Tuesday 25 April 2017

Atenolol

Atenolol is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication is also used to treat chest pain (angina) and to improve survival after a heart attack.
Atenolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta blockers. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only

Aspirin side effects

Aspirin, or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), is a common drug that is generally used as a pain reliever for minor aches and pains, to reduce fever, and also as an anti-inflammatory drug.
Aspirin has also become increasingly popular as a drug to prevent clot-forming; it is used long-term in low doses to prevent heart attacks and strokes in high-risk patients.
Nowadays, aspirin is often given to patients immediately after a heart attack to prevent recurrence or cardiac tissue death.
This article will explain what aspirin is and what it is used for; we will also cover precautions, side effects, and any risks.
Fast facts on aspirin
Here are some key points about aspirin. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.
  • Aspirin is one of the most widely used medications in the world
  • Aspirin is a derivative of salicylate, which can be found in such plants as willow trees and myrtle
  • Aspirin was the first non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to be discovered
  • Apollo Moon astronauts had Aspirin included in their self-medication kits
  • Aspirin interacts with a number of other drugs, including warfarin and methotrexate

What is aspirin?

A bottle of aspirin.
Aspirin is commonly used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever and prevent clot formation.
Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are medications with the following effects:
  • Analgesic - pain relief without anesthesia or loss of consciousness
  • Antipyretic - reduces a fever
  • Anti-inflammatory - in higher doses
Non-steroidal simply means they are not steroids, which often have similar effects.
As analgesics, NSAIDs are generally non-narcotic (do not cause insensibility or stupor). Aspirin was the first NSAID to be discovered.
Aspirin in its present form has been around for over 100 years and is still one of the most widely used medications in the world. It is estimated that approximately 35,000 metric tons of aspirin is consumed annually. Aspirin is a trademark owned by German pharmaceutical company - Bayer; the generic term for aspirin is acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).

Therapeutic uses of aspirin

Aspirin is one of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of mild to moderate pain, as well as migraines and fever. For the treatment of moderate to severe pain, it is frequently used along with other opioid analgesic and NSAIDs.
Below are some of the therapeutic uses of aspirin:
  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Moderate to severe pain combined with other medications
  • Rheumatic fever (in higher doses)
  • Rheumatic arthritis (in higher doses)
  • Many other inflammatory joint conditions (in higher doses)
  • To inhibit platelet aggregations (blood clot formations) to reduce risk of transient ischemic attacks and unstable angina (in lower doses)
  • For the prevention of stroke (in lower doses)
  • For the prevention of myocardial infarction in patients with cardiovascular disease
  • In the treatment of pericarditis
  • In the treatment of coronary artery disease
  • In the treatment of myocardial infarction

Aspirin and children

Acetaminophen (paracetamol, Tylenol) and ibuprofen are generally used for children; not aspirin. Aspirin and salicylate NSAID usage in children raise the risk of developing Reye's Syndrome. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, aspirin is only occasionally used in children under specialist supervision for Kawasaki disease and to prevent blood clot formation after heart surgery.

Low-dose aspirin

Low-dose aspirin (75 milligrams per day) is used as an antiplatelet medication - to prevent the formation of clots in the blood.
Low-dose aspirin may be given to patients who had:
The following people may also be given low-dose aspirin if the doctor believes they are at risk of heart attack or stroke:
  • Patients with high blood cholesterol levels
  • Patients with hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Patients with diabetes
  • Some smokers
The following patients may also be advised to take low-dose aspirin:
  • Those with damage to the retina (retinopathy)
  • Some patients who have had diabetes for over 10 years
  • Some patients who are taking antihypertensive medications
In all these cases, low-dose aspirin will be taken daily for the rest of the patient's life.

Precautions for aspirin use

Aspirin is not recommended for the following patients:
  • People who have a peptic ulcer
  • Patients with hemophilia or any other bleeding disorder
  • People with a known allergy to aspirin
  • People who are allergic to any NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen
  • Children under 16 years of age (unless under specialist medical supervision)
The following people should be cautious about taking aspirin, and should only do so if the doctor agrees:
  • Patients with asthma
  • Patients with uncontrolled hypertension
  • People who have had a previous peptic ulcer
  • Patients with liver problems
  • Patients with kidney problems
Anyone planning to have a surgical operation should tell their doctor if they are taking regular aspirin. In many cases, patients will be asked to stop taking the aspirin for 7 days before the operation.
Pregnant or breast-feeding patients may take low-dose aspirin, but only under their doctor's supervision. High-dose aspirin is not recommended.

Drug interactions with aspirin

A bottle of ibuprofen.
If taken alongside anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac, aspirin can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Sometimes, one medication can undermine the efficacy of another medication - this is called a drug interaction. Below is a list of the most common drugs that aspirin interacts with (there are more):
  • Anti-inflammatory painkillers - such as diclofenac, ibuprofen, indomethacin, and naproxen increase the risk of stomach bleeding if taken in combination with aspirin.
  • Methotrexate - used in the treatment of cancer and some autoimmune diseases. Aspirin can make it harder for the body to eliminate methotrexate, resulting in high and potentially dangerous levels of methotrexate in the body.
  • SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) antidepressants - drugs, such as citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, venlafaxine, and sertraline, taken with aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Warfarin - this is an anticoagulant drug (a blood thinner); it stops the blood from clotting. Aspirin taken with warfarin can reduce the drug's anticoagulant effects, increasing the risk of bleeding. In some situations, however, a doctor may prescribe aspirin together with warfarin.

Aspirin side effects

The most common side effects of aspirin are:
The following side effects are possible, but less common:
  • Asthma symptoms may worsen
  • Vomiting
  • Inflammation of the stomach
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Bruising
An extremely rare side effect of low-dose aspirin is hemorrhagic stroke.

Doxycycline

What is doxycycline?

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body.
Doxycycline is used to treat many different bacterial infections, such as acne, urinary tract infections, intestinal infections, eye infections, gonorrhea, chlamydia, periodontitis (gum disease), and others.
Doxycycline is also used to treat blemishes, bumps, and acne-like lesions caused by rosacea. It will not treat facial redness caused by rosacea.
Some forms of doxycycline are used to prevent malaria, to treat anthrax, or to treat infections caused by mites, ticks, or lice.

Important information

You should not take doxycycline if you are allergic to any tetracycline antibiotic.
Children younger than 8 years old should use doxycycline only in cases of severe or life-threatening conditions. This medicine can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth in children.
 

Using doxycycline during pregnancy could harm the unborn baby or cause permanent tooth discoloration later in the baby's life.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics such as demeclocycline, minocycline, tetracycline, or tigecycline.
To make sure doxycycline is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
  • liver disease;
  • kidney disease;
  • asthma or sulfite allergy;
  • a history of increased pressure inside your skull;
  • if you also take isotretinoin (Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret); or
  • if you take seizure medicine (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin), or a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).
If you are using doxycycline to treat gonorrhea, your doctor may test you to make sure you do not also have syphilis, another sexually transmitted disease.
Taking this medicine during pregnancy may affect tooth and bone development in the unborn baby. Taking doxycycline during the last half of pregnancy can cause permanent tooth discoloration later in the baby's life. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant while using this medicine.
Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm with spermicide) to prevent pregnancy.
Doxycycline can pass into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant. Do not breast-feed while you are taking this medicine.
Children should not use this medicine. Doxycycline can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth in children younger than 8 years old.
Children should use doxycycline only in cases of severe or life-threatening conditions such as anthrax or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The benefit of treating a serious condition may outweigh any risks to the child's tooth development.

How should I take doxycycline?

Take doxycycline exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take doxycycline with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking this medicine.
Most brands of doxycyline may be taken with food or milk if the medicine upsets your stomach. Different brands of doxycycline may have different instructions about taking them with or without food.
Take Oracea on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
You may open a Doryx capsule or break up a Doryx tablet and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Drink a full glass (8 ounces) of cool water right away.
Do not crush, break, or open a delayed-release capsule or tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
You may need to split the Acticlate tablet to get the correct dose. The tablet is scored so you can break it apart easily.
Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
If you take doxycycline to prevent malaria: Start taking the medicine 1 or 2 days before entering an area where malaria is common. Continue taking the medicine every day during your stay and for at least 4 weeks after you leave the area. Use protective clothing, insect repellents, and mosquito netting around your bed to further prevent mosquito bites that could cause malaria.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Doxycycline will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using doxycycline. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label has passed. Using expired doxycycline can cause damage to your kidneys.
See also: Dosage Information (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while taking doxycycline?

Do not take iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours before or after taking doxycycline.
Avoid taking any other antibiotics with doxycycline unless your doctor has told you to.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Doxycycline can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.
Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, stop taking this medicine and call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Doxycycline side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to doxycycline: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
  • changes in your vision;
  • severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody;
  • fever, swollen glands, body aches, flu symptoms, weakness;
  • skin rash, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
  • upper stomach pain (may spread to your back), loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
  • chest pain, irregular heart rhythm, feeling short of breath;
  • confusion, nausea and vomiting, swelling, rapid weight gain, little or no urinating;
  • new or worsening cough with fever, trouble breathing;
  • increased pressure inside the skull--severe headaches, ringing in your ears, dizziness, nausea, vision problems, pain behind your eyes; or
  • severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
Common doxycycline side effects may include:
  • nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
  • mild diarrhea;
  • skin rash or itching; or
  • vaginal itching or discharge.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect doxycycline?

Other drugs may interact with doxycycline, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about doxycycline.
  • Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
  • Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Side Effects of metoprolol

In Summary

Commonly reported side effects of metoprolol include: cardiac failure, bradycardia, and hypotension. Other side effects include: bradycardia. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to metoprolol: oral tablet, oral tablet extended release
Other dosage forms:
In addition to its needed effects, some unwanted effects may be caused by metoprolol. In the event that any of these side effects do occur, they may require medical attention.

Major Side Effects

You should check with your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur when taking metoprolol:
More common:
  • Blurred vision
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • confusion
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
  • shortness of breath
  • slow or irregular heartbeat
  • sweating
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
Less common:
  • Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
  • cough
  • decreased urine output
  • difficult or labored breathing
  • difficulty with speaking
  • dilated neck veins
  • disturbed color perception
  • double vision
  • extreme fatigue
  • fast, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
  • halos around lights
  • headache
  • inability to move the arms, legs, or facial muscles
  • inability to speak
  • irregular breathing
  • loss of vision
  • night blindness
  • noisy breathing
  • overbright appearance of lights
  • pain, tension, and weakness upon walking that subsides during periods of rest
  • paleness or cold feeling in the fingertips and toes
  • rapid weight gain
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • short-term memory loss
  • slow speech
  • swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs
  • tightness in the chest
  • tingling of the hands or feet
  • tingling or pain in the fingers or toes when exposed to cold
  • troubled breathing
  • tunnel vision
  • unusual weight gain or loss
Rare
  • Bluish color skin of the fingers or toes
  • chills
  • clay-colored stools
  • continuing loss of appetite
  • continuing or severe abdominal or stomach pain
  • continuing or severe nausea and vomiting
  • dark urine
  • difficulty with moving
  • fever
  • general tiredness and weakness
  • hoarseness
  • increased frequency of urination
  • itching skin
  • light-colored stools
  • lower back or side pain
  • muscle pain or stiffness
  • numbness of the fingers or toes
  • pain, swelling, or redness in the joints
  • rash
  • sore throat
  • sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
  • unpleasant breath odor
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • upper right abdominal or stomach pain
  • vomiting of blood
  • weakness
  • yellow eyes and skin
Incidence not known:
  • Black, tarry stools
  • bleeding gums
  • blood in the urine or stools
  • burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
  • cool, sweaty skin
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
If any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking metoprolol, get emergency help immediately:
Symptoms of overdose:
  • Bluish color of the fingernails, lips, skin, palms, or nail beds
  • change in consciousness
  • loss of consciousness
  • no blood pressure or pulse
  • stopping of heart
  • unconsciousness
  • very drowsy or sleepy

Minor Side Effects

Some of the side effects that can occur with metoprolol may not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine during treatment these side effects may go away. Your health care professional may also be able to tell you about ways to reduce or prevent some of these side effects. If any of the following side effects continue, are bothersome or if you have any questions about them, check with your health care professional:
Less common:
  • Belching
  • bloated
  • decreased interest in sexual intercourse
  • difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)
  • discouragement
  • dry mouth
  • excess air or gas in stomach or intestines
  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
  • feeling of indigestion
  • feeling sad or empty
  • full feeling
  • inability to have or keep an erection
  • irritability
  • loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • nightmares
  • pain in the chest below the breastbone
  • passing gas
  • redness or other discoloration of the skin
  • runny nose
  • sensation of spinning
  • sneezing
  • stuffy nose
  • tiredness
  • trouble concentrating
  • trouble sleeping
Rare
  • Bone pain
  • continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
  • dry eyes
  • hair loss or thinning of the hair
  • hearing loss
  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
  • pain of penis on erection
  • severe sunburn
Incidence not known:
  • Change in taste or bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
  • fear or nervousness
  • hives or welts

For Healthcare Professionals


Applies to metoprolol: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release

General

The most common adverse reactions were tiredness, dizziness, depression, shortness of breath, bradycardia, hypotension, diarrhea, pruritus, and rash.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Very common (10% or more): Heart failure (up to 27.5%), hypotension (systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg) (up to 27.4%), bradycardia (heart rate less than 40 beats per minute) (up to 15.9%),
Common (1% to 10%): Cold extremities, arterial insufficiency, palpitation, first degree heart block (P-R interval 0.26 seconds or greater), second or third degree heart block, postural disorders
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Cardiogenic shock in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Disturbances of cardiac conduction, cardiac arrhythmia
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Intermittent claudication increased
Frequency not reported: Claudication[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, nausea, dry mouth, gastric pain, constipation, flatulence, heartburn, abdominal pain, vomiting
Frequency not reported: Retroperitoneal fibrosis[Ref]

Other

Common (1% to 10%): Tiredness, peripheral edema, accident and/or injury, death, fatigue
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Edema, precordial pain
Frequency not reported: Lactic dehydrogenase elevated
Postmarketing reports: Chest pain[Ref]

Nervous system

Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, vertigo, stroke, headache
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Paresthesia, somnolence, impaired concentration
Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Alertness decreased
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Amnesia/memory impairment, tinnitus, taste disturbance
Frequency not reported: Short-term memory loss
Postmarketing reports: Syncope[Ref]

Respiratory

Common (1% to 10%): Shortness of breath, wheezing, dyspnea
Rare (less than 0.1%): Rhinitis[Ref]

Dermatologic

Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus, rash
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Sweating increased
Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Loss of hair
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Photosensitivity reactions, psoriasis aggravated, gangrene in patients with preexisting severe peripheral circulatory disorders, hyperhidrosis, alopecia[Ref]

Psychiatric

Common (1% to 10%): Depression
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Insomnia, nightmare
Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Nervousness, anxiety
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Confusion, hallucination, personality disorder, disturbances of libido
Frequency not reported: Sleep disturbance[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Muscle cramps
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Arthralgia, arthritis
Frequency not reported: Musculoskeletal pain[Ref]

Metabolic

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Weight gain
Frequency not reported: Unstable diabetes
Postmarketing reports: Blood triglycerides increased, high density lipoprotein (HDL) decreased[Ref]

Ocular

Rare (less than 0.1%): Visual disturbance, dry and/or irritated eyes, conjunctivitis
Frequency not reported: Blurred vision[Ref]

Hepatic

Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Liver function test abnormalities
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Hepatitis
Frequency not reported: Transaminase elevated, alkaline phosphatase elevated
Postmarketing reports: Jaundice, non-specific hepatic dysfunction[Ref]

Genitourinary

Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Impotence/sexual dysfunction
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Peyronie's disease[Ref]

Immunologic

Rare (less than 0.1%): Positive antinuclear antibodies[Ref]

Hematologic

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Thrombocytopenia
Frequency not reported: Agranulocytosis[Ref]

References

1. "Product Information. Lopressor (metoprolol)." Novartis Pharmaceuticals, East Hanover, NJ.
2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0
3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0
Not all side effects for metoprolol may be reported. You should always consult a doctor or healthcare professional for medical advice. Side effects can be reported to the FDA here.
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to-date and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. In addition, the drug information contained herein may be time sensitive and should not be utilized as a reference resource beyond the date hereof. This material does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients, or recommend therapy. This information is a reference resource designed as supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill , knowledge, and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care. The absence of a warning for a given drug or combination thereof in no way should be construed to indicate safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for any given patient. Drugs.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of materials provided. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the substances you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Metoprolol

What is metoprolol?

Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that affects the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).
Metoprolol is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also used to treat or prevent heart attack.
Metoprolol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

You should not use metoprolol if you have a serious heart problem (heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heart rate), severe circulation problems, severe heart failure, or a history of slow heart beats that caused fainting.
 

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to metoprolol, or other beta-blockers (atenolol, carvedilol, labetalol, nadolol, nebivolol, propranolol, sotalol, and others), or if you have:
  • a serious heart problem such as heart block, sick sinus syndrome, or slow heart rate;
  • severe circulation problems;
  • severe heart failure (that required you to be in the hospital); or
  • history of slow heart beats that have caused you to faint.
To make sure metoprolol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
  • asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;
  • diabetes (taking metoprolol may make it harder for you to tell when you have low blood sugar);
  • liver disease;
  • congestive heart failure;
  • problems with circulation (such as Raynaud's syndrome);
  • a thyroid disorder; or
  • pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland).
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether metoprolol will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant while using this medication.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
Metoprolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Metoprolol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take metoprolol?


Take metoprolol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take the medicine at the same time each day.
Metoprolol should be taken with a meal or just after a meal.
A Toprol XL tablet can be divided in half if your doctor has told you to do so. The half tablet should be swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing.
While using metoprolol, you may need frequent blood tests at your doctor's office. Your blood pressure will need to be checked often.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using metoprolol.
You should not stop using metoprolol suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.
Store metoprolol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
See also: Dosage Information (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid?

Metoprolol may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.
Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of metoprolol.

Metoprolol side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to metoprolol: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
  • very slow heartbeats;
  • a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
  • shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain; or
  • cold feeling in your hands and feet.
Common metoprolol side effects may include:
  • dizziness, tired feeling;
  • confusion, memory problems;
  • nightmares, trouble sleeping;
  • diarrhea; or
  • mild itching or rash.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)

Metoprolol dosing information

Usual Adult Dose of Metoprolol for Angina Pectoris Prophylaxis:
Initial dose: 100 mg orally in 1 or 2 divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 100 to 450 mg/day.
Extended release may be used at the same total daily dose given once a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
Initial dose: 100 mg orally in 1 or 2 divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 100 to 450 mg/day.
Extended release may be used at the same total daily dose given once a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Supraventricular Tachycardia:
Initial dose: 100 mg orally in 1 or 2 divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 100 to 450 mg/day.
Extended release may be used at the same total daily dose given once a day.
Usual Adult Dose of Metoprolol for Angina Pectoris:
Initial dose: 100 mg orally in 1 or 2 divided doses.
Maintenance dose: 100 to 400 mg/day.
Extended release may be used at the same total daily dose given once a day.
Usual Adult Dose for Myocardial Infarction:
Early treatment:
IV: 3 bolus injections of 5 mg given at 2 minute intervals.
Oral: In patients who tolerate the full IV dose (15 mg), metoprolol tablets, 50 mg every 6 hours, should be initiated 15 minutes after the last IV dose and continued for 48 hours. Maintenance dose: 100 mg orally twice a day.
Patients who appear not to tolerate the full IV dose should be started on metoprolol tablets at 25 mg or 50 mg every 6 hours 15 minutes after the last intravenous dose or as soon as their clinical condition allows.

Late treatment:
Oral: 100 mg orally twice a day.
Patients with contraindications to treatment during the early phase of suspected or definite myocardial infarction, patients who appear not to tolerate the full early treatment, and patients in whom the physician wishes to delay therapy for any other reason should be started on metoprolol tablets as soon as their clinical condition allows.
Usual Adult Dose for Congestive Heart Failure:
Initial dose: 25 mg once daily (of the XL formulation) for two weeks in patients with NYHA class II heart failure and 12.5 mg once daily (of the XL formulation) in patients with more severe heart failure.
Maintenance dose: This dosage should then be doubled every two weeks to the highest dosage level tolerated or up to 200 mg.

If transient worsening of heart failure occurs, it may be treated with increased doses of diuretics, and it may also be necessary to lower the dose or temporarily discontinue treatment. The dose should not be increased until symptoms of worsening heart failure stabilize.

Initial difficulty with titration should not preclude later attempts to institute therapy. If heart failure patients experience symptomatic bradycardia, the dose should be reduced.
Usual Pediatric Dose of Metoprolol for Hypertension:
Immediate release:
1 to 17 years:
Initial dose: 1 to 2 mg/kg/day, administered in 2 divided doses. Dosage should be adjusted based on patient response.
Maximum dose: 6 mg/kg/day (less than or equal to 200 mg/day)

Extended release:
6 to 16 years:
Initial dose: 1 mg/kg orally once daily (not to exceed 50 mg once daily). The minimum available dose is one half of the 25 mg tablet.
Maintenance dose: Dosage should be adjusted according to blood pressure response. Doses above 2 mg/kg (or in excess of 200 mg) once daily have not been studied.

What other drugs will affect metoprolol?

Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, and those you start or stop using during your treatment with metoprolol, especially:
  • prazosin;
  • terbinafine;
  • an antidepressant - bupropion, clomipramine, desipramine, duloxetine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline;
  • an ergot medicine - dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, methylergonovine;
  • heart or blood pressure medications - amlodipine, clonidine, digoxin, diltiazem, dipyridamole, hydralazine, methyldopa, nifedipine, quinidine, reserpine, verapamil, and others;
  • a MAO inhibitor - isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine; or
  • medicine to treat mental illness - chlorpromazine, fluphenazine haloperidol, thioridazine.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with metoprolol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Monday 24 April 2017

what is Cetirizine?

What is cetirizine?

Cetirizine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. It is used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, or runny nose.
Cetirizine is also used to treat itching and swelling caused by hives.
Cetirizine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

Cetirizine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of cetirizine. Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as other cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by cetirizine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you also have a fever.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cetirizine. Before taking cetirizine, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Cetirizine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use cetirizine without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Older adults may need to take a lower than normal dose. Follow your doctor's instructions.
 

How should I take cetirizine?

Take cetirizine exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
You may take cetirizine with or without food.
The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you also have a fever. Store cetirizine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. See also: Dosage Information (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous, and then feeling drowsy.

What should I avoid?

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as other cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by cetirizine. Cetirizine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of cetirizine.
 

Cetirizine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using cetirizine and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;
  • weakness, tremors (uncontrolled shaking), or sleep problems (insomnia);
  • severe restless feeling, hyperactivity;
  • confusion;
  • problems with vision; or
  • urinating less than usual or not at all.
Less serious side effects may include:
  • dizziness, drowsiness;
  • tired feeling;
  • dry mouth;
  • sore throat, cough;
  • nausea, constipation; or
  • headache.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect cetirizine?

There may be other drugs that can interact with cetirizine. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
More frequently reported side effects include: abdominal pain, drowsiness, and fatigue. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to cetirizine: oral solution, oral tablets and chewable tablets
Side effects include:
Adults and children ≥12 years of age: Somnolence, fatigue, dry mouth. Insomnia reported with cetirizine hydrochloride-pseudoephedrine hydrochloride fixed combination.
Children 2–11 years of age: Headache, pharyngitis, abdominal pain.
Children 6 months to 2 years of age: Irritability, fussiness, insomnia, fatigue, malaise.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to cetirizine: oral capsule, oral liquid, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet dispersible

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included headache (16%), fatigue (5.6%), and somnolence (5% to 20%). Somnolence tends to be dose-related and generally occurs more frequently with doses higher than 10 mg per day. Other nervous system side effects include dizziness (1.8%), insomnia (1.5%), and nervousness (1.1%). Post marketing reports have included aggression reaction and convulsions.[Ref]
Cetirizine appears to be more sedating than loratadine.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included dry mouth (5.7%) and nausea or vomiting (2.2%). Pharyngitis, dyspepsia, and increased appetite have occasionally been reported.[Ref]

Hepatic

Hepatic side effects have included rare liver function test abnormalities which resolved spontaneously following discontinuation of cetirizine therapy. At least one case of recurrent acute hepatitis has also been associated with cetirizine use.[Ref]

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included relatively rare reports of wheezing, coughing, bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included reports of maculopapular and urticarial eruptions. Fixed drug eruptions have also been associated with cetirizine.[Ref]

General

General side effects have included epistaxis (1.1%) and accidental injury (1.1%).[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects have included a case report of an anaphylactic reaction.[Ref]

Psychiatric

Delusional thinking and depression has been reported in an 18-year-old woman started on cetirizine; the symptoms resolved once cetirizine was discontinued.[Ref]
Postmarketing psychiatric side effects have included reports of aggressive reaction, hallucinations, suicidal ideation and suicide.[Ref]

References

1. Barnes CL, McKenzie CA, Webster KD, Poinsett-Holmes K "Cetirizine: a new, nonsedating antihistamine." Ann Pharmacother 27 (1993): 464-70
2. Spencer CM, Faulds D, Peters DH "Cetirizine. A reappraisal of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic use in selected allergic disorders." Drugs 46 (1993): 1055-80
3. Lockey RF, Widlitz MD, Mitchell DQ, Lumry W, Dockhorn R, Woehler T, Grossman J "Comparative study of cetirizine and terfenadine versus placebo in the symptomatic management of seasonal allergic rhinitis." Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 76 (1996): 448-54
4. Salmun LM, Gates D, Scharf M, Greiding L, Ramon F, Heithoff K "Loratadine versus cetirizine: Assessment of somnolence and motivation during the workday." Clin Ther 22 (2000): 573-82
5. Takahashi H, Ishida-Yamamoto A, Iizuka H "Effects of bepotastine, cetirizine, fexofenadine, and olopatadine on histamine-induced wheal-and flare-response, sedation, and psychomotor performance." Clin Exp Dermatol 29 (2004): 526-32
6. Adelsberg BR "Sedation and performance issues in the treatment of allergic conditions." Arch Intern Med 157 (1997): 494-500
7. Campoli-Richards DM, Buckley MM, Fitton A "Cetirizine. A review of its pharmacological properties and clinical potential in allergic rhinitis, pollen-induced asthma, and chronic urticaria." Drugs 40 (1990): 762-81
8. Shamsi Z, Kimber S, Hindmarch I "An investigation into the effects of cetirizine on cognitive function and psychomotor performance in healthy volunteers." Eur J Clin Pharmacol 56 (2001): 865-71
9. Hannuksela M, Kalimo K, Lammintausta K, Mattila T, Turjanmaa K, Varjonen E, Coulie PJ "Dose ranging study: cetirizine in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adults." Ann Allergy 70 (1993): 127-33
10. Breneman D, Bronsky EA, Bruce S, Kalivas JT, Klein GL, Roth HL, Tharp MD, Treger C, Soter N "Cetirizine and astemizole therapy for chronic idiopathic urticaria: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, comparative trial." J Am Acad Dermatol 33 (1995): 192-8
11. "Product Information. Zyrtec (cetirizine)." Pfizer US Pharmaceuticals, New York, NY.
12. Desager JP, Horsmans Y "Pharmacokinetic pharmacodynamic relationships of h-1-antihistamines." Clin Pharmacokinet 28 (1995): 419-32
13. Sannita WG, Crimi E, Riela S, Rosadini G, Brusasco V "Cutaneous antihistaminic action of cetirizine and dose-related EEG concomitants of sedation in man." Eur J Pharmacol 300 (1996): 33-41
14. Rihoux JP, Mariz S "Cetirizine. An updated review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic efficacy." Clin Rev Allergy 11 (1993): 65-88
15. Simons FER, Fraser TG, Reggin JD, Simons KJ "Comparison of the central nervous system effects produced by six h-1-receptor antagonists." Clin Exp Allergy 26 (1996): 1092-7
16. Breneman DL "Cetirizine versus hydroxyzine and placebo in chronic idiopathic urticaria." Ann Pharmacother 30 (1996): 1075-9
17. Spector SL, Nicodemus CF, Corren J, Schanker HM, Rachelefsky GS, Katz RM, Siegel SC "Comparison of the bronchodilatory effects of cetirizine, albuterol, and both together versus placebo in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma." J Allergy Clin Immunol 96 (1995): 174-81
18. Reunala T, Brummer-Korvenkontio H, Karppinen A, Coulie P, Palosuo T "Treatment of mosquito bites with cetirizine." Clin Exp Allergy 23 (1993): 72-5
19. Grant JA, Nicodemus CF, Findlay SR, Glovsky MM, Grossman J, Kaiser H, Meltzer EO, Mitchell DQ, Pearlman D, Selner J, Settipa "Cetirizine in patients with seasonal rhinitis and concomitant asthma: prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial." J Allergy Clin Immunol 95 (1995): 923-32
20. Pompili M, Basso M, Grieco A, Vecchio FM, Gasbarrini G, Rapaccini GL "Recurrent acute hepatitis associated with use of cetirizine." Ann Pharmacother 38 (2004): 1844-7
21. Calista D, Schianchi S, Morri M "Urticaria induced by cetirizine." Br J Dermatol 144 (2001): 196
22. Stingeni L, Caraffini S, Agostinelli D, Ricci F, Lisi P "Maculopapular and urticarial eruption from cetirizine." Contact Dermatitis 37 (1997): 249-50
23. Mahajan VK, Sharma NL, Sharma VC "Fixed drug eruption: a novel side-effect of levocetirizine." Int J Dermatol 44 (2005): 796-8
24. Kranke B, Kern T "Multilocalized fixed drug eruption to the antihistamine cetirizine." J Allerg Clin Immunol 106 (2001): 988
25. Karamfilov T, Wilmer A, Hipler UC, Wollina U "Cetirizine-induced urticarial reaction." Br J Dermatol 140 (1999): 979-80
26. Afonso N, Shetgaonkar P, Dang A, Rataboli PV "Cetirizine-induced anaphylaxis: a rare adverse drug reaction." Br J Clin Pharmacol 67 (2009): 577-8
27. Garden BC, Francois D "Cetirizine-associated delusions and depression in an 18-year-old woman." Clin Neuropharmacol 36 (2013): 96-7
Not all side effects for cetirizine may be reported. You should always consult a doctor or healthcare professional for medical advice. Side effects can be reported to the FDA here.

Belsomra information

What is Belsomra?

Belsomra (suvorexant) is a sleep medicine that helps regulate your sleep and wake cycle.
Belsomra is used to treat insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep).
Belsomra may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

You should not use Belsomra if you have narcolepsy.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Belsomra if you are allergic to suvorexant, or if you have narcolepsy.
Belsomra may be habit-forming. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.
To make sure Belsomra is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
  • a history of depression or thoughts about suicide;
  • sleep apnea (breathing stops during sleep); or
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other breathing disorder.
It is not known whether suvorexant will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
It is not known whether suvorexant passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Belsomra is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Belsomra?


Take Belsomra exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Never use this medicine in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed.
Belsomra should be taken only once per night. Take this medicine at bedtime or within 30 minutes before you go to bed.
Belsomra will make you fall asleep. Never take this medicine during your normal waking hours, unless you have at least 7 hours to dedicate to sleeping.
Avoid taking Belsomra shortly after eating a meal. The medicine may not work as well during this time.
Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, or making phone calls and later having no memory of the activity. If this happens, stop taking Belsomra and talk with your doctor about another treatment for your sleep disorder.
It may take longer for you to wake up, speak, or move around the morning after taking this medicine. You may have hallucinations or feel like you are still dreaming for a several minutes after you wake up.
Call your doctor if your insomnia symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse after using Belsomra for 7 to 10 nights in a row.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Belsomra is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription.

Belsomra dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:
10 mg orally once a day at bedtime
Maximum dose: 20 mg once a day

Comments:
-Take within 30 minutes of going to bed, with at least 7 hours remaining before the planned time of awakening.
-If 10 mg is well-tolerated but not effective, the dose can be increased.
-Time to effect may be delayed if taken with or soon after a meal.

Use: Insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance.
See also: Dosage Information (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Belsomra is taken only at bedtime, you will not be on a frequent dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

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

What should I avoid while taking Belsomra?

Do not drive or do anything that requires you to be alert if it has been less than 8 hours since you took Belsomra.
Belsomra can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. You may still feel sleepy the morning after taking this medicine. Until you know how this medicine will affect you during waking hours, be careful if you drive, operate machinery or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Do not drink alcohol while you are taking suvorexant. Alcohol can increase some of the side effects of this medicine, including drowsiness.
Do not take other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxants, and medicine for depression or anxiety).
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Belsomra side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Belsomra: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Belsomra and call your doctor at once if you have:
  • unusual thoughts or behavior;
  • hallucinations; or
  • thoughts about hurting yourself.
You may be more likely to have side effects if you are overweight.
Common Belsomra side effects may include:
  • daytime drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, feeling "drugged" or light-headed;
  • amnesia or forgetfulness;
  • a weak feeling in your legs; or
  • strange dreams.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Belsomra?

Taking Belsomra with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Ask your doctor before taking a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medicine, prescription cough medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety, depression, or seizures.
Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, and those you start or stop using during your treatment with Belsomra, especially:
  • digoxin;
  • imatinib;
  • nefazodone;
  • St. John's wort;
  • verapamil;
  • an antibiotic - ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, rifampin, telithromycin;
  • antifungal medicine - itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole;
  • hepatitis C medications - boceprevir, telaprevir;
  • HIV/AIDS medication - atazanavir, cobicistat (Evotaz, Prezcobix, Stribild, Tybost), delavirdine, fosamprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir; or
  • seizure medication - carbamazepine, fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with suvorexant, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

In Summary

Common side effects of Belsomra include: drowsiness. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to suvorexant: oral tablet
In addition to its needed effects, some unwanted effects may be caused by suvorexant (the active ingredient contained in Belsomra). In the event that any of these side effects do occur, they may require medical attention.

Major Side Effects

You should check with your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur when taking suvorexant:
More common:
  • Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
Less common:
  • Unusual or abnormal dreams
Incidence not known:
  • Changes in behavior
  • discouragement
  • fear or nervousness
  • feeling sad or empty
  • irritability
  • lack of appetite
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • loss of memory
  • problems with memory
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • temporary inability to move or talk for up to several minutes while you are going to sleep or wake up
  • temporary weakness in your legs
  • thoughts of killing oneself
  • tiredness
  • trouble concentrating

Minor Side Effects

Some of the side effects that can occur with suvorexant may not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine during treatment these side effects may go away. Your health care professional may also be able to tell you about ways to reduce or prevent some of these side effects. If any of the following side effects continue, are bothersome or if you have any questions about them, check with your health care professional:
More common:
  • Headache
Less common:
  • Body aches or pain
  • chills
  • cough
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty with breathing
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • ear congestion
  • fever
  • loss of voice
  • nasal congestion
  • runny nose
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

For Healthcare Professionals


Applies to suvorexant: oral tablet

General

The most common adverse reaction was somnolence.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, dry mouth[Ref]

Nervous system

Common (1% to 10%): Headache, somnolence, dizziness[Ref]

Psychiatric

Common (1% to 10%): Abnormal dreams[Ref]

Respiratory

Common (1% to 10%): Cough, upper respiratory tract infection[Ref]

Effects and Side Effects Tramadol

In Summary

Commonly reported side effects of tramadol include: pruritus, agitation, anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, hallucination, nausea, tremor, vomiting, and diaphoresis. Other side effects include: insomnia, pruritus, and diaphoresis. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to tramadol: oral capsule extended release, oral suspension, oral tablet, oral tablet disintegrating, oral tablet extended release
As well as its needed effects, tramadol may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.

Major Side Effects

If any of the following side effects occur while taking tramadol, check with your doctor immediately:
Less common or rare:
  • Abdominal or stomach fullness
  • abnormal or decreased touch sensation
  • blisters under the skin
  • bloating
  • blood in the urine
  • blood pressure increased
  • blurred vision
  • change in walking and balance
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • chills
  • convulsions (seizures)
  • darkened urine
  • difficult urination
  • dizziness or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position
  • fainting
  • fast heartbeat
  • frequent urge to urinate
  • gaseous abdominal or stomach pain
  • heart rate increased
  • indigestion
  • irregular heartbeat
  • loss of memory
  • numbness and tingling of the face, fingers, or toes
  • numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet
  • pain in the arms, legs, or lower back, especially pain in the calves or heels upon exertion
  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
  • pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
  • pale bluish-colored or cold hands or feet
  • recurrent fever
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • severe cramping
  • severe nausea
  • severe redness, swelling, and itching of the skin
  • shortness of breath
  • sweats
  • trembling and shaking of the hands or feet
  • trouble performing routine tasks
  • weak or absent pulses in the legs
  • yellow eyes or skin
If any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking tramadol, get emergency help immediately:
Symptoms of overdose:
  • Change in consciousness
  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • difficulty with breathing
  • lack of muscle tone
  • lightheadedness
  • loss of consciousness
  • pinpointed pupils of the eyes
  • severe sleepiness
  • shortness of breath
  • slow or irregular heartbeat
  • unusual tiredness

Minor Side Effects

Some tramadol side effects may not need any medical attention. As your body gets used to the medicine these side effects may disappear. Your health care professional may be able to help you prevent or reduce these side effects, but do check with them if any of the following side effects continue, or if you are concerned about them:
More common:
  • Abdominal or stomach pain
  • agitation
  • anxiety
  • constipation
  • cough
  • diarrhea
  • discouragement
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • feeling of warmth
  • feeling sad or empty
  • feeling unusually cold
  • fever
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • headache
  • heartburn
  • irritability
  • itching of the skin
  • joint pain
  • loss of appetite
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • loss of strength or weakness
  • muscle aches and pains
  • nausea
  • nervousness
  • redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
  • restlessness
  • runny nose
  • shivering
  • skin rash
  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
  • sore throat
  • stuffy nose
  • sweating
  • tiredness
  • trouble concentrating
  • unusual feeling of excitement
  • weakness
Less common or rare:
  • Abnormal dreams
  • appetite decreased
  • back pain
  • bladder pain
  • blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
  • bloody or cloudy urine
  • body aches or pain
  • change in hearing
  • clamminess
  • cold flu-like symptoms
  • confusion
  • cough producing mucus
  • cracked, dry, or scaly skin
  • decreased interest in sexual intercourse
  • difficult, burning, or painful urination
  • difficulty with moving
  • disturbance in attention
  • ear congestion
  • ear drainage
  • earache or pain in ear
  • excessive gas
  • fall
  • false or unusual sense of well-being
  • feeling hot
  • feeling jittery
  • flushing or redness of the skin
  • general feeling of bodily discomfort
  • goosebumps
  • headache, severe and throbbing
  • hoarseness
  • hot flashes
  • inability to have or keep an erection
  • itching, pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin
  • joint sprain
  • joint stiffness
  • joint swelling
  • loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
  • loss of voice
  • lower back or side pain
  • muscle aching or cramping
  • muscle injury
  • muscle pain or stiffness
  • muscle spasms or twitching
  • nasal congestion
  • neck pain
  • night sweats
  • pain
  • pain in the limbs
  • pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
  • pain, swelling, or redness in the joints
  • skin discoloration
  • swelling
  • swelling of the hands, ankles, feet, or lower legs
  • tightness of the chest
  • trouble in holding or releasing urine
  • trouble with sleeping
  • troubled breathing
  • weight increased or decreased

Side Effects: Post Treatment

After you stop taking this drug, it is possible that you may still experience side effects that need medical attention. If you notice any of the following side effects check with your doctor immediately:
  • Gooseflesh
  • high blood pressure
  • increased sweating
  • increased yawning
  • shivering or trembling
  • unusually large pupils
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to tramadol: oral capsule extended release, oral tablet, oral tablet disintegrating, oral tablet extended release

General

The most common adverse reactions include nausea, constipation, dry mouth, somnolence, dizziness, and vomiting.[Ref]

Psychiatric

CNS stimulation has been reported as a composite of nervousness, anxiety, agitation, tremor, spasticity, euphoria, emotional lability, and hallucinations. During clinical trials, tolerance development was mild and the reports of a withdrawal syndrome were rare. Symptoms of a withdrawal syndrome have included: panic attacks, severe anxiety, hallucinations, paraesthesias, tinnitus and unusual CNS symptoms (i.e. confusion, delusions, personalization, derealization, and paranoia).[Ref]
Very common (10% or more): CNS stimulation (up to 14%)
Common (1% to 10%): Anxiety, euphoria, nervousness, sleep disorder, insomnia, depression, agitation, apathy, depersonalization
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Emotional lability
Rare (less than 0.1%): Hallucinations, nightmares, dependency
Very rare (less than 0.01%): Withdrawal syndrome[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Rare (less than 0.1%): Anaphylaxis, allergic reactions such as dyspnea, bronchospasm, wheezing, angioneurotic edema, swollen skin[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Very common (10% or more): Nausea (up to 40%), constipation (up to 46%), vomiting (up to 17%), dyspepsia (up to 13%)
Common (1% to 10%): Dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, flatulence, sore throat, gastroenteritis viral
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Toothache, appendicitis, pancreatitis[Ref]

Nervous system

Very common (10% or more): Dizziness (up to 28%), somnolence (up to 25%), headache (up to 32%),
Common (1% to 10%): Confusion, coordination disturbance, tremor, paresthesia, hypoesthesia
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Migraine, sedation, syncope, disturbance in attention
Rare (less than 0.1%): Epileptiform seizures
Postmarketing reports: Seizures[Ref]
Epileptiform seizures primarily occurred following administration of high doses or following concomitant treatment with drugs that lower the seizure threshold or trigger seizures.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Very common (10% or more): Pruritus (up to 11%)
Common (1% to 10%): Sweating, rash, dermatitis
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Cellulitis, piloerection, clamminess, urticaria, toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens Johnson-syndrome, hair disorder, skin disorder[Ref]

Genitourinary

Common (1% to 10%): Menopausal symptoms, urinary frequency, urinary retention, urinary tract infection
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Difficulty in micturition, hematuria, dysuria, cystitis, sexual function abnormality[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Very common (10% or more): Flushing (up to 15.8%)
Common (1% to 10%): Vasodilation, postural hypotension, chest pain
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Palpitations, myocardial infarction, lower limb edema, peripheral swelling, hypertension, increased heart rate, peripheral ischemia, EKG abnormality, hypotension, tachycardia
Rare (less than 0.1%): Bradycardia[Ref]

Other

Very common (10% or more): Asthenia (up to 12%)
Common (1% to 10%): Malaise, weakness, pain, feeling hot, influenza like illness, rigors, lethargy, pyrexia
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Tinnitus, vertigo, ear infection[Ref]

Metabolic

Common (1% to 10%): Anorexia, decreased weight, increased blood glucose
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Gout
Rare (less than 0.1%): Changes in appetite[Ref]

Endocrine

Very rare (less than 0.01%): Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion[Ref]

Hematologic

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Anemia, ecchymosis[Ref]

Hepatic

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, ALT and AST increased, abnormal liver function tests[Ref]

Ocular

Common (1% to 10%): Miosis, visual disturbance, blurred vision
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Lacrimation disorder
Frequency not reported: Mydriasis

Renal

Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): blood urea nitrogen increased

Atenolol

Atenolol is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps preven...