faster or slower than it should be, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Tenormin®  Tenormin® I.V.
 Tenoretic® containing Atenolol and Chlorthalidone

Drug Information: Atovaquone

(a toe' va kwone)
69
Atovaquone is used to treat Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP).
more information.
Atovaquone comes as a liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken with food every 8 hours for
21 days. Always take atovaquone with snacks or meals. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take atovaquone exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
Before taking atovaquone,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atovaquone or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially rifampin (Rifadin), sulfa drugs, zidovudine and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had stomach or intestinal disorders or
allergies.
you become pregnant while taking atovaquone, call your doctor.
Atovaquone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 upset stomach
 diarrhea
 constipation
 headache
 difficulty sleeping
 sweating
 dizziness
 altered sense of taste
 skin rash
 fever
 vomiting
 itching
 unusual weakness
70
tests to check your response to atovaquone.
still have symptoms of infection after you finish the atovaquone, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Mepron®

Drug Information: Atropine Ophthalmic

(a' troe peen)
71
Atropine is used before eye examinations to dilate (open) the pupil, the black part of the eye
through which you see. It is also used to relieve pain caused by swelling and inflammation of
the eye.
more information.
Atropine comes as eyedrops and eye ointment. The drops are usually applied 2 to 4 times a
day. the ointment usually is applied 1 to 3 times a day. Follow the directions on your
understand. Use atropine exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more
often than prescribed by your doctor.
To use the eyedrops, follow these instructions:
 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

 Use a mirror or have someone else put the drops in your eye.
 Remove the protective cap. Make sure that the end of the dropper is not chipped or
cracked and that the eyedrops are clear (not cloudy).
 Avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye or anything else.
 Hold the dropper tip down at all times to prevent drops from flowing back into the
bottle and contaminating the remaining contents.
 Lie down or tilt your head back.
 Holding the bottle between your thumb and index finger, place the dropper tip as near
as possible to your eyelid without touching it.
 Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
 With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a
pocket.
 Drop the prescribed number of drops into the pocket made by the lower lid and the
eye. Placing drops on the surface of the eyeball can cause stinging.
 Close your eye and press lightly against the lower lid with your finger for 2-3 minutes
to keep the medication in the eye. Do not blink.
 Replace and tighten the cap right away. Do not wipe or rinse it off.
 Wipe off any excess liquid from your cheek with a clean tissue. Wash your hands
again.
To use the eye ointment, follow these instructions:
 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

 Use a mirror or have someone else apply the ointment.
 Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else. The ointment
must be kept clean.
 Tilt your head forward slightly.
 Holding the tube between your thumb and index finger, place the tube as near as
possible to your eyelid without touching it.
 Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
 With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a
pocket.
 Place a small amount of ointment into the pocket made by the lower lid and theeye. A
1/2-inch strip of ointment usually is enough unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
 Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for 1-2 minutes to allow the medication
to be absorbed.
 Replace and tighten the cap right away.
 Wipe off any excess ointment from your eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. Wash
your hands again.
Before using atropine eyedrops or eye ointment,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atropine, belladonna, or any
other drugs.
72
you are taking, especially antihistamines, cough and cold medicines, and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have glaucoma.
you become pregnant while using atropine, call your doctor immediately.
Apply the eyedrops or eye ointment as soon as you remember the missed dose. Use any
remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if you remember a missed
dose at the time the next one is due, use only the regularly scheduled dose. Do not apply a
double dose to make up for a missed one.
Atropine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 eye irritation and redness

 swelling of the eyelids
 sensitivity to bright light
 dry mouth
 red or dry skin
 blurred vision
 fever
 irritability
 fast pulse
 mental confusion
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will order certain eye tests to check your
response to atropine.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Atropine Care® 1%  Isopto® Atropine
 Atropisol®  Ocu-Tropine®
73
Drug Information: Auranofin

(au rane' oh fin)
74
Auranofin is used, with rest and nondrug therapy, to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It improves
arthritis symptoms including painful or tender and swollen joints and morning stiffness.
more information.
Auranofin comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken once or twice a day. It
must be taken on a regular schedule, as prescribed by your doctor, to be effective. The full
effect of this drug usually is not felt for 3-4 months; in some people, it may take up to 6
months. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or
pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take auranofin exactly as directed. Do
not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Auranofin is also used sometimes for psoriatic arthritis. Talk to your doctor about the possible
risks of using this drug for your condition.
Before taking auranofin,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to auranofin or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially arthritis medications, phenytoin (Dilantin), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease; diabetes;
bleeding problems; inflammatory bowel disease; colitis; rash; eczema; SLE (systemic
lupus erythematosus); or a history of bone marrow depression.
you become pregnant while taking auranofin, call your doctor. You should not try to
become pregnant while taking auranofin or for at least 6 months after discontinuing
the drug because it stays in the body for a long time.
are taking auranofin.
 be aware that you should not drink alcohol while taking this medication.
 plan to avoid unneccessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective
clothing and sunscreen. Auranofin may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Auranofin may cause an upset stomach. Take auranofin after meals or a light snack.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, and take any remaining doses for that
day at evenly spaced intervals. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Auranofin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do
not go away:
 metallic taste
 loose stools or diarrhea
 stomach pain
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 gas
 hair loss
 bloody or tarry stools
75
 itching
 skin rash
 sore throat
 mouth sores
 fever
 chills
 unusual bruising or bleeding
 fatigue
tests to check your response to auranofin.
If you have a tuberculin (TB) skin test, tell the person performing the test that you take
auranofin.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Ridaura®

Drug Information: Azathioprine

(ay za thye' oh preen)
IMPORTANT WARNING:
76
Azathioprine can cause a decrease in the number of blood cells in your bone marrow. If you
experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: unusual bleeding or
bruising; excessive tiredness; pale skin; headache; confusion; dizziness; fast heartbeat;
difficulty sleeping; weakness; shortness of breath; and sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs
of infection. Your doctor will order tests before, during, and after your treatment to see if your
blood cells are affected by this drug.Azathioprine may increase your risk of developing certain
types of cancer, especially skin cancer and lymphoma. Tell your doctor if you have or have
ever had cancer and if you are taking or have ever taken alkylating agents such as
chlorambucil (Leukeran), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), or melphalan (Alkeran) for cancer. Tell
your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your skin or any lumps or masses
anywhere in your body. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication.
Azathioprine is used with other medications to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. It is

also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its own
joints, causing pain and swelling) when other medications and treatments have not helped.
Azathioprine is in a class of medications called immunosuppressants. It works by weakening
the body's immune system so it will not attack the transplanted organ or the joints.
Azathioprine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day after
meals. To help you remember to take azathioprine, take it around the same time(s) every day.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to
explain any part you do not understand. Take azathioprine exactly as directed. Do not take
more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you are taking azathioprine to treat rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor may start you on a low
dose and gradually increase your dose after 6-8 weeks and then not more than once every 4
weeks. If you are taking azathioprine to prevent kidney transplant rejection, your doctor may
start you on a high dose and decrease your dose gradually as your body adjusts to the
transplant.
Azathioprine controls rheumatoid arthritis but does not cure it. It may take some time before
you feel the full benefit of azathioprine. Azathioprine prevents transplant rejection only as long
as you are taking the medication. Continue to take azathioprine even if you feel well. Do not
stop taking azathioprine without talking to your doctor.
Azathioprine is also used to treat ulcerative colitis (a condition in which sores develop in the
intestine causing pain and diarrhea). Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this
drug for your condition.
more information.
Before taking azathioprine,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to azathioprine or any other
medications.
mention any of the medications mentioned in the IMPORTANT WARNING section
and the following: allopurinol (Zyloprim); angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors such as benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Lexxel,
Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc),
perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), and trandolapril (Mavik,
Tarka); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antimalarials
such as chloroquine (Aralen), hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), mefloquine (Lariam),
primaquine, proguanil (Malarone), pyrimethamine (Daraprim), and quinine; cancer
chemotherapy medications; co-trimoxazole (Bactrim, Septra, Sulfatrim); cyclosporine
77
(Neoral, Sandimmune); gold compounds such as auranofin (Ridaura) and
aurothioglucose (Aurolate, Solganal); methotrexate (Rheumatrex); penicillamine
(Cuprimine, Depen); sirolimus (Rapamune); and tacrolimus (Prograf).
 tell your doctor if you have any type of infection, or if you have or have ever had
kidney, liver, or pancreas disease.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
You should use birth control to be sure you or your partner will not become pregnant
while you are taking this medication. Do not breastfeed while you are taking this
medication.
are taking azathioprine.
 Do not have any vaccinations (e.g., measles or flu shots) during or after your
treatment without talking to your doctor.
 you should know that azathioprine may decrease your ability to fight infection. Stay
away from people who are sick, and wash your hands often.
Azathioprine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 diarrhea
 muscle aches
experience any of them or those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your
doctor immediately.
 mouth sores
 cough
 lack of energy
 pain in the upper right part of the stomach
 flu-like symptoms
 rash
 blurred vision
 stomach pain
78
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 diarrhea
 sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection
tests to check your response to azathioprine.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Azasan®  Imuran®

Drug Information: Azithromycin

(az ith roe mye' sin)
Azithromycin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis;

pneumonia; sexually transmitted diseases (STD); and infections of the ears, lungs, skin, and
79
throat. Azithromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by
stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
Azithromycin comes as a tablet and oral suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually
taken with or without food once a day for 1-5 days. To help you remember to take
azithromycin, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your
understand. Take azithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Use only the syringe
provided to measure the correct amount of medication. Rinse the syringe with water after
taking the full dose of medication.
The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.
Take azithromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Stopping
azithromycin too soon may cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
Azithromycin is also used sometimes to treat H. pylori infection, early Lyme disease, and
other infections. It is also used sometimes to prevent heart infection in patients having dental
or other procedures and to prevent STD in victims of sexual assault. Talk to your doctor about
the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
information.
Before taking azithromycin,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to azithromycin, clarithromycin
(Biaxin), dirithromycin (Dynabac), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin), or any
other medications.
mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin
(Coumadin); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); digoxin (Lanoxin);
dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal); ergotamine (Ergomar); medications that
suppress the immune system; nelfinavir (Viracept); phenytoin (Dilantin); and
terfenadine (Seldane). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your
 if you take antacids (Mylanta, Maalox), take them 2 hours before or 4 hours after
azithromycin.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had cystic fibrosis, human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV), irregular heartbeat, or kidney or liver disease.
you become pregnant while taking azithromycin, call your doctor.
80
Azithromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or
do not go away:
 upset stomach
 diarrhea
 vomiting
 stomach pain
 mild skin rash

 hives
 itching
 hoarseness
Azithromycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual
problems while taking this medication.
Store the tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the
bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Keep liquid
medicine tightly closed at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and throw away any
unused medication after 10 days. Do not freeze. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper
disposal of your medication.
tests to check your body's response to azithromycin.
still have symptoms of infection after you finish the azithromycin, call your doctor.
emergencies.
Brand name(s):
 Zithromax®  Zithromax® Tri-Paks®
 Zithromax® Single Dose Packets  Zithromax® Z-Pak®
81
Drug Information: Acarbose

(ay' car bose)
82
Acarbose is used (with diet only or diet and other medications) to treat type 2 diabetes
(condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the
amount of sugar in the blood) . Acarbose works by slowing the action of certain chemicals
that break down food to release glucose (sugar) into your blood. Slowing food digestion helps
keep blood glucose from rising very high after meals.
more information.
Acarbose comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken three times a day. It is very
important to take each dose with the first bite of each main meal. Follow the directions on
your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do
not understand. Take acarbose exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
Continue to take acarbose even if you feel well. Do not stop taking acarbose without talking
to your doctor.
Before taking acarbose,
 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acarbose or any other drugs.
you are taking, especially other medications for diabetes, digoxin (Lanoxin), diuretics
('water pills'), estrogens, isoniazid, medications for high blood pressure or colds, oral
contraceptives, pancreatic enzymes, phenytoin (Dilantin), steroids, thyroid
medications, and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had ketoacidosis, cirrhosis, or intestinal
disease such as inflammatory bowel disease or bowel obstruction.
you become pregnant while taking acarbose, call your doctor.
are taking acarbose.
Be sure to follow all exercise and dietary recommendations made by your doctor or dietitian.
It is important to eat a healthful diet.
Alcohol may cause a decrease in blood sugar. Ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic
beverages while you are taking acarbose.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you will be having a snack soon, take a
dose with the snack. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue
your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
When used in combination with insulin or other medications used to treat diabetes, acarbose
may cause excessive lowering of blood sugar levels.
If you have any of these symptoms, glucose products (Insta-Glucose or B-D Glucose tablets)
should be used and you should call your doctor. Because acarbose blocks the breakdown of
table sugar and other complex sugars, fruit juice or other products containing these sugars
will not help to increase blood sugar. It is important that you and other members of your
household understand this difference between acarbose and other medications used to treat
diabetes.
 shakiness
 dizziness or lightheadedness
 sweating
83
 nervousness or irritability
 sudden changes in behavior or mood
 headache
 numbness or tingling around the mouth
 weakness
 pale skin
 hunger
 clumsy or jerky movements
If hypoglycemia is not treated, severe symptoms may develop. Be sure that your family,
friends, and other people who spend time with you know that if you have any of the following
symptoms, they should get medical treatment for you immediately.
 confusion
 seizures
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms of hyperglycemia
(high blood sugar):
 extreme thirst
 extreme hunger
 weakness
 blurred vision
If high blood sugar is not treated, a serious, life-threatening condition called diabetic
ketoacidosis could develop. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the these
symptoms:
 dry mouth
 upset stomach and vomiting
 breath that smells fruity
 decreased consciousness
tests to check your response to acarbose. Your doctor will also tell you how to check your
response to this medication by measuring your blood or urine sugar levels at home. Follow
these instructions carefully
You should always wear a diabetic identification bracelet to be sure you get proper treatment
in an emergency.
emergencies.
84
Brand names
 Prandase®  Precose®

85

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Drug Information: Acebutolol

(a se byoo' toe lole)

Why is this medication prescribed?

How should this medicine be used?

Other uses for this medicine

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acebutolol,

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

What should I do if I forget a dose?

 shortness of breath or wheezing

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

What other information should I know?

Last Revised - 04/01/2003

Why is this medication prescribed?

This combination of drugs is used to relieve mild to moderate pain.

How should this medicine be used?

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acetaminophen and codeine,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

What side effects can this medication cause?

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

 Capital and Codeine®  Phenaphen with  Tylenol with Codeine

 APAP and Codeine

Last Revised - 09/01/2007

Drug Information: Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone

Why is this medication prescribed?

This combination of drugs is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.

How should this medicine be used?

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

What side effects can this medication cause?

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

What other information should I know?

 Anexsia®  Lortab®  Vicodin®

 APAP and Hydrocodone

Last Revised - 03/01/2007

Drug Information: Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene

Why is this medication prescribed?

How should this medicine be used?

The combination of acetaminophen and propoxyphene comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acetaminophen and propoxyphene,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

What side effects can this medication cause?

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

 APAP and Propoxyphene

Last Revised - 03/01/2007

Drug Information: Acetaminophen, Butalbital, and Caffeine

Why is this medication prescribed?

This combination of drugs is used to relieve tension headaches.

How should this medicine be used?

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine,

What special dietary instructions should I follow?