Disease is as old as human origin & the efforts made to fight disease can be traced back to the origin of mankind.

It is only in the last century that amazing breakthroughs have been made in treating various ailments & yet many human sufferings allude cure.

We at AGIO Pharmaceuticals Ltd. are committed to providing quality formulations to treat the cause and ease the suffering.


Our quality formulations are broadly classified into:

ANTHELMINTHICS
 Albendazole Tablets/ Suspension
Mebendazole Tablets/ Suspension

ANTIBACTERIALS
Amikacin Injection
Azithromycin
Cefipime Injection
Cefoperazone Sodium Injection
Cefotaxime Injection
Ceftazidime Injection
Ceftriaxone Injection
Ciprofloxacin Tablets
Co-trimoxazole Tablets / Suspension
Doxycycline Capsules
Erythromycin Tablets
Gatifloxacin
Gentamicin Injection
Levofloxacin Tablets
Meropenem Injections
Norfloxacin Tablets
Tetracycline capsules
Silver Sulfadiine
Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine
Vancomycin Hydrochloride Injection

ANTIFUNGALS
Clotrimazole Cream / Vtablets / Solution / Powder
Miconazole cream
Fluconazole Capsules
Betamethasone+Clotrimazole+Gentamycin
Terbinafine

ANTIINFLAMMATORY
Diclofenac Tablets / Gel / Injection
Ibuprofen - Tablet
Indometacin - Capsules, Gel
Ketorolac Tromethamine Tablets (Ketorolac)
Paracetamol - Suspension / Tablets

ANTIMALARIALS
Chloroquine Phosphate Injection / Tablets
Sulphadoxine + Pyrimethamine Tablets

ANTIPROTOZOALS
Metronidazole
Secnidazole
Tinidazole

ANTIULCERANTS
Aluminium + Magnesium Hydroxide Tablets
Omeprazol
Ranitidine

ANTIVIRALS
Acyclovir

CARDIOVASCULARS
Atenolol Tablets
Alprazolam Tablet
Atorvastatin Tablets
Enalapril
Clopidogrel
Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets
Ramipril Capsules
Simvastatin Tablets
Torsemide Tablets

ANTIDIARRHOEALS
Loperamide Capsules

DERMATOLOGICALS
Clobetasol
Dexamethasone Injection
Fexofenadine
Flucinolone Topical
Prednisolone Injection
Salicyclic Acid Ointment
Triamcinolone Topical
Hydrocortisone Tablets

ANTIHISTAMINES,ANTIALLERGICS
Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride

GASTRO –INTESTINALS
Pancreatin

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ANTHELMINTHICS

Albendazole Tablets / Suspension

Description
Albendazole (al-BEN-da-zole) is used to treat infections caused by worms. Albendazole works by keeping the worm from absorbing sugar (glucose), so that the worm loses energy and dies.

Albendazole is used to treat:
- Hydatid disease (echinococcosis)
- Infection of the nervous system caused by pork tapeworms (neurocysticercosis).

Albendazole is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
- Oral Tablets (U.S.)
 
Before Using This Medicine
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For albendazole, the following should be considered:

Allergies- Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to albendazole. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.
Pregnancy- Albendazole has not been studied in pregnant women. However, studies in animals have shown that albendazole can cause birth defects or other problems. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant. Women of childbearing age should take the medicine within 7 days after the start of their period (menstrual cycle). After a negative pregnancy test, birth control must be used during treatment and for 1 month after stopping treatment with albendazole.

Other medicines- Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking albendazole, it is especially important that your health care professional know if you are taking any of the following:
- Cimetidine (e.g., Tagamet, Tagamet HB) or
- Corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicines) or
- Praziquantel (e.g., Biltricide)-Use of these medicines with albendazole has been shown to increase the effects of albendazole
 
Other medical problems- The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of albendazole. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
- Cysticercosis involving the eye-Patients who are being treated with albendazole for pork tapeworms of the nervous system (neurocysticercosis) should be examined for lesions in the eye; use of albendazole may increase the chance of side effects involving the eye
- Liver disease-Patients with liver disease may have an increased chance of side effects

Proper Use of This Medicine
No special preparations (fasting, laxatives, or enemas) or other steps are necessary before, during, or immediately after treatment with albendazole.
Albendazole is best taken with meals, especially with food containing fat , to help your body absorb the medicine better.

For patients taking the tablet form of albendazole:
- Tablets should be swallowed whole with a small amount of liquid.
To help clear up your infection completely, take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor for the full time of treatment . In some infections, additional treatments with this medicine may be needed at 2-week intervals to clear up the infection completely. Do not miss any doses .

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

The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are taking albendazole .
- For oral dosage form (tablets):
- For hydatid disease:

Adults, teenagers, and children weighing 60 kilograms (132 pounds) and over-400 milligrams (mg) two times a day for twenty-eight days. Treatment may need to be repeated in fourteen days.

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

Storage:
- Keep out of the reach of children.
- Store away from heat and direct light.
- Keep the suspension form of this medicine from freezing.

Precautions While Using This Medicine
It is important that your doctor check your progress after treatment. This is to make sure that the infection is cleared up completely, and to allow your doctor to check for any unwanted effects.
If your symptoms do not improve after you have taken this medicine for the full course of treatment, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
For women of childbearing age, it is important that you use birth control while taking albendazole since this medicine can cause birth defects or other problems.

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

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
Rare
Fever, skin rash or itching, sore throat, unusual tiredness and weakness

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

Less common
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting

Additional Information
Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although these uses are not included in product labeling in the U.S., albendazole is used in certain patients with the following infections:
- Capillariasis;
- Cutaneous larva migrans;
- Common roundworms (ascariasis);
- Hookworms (ancylostomiasis and necatoriasis);
- Pinworms (enterobiasis or oxyuriasis);

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Mebendazole Tablets / Suspension

Why is this medication prescribed?
Mebendazole, an antiworm medication, kills parasites. It is used to treat roundworm, hookworm, pinworm, whipworm, and other worm infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Mebendazole comes as a chewable tablet. It usually is taken twice a day, in the morning and evening, for 3 days or as a single (one-time) dose. You may chew the tablets, swallow them whole, or crush and mix them with food. Treatment may have to be repeated in 2-3 weeks. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take mebendazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking mebendazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to mebendazole or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had stomach or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking mebendazole, call your doctor.
 
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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Mebendazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to mebendazole.
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 mebendazole, call your doctor.


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ANTIBACTERIALS

Amikacin Sulfate Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered amikacin, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for at least 30 minutes, one to three times a day.
Amikacin eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering amikacin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amikacin, gentamicin (Garamycin), kanamycin (Kantrex), neomycin, netilmicin (Netromycin), streptomycin, tobramycin (Nebcin), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), cisplatin (Platinol), amphotericin (Amphotec, Fungizone), other antibiotics, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, vertigo, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, myasthenia gravis, or Parkinson's disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking amikacin, call your doctor immediately. Amikacin can harm the fetus.

Administering your medication
Before you administer amikacin, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.

It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Amikacin occasionally causes side effects. To reduce this risk, your health care provider may adjust your dose based on your blood test results. Follow the directions in the IMPORTANT WARNING section for symptoms listed there and tell your health care provider if any of the following symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- fatigue
- pale skin

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of amikacin at a time. If you are receiving amikacin intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional amikacin in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
- Do not refreeze medications.

If you are receiving amikacin intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving amikacin in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Aziththromycin

Why is this medication prescribed?
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 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.


How should this medicine be used?
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 prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take azithromycin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. 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.

Other uses for this medicine
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. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

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.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to 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 medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- 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.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking azithromycin, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
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 Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately: - severe skin rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat Azithromycin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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 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.

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Cefepime Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered cefepime, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 30 minutes, one or two times a day.

Cefepime eliminates bacteria that cause many infections, including pneumonia and skin and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering cefepime,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cefepime, penicillin, cephalosporins [cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cefepime, call your doctor.
- if you have diabetes and regularly check your urine for sugar, use Clinistix or Tes-Tape. Do not use Clinitest tablets, because cefepime may cause false positive results.

Administering your medication
Before you administer cefepime, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.

It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Cefepime may cause side effects. If you are administering cefepime into a muscle, it may be mixed with lidocaine (Xylocaine) to reduce pain at the injection site. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider immediately:
- skin rash
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficulty breathing
- sore mouth or throat

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of cefepime at a time. If you are receiving cefepime intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.

If you are receiving cefepime intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving cefepime in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Cefoperazone Sodium Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered cefoperazone, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 30 minutes, two to four times a day. Cefoperazone eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, gynecological, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering cefoperazone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cefoperazone, any other cephalosporin [e.g., cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], penicillins, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cefoperazone, call your doctor.
- you should avoid alcohol completely while receiving cefoperazone and for 72 hours after a dose. Any alcoholic beverage can cause a sudden reaction, with nausea, vomiting, flushing, sweating, headache, and rapid heartbeat. This warning also applies to alcohol-containing medications such as cough syrups and elixirs. Talk to your pharmacist or physician before taking any new medication.
if you have diabetes and regularly check your urine for sugar, use Clinistix or TesTape. Do not use Clinitest tablets because cefoperazone may cause false positive results.

Administering your medication
Before you administer cefoperazone, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider. It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an inusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Although side effects from cefoperazone are not common, they can occur. If you are administering cefoperazone into a muscle, it may be mixed with lidocaine (Xylocaine) to reduce pain. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider immediately:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficulty breathing
- skin rash
- itching
- hives
- sore mouth or throat

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of cefotaxime at a time. If you are receiving cefotaxime intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional cefotaxime in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
- If you are receiving cefotaxime intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
- Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
- Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving cefotaxime in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Cefotaxime Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered cefotaxime, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 30 minutes, two to four times a day.
Cefotaxime eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, gynecological, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering cefotaxime,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to cefotaxime, any other cephalosporin [e.g., cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], penicillins, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking cefotaxime, call your doctor.

Administering your medication
Before you administer cefotaxime, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.

It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Cefotaxime may cause side effects. If you are administering cefotaxime into a muscle, it may be mixed with lidocaine (Xylocaine) to reduce pain at the injection site. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider immediately:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficulty breathing
- skin rash
- itching
- hives
- sore mouth or throat

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of cefotaxime at a time. If you are receiving cefotaxime intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional cefotaxime in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
If you are receiving cefotaxime intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving cefotaxime in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Ceftazidime Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered ceftazidime, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 30 minutes, one to three times a day.
Ceftazidime eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, gynecological, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering ceftazidime,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ceftazidime, any other cephalosporin [e.g., cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], penicillins, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ceftazidime, call your doctor.
- if you have diabetes and regularly check your urine for sugar, use Clinistix or TesTape. Do not use Clinitest tablets because ceftazidime may cause false positive results.

Administering your medication
Before you administer ceftazidime, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.
It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Ceftazidime may cause side effects. If you are administering ceftazidime into a muscle, it may be mixed with lidocaine (Xylocaine) to reduce pain at the injection site. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider immediately:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficulty breathing
- itching
- rash
- hives
- sore mouth or throat

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of ceftazidime at a time. If you are receiving ceftazidime intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional ceftazidime in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.

If you are receiving ceftazidime intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving ceftazidime in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain


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Ceftriaxone Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered ceftriaxone, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 30 minutes, one or two times a day.
Ceftriaxone eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering ceftriaxone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ceftriaxone, any other cephalosporin [e.g., cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], penicillins, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antibiotics, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, gallbladder, or gastrointestinal disease (especially colitis).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ceftriaxone, call your doctor.
- if you have diabetes and regularly check your urine for sugar, use Clinistix or TesTape. Do not use Clinitest tablets because ceftriaxone may cause false positive results.
 
Administering your medication
Before you administer ceftriaxone, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.
It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Ceftriaxone may cause side effects. If you are administering ceftriaxone into a muscle, it may be mixed with lidocaine (Xylocaine) to reduce pain at the injection site. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider immediately:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- difficulty breathing
- itching
- rash
- hives
- sore mouth or throat

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of ceftriaxone at a time. If you are receiving ceftriaxone intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional ceftriaxone in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
- Do not refreeze medications.

If you are receiving ceftriaxone intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving ceftriaxone in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Ciprofloxacin Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat or prevent certain infections caused by bacteria. Ciprofloxacin is also used to treat or prevent anthrax in people who may have been exposed to anthrax germs in the air. Ciprofloxacin extended-release (long-acting) tablets are used only to treat certain types of urinary tract infections. Ciprofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing bacteria.
Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should this medicine be used?
Ciprofloxacin comes as a tablet, a suspension (liquid) and an extended-release tablet to take by mouth. The tablet and suspension are usually taken twice a day in the morning and evening with or without food. The extended-release tablets are usually taken once a day.Cipro XR brand extended-release tablets may be taken with or without food. Proquin XR brand extended-release tablets should be taken with a main meal of the day, preferably the evening meal. Take ciprofloxacin at around the same time(s) every day. The length of your treatment depends on the type of infection you have. Your doctor will tell you how long to take ciprofloxacin. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ciprofloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
One brand or type of ciprofloxacin cannot be substituted for another. Be sure that you receive only the brand of ciprofloxacin that was prescribed by your doctor. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the type of ciprofloxacin you were given.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not split, crush, or chew them. If you cannot swallow tablets whole, tell your doctor.
If you are taking the liquid, shake the bottle very well for 15 seconds before each use to mix the medication evenly. Swallow the correct dose without chewing the granules in the liquid. Close the liquid ciprofloxacin bottle completely after each use. Do not give the liquid to a patient through a feeding tube.
You should begin feeling better during the first few days of treatment with ciprofloxacin. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, call your doctor. Fever and back pain may be symptoms of a worsening urinary tract infection. If you are being treated for this type of infection, call your doctor if you develop these symptoms during or after your treatment
Take ciprofloxacin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking ciprofloxacin too soon or if you skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.

Other uses for this medicine
In the event of biological warfare, ciprofloxacin may be used to treat and prevent dangerous illnesses that are deliberately spread such as plague, tularemia, and anthrax of the skin or mouth. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ciprofloxacin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic or have had a severe reaction to ciprofloxacin; or any other quinolone or fluoroquinolone antibiotics such as gatifloxacin (Tequin, not available in the U.S.), gemifloxacin (Factive), levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), nalidixic acid (NegGram), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and ofloxacin (Floxin); if you are allergic to any other medications; or if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in ciprofloxacin tablets or liquid. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor if you are taking tizanidine (Zanaflex). Your doctor will probably tell you not to take ciprofloxacin while you are taking this medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Do not take ciprofloxacin with dairy products (like milk, ice cream, cheese, or yogurt) or calcium-added juices alone. You may take ciprofloxacin with a meal that includes these foods.
Do not drink or eat a lot of caffeine-containing products such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola, or chocolate. Ciprofloxacin may increase nervousness, sleeplessness, heart pounding, and anxiety caused by caffeine.
Make sure you drink plenty of water or other fluids every day while you are taking ciprofloxacin.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you miss a dose of ciprofloxacin tablets or suspension, 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.
If you miss a dose of the extended-release tablets and remember that same day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than one ciprofloxacin extended-release tablet in one day.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Ciprofloxacin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- indigestion
- diarrhea
- headache
- nervousness
- agitation

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). Store the suspension in the refrigerator or at room temperature, closed tightly, for up to 14 days. Do not freeze ciprofloxacin suspension. Throw away any liquid that is left over after 14 days and any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to ciprofloxacin.
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 ciprofloxacin, call your doctor.


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Co-trimoxazole Tablets / Suspension (Bicotrim)

Why is this medication prescribed?
Co-trimoxazole is a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole, a sulfa drug. It eliminates bacteria that cause various infections, including infections of the urinary tract, lungs (pneumonia), ears, and intestines. It also is used to treat 'travelers' diarrhea.' Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Co-trimoxazole comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken two times a day but may be taken up to four times a day for severe lung infections. Drink a full glass of water with each dose.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take co-trimoxazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking co-trimoxazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to co-trimoxazole, diuretics ('water pills', oral diabetes medications, any sulfa drug, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially methotrexate, phenytoin (Dilantin), warfarin (Coumadin), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, asthma, severe allergies, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency (an inherited blood disease).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking co-trimoxazole, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Co-trimoxazole may cause an upset stomach. Take co-trimoxazole with food.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Co-trimoxazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- loss of appetite

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- itching
- sore throat
- fever or chills
- mouth sores
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- paleness
- joint aches

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to co-trimoxazole.
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 co-trimoxazole, call your doctor.

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Doxycycline Capsules

Why is this medication prescribed?
Doxycycline is used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; Lyme disease; acne; infections of skin, genital, and urinary systems; and anthrax (after inhalational exposure). It is also used to prevent malaria. Doxycycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should this medicine be used?
Doxycycline comes as a regular and a coated capsule, a tablet, a syrup, and a suspension (liquid), all to take by mouth. Doxycycline is usually taken once or twice a day. Drink a full glass of water with each dose of the capsule or tablet. If your stomach becomes upset when you take doxycycline, you may take it with food or milk. However, taking doxycycline with milk or food may decrease the amount of medication absorbed from your stomach. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the best way to take doxycycline if your stomach becomes upset. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take doxycycline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the syrup or suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
If you are taking doxycycline for the prevention of malaria, start taking it 1 or 2 days before traveling to an area where there is malaria. Continue taking doxycycline for 4 weeks after leaving the area where there is malaria. You should not take doxycycline for the prevention of malaria for more than 4 months.
Continue to take doxycycline even if you feel well. Take all the medication until you are finished, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Other uses for this medicine
Doxycycline may also be used for the treatment of malaria. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking doxycycline,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline, sulfites (for doxycycline syrup only), or any other medications.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking doxycycline, call your doctor immediately. Doxycycline can harm the fetus.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Doxycycline may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- itching of the rectum or vagina
- sore mouth
- stomach pain
- extreme tiredness or weakness
- confusion

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and laboratory. Your doctor will want to check your response to doxycycline.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking doxycycline.
If you have diabetes, doxycycline can cause false results in some tests for sugar in the urine. Check with your doctor before changing your diet or the dosage of your diabetes medicine.
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 doxycycline, call your doctor.

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Erythromycin Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Erythromycin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis; diphtheria; Legionnaires' disease; pertussis (whooping cough); pneumonia; rheumatic fever; venereal disease (VD); and ear, intestine, lung, urinary tract, and skin infections. It is also used before some surgery or dental work to prevent infection. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Erythromycin comes as a capsule, tablet, long-acting capsule, long-acting tablet, chewable tablet, liquid, and pediatric drop to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 6 hours (four times a day) or every 8 hours (three times a day) for 7-21 days. Some infections may require a longer time. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take erythromycin 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 chewable tablets should be crushed or chewed thoroughly before they are swallowed. The other capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole and taken with a full glass of water.
Continue to take erythromycin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking erythromycin without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking erythromycin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to erythromycin, azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin), dirithromycin (Dynabac), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease, yellowing of the skin or eyes, colitis, or stomach problems.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking erythromycin, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking erythromycin.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Take erythromycin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Do not take this medication with, or just after, fruit juices or carbonated drinks. Certain brands of erythromycin may be taken with meals; check with your doctor or pharmacist.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Erythromycin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- stomach cramps
- mild skin rash
- stomach pain

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 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. Keep liquid medicine in the refrigerator, closed tightly, and throw away any unused medication after 14 days. Do not freeze. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to erythromycin.

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 erythromycin, call your doctor.

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Gatifloxacin

Why is this medication prescribed?
Gatifloxacin is used to treat certain types of lung, sinus, skin, and urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. Gatifloxacin is also used to treat certain types of gonorrhea infections (a sexually transmitted disease). Gatifloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by killing the bacteria that cause infection. Gatifloxacin will not work against colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should this medicine be used?
Gatifloxacin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food once a day for 1 to 14 days. Take gatifloxacin at 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 gatifloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the tablets whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.
Take gatifloxacin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking gatifloxacin too soon or if you skip doses, your infection may not be completely treated and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.
You should begin to feel better soon after you begin your treatment with gatifloxacin. If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.

Other uses for this medicine
Gatifloxacin may be used to help treat or prevent infection in people who were or may have been exposed to anthrax spores in the air. Gatifloxacin is also sometimes used with other medications to treat tuberculosis (TB; an infection that may affect the lungs and other parts of the body). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking gatifloxacin,
• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gatifloxacin (Tequin, Zymar) or other quinolone antibiotics including cinoxacin (Cinobac) (not available in the United States), ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan, Cipro), enoxacin (Penetrex) (not available in the United States), gemifloxacin (Factive), levofloxacin (Iquix, Levaquin, Quixin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox, Vigamox), nalidixic acid (NegGram), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin, Ocuflox), sparfloxacin (Zagam), or trovafloxacin and alatrofloxacin combination (Trovan) (not available in the United States); any other medications; or any of the ingredients in gatifloxacin tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: certain other antibiotics, including erythromycin (E.E.S., others); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants ('mood elevators'); antipsychotics (medications for mental illness); cisapride (Propulsid) (not available in the United States); diuretics ('water pills') including furosemide (Lasix) and hydrochlorothiazide (Diurel, others); certain medications to control irregular heartbeat including amiodarone (Cordarone), digoxin (Digitek, Lanoxicaps, Lanoxin); disopyramide (Norpace), dofetilide (Tikosyn), procainamide (Pronestyl),quinidine (Quinidex), and sotalol (Betapace); nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn); probenecid (Benemid); or sucralfate (Carafate). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• if you are taking aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids (some forms of Mylanta, some forms of Maalox, others); didanosine (Videx) chewable tablets or solution (liquid); or dietary supplements or multivitamins that contain iron (such as ferrous sulfate), magnesium, or zinc, you should take them 4 hours after you take gatifloxacin.
• tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has or has ever had a prolonged QT interval (a rare heart problem that may cause fainting or irregular heartbeat); or an abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG; heart rhythm test); tell your doctor if you have or have ever had low levels of potassium in the blood;slow heartbeat; a recent heart attack. Also tell your doctor if you have or have ever had cerebral atherosclerosis [narrowing of blood vessels in or near the brain which can lead to stroke or ministroke (TIA)]; diabetes; seizures; or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking gatifloxacin, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking gatifloxacin.
• you should know that this medication may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and drowsiness. Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or participate in other activities requiring mental alertness and coordination until you know how gatifloxacin will affect you.
• plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet light (tanning beds) and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Gatifloxacin may make your skin sensitive to sunlight. Call your doctor if you develop skin redness, blisters, or bumps.
• you should know that your blood sugar may increase or decrease during your treatment with gatifloxacin. These changes in blood sugar may be serious or life-threatening. You are most likely to experience changes in your blood sugar if you have diabetes. However, you may experience changes in your blood sugar even if you do not have diabetes. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes or any other condition that causes your blood sugar to be too high or too low. If you have diabetes, your doctor will probably tell you not to take gatifloxacin. Also tell your doctor if you are taking other medications that may affect your blood sugar, such as insulin or oral medications for diabetes including glyburide (DiaBeta, Glycron, Glynase, Micronase, in Glucovance). Talk to your doctor about how to monitor your blood sugar during your treatment and the steps to take if your blood sugar increases or decreases.
• tell your doctor if you have ever had tendonitis (swelling or tearing of a fiber that connects a bone to a muscle), if you participate in regular athletic activity, or if you are taking oral steroids such as methylprednisolone (Medrol) and prednisone (Deltasone). There is a risk that you may develop tendonitis while you are taking gatifloxacin. If you develop symptoms of tendonitis such as pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, or difficulty in moving a muscle, stop taking gatifloxacin, rest, and call your doctor immediately.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
This medication may cause changes in your blood sugar. You should know the symptoms of low and high blood sugar and what to do if you have these symptoms.
You may experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while you are taking this medication. Your doctor will tell you what you should do if you develop hypoglycemia. He or she may tell you to check your blood sugar, eat or drink a food or beverage that contains sugar, such as hard candy or fruit juice, or get medical care. Follow these directions carefully if you have any of the following symptoms of hypoglycemia:
• shakiness
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• sweating
• 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
• loss of consciousness
Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar):
• extreme thirst
• frequent urination
• extreme hunger
• weakness
• blurred vision
If high blood sugar is not treated, a serious, life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis could develop. Get medical care immediately if you have any of these symptoms:
• dry mouth
• nausea and vomiting
• shortness of breath
• breath that smells fruity
• decreased consciousness
Gatifloxacin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
• vaginal itching, swelling, or discomfort
• stomach pain
• loss of appetite
• change in the way things taste
• heartburn
• gas
• diarrhea
• constipation
• painful urination
• sores or white patches in the mouth
• sore tongue
• tiredness
• muscle or joint pain
• leg cramps
• ringing in the ears
• dry skin
• fever
• chills
• sore throat
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
• rash or blisters on skin
• itching
• hives
• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• hoarseness
• tightness of the throat
• fast or pounding heartbeat
• chest pain
• fainting
• depression
• paranoia (abnormal fear)
• hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• nightmares
• agitation
• anxiety
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• pain, burning, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the hands or feet
• bloody stools
• dark colored urine
• decrease in urination
• rapid weight loss
• shaking of a part of the body that you cannot control

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.

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Gentamicin Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered gentamicin, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for at least 30 minutes, one to three times a day.

Gentamicin eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including lung, skin, bone, joint, stomach, blood, and urinary tract infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering gentamicin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amikacin (Amikin), gentamicin, kanamycin (Kantrex), neomycin, netilmicin (Netromycin), streptomycin, tobramycin (Nebcin), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), cisplatin (Platinol), amphotericin (Amphotec, Fungizone), other antibiotics, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, vertigo, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, myasthenia gravis, or Parkinson's disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking gentamicin, call your doctor immediately. Gentamicin can harm the fetus.

Administering your medication
Before you administer gentamicin, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider.

It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

Side effects
Gentamicin occasionally causes side effects. To reduce this risk, your health care provider may adjust your dose based on your blood test results. Follow the directions in the IMPORTANT WARNING section for the symptoms listed there and tell your health care provider if any of the following symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- fatigue
- pale skin

Storing your medication
- Your health care provider probably will give you a several-day supply of gentamicin at a time. If you are receiving gentamicin intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional gentamicin in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
- Do not refreeze medications.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving gentamicin in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Levofloxacin Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Levofloxacin is used treat infections such as pneumonia; chronic bronchitis; and sinus, urinary tract, kidney, and skin infections. Levofloxacin is in a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It works by eliminating bacteria that cause infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should this medicine be used?
Levofloxacin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once daily for 7-14 days. Treatment for some infections may take 6 weeks or longer. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take levofloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Tablets should be taken with a full glass of water. Continue to take levofloxacin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking levofloxacin without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking levofloxacin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin (Cipro), enoxacin (Penetrex), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), cinoxacin (Cinobac), nalidixic acid (NegGram), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: other antibiotics; anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); cancer chemotherapy agents; cimetidine (Tagamet); cisapride (Propulsid); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); medications for irregular heartbeats such as amiodarone (Cordarone), disopyramide (Norpace), dofetilide (Tikosyn), procainamide (Procanbid, Pronestyl), quinidine (Quinidex), and sotalol (Betapace, Betapace AF); oral steroids such as dexamethasone (Decadron, Dexone), methylprednisolone (Medrol), and prednisone (Deltasone); phenytoin (Dilantin); pimozide (Orap); probenecid (Benemid); sucralfate (Carafate); theophylline (Theo-Dur); and thioridazine (Mellaril). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- do not take with antacids (Mylanta, Maalox), didanosine (Videx) chewable/buffered tablets or solution, iron or zinc supplements, sucralfate (Carafate), or vitamins that contain iron or zinc. Take these medications 2 hours before or after levofloxacin.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, convulsions, colitis, stomach problems, vision problems, heart disease, or history of stroke.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking levofloxacin, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking levofloxacin.
- you should know that this medication may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and tiredness. Do not drive a car or work on dangerous machines until you know how levofloxacin will affect you.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Levofloxacin may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
- Keep in mind that it causes increased or decreased blood sugar in patients taking antidiabetes medications or insulin. Careful monitoring of blood glucose is advised. If you experience a significant drop in blood glucose, stop taking levofloxacin and call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Levofloxacin can be taken with or without food. If an upset stomach occurs, take with food. Drink at least eight full glasses of water or other liquid every day.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Norfloxacin 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
- headache
- restlessness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- itching
- hives
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face or throat
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- dark urine
- pale or dark stools
- blood in urine
- pain, inflammation, or rupture of a tendon
- rapid, irregular, or pounding heartbeats

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). Keep away from light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.


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Meropenem Injections

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered meropenem, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for at least 15 minutes or more, one to three times a day. Meropenem eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including pneumonia and urinary tract, skin, bone, and stomach infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering meropenem,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to meropenem, penicillin, cephalosporins [cefaclor (Ceclor), cefadroxil (Duricef), or cephalexin (Keflex)], or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially probenecid (Benemid), valproic acid (Depakene, Depakote), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking meropenem, call your doctor.

Administering your medication
Before you administer meropenem, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider. It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Meropenem may cause side effects. Tell your health care provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- headache
- restlessness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- seizures
- fatigue and sleepiness
- dizziness

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Your health care provider may give you a several-day supply of meropenem at a time. You may receive vials and intravenous fluids to prepare your doses at home. You may receive a special bag with the vial of meropenem attached and directions on how to prepare the solution to infuse. Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly. Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children. Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving meropenem in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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Norfloxacin Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Norfloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as gonorrhea, prostate, and urinary tract infections. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Norfloxacin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 12 hours (twice a day) for 7-28 days. To treat gonorrhea, a single dose is taken. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take norfloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
The tablets should be taken with a full glass of water.

Continue to take norfloxacin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking norfloxacin without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Norfloxacin is also used sometimes to treat stomach infections. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking norfloxacin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin (Cipro), enoxacin (Penetrex, levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), ofloxacin (Floxin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), cinoxacin (Cinobac), nalidixic acid (NegGram), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking norfloxacin, call your doctor immediately.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking norfloxacin.
- you should know that this drug may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and tiredness. Do not drive a car or work on dangerous machines until you know how norfloxacin will affect you.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Take norfloxacin at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or drinking or eating milk or dairy products. Take with a full glass of water. Drink at least eight full glasses of water or other liquid every day. Do not drink or eat a lot of caffeine-containing products as coffee, tea, cola, or chocolate. Norfloxacin increases nervousness, sleeplessness, heart pounding, and anxiety caused by caffeine.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Norfloxacin 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
- headache
- restlessness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- skin rash
- itching
- hives
- difficulty breathing or swallowing

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). Keep away from light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to norfloxacin.

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 norfloxacin, call your doctor.


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Tetracycline capsules

Why is this medication prescribed?
Tetracycline, is used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; acne; infections of skin, genital and urinary systems; and the infection that causes stomach ulcers (Helicobacter pylori). It also may be used as an alternative to other medications for the treatment of Lyme disease and for the treatment and prevention of anthrax (after inhalational exposure). Tetracycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics.It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria.Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should this medicine be used?
Tetracycline comes as a capsule and suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken two to four times daily. Tetracycline should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or snacks. Drink a full glass of water with each dose of tetracycline. Do not take tetracycline with food, especially dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take tetracycline exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking tetracycline,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, sulfites, or any other medications.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, allergies, asthma, hay fever, hives, or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking tetracycline, call your doctor immediately. Tetracycline can harm the fetus.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking tetracycline.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Tetracycline may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Tetracycline may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- itching of the rectum or vagina
- sore mouth
- redness of the skin (sunburn)
- changes in skin color

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- severe headache
- blurred vision
- skin rash
- hives
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- itching
- dark-colored urine
- light-colored bowel movements
- loss of appetite
- upset stomach

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to tetracycline.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking tetracycline.

If you have diabetes, tetracycline causes false results in some tests for sugar in the urine. Check with your doctor before changing your diet or the dosage of your diabetes medicine.

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 tetracycline, call your doctor.


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Silver Sulfadiazine

Why is this medication prescribed?
Silver sulfadiazine, a sulfa drug, is used to prevent and treat infections of second- and third-degree burns. It kills a wide variety of bacteria.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Silver sulfadiazine comes in a cream. Silver sulfadiazine usually is applied 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. Use silver sulfadiazine exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Do not apply this drug to infants less than 2 months of age.
Do not stop using silver sulfadiazine until your doctor tells you to do so. Your burn must be healed so that infection is no longer a problem. Gently wash the burned skin area daily to help remove dead skin. If your burn becomes infected or if your infection worsens, call your doctor.

Before applying the medication, clean the burned area and remove any dead or burned skin. Always wear a sterile, disposable glove when you apply silver sulfadiazine. Cover the cleaned burned area with a 1/16-inch thickness of cream. Keep the burned area covered with cream at all times; reapply the cream to any area that becomes uncovered.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using silver sulfadiazine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to silver sulfadiazine, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

If you become pregnant while using silver sulfadiazine, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Silver sulfadiazine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- pain
- burning
- itching

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Silver sulfadiazine is for external use only. Do not let silver sulfadiazine get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Tell your doctor if your skin condition gets worse or does not go away.

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Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine

About Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine
This belongs to the group of medicines known as Antimalarials.
This medicine is used in combination with other drugs to treat malaria. It is not usually used for malaria prevention except when there are special circumstances.
Malaria is a tropical disease which can be passed on to humans by mosquitoes. Parasites called protozoa live inside the stomachs of female mosquitoes. These parasites can be passed on to humans by a mosquito bite.
Because the pattern of malaria varies with the part of the world you are travelling to, the season and the type of activity you have planned, you should always obtain the latest advice from your doctor, pharmacist or travel organiser. A backpacking trip may well require different preventative measures than a business trip to a city.
This medicine is available in tablet form.

Before Taking Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine
Before taking this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer with liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer with a blood disorder
• if you suffer with glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency or if you have a family history of this condition
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• The tablets should be swallowed whole, not sucked or chewed, with plenty of water.
• The dose will vary depending on if you are taking this medicine to treat or prevent malaria.
• You must maintain your fluid intake, drink plenty of water.
• You must complete the course of treatment. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual time.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside this preparation.
• This medicine can cause dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs, which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• This medicine may cause loss of balance and dizziness, particularly when getting up from a sitting or lying position. Getting up slowly should help.
• This medicine may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Cover up, as this will help prevent mosquito bites. Use a sunscreen above factor 15 on exposed areas.
• This medicine can help to prevent malaria developing if taken properly. If you have diarrhoea or vomiting they may be less effective.
• If a malaria-carrying mosquito bites you then you could contract malaria. You should therefore sleep in properly screened accommodation or sleep with a mosquito netting around your bed.

Can Pyrimethamine & Sulfadoxine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted symptoms. Speak with your pharmacist or doctor if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.
Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), disturbed sleep, feeling of fullness, tiredness, headache, dizziness, fever, neuralgia (nerve pain), mouth ulcers or diarrhoea.
Important: If you experience any of the following stop taking this medicine and seek urgent medical attention: sore throat, fever, joint pain, enlarged glands, aching limbs, discolouration of motions (faeces) shortness of breath and coughing, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, a skin reaction such as severe itching, rash, blisters or hair loss.
If you experience any other worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.


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Vancomycin Hydrochloride Injection

About your treatment
Your doctor has ordered vancomycin, an antibiotic, to help treat your infection. The drug will be added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter placed in your vein for 60 or more minutes, two to four times a day. Vancomycin eliminates bacteria that cause many kinds of infections, including pneumonia and skin, bone, blood, and heart valve infections. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your infection and symptoms respond to the medication.

Precautions
Before administering vancomycin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to vancomycin or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antibiotics and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, vertigo, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking vancomycin, call your doctor.

Administering your medication
Before you administer vancomycin, look at the solution closely. It should be clear and free of floating material. Gently squeeze the bag or observe the solution container to make sure there are no leaks. Do not use the solution if it is discolored, if it contains particles, or if the bag or container leaks. Use a new solution, but show the damaged one to your health care provider. It is important that you use your medication exactly as directed. Do not stop your therapy on your own for any reason because your infection could worsen and result in hospitalization. Do not change your dosing schedule without talking to your health care provider. Your health care provider may tell you to stop your infusion if you have a mechanical problem (such as a blockage in the tubing, needle, or catheter); if you have to stop an infusion, call your health care provider immediately so your therapy can continue.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Vancomycin may cause side effects. Do not administer your vancomycin faster than directed by your health care provider. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your health care provider as soon as possible:
- lightheadedness or faintness
- flushing
- back and neck muscle pain
- a rash on the face, neck, chest, or upper arms or legs
- itching
- difficulty breathing

Tell your health care provider if either of these symptoms is severe or does not go away:
- upset stomach
- vomitting

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

- dizziness
- vertigo
- ringing in the ears
- hearing loss

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
- Your health care provider probably will give you several days supply of vancomycin. If you are receiving vancomycin intravenously (in your vein), you probably will be told to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Take your next dose from the refrigerator 1 hour before using it; place it in a clean, dry area to allow it to warm to room temperature.
- If you are told to store additional vancomycin in the freezer, always move a 24-hour supply to the refrigerator for the next day's use.
- Do not refreeze medications. If you are receiving vancomycin intramuscularly (in your muscle), your health care provider will tell you how to store it properly.
Store your medication only as directed. Make sure you understand what you need to store your medication properly.
Keep your supplies in a clean, dry place when you are not using them, and keep all medications and supplies out of reach of children.Your health care provider will tell you how to throw away used needles, syringes, tubing, and containers to avoid accidental injury.

Signs of infection
If you are receiving vancomycin in your vein or under your skin, you need to know the symptoms of a catheter-related infection (an infection where the needle enters your vein or skin). If you experience any of these effects near your intravenous catheter, tell your health care provider as soon as possible:
- tenderness
- warmth
- irritation
- drainage
- redness
- swelling
- pain

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----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANTIFUNGALS

Betamethasone + Clotrimazole + gentamycin

Why is this medication prescribed?
CANISON PLUS (Betamethasone-Clotrimazole-Gentamicin Cream)is presribed for the topical treatment of the following dermal infections:
- Dermatosis, complicated by primary and second infection;
- Tinea pedis, Tinea cruris, Tinea corporis due to Trichophyton rubrum,Trichophyton,
mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccusum, and Microsporum canis
- Dermatomycosis (in such cases inguinal), caused by agents sensitive to the preparation.
.
How should this medicine be used?
CANISON PLUS Cream is for external use only; do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label exactly. Wash your hands before and after use. If treating hand or nail infections, wash hands before use only. Gently massage sufficient Cream into the affected and surrounding skin areas twice a day, in the morning and evening, for 2 weeks in tinea cruris and tinea corporis and for 4 weeks in tinea pedis.
Cream should not be used with occlusive dressings.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• large areas of burned or damaged skin
• skin wasting or thinning
• peripheral vascular disease or poor circulation
• an unusual or allergic reaction to betamethasone, clotrimazole, fluconazole, itraconazole,
ketoconazole, other corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while taking this cream?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve within 1 week when treating the groin area or within 2 weeks when treating the feet. It is important not to use more CANISON PLUS cream than prescribed. When applying this product to the groin area, do not use for more than 2 weeks. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly. If your skin infection returns after stopping this cream, contact your prescriber.
Do not use an airtight bandage to cover the affected area unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you to.
Do not get this cream in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool

What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or take extra doses without

What side effects can this medication cause?
Rarely patients may experience local mild burning or irritation immediately after applying the cream. Very rarely the patient may find this irritation intolerable and stop treatment.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children. Store below 25°C, keep in a dry & dark place.. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What drug(s) may interact with CANISON PLUS?
Do not use any other skin products on the affected area of skin without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check before stopping or starting any of your medicines or non-prescription products.

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Clotrimazole Cream / Vtablets / Solution / Powder

Why is this medication prescribed?
Clotrimazole is used to treat yeast infections of the vagina, mouth, and skin such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and body ringworm. It can also be used to prevent oral thrush in certain patients.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Clotrimazole comes as a cream, lotion, and solution to apply to the skin; lozenges (called troches) to dissolve in the mouth; and vaginal tablets and vaginal cream to be inserted into the vagina. Clotrimazole is usually used five times a day for 14 days for oral thrush, twice a day (in the morning and evening) for 2 to 8 weeks for skin infections, and once a day at bedtime for 3 or 7 days for vaginal infections. Follow the directions on the package or your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use clotrimazole exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

To use the topical cream, lotion, or solution, thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication.

The lozenges should be placed in the mouth and dissolved slowly over about 15 to 30 minutes. Do not chew or swallow the lozenges whole.

To use clotrimazole vaginal cream or vaginal tablets, read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
- Fill the special applicator that comes with the cream to the level indicated or unwrap a tablet, wet it with lukewarm water, and place it on the applicator as shown in the instructions that come with the product.
- Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
- Insert the applicator high into your vagina (unless you are pregnant), and then push the plunger to release the medication. If you are pregnant, insert the applicator gently. If you feel resistance (hard to insert), do not try to insert it further; call your doctor.
- Withdraw the applicator.
- Discard the applicator if it is disposable. If the applicator is reusable, pull it apart and clean it with soap and warm water after each use.
- Wash your hands promptly to avoid spreading the infection.

The vaginal cream or tablets should be applied when you lie down to go to bed. The drug works best if you do not get up again after applying it except to wash your hands. You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the vaginal cream or tablets to protect your clothing against stains. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the drug. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Continue to use clotrimazole even if you feel well. Do not stop using clotrimazole without talking to your doctor. Continue using this medication during your menstrual period.

If you obtained the clotrimazole skin cream, lotion, or solution without a prescription, use it for 4 weeks for athlete's foot and 2 weeks for jock itch or body ringworm. If your symptoms do not improve by that time, stop using the medication and consult either a pharmacist or doctor.

If you obtained clotrimazole vaginal cream or tablets without a prescription and this is the first time you have had vaginal itching and discomfort, talk with a physician before using clotrimazole. However, if a doctor previously told you that you had a yeast infection and if you have the same symptoms again, use the vaginal cream or tablets as directed on the package 3 or 7 consecutive days, preferably at night. If your symptoms do not improve within 3 or 7 days, call your doctor. If your symptoms return in less than 2 months, also call your doctor.


What special precautions should I follow?
Before using clotrimazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to clotrimazole or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially antibiotic medications and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease, problems with your immune system, human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV), acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), diabetes, or a history of alcohol abuse.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using clotrimazole, call your doctor.
- tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take or insert 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 use a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Clotrimazole may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- itching
- burning
- irritation
- redness
- swelling
- stomach pain

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). 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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Clotrimazole cream, lotion, and solution are for external use only. Do not let clotrimazole get into your eyes. Do not swallow the topical cream, lotion, or solution. Do not swallow the vaginal tablets or vaginal cream.

If you have a vaginal infection, refrain from sexual intercourse. An ingredient in the cream may weaken certain latex products like condoms or diaphragms; do not use such products within 72 hours of using this medication. Wear clean cotton panties (or panties with cotton crotches), not panties made of nylon, rayon, or other synthetic fabrics.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the clotrimazole, call your doctor.

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Miconazole cream

Why is this medication prescribed?
Miconazole, an antifungal agent, is used for skin infections such as athlete's foot and jock itch and for vaginal yeast infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Miconazole comes in cream, lotion, powder, spray liquid, and spray powder to be applied to the skin. It also comes in cream and suppositories to be inserted into the vagina. Miconazole is usually used once or twice a day for 1 month for athlete's foot or 2 weeks for other skin infections. For vaginal infections, it is used once a day at bedtime for 3 (Monistat-3) or 7 (Monistat-7) days. 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. Use miconazole exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed by your doctor.

It probably will take several days for improvement to be seen in skin infections.
Apply the topical forms of miconazole sparingly to the infected area after washing and drying the skin thoroughly. The cream and lotion should be rubbed gently into the skin. Wash your hands promptly.

If you are using miconazole vaginal cream or suppositories, read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
- Fill the special applicator that comes with the cream to the level indicated, or unwrap a suppository and place it on the applicator as shown in the instructions.
- Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
- Gently insert the applicator into the vagina, and push the plunger to release the medication.
- Withdraw the applicator.
- Discard the applicator if it is disposable. If the applicator is reusable, pull it apart and clean it with soap and warm water after each use.
- Wash your hands promptly to avoid spreading the infection.

The dose should be applied when you lie down to go to bed. It works best if you do not get up after applying it except to wash your hands. You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the suppositories or vaginal cream to protect your clothing against stains. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the drug.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using miconazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to miconazole or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking miconazole, call your doctor. Before using miconazole, tell your doctor if you are using a diaphragm or condom for birth control and are being treated for a vaginal infection. Miconazole vaginal cream and suppositories can interact with the latex in diaphragms and condoms, so use another method of birth control.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you remember a missed dose at the time you are scheduled to apply the next one, omit the missed dose completely and use only the regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.


What side effects can this medication cause?
Miconazole may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- increased burning, itching, or irritation of the skin or vagina
- stomach pain
- fever
- foul-smelling vaginal discharge

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Miconazole is for external use only. Do not let miconazole get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.

If you obtained the topical form of miconazole without a prescription and your symptoms do not improve within 4 weeks (2 weeks for jock itch), stop using it and talk to a pharmacist or doctor.

If this is the first time you have had vaginal itching and discomfort, talk to a doctor before using miconazole.

If a doctor has told you before that you had a yeast infection and you have the same symptoms again, use the vaginal cream or suppositories as directed on the package.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the miconazole, call your doctor.

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Fluconazole Capsules (Flucaz)

Why is this medication prescribed?
Fluconazole is used to treat fungal infections, including yeast infections of the vagina, mouth, throat, esophagus (tube leading from the mouth to the stomach), abdomen (area between the chest and waist), lungs, blood, and other organs. Fluconazole is also used to treat meningitis (infection of the membranes covering the brain and spine ) caused by fungus. Fluconazole is also used to prevent yeast infections in patients who are likely to become infected because they are being treated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy before a bone marrow transplant (replacement of unhealthy spongy tissue inside the bones with healthy tissue). Fluconazole is in a class of antifungals called triazoles. It works by slowing the growth of fungi that cause infection.

How should this medicine be used?
Fluconazole comes as a tablet and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. You may need to take only one dose of fluconazole, or you may need to take fluconazole for several weeks or longer. The length of your treatment depends on your condition and on how well you respond to fluconazole. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take fluconazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may tell you to take a double dose of fluconazole on the first day of your treatment. Follow these directions carefully.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Continue to take fluconazole until your doctor tells you that you should stop, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking fluconazole without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking fluconazole too soon, your infection may come back after a short time.

Other uses for this medicine
Fluconazole is also sometimes used to treat serious fungal infections that begin in the lungs and can spread through the body and fungal infections of the eye, prostate (a male reproductive organ), skin and nails. Fluconazole is also sometimes used to prevent fungal infections in people who are likely to become infected because they have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or cancer or have had a transplant operation (surgery to remove an organ and replace it with a donor or artificial organ). Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking fluconazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluconazole, other antifungal medications such as itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or voriconazole (Vfend) or any other ,medications.
- do not take cisapride (Propulsid) while taking fluconazole.
- tell your doctor if you drink or have ever drunk large amounts of alcohol and if you have or have ever had cancer; acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); an irregular heartbeat; or heart, kidney or liver disease .
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking fluconazole, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Fluconazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- heartburn
- change in ability to taste food

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- upset stomach
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- flu-like symptoms
- dark urine
- pale stools
- seizures

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. Throw away any unused liquid medication after 14 days. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctormay order certain lab tests to check your response to fluconazole.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. .Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish taking the fluconazole, call your doctor.


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Terbinafine

Why is this medication prescribed?
Terbinafine is used to treat fungal infections of the toenail and fingernail. Terbinafine is in a class of medications called antifungals. It works by stopping the growth of fungi.

How should this medicine be used?
Terbinafine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 6 weeks for fingernail fungus and once a day for 12 weeks for toenail fungus. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take terbinafine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your fungus may not be completely cured until a few months after you finish taking terbinafine. This is because it takes time for a healthy nail to grow in.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking terbinafine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to terbinafine or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin); antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Adapin, Sinequan), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), and trimipramine (Surmontil); beta-blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetalol (Normodyne), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard), and propranolol (Inderal); cimetidine (Tagamet); medications that suppress the immune system such as azathioprine (Imuran), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), methotrexate (Rheumatrex), sirolimus (Rapamune), and tacrolimus (Prograf); rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); and selegiline (Eldepryl). 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, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking terbinafine, call your doctor. You should not take terbinafine while breast-feeding.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Terbinafine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- itching
- hives
- diarrhea
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- change in ability to taste food
- rash

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- upset stomach
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- flu-like symptoms
- dark urine
- pale stools
- seizures

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. Throw away any unused liquid medication after 14 days. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

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ANTIINFLAMMATORY

Diclofenac Tablets / Gel / Injection

Why is this medication prescribed?
Diclofenac is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine). Diclofenac immediate-release (short-acting) tablets are also used to treat painful menstrual periods and pain from other causes. Diclofenac is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?
Diclofenac comes as an immediate-release tablet and an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. Diclofenac immediate-release tablets are usually taken two to four times a day. Diclofenac extended-release tablets are usually taken once a day, and in rare cases are taken twice a day. Take diclofenac 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 diclofenac exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Diclofenac is also used sometimes to treat pain caused by gout, painful shoulder and cancer . Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking diclofenac,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren XR, in Arthrotec), aspirin or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), any other medications, or any of the inactive ingredients in diclofenac tablets or extended release tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the inactive ingredients.
- 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 diclofenac, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking diclofenac.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Diclofenac may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- constipation
- gas or bloating
- headache
- dizziness
- ringing in the ears

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.
Symptoms of overdose may include:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- bloody, black, or tarry stools
- vomiting a substance that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds
- drowsiness
- breathing
- loss of consciousness

What other information should I know?
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Ibuprofen - Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Prescription ibuprofen is used to relieve pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints) and rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints). It is also used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain (pain that happens before or during a menstrual period). Nonprescription ibuprofen is used to reduce fever and to relieve mild pain from headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual periods, the common cold, toothaches, and backaches. Ibuprofen is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?
Prescription ibuprofen comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken three or four times a day for arthritis or every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. Nonprescription ibuprofen comes as a tablet, chewable tablet, suspension (liquid), and drops (concentrated liquid).Adults and children older than 12 years of age may usually take nonprescription ibuprofen every 4-6 hours as needed for pain or fever. Children and infants may usually be given nonprescription ibuprofen every 6-8 hours as needed for pain or fever, but should not be given more than four doses in 24 hours. Ibuprofen may be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. If you are taking ibuprofen on a regular basis, you should take it at the same time(s) every day. 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 ibuprofen 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.

The chewable tablets may cause a burning feeling in the mouth or throat. Take the chewable tablets with food or water.

Other uses for this medicine
Ibuprofen is also sometimes used to treat ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine), gouty arthritis (joint pain caused by a build-up of certain substances in the joints), and psoriatic arthritis (arthritis that occurs with a long-lasting skin disease that causes scaling and swelling). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this drug for your condition.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ibuprofen,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin or other NSAIDs such as ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Actron) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn),any other medications, or any of the inactive ingredients in the type of ibuprofen you plan to take. Ask your pharmacist or check the label on the package for a list of the inactive ingredients.
- do not take nonprescription ibuprofen with any other medication for pain unless your doctor tells you that you should.
- 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 ibuprofen, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking ibuprofen.
- if you have phenylketonuria (an inborn disease in which mental retardation develops if a specific diet is not followed), read the package label carefully before taking nonprescription ibuprofen. Some types of nonprescription ibuprofen contain phenylalanine.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you are taking ibuprofen on a regular basis, 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Ibuprofen may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- gas or bloating
- dizziness
- nervousness
- ringing in the ears

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.

What other information should I know?
If you are taking prescription ibuprofen, do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Indometacin - Capsules, Gel

Why is this medication prescribed?
Indomethacin is used to relieve moderate to severe pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints), rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis that mainly affects the spine). Indomethacin is also used to treat pain in the shoulder caused by bursitis (inflammation of a fluid-filled sac in the shoulder joint) and tendinitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects muscle to bone). Indomethacin immediate-release capsules, suspension (liquid)

Indomethacin is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?
Indomethacin comes as a capsule, an extended-release (long-acting) capsule, and a suspension to take by mouth . Indomethacin capsules and liquid. Extended-release capsules are usually taken one or two times a day. Indomethacin capsules, extended release capsules, and suspension should be taken with food, immediately after meals, or with antacids. Take indomethacin 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 indomethacin 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 capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them.

Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Other uses for this medicine
Indomethacin is also sometimes used to relieve fever, pain, and inflammation caused by many types of conditions or injuries, to reduce the amount of calcium in the blood, and to treat a certain type of low blood pressure Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking indomethacin,
- 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 indomethacin, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking indomethacin.
- you should know that this medication 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.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Indomethacin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- constant feeling of the need to empty the bowel
- ringing in the ears

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.
What other information should I know?

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking indomethacin.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Ketorolac Tromethamine Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Ketorolac is used to relieve moderately severe pain, usually after surgery. Ketorolac is in a class of medications called NSAIDs. It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?
Ketorolac comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken every 4-6 hours on a schedule or as needed for pain. If you are taking ketorolac on a schedule, take it 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.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ketorolac,
- do not take ketorolac if you are taking probenecid.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, especially if you are in the last few months of your pregnancy, or you plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking ketorolac, call your doctor.
- you should know that this medication may make you drowsy or dizzy. 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 the safe use of alcohol while taking this medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
If your doctor has told you to take ketorolac 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Ketorolac may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- diarrhea
- constipation
- gas
- sores in the mouth
- sweating

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.

Symptoms of overdose may include:
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- bloody, black, or tarry stools
- vomiting a substance that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds
- drowsiness
- slowed breathing or fast, shallow breathing
- coma (loss of consciousness for a period of time)

What other information should I know?
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Paracetamol - Suspension / Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Paracetamol is used to relieve mild to moderate pain from headaches, muscle aches, menstrual periods, colds and sore throats, toothaches, backaches, reactions to vaccinations (shots), and to reduce fever. Paracetamol may also be used to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by the breakdown of the lining of the joints). Paracetamol is in a class of medications called analgesics and antipyretics. It works by changing the way the body senses pain and by cooling the body.

How should this medicine be used?
Paracetamol 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. Paracetamol is available without a prescription, but your doctor may prescribe Paracetamol 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 Paracetamol 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 Paracetamol to your child, check the chart on the package 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. Do not give children Paracetamol products that are made for adults. Ask your child's doctor if you don't know how much medication to give your child.

Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not split, chew, crush, or dissolve them.

Place the orally disintegrating tablet 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.

Other uses for this medicine
Paracetamol may also be used in combination with aspirin and caffeine to relieve the pain associated with migraine headache.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking Paracetamol,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Paracetamol, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in the product.
- do not take more two or more products that contain Paracetamol at the same time. Many prescription and nonprescription medications contain Paracetamol 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 Paracetamol 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.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Paracetamol, call your doctor.
- if you drink three or more alcoholic beverages every day, ask your doctor if you should take Paracetamol. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of alcoholic beverages while taking Paracetamol.
- 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 the chewable tablets may contain phenylalanine.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
This medication is usually taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take Paracetamol 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Paracetamol 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

Paracetamol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.

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.
What other information should I know?

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking Paracetamol.

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ANTIMALARIALS

Chloroquine Phosphate Injection / Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Chloroquine phosphate is in a class of drugs called antimalarials and amebicides. It is used to prevent and treat malaria. It is also used to treat amebiasis.This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Chloroquine phosphate comes as tablet to take by mouth. For prevention of malaria in adults, one dose is usually taken once a week on exactly the same day of the week. Your doctor will tell you how many tablets to take for each dose. One dose is taken beginning 2 weeks before traveling to an area where malaria is common, while you are in the area, and then for 8 weeks after you return from the area. If you are unable to start 2 weeks before traveling, your doctor may tell you to take double the dose right away.

For treatment of acute attacks of malaria in adults, one dose is usually taken right away, followed by half the dose 6 to 8 hours later and then half the dose once a day for the next 2 days.

For prevention and treatment of malaria in infants and children, the amount of chloroquine phosphate is based on the child's weight. Your doctor will calculate this amount and tell you how much chloroquine phosphate your child should receive.

Chloroquine phosphate may cause an upset stomach. Take chloroquine phosphate with food.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use chloroquine phosphate exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Chloroquine phosphate is used occasionally to decrease the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and to treat systemic and discoid lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, pemphigus, lichen planus, polymyositis, sarcoidosis, and porphyria cutanea tarda. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using chloroquine phosphate,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to chloroquine phosphate, chloroquine hydrochloride (Aralen HCl), hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor if you have ever had vision changes while taking chloroquine phosphate, chloroquine hydrochloride (Aralen HCl), or hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while using chloroquine phosphate, call your doctor.
- tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed. Chloroquine phosphate can harm a nursing infant.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, continue your normal diet while taking chloroquine phosphate.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Side effects from chloroquine phosphate can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- loss of appetite
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- stomach pain
- skin rash or itching
- hair loss
- mood or mental changes

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- seeing light flashes and streaks
- blurred vision
- reading or seeing difficulties (words disappear, seeing half an object, misty or foggy vision)
- difficulty hearing
- ringing in ears
- muscle weakness
- drowsiness

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 light and 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.

What other information should I know?
Children are especially sensitive to an overdose, so keep the medication out of the reach of children.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to chloroquine phosphate. Your doctor will also test your reflexes to see if you have muscle weakness that may be caused by the drug.

If you are taking chloroquine phosphate for a long period of time, your doctor will recommend frequent eye exams. It is very important that you keep these appointments. Chloroquine phosphate can cause serious vision problems. If you experience any changes in vision, stop taking chloroquine phosphate and call your doctor immediately.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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ANTIPROTOZOALS

Metronidazole

Why is this medication prescribed?
Metronidazole eliminates bacteria and other microorganisms that cause infections of the reproductive system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, vagina, and other areas of the body. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Metronidazole comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken two or three times a day for 5-10 days or longer. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take metronidazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking metronidazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to metronidazole or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had blood, kidney, or liver disease or Crohn's disease.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Metronidazole may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Metronidazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- loss of appetite
- dry mouth; sharp, unpleasant metallic taste
- dark or reddish-brown urine
- furry tongue; mouth or tongue irritation
- numbness or tingling of hands or feet

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- itching
- stuffy nose
- fever
- joint pain

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to metronidazole.

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 metronidazole, call your doctor.

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Secnidazole tablet

Why is this medication prescribed?
Secnidazole tablet is prescribed for the following indications :
• Intestinal Amoebiasis
• Hepatic Amoebiasis
• Urethritis and Vaginitis due to Trichomonas vaginalis
• Giardiasis

How should this medicine be used?
Amoebiasis :
Acute intestinal amoebiasis :
Adults: 2 gm single dose (2x1000 mg tablet), taken preferably just beforemeal.
Children: 30 mg/kg single dose, taken preferably just before meal.
Asymptomatic amoebiasis (minute & cystic form) :
Adults: 2 gm once daily (2x1000 mg tablet) for only 3 days,taken preferably just before meal.
Children: 30 mg/kg once daily for only 3 days, taken preferably just before meal.
Hepatic amoebiasis :
Adults: 1.50 gm/day, in a single or divided dose, just before meal for 5 days.
Children: 30 mg/kg/day, in a single or divided dose, just before meal for 5 days.
Giardiasis :
Adults: 2 gm single dose (2x1000 mg tablet), taken preferably just beforemeal.
Children: 35-50 mg/kg single dose, taken preferably just before meal.
Trichomoniasis :
Adults: 2 gm single dose (2x1000 mg tablet), taken preferably just before meal.
Children: 30 mg/kg single dose, taken preferably just before meal.
The partner should also receive the same treatment concomitantly.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Patients should be advised not to take alcohol during treatment with secnidazole (because of possibility of antabuse effect). Administration of secnidazole should be avoided to patients with a history of blood dyscrasia.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
The clinical studies have shown that secnidazole is characterized by very good tolerance and no serious adverse reactions have been reported to date. With secnidazole, gastrointestinal disorders e.g. nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, etc. have been reported in very rare cases.

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 below 250C in a dry place.
Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication

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Tinidazole

Why is this medication prescribed?
Tinidazole is used to treat trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted disease that can affect men and women), giardiasis (an infection of the intestine that can cause diarrhea, gas, and stomach cramps), and amebiasis (an infection of the intestine that can cause diarrhea, gas, and stomach cramps and can spread to other organs such as the liver). Tinidazole is in a class of medications called antiprotozoal agents. It works by killing the organisms that can cause infection.

How should this medicine be used?
Tinidazole comes as a suspension (liquid) prepared by the pharmacist and a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with food as a single dose or once a day for 3 to 5 days. To help you remember to take tinidazole (if you are to take it for more than one day), 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 tinidazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Take tinidazole until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop taking tinidazole too soon or skip doses, your infection may not be completely cured and bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking tinidazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tinidazole, metronidazole (Flagyl), or any other medications.
- if you are taking cholestyramine (Questran), you should not take it at the same time that you take tinidazole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to space doses of these medications.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking tinidazole, call your doctor. Do not breastfeed while you are taking tinidazole and for 3 days after you finish your treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Tinidazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- sharp, unpleasant metallic taste
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- constipation
- stomach pain or cramps
- headache
- tiredness or weakness
- dizziness

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- seizures
- numbness or tingling of hands or feet
- rash
- hives
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing

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). Protect the medication from light.Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Throw away any remaining liquid after 7 days. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to tinidazole. Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking tinidazole.

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 tinidazole, call your doctor.

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ANTIULCERANTS

Aluminium & Magnesium Hydroxide

Why is this medication prescribed?
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.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
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.

What special precautions should I follow?
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.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications 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.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide antacids, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
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
- loss of appetite
- unusual tiredness
- uscle weakness

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. If you are taking prescription omeprazole, ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Omeprazole

Why is this medication prescribed?
Prescription omeprazole is used alone or with other medications to treat ulcers (sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the esophagus (tube that connects the mouth and stomach), and erosive esophagitis (swelling and wearing away of the lining of the esophagus). Omeprazole delayed-release capsules are also used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid. Omeprazole delayed-release capsules are also used in combination with other medications to eliminate H. pylori(a bacteria that causes ulcers) and possibly prevent new ulcers from developing in patients who have or have had ulcers of the small intestine. Omeprazole powder for suspension (to be mixed with water) is also used to prevent bleeding from the esophagus, stomach, or the top of the small intestine in people who have life-threatening illnesses. Nonprescription omeprazole is used to treat frequent heartburn (heartburn that occurs at least 2 days a week). Omeprazole is in a class of medications called proton-pump inhibitors. It works by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach.

How should this medicine be used?
Omeprazole comes as a delayed-release capsule, a nonprescription delayed-release tablet, a powder for suspension, and a regular capsule. The powder and regular capsule also contain sodium bicarbonate, a medication that decreases the amount of acid in the stomach and helps omeprazole to work quickly. The delayed-release capsules are usually taken once a day before a meal, but may be taken twice a day when used with other medications to eliminate H. pylori or up to three times a day when used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid. The capsules are usually taken once a day in the morning on an empty stomach one hour before a meal. The powder is usually taken once a day on an empty stomach one hour before a meal either in the morning or at bedtime. The nonprescription delayed-release tablets are usually taken once a day in the morning before eating. The nonprescription tablets should be taken for 14 days in a row, and additional 14-day treatments may be repeated once every 4 months if needed. To help you remember to take omeprazole, take it at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take omeprazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often or for a longer period of time than prescribed by your doctor or stated on the package.

Swallow the regular omeprazole capsules with water. Do not swallow the capsules with any other liquid.

Swallow the delayed-release omeprazole capsules, the regular capsules, and the nonprescription delayed-release tablets whole; do not split, open, chew or crush them. Do not crush the nonprescription delayed-release tablets in food and do not open the regular capsules and mix the contents with food.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking omeprazole,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to omeprazole,esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), any other medications,or any of the ingredients in the type of omeprazole you will be taking. Ask your pharmacist or check the package label for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.If you will be taking the regular capsules or the powder, also tell your doctor if you have been told to limit the amount of sodium in your diet, if you have or have ever had low levels of potassium in your blood, or if you have or have ever had Bartter's syndrome (condition in which the kidneys cannot absorb potassium from the blood properly).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking omeprazole, call your doctor.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
If you will be taking the regular capsules or the powder, your doctor may tell you to limit the amount of milk and other foods and drinks that are high in calcium that you eat and drink during your treatment. Follow these instructions carefully.
If you will be taking any other form of omeprazole, continue your normal diet unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Omeprazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- constipation
- dizziness
- cough
- back pain

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- hives
- itching
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- hoarseness
- seizures
- muscle spasms, tightening, aching, or cramping
- burning or tingling of the lips, tongue, hands, or feet

Omeprazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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 light,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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. If you are taking prescription omeprazole, ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Ranitidine

Why is this medication prescribed?
Ranitidine is used to treat ulcers; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which backward flow of acid from the stomach causes heartburn and injury of the food pipe (esophagus); and conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Over-the-counter ranitidine is used to prevent and treat symptoms of heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach. Ranitidine is in a class of medications called H2 blockers. It decreases the amount of acid made in the stomach.

How should this medicine be used?
Ranitidine comes as a tablet, an effervescent tablet, effervescent granules, and a syrup to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day at bedtime or two to four times a day. Over-the-counter ranitidine comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. To prevent symptoms, it is taken 30-60 minutes before eating or drinking foods that cause heartburn. Follow the directions on your prescription or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ranitidine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Dissolve ranitidine effervescent tablets and granules in a full glass (6-8 ounces) of water before drinking.

Do not take over-the-counter ranitidine for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to. If symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion, or sour stomach last longer than 2 weeks, stop taking ranitidine and call your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Ranitidine is also used sometimes to treat upper gastrointestinal bleeding and to prevent stress ulcers, stomach damage from use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and aspiration of stomach acid during anesthesia. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ranitidine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ranitidine or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention either of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); and triazolam (Halcion). 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 porphyria, phenylketonuria, or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ranitidine, call your doctor.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Ranitidine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- constipation
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- stomach pain
Ranitidine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking ranitidine.

Do not let anyone else take your medicine. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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ANTIVIRALS

Acyclovir

Why is this medication prescribed?
Acyclovir cream is used to treat cold sores (fever blisters; blisters that are caused by a virus called herpes simplex) on the face or lips. Acyclovir ointment is used to treat first outbreaks of genital herpes (a herpes virus infection that causes sores to form around the genitals and rectum from time to time) and to treat certain types of sores caused by the herpes simplex virus in people with weak immune systems. 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 does not cure cold sores or genital herpes, does not prevent outbreaks of these conditions, and does not stop the spread of these conditions to other people.

How should this medicine be used?
Topical acyclovir comes as a cream and an ointment to apply to the skin. Acyclovir cream is usually applied five times a day for 4 days. Acyclovir cream may be applied at any time during a cold sore outbreak, but it works best when it is applied at the very beginning of a cold sore outbreak, when there is tingling, redness, itching, or a bump but the cold sore has not yet formed. Acyclovir ointment is usually applied six times a day (usually 3 hours apart) for 7 days. It is best to begin using acyclovir ointment as soon as possible after you experience the first symptoms of infection. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use topical acyclovir exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using topical acyclovir,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acyclovir, valacyclovir (Valtrex), any other medications, or any of the ingredients in acyclovir cream or ointment. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. 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 any condition that affects your immune system such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using acyclovir, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply extra cream or ointment to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Topical acyclovir may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dry or cracked lips
- flaky, peeling, or dry skin
- burning or stinging skin
- redness, swelling, or irritation in the place where you applied the medication

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, with the cap on and tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Never leave this medication in your car in cold or hot weather. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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CARDIOVASCULARS

Atenolol

Why is this medication prescribed?
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.

How should this medicine be used?
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 more often than prescribed by your doctor. 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.

Other uses for this medicine
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.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking atenolol,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atenolol or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to 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 change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- 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.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking atenolol, call your doctor immediately.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you 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.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
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 Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- unusual weight gain - fainting Atenolol may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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.

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Alprazolam

Why is this medication prescribed?
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.

How should this medicine be used?
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.

Other uses for this medicine
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.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.


What special precautions should I follow?
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 medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had glaucoma; depression; or lung, kidney, or liver disease.


What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine. 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
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
- difficulty urinating Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately: - seizures
- seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinating)
- severe skin rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- memory problems
- confusion
- problems with coordination Alprazolam may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.


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.

What other information should I know?
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.

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Atorvastatin

Why is this medication prescribed?
Atorvastatin is used together with lifestyle changes (diet, weight-loss, exercise) to reduce the amount of cholesterol (a fat-like substance) and other fatty substances in the blood. Atorvastatin is in a class of medications called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body. Buildup of cholesterol and other fats along the walls of the blood vessels (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body. Lowering blood levels of cholesterol and other fats may help to decrease your chances of getting heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. In addition to taking a cholesterol-lowering medication, making certain changes in your daily habits can also lower your cholesterol blood levels. You should eat a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol (see SPECIAL DIETARY), exercise 30 minutes on most, if not all days, and lose weight if you are overweight.

How should this medicine be used?
Atorvastatin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Take atorvastatin at 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 atorvastatin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.Your doctor may start you on a low dose of atorvastatin and gradually increase your dose, not more than once every 2-4 weeks.
Continue to take atorvastatin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking atorvastatin without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking atorvastatin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to atorvastatin or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: antifungal medications such as itraconazole (Sporanox) and ketoconazole (Nizoral); cimetidine (Tagamet); cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune); digoxin (Lanoxin); erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin); oral contraceptives (birth control pills); other cholesterol-lowering medications such as fenofibrate (Tricor), gemfibrozil (Lopid), and niacin (nicotinic acid, Niacor, Niaspan); and spironolactone (Aldactone). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Your doctor will probably tell you not to take lovastatin.
- tell your doctor if you drink large amounts of alcohol and if you have ever had liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking atorvastatin, stop taking atorvastatin and call your doctor immediately. Atorvastatin may harm the fetus.
- Do not breastfeed while you are taking this medication.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking atorvastatin.
- ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic beverages while you are taking atorvastatin. Alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This kind of diet includes cottage cheese, fat-free milk, fish (not canned in oil), vegetables, poultry, egg whites, and polyunsaturated oils and margarines (corn, safflower, canola, and soybean oils). Avoid foods with excess fat in them such as meat (especially liver and fatty meat), egg yolks, whole milk, cream, butter, shortening, lard, pastries, cakes, cookies, gravy, peanut butter, chocolate, olives, potato chips, coconut, cheese (other than cottage cheese), coconut oil, palm oil, and fried foods.
Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Atorvastatin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- diarrhea
- headache
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- dizziness
- joint pain
- sore throat
- upper respiratory infection Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
- lack of energy
- fever
- chest pain
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- nausea
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- flu-like symptoms
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- pain during urination
- frequent urge to urinate

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.

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Enalapril

Why is this medication prescribed?
Enalapril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Enalapril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.

How should this medicine be used?
Enalapril comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take enalapril, 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 enalapril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Enalapril is also sometimes used to treat kidney disease related to diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking enalapril,
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease; lupus; scleroderma; diabetes; or angioedema, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing or breathing and painful swelling of the the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
- tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking enalapril.
- you should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Enalapril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- cough
- dizziness
- rash
- weakness

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.

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 enalapril. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to enalapril.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Clopidogrel

Why is this medication prescribed?
Clopidogrel is used to prevent strokes and heart attacks in patients at risk for these problems. Clopidogrel is in a class of medications called antiplatelet drugs. It works by helping to prevent harmful blood clots.

How should this medicine be used?
Clopidogrel comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. Try to take clopidogrel at 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 clopidogrel exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take clopidogrel even if you feel well. Do not stop taking clopidogrel without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Clopidogrel is also sometimes used to prevent blood clots in people with mitral valve disease (a condition that affects the valve that separates the left upper and lower chambers of the heart) and people undergoing certain heart procedures. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking clopidogrel,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to clopidogrel or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn); fluvastatin (Lescol); phenytoin (Dilantin); tamoxifen (Nolvadex); tolbutamide; and torsemide (Demadex). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have bleeding ulcers (sores in the lining of the stomach or small intestine that are bleeding ), bleeding in the brain, or any other condition that causes severe bleeding. Your doctor may tell you that you should not take clopidogrel.
- tell your doctor if you have recently been injured and if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease; or any condition that may cause bleeding including stomach problems such as ulcers and eye problems.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking clopidogrel, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking clopidogrel.
- you should know that you may bleed more easily or for a longer time than usual while you are taking clopidogrel. Be careful not to cut or hurt yourself while you are taking clopidogrel.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Clopidogrel may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- excessive tiredness
- headache
- dizziness
- upset stomach
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- nosebleed

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- hives
- rash
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- black and tarry stools
- red blood in stools
- bloody vomit
- vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- slow or difficult speech
- weakness or numbness of an arm or a leg
- vision loss
- shortness of breath
- fast heartbeat
- pale skin
- purple patches or bleeding under the skin
- confusion
- yellowing of the skin or eyes

Clopidogrel may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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.

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Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets

Why is this medication prescribed?
Hydrochlorothiazide, a 'water pill,' is used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention caused by various conditions, including heart disease. It causes the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.
This medicine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Hydrochlorothiazide comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken once or twice a day. If you are to take it once a day, take it in the morning; if you are to take it twice a day, take it in the morning and in the late afternoon to avoid going to the bathroom during the night. Take this medication with meals or a snack. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take hydrochlorothiazide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Hydrochlorothiazide controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take hydrochlorothiazide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking hydrochlorothiazide without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
Hydrochlorothiazide may also be used to treat patients with diabetes insipidus and certain electrolyte disturbances and to prevent kidney stones in patients with high levels of calcium in their blood. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medicine for your condition.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking hydrochlorothiazide,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other medicines for high blood pressure, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Nuprin) or naproxen (Aleve), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), medications for diabetes, probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins. If you also are taking cholestyramine or colestipol, take it at least 1 hour after hydrochlorothiazide.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney, liver, thyroid, or parathyroid disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking hydrochlorothiazide, call your doctor immediately.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking hydrochlorothiazide.
- 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.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Hydrochlorothiazide may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Follow your doctor's directions. They may include following a daily exercise program or a low-salt or low-sodium diet, potassium supplements, and increased amounts of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, prunes, raisins, and orange juice) in your diet.

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 your 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Frequent urination should go away after you take hydrochlorothiazide for a few weeks. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- muscle weakness
- dizziness
- cramps
- thirst
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- headache
- hair loss

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- sore throat with fever
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- severe skin rash with peeling skin
- difficulty breathing or swallowing

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medicine 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). Do not allow the oral liquid to freeze. Throw away any medicine that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medicine.

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Ramipril

Why is this medication prescribed?
Ramipril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients at risk for these problems and to improve survival in patients with heart failure after a heart attack. Ramipril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.

How should this medicine be used?
Ramipril comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take ramipril, 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 ramipril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the capsule whole, or open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of applesauce (about 4 oz.) or in 4 oz. of water or apple juice. Eat or drink the entire mixture. This mixture can be prepared in advance and stored for 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours in the refrigerator.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of ramipril and gradually increase your dose.
Ramipril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take ramipril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking ramipril without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking ramipril,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ramipril, benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin); diuretics ('water pills'); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); and potassium supplements. 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 heart, liver, or kidney disease; lupus; scleroderma; diabetes; or angioedema, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing or breathing and painful swelling of the the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
- tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking ramipril.
- you should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting.

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 regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
What side effects can this medication cause?
Ramipril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- cough
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- excessive tiredness
- weakness

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
- lightheadedness
- fainting

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.

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Simvastatin

Why is this medication prescribed?
Simvastatin is used together with lifestyle changes (diet, weight-loss, exercise) to reduce the amount of cholesterol (a fat-like substance) and certain other fatty substances in your blood. Simvastatin is in a class of medications called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins). It works by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body.
Buildup of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to decrease your chances of getting heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. In addition to taking a cholesterol-lowering medication, making certain changes in your daily habits can also lower your cholesterol blood levels. You should eat a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol (see SPECIAL DIETARY), exercise 30 minutes on most, if not all days, and lose weight if you are overweight.

How should this medicine be used?
Simvastatin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken one to three times a day . Take simvastatin 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 simvastatin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor may start you on a low dose of simvastatin and gradually increase your dose, not more than once every 4 weeks.
Continue to take simvastatin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking simvastatin without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking simvastatin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to simvastatin or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone); antifungal medications such as itraconazole (Sporanox) and ketoconazole (Nizoral); anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); cholestyramine (Questran), clarithromycin (Biaxin), clofibrate (Atromid-S), cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), danazol; digoxin (Lanoxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin); HIV protease inhibitors such as indinavir (Crixivan), ritonavir (Norvir) and saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase); nefazodone (Serzone); other cholesterol-lowering medications such as fenofibrate (Tricor), gemfibrozil (Lopid), and niacin (nicotinic acid, Niacor, Niaspan); nefazodone (Serzone), and telithromycin (Ketek); and verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have liver disease. Your doctor will probably tell you not to take simvastatin.
- tell your doctor if you drink large amounts of alcohol, if you have ever had liver disease or if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking simvastatin, stop taking simvastatin and call your doctor immediately. Simvastatin can harm the fetus.
- Do not breast-feed while you are taking this medication.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking simvastatin.
- ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic beverages while you are taking simvastatin. Alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid drinking large quantities (more than 1 quart a day) of grapefruit juice while taking simvastatin.
Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This kind of diet includes cottage cheese, fat-free milk, fish (not canned in oil), vegetables, poultry, egg whites, and polyunsaturated oils and margarines (corn, safflower, canola, and soybean oils). Avoid foods with excess fat in them such as meat (especially liver and fatty meat), egg yolks, whole milk, cream, butter, shortening, lard, pastries, cakes, cookies, gravy, peanut butter, chocolate, olives, potato chips, coconut, cheese (other than cottage cheese), coconut oil, palm oil, and fried foods.

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 regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Simvastatin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- constipation

If you experience the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
- lack of energy
- fever
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- nausea
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- loss of appetite
- flu-like symptoms
- rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness

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.

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Torsemide

Why is this medication prescribed?
Torsemide, a 'water pill,' is used to reduce the swelling and fluid retention caused by various medical problems, including heart or liver disease. It also is used to treat high blood pressure. It causes the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.
This medicine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Torsemide comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day in the morning. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take torsemide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Torsemide controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take torsemide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking torsemide without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking torsemide,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to torsemide, sulfa drugs, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other medications for high blood pressure, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), digoxin (Lanoxin), indomethacin (Indocin), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), probenecid (Benemid), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, gout, or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine. If you become pregnant while taking torsemide, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking torsemide.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Follow your doctor's directions. They may include a daily exercise program and a low-sodium or low-salt diet, potassium supplements, and increased amounts of potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, prunes, raisins, and orange juice) in your diet.

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 regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Frequent urination may last for up to 6 hours after a dose and should decrease after you take torsemide for a few weeks. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- muscle cramps
- weakness
- dizziness
- faintness
- fatigue
- headache
- confusion
- thirst
- upset stomach
- vomiting

If you have either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rapid, excessive weight loss
- vomiting blood

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.

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ANTIDIARRHOEALS

Loperamide Capsules (Loperamide - Agio)

Why is this medication prescribed?
Loperamide is used to control diarrhea. It is available with or without a prescription.This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Loperamide comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken immediately after each loose bowel movement; it is sometimes taken on a schedule (one or more times a day) for chronic diarrhea. 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 loperamide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If your symptoms do not improve within 2 days (10 days for chronic diarrhea) or if you develop a fever or bloody stools, call your doctor. Drink plenty of water or other beverages to replace fluids lost while having diarrhea.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking loperamide,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to loperamide or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking.
- tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have a fever.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking loperamide, call your doctor.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy and dizzy. 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 should I do if I forget a dose?
If you are taking scheduled doses of loperamide, 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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Loperamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dry mouth
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- vomiting
- stomach pain, discomfort, or distention (enlargement)
- constipation
- fatigue

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.

What other information should I know?
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about taking this medicine.

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DERMATOLOGICALS

Clobetasol

Why is this medication prescribed?
Clobetasol is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin and scalp conditions. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Clobetasol comes in cream and ointment for use on the skin and in lotion to apply to the scalp. Clobetasol is used 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. Use clobetasol exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not use clobetasol for longer than 14 days without your doctor's approval. Thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication. The scalp lotion should be applied directly from the squeeze bottle to the affected area.
Clobetasol can be absorbed into your body if used in large amounts and can cause harmful effects.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using clobetasol,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to clobetasol or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are using, including vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using clobetasol, call your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Clobetasol may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- itching, burning, or irritation on the area of skin where clobetasol is applied
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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Clobetasol is for external use only. Do not let clobetasol get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the clobetasol, call your doctor.

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Dexamethsone Injection

What is in Dexamethasone 4 mg/ml Injection and Dexamethasone 8 mg/2 ml Injection?

Active Substance: The active substance in Dexamethasone Injection is dexamethasone (as the sodium phosphate). Each millilitre contains 4 mg dexamethasone.

Other substances in the vial: The injection also contains glycerol, disodium edetate, methylparaben, propylparaben, water for injection and sodium hydroxide or phosphoric acid.

Other substances in the ampoule: The injection also contains glycerol, disodium edetate, water for injection and sodium hydroxide or phosphoric acid.

Appearance: The injection is a clear colourless liquid and comes in either 2 ml vials or 1 ml ampoules in packs of 10. Vials may also be available as single packs. Ampoules may also be available in packs of 5 and 25.

Therapeutic Group: Dexamethasone belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the body and can be used to treat many different diseases.

What is Dexamethasone used for?
Dexamethasone can be used to reduce inflammation or to treat a number of different diseases of the immune system.
In general Dexamethasone can be used in medical emergencies, whenever its use may be life-saving.

When should Dexamethasone not be given?
Dexamethasone may not be suitable for you if you suffer from certain allergies or other medical conditions. Before Dexamethasone is given to you make sure you tell your doctor if you suffer or have ever suffered from any of the following:
- hypersensitivity to any ingredient in this medicine
- an infection that affects the whole body
- joint infections, especially at the injection site

What precautions should be taken?
While taking Dexamethasone you may need to be examined by your doctor more frequently.
Extra supervision by your doctor may be necessary in some cases. You must tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any of the following:
- Osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)
- Hypertension (very high blood pressure)
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- TB (tuberculosis)
- Glaucoma (raised eye pressure)
- Serious affective disorders especially steroid psychosis - (psychiatric illness made worse by steroids)
- Muscle disease caused by corticosteroids

What other medicines are you taking?

Other medicines may affect how Dexamethasone works or Dexamethasone may affect how they work. Tell your doctor if you are using (or intend to use) any other medicines.
Other drugs that reduce the effect of Dexamethasone are:
- Antibiotics such as rifampicin, rifabutin.
- Drugs for epilepsy e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone, ephedrine, phenylbutazone.
- Drugs used in the treatment of breast cancer e.g. aminoglutethimide.
Some medicines may not work as well when Dexamethasone is taken at the same time:
The effectiveness of
- drugs used to treat diabetes (hypoglycaemic agents)
- drugs used to treat high blood pressure (anti-hypertensives)
- diuretics (water pills)
- drugs which regulate heart beat (cardiac glycosides) are reduced when dexamethasone is taken.
Dexamethasone affects acetazolamide, loop diuretics, thiazide diuretics and carbenoxolone, these drugs are used to lower potassium levels.
The effects of drugs which prevent blood clotting; (coumarin anticoagulants e.g. warfarin) may be increased by Dexamethasone and frequent tests may be required.
Dexamethasone may affect the action of salicylates e.g. aspirin in patients with low prothrombin levels in the blood.

Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, or suspect that you are pregnant or if you are breastfeeding then you must tell your doctor. Your doctor will decide if Dexamethasone can be given to you.

How much?
The dose is chosen by your doctor and usually depends on how serious your condition is. The normal dose range is 0.3-4 mg. The frequency of these injections may vary from every 3-5 days to every 2-3 weeks.

How the injections are given?
Injections are given slowly into a muscle or under the skin, by your doctor. Dexamethasone Injections can also be given intravenously, locally (directly where you need it) or rectally.

What to do if someone accidentally takes too much?
As your doctor will be keeping a close eye on you it is unlikely you will be given too much, however, too high a dose of Dexamethasone may cause
- swelling of the throat (glottis oedema)
- skin allergy (urticaria)
- difficulty in breathing (bronchospasm)

When will I stop taking Dexamethasone?
Do not stop taking Dexamethasone just because your complaints seem to have disappeared. If you stop too early or too suddenly your condition may worsen, you may get withdrawal symptoms.

What undesirable effects may Dexamethasone cause?
The occurrence of side effects can be minimised by taking the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time. If you have any of these side effects or any others tell your doctor. He will review your case and do what is best for you.
- lowered resistance or response to stress
- stunted growth in infants, children and teenagers
- irregularities in the menstrual cycle (periods) or complete absence of periods
- Cushingoid faces (e.g. 'moon' face)
- hirsutism (excess hair especially in women)

How should you store Dexamethasone?
The hospital will store Dexamethasone in a fridge or below 25° C in the dark. Do not freeze Dexamethasone ampoules. As with all medicines Dexamethasone should be kept in a safe place out of reach of children. There is a 'use by' date on the pack. This medicine should not be used after this date.

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Fluocinolone topical

Why is this medication prescribed?
Fluocinolone is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Fluocinolone comes in ointment, cream, solution, shampoo, and oil in various strengths for use on the skin. It usually is applied 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. Use fluocinolone exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or wrap or bandage the treated area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Wash or soak the affected area thoroughly before applying the medicine, unless it irritates your skin. Then apply the ointment, cream, solution, or oil sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently.
Use the shampoo as you would any normal shampoo. Wet your hair and scalp. Apply the shampoo and gently massage the scalp. Rinse with water.
To use a solution on your scalp, part your hair, apply a small amount of the medicine on the affected area, and rub it in gently. Protect the area from washing and rubbing until the solution dries. You may wash your hair as usual but not right after applying the medicine.
Avoid prolonged use on the face, in the genital and rectal areas, and in skin creases and armpits unless directed by your doctor.
If you are using fluocinolone on your face, keep it out of your eyes.
If you are using fluocinolone on a child's diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Such use may increase side effects.
Do not apply cosmetics or other skin preparations on the treated area without talking with your doctor.

If your doctor tells you to wrap or bandage the treated area, follow these instructions:
- Soak the area in water or wash it well.
- While the skin is moist, gently rub the medication into the affected areas.
- Cover the area with plastic wrap (such as Saran Wrap or Handi-Wrap). The plastic may be held in place with a gauze or elastic bandage or adhesive tape on normal skin beside the treated area. (Instead of using plastic wrap, plastic gloves may be used for the hands, plastic bags for the feet, or a shower cap for the scalp.)
- Carefully seal the edges of the plastic to make sure the wrap adheres closely to the skin. If the affected area is moist, you can leave the edges of the plastic wrap partly unsealed or puncture the wrap to allow excess moisture to escape.
- Leave the plastic wrapping in place as long as directed by your doctor. Usually wraps are left in place no more than 12 hours each day.
- Cleanse the skin and reapply the medication each time a new plastic wrapping is applied. Call your doctor if the treated area gets worse or if burning, swelling, redness, or oozing of pus develops.
Do not discontinue treatment abruptly without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using fluocinolone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluocinolone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cancer chemotherapy agents, other topical medications, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have an infection or have ever had diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, a circulation disorder, or an immune disorder.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using fluocinolone, call your doctor immediately.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Fluocinolone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drying or cracking of the skin
- acne
- itching
- burning
- change in skin color

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- severe skin rash
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- wheezing
- skin infection (redness, swelling, or oozing pus)

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. Do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Do not use it to treat other skin conditions. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Fexofenadine

Why is this medication prescribed?
Fexofenadine is used to relieve the allergy symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis ('hay fever'), including runny nose; sneezing; red, itchy, or watery eyes; or itching of the nose, throat, or roof of the mouth in adults and children 2 years of age and older. It is also used to relieve symptoms of urticaria (hives; red, itchy raised areas of the skin), including itching and rash in adults and children 6 months of age and older. Fexofenadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergy symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?
Fexofenadine comes as a tablet and a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken with water once or twice a day. Fexofenadine will work better if it is not taken with fruit juices such as orange, grapefruit, or apple juice. Take fexofenadine 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 fexofenadine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.Fexofenadine controls the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis and urticaria but does not cure these conditions. Continue to take fexofenadine even if you feel well and are not experiencing these symptoms. If you wait too long between doses, your symptoms may become worse.
Shake the suspension well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking fexofenadine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fexofenadine, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in fexofenadine tablets or suspension. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention either of the following: erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin) and ketoconazole (Nizoral). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- if you are taking an antacid containing aluminum or magnesium (Maalox, Mylanta, others), take the antacid a few hours before or after fexofenadine.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking fexofenadine, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Fexofenadine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- pain in the arms, legs, or back
- pain
- pain during menstrual period
- cough

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- hives
- rash
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Prednisolone Injection

What is prednisolone?
- Prednisolone is in a group of drugs called steroids. Prednisolone reduces swelling and lowers the body's immune response.
- Prednisolone is used to treat many immune and allergic disorders, such as arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and ulcerative colitis. It is also used to treat many different conditions such as endocrine (hormonal) disorders when the body does not produce enough of its own steroids.
- Prednisolone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about prednisolone?
- Do not take prednisolone if you have a serious fungal infection, or if you have recently received a "live" vaccine. Prednisolone weakens the body's immune system and you could become ill.
- There are many other medicines that can interact with prednisolone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.
- Steroid medicine can affect growth in children. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using prednisolone.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
A single large dose of prednisolone is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms. Overdose is more likely to be caused by taking large doses over a long period of time. Symptoms of a prednisolone overdose may include weight gain (especially around the stomach), a round face, excessive appetite, hair loss or increased hair growth, acne, bruising, swelling in your hands or feet, fast heart rate, worsened menopause symptoms, numbness or tingling, feeling light-headed or fainting.

Who should not take prednisolone?
Do not take prednisolone if you have a serious fungal infection, or if you have recently received a "live" vaccine. Prednisolone weakens the body's immune system and you could become ill.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
- heart disease, congestive heart failure;
- kidney disease;
- liver disease or cirrhosis;
- high blood pressure;
- thyroid problems;
- unusual diarrhea;
- a nerve or muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis;
- a history of mental illness;
- osteoporosis;
- glaucoma or cataracts;
- herpes infection of the eye

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use prednisolone, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Prednisolone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Steroid medicine can affect growth in children. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using prednisolone.

Older adults, especially postmenopausal women, may be more likely to develop osteoporosis while taking steroids. If you are at least 65 years old, your doctor may want to check your bone mineral density while you are taking prednisolone.

How should I take prednisolone?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Take prednisolone with food or milk to lessen stomach upset.

Measure the liquid form of prednisolone 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 where you can get one.

To take prednisolone orally disintegrating tablets (Orapred ODT):
- Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel back the foil from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.
- Do not use an orally disintegrating tablet that has been broken.
- Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.
- Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
- Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet.

This medication can cause you to have false negative skin tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using prednisolone.
Do not stop using prednisolone without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking prednisolone, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking prednisolone.
Store prednisolone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. 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. A single large dose of prednisolone is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms. Overdose is more likely to be caused by taking large doses over a long period of time.

Symptoms of a prednisolone overdose may include weight gain (especially around the stomach), a round face, excessive appetite, hair loss or increased hair growth, acne, bruising, swelling in your hands or feet, fast heart rate, worsened menopause symptoms, numbness or tingling, feeling light-headed or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking prednisolone?
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can cause harmful effects on your stomach while you are using prednisolone.
Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection. Tell your doctor if you have been around someone who has chicken pox or measles.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with prednisolone. You may become ill. Other types of vaccines may not work as well during your treatment with prednisolone.

What are the possible side effects of prednisolone?
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.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
- feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
- swelling or sudden weight gain (more than 5 pounds in a day or two);
- swelling of your ankles or feet;
- severe pain behind your eyes;
- severe depression;
- unusual thoughts or behaviors;
- diarrhea; or
- increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:
- sleep problems (insomnia);
- depressed mood;
- increased sweating, thinning of the skin;
- slow wound healing;
- irregular menstrual periods;
- acne;
- increased hair growth;
- weight gain, increased appetite;
- muscle weakness, lack of coordination; or
- nausea, bloating.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect prednisolone?
Before taking prednisolone, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
a barbiturate such as amobarbital (Amytal), butabarbital (Butisol), mephobarbital (Mebaral), secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton); or
aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), diclofenac (Voltaren), indomethacin, naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), and others.

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use prednisolone or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect prednisolone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist has additional information about prednisolone written for health professionals that you may read.

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.

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Hydrocortisone Topical

Why is this medication prescribed?
Hydrocortisone is available with or without a prescription. Low-strength preparations (0.5% or 1%) are used without a prescription for the temporary relief of (1) minor skin irritations, itching, and rashes caused by eczema, insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, soaps, detergents, cosmetics, and jewelry; (2) itchy anal and rectal areas; and (3) itching and irritation of the scalp. It is also used to relieve the discomfort of mouth sores. Hydrocortisone may be prescribed by your doctor to relieve the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions; the inflammation of ulcerative colitis or proctitis; or the swelling and discomfort of hemorrhoids and other rectal problems.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Hydrocortisone comes as ointment, cream, lotion, liquid, gel, medicated cloth towelette, and spray for use on the skin; foam, suppositories, cream, ointment, and enema for rectal use; and paste for use in the mouth.
Hydrocortisone is usually used one to four times a day for skin problems.
For mouth sores, it usually is applied two or three times a day after meals and at bedtime. If mouth sores do not begin to heal within 7 days, call your doctor.
For colitis, hydrocortisone usually is used every night or twice a day (every morning and night) for 2 or 3 weeks. Although colitis symptoms may improve within 3-5 days, 2-3 months of regular enema use may be required. Call your doctor if your colitis symptoms do not improve within 3 weeks.
If you are using hydrocortisone on your face, keep it out of your eyes.
If you are using hydrocortisone on a child=s diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Such use may increase side effects.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using hydrocortisone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cancer chemotherapy agents, other topical medications, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have an infection or have ever had diabetes, glaucoma, a circulation disorder, or an immune disorder.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using hydrocortisone, call your doctor immediately.
- remember not to use hydrocortisone on children less than 2 years of age without talking to a doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Hydrocortisone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drying or cracking of the skin
- acne
- itching
- burning

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 according to the package instructions. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Fluocinolone Topical

Why is this medication prescribed?
Fluocinolone is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Fluocinolone comes in ointment, cream, solution, shampoo, and oil in various strengths for use on the skin. It usually is applied 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. Use fluocinolone exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or wrap or bandage the treated area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Wash or soak the affected area thoroughly before applying the medicine, unless it irritates your skin. Then apply the ointment, cream, solution, or oil sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently.
Use the shampoo as you would any normal shampoo. Wet your hair and scalp. Apply the shampoo and gently massage the scalp. Rinse with water. To use a solution on your scalp, part your hair, apply a small amount of the medicine on the affected area, and rub it in gently. Protect the area from washing and rubbing until the solution dries. You may wash your hair as usual but not right after applying the medicine.
Avoid prolonged use on the face, in the genital and rectal areas, and in skin creases and armpits unless directed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using fluocinolone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluocinolone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cancer chemotherapy agents, other topical medications, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have an infection or have ever had diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, a circulation disorder, or an immune disorder.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using fluocinolone, call your doctor immediately.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Fluocinolone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drying or cracking of the skin
- acne
- itching
- burning
- change in skin color

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. Do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Do not use it to treat other skin conditions. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Hydrocortisone Topical

Why is this medication prescribed?
Hydrocortisone is available with or without a prescription. Low-strength preparations (0.5% or 1%) are used without a prescription for the temporary relief of (1) minor skin irritations, itching, and rashes caused by eczema, insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, soaps, detergents, cosmetics, and jewelry; (2) itchy anal and rectal areas; and (3) itching and irritation of the scalp. It is also used to relieve the discomfort of mouth sores.
Hydrocortisone may be prescribed by your doctor to relieve the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions; the inflammation of ulcerative colitis or proctitis; or the swelling and discomfort of hemorrhoids and other rectal problems.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Hydrocortisone comes as ointment, cream, lotion, liquid, gel, medicated cloth towelette, and spray for use on the skin; foam, suppositories, cream, ointment, and enema for rectal use; and paste for use in the mouth.
Hydrocortisone is usually used one to four times a day for skin problems.
For mouth sores, it usually is applied two or three times a day after meals and at bedtime. If mouth sores do not begin to heal within 7 days, call your doctor.
For colitis, hydrocortisone usually is used every night or twice a day (every morning and night) for 2 or 3 weeks. Although colitis symptoms may improve within 3-5 days, 2-3 months of regular enema use may be required. Call your doctor if your colitis symptoms do not improve within 3 weeks.
For proctitis, hydrocortisone usually is used one or two times a day for 2-3weeks, then if necessary every other day until your condition improves. Proctitis symptoms may improve within 5-7 days.
For hemorrhoids, hydrocortisone usually is used twice a day (every morning and night) for 2-6 days.
Follow the directions on the label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that you do not understand. Use hydrocortisone exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you obtained hydrocortisone without a prescription and your condition does not improve within 7 days, stop using it and call your doctor.
Call your doctor if any area treated with hydrocortisone gets worse or if redness, swelling, or oozing of pus develops.
To use hydrocortisone ointment, cream, lotion, liquid, or gel on your skin, wash or soak the affected area thoroughly before applying the medication, unless it irritates your skin. Then apply sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently.
To use the lotion, liquid, or gel on your scalp, part your hair, apply a small amount of the medicine on the affected area, and rub it in gently. Protect the area from washing and rubbing until the medication dries. You may wash your hair as usual but not right after applying the medicine.
To apply the aerosol spray, shake well and spray on the affected area holding the container about 3-6 inches away. Spray for about 2 seconds to cover an area the size of your hand. Take care not to inhale the vapors. If you are spraying near your face, cover your eyes.
Avoid prolonged use on the face, in the genital and rectal areas, and in skin creases and armpits unless directed to do so by your doctor.
If you are using hydrocortisone on your face, keep it out of your eyes.
If you are using hydrocortisone on a child=s diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Such use may increase side effects.
Do not apply cosmetics or other skin preparations on the treated area without talking to your doctor.
If your doctor tells you to wrap or bandage the treated area, follow these instructions:
- Soak the area in water or wash it well.
- While the skin is moist, gently rub the medication into the affected areas.
- Cover the area with plastic wrap (such as Saran Wrap or Handi-Wrap). The plastic may be held in place with a gauze or elastic bandage or adhesive tape on the normal skin beside the treated area. (Instead of using plastic wrap, plastic gloves may be used for the hands, plastic bags for the feet, or a shower cap for the scalp.)
- Carefully seal the edges of the plastic to make sure the wrap adheres closely to the skin. If the affected area is moist, you can leave the edges of the plastic wrap partly unsealed or puncture the wrap to allow excess moisture to escape.
- Leave the plastic wrap in place as long as directed by your doctor. Usually plastic wraps are left in place no more than 12 hours each day.
- Cleanse the skin and reapply the medication each time a new plastic wrapping is applied.
Apply the rectal cream or ointment externally to the anal area. Some nonprescription creams may be applied to the genital and anal areas; read the label of the product you are using carefully.
The hydrocortisone enema comes with directions that you should follow carefully. Lie on your left side while using the enema and for 30 minutes afterward. Try to hold the enema in for at least 1 hour and preferably all night.
The rectal foam also comes with directions that you should follow carefully. A special applicator is provided and always should be used to apply the foam. Do not insert any part of the container into your rectum. After using the applicator, take it apart and clean it thoroughly with warm water.
To insert a rectal suppository, follow these steps:
- Remove the wrapper. If the suppository is too soft to insert, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing the foil 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 1/2 to 1 inch in infants and children and 1 inch in adults). Hold it in place for a few moments.
- Remain lying down for 15 minutes. Then, stand up, wash your hands thoroughly, and resume your normal activities.
Note that some hydrocortisone suppositories may stain fabric, so take any precautions needed.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using hydrocortisone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cancer chemotherapy agents, other topical medications, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have an infection or have ever had diabetes, glaucoma, a circulation disorder, or an immune disorder.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using hydrocortisone, call your doctor immediately.
- remember not to use hydrocortisone on children less than 2 years of age without talking to a doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Hydrocortisone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drying or cracking of the skin
- acne
- itching
- burning
- change in skin color

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- severe skin rash
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- wheezing
- skin infection (redness, swelling, or oozing of pus)

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 according to the package instructions. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication..

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Triamcinolone Topical

Why is this medication prescribed?
Triamcinolone is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions. It is also used to relieve the discomfort of mouth sores.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Triamcinolone comes in ointment, cream, lotion, liquid, and aerosol (spray) in various strengths for use on the skin and as a paste for use in the mouth. It usually is applied two to four times a day. For mouth sores, it is applied at bedtime and, if necessary, two or three times daily, preferably after meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use triamcinolone exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or wrap or bandage the treated area unless directed to do so by your doctor. Wash or soak the affected area thoroughly before applying the medicine, unless it irritates your skin. Apply the ointment, cream, liquid, or lotion sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently.
To use the lotion or liquid on your scalp, part your hair, apply a small amount of the medicine on the affected area, and rub it in gently. Protect the area from washing and rubbing until the lotion or liquid dries. You may wash your hair as usual but not right after applying the medicine.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before using triamcinolone,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to triamcinolone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially cancer chemotherapy agents, other topical medications, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have an infection or if you have ever had diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, a circulation disorder, or an immune disorder.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using triamcinolone, call your doctor immediately.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Apply 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 apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Although the side effects from triamcinolone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drying or cracking of the skin
- acne
- itching
- burning
- change in skin color

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 according to the package instructions. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Do not use it to treat other skin conditions. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medications.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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Fexofenadine

Why is this medication prescribed?
Fexofenadine is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including runny nose; sneezing; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. It is also used to treat symptoms of hives, including itching and rash. Fexofenadine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Fexofenadine may cause less drowsiness than other antihistamines.

How should this medicine be used?
Fexofenadine comes as a tablet 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 fexofenadine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Other uses for this medicine
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking fexofenadine,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fexofenadine or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention either of the following: erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Erythrocin) and ketoconazole (Nizoral). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- if you are taking antacids (Maalox, Mylanta), take them a few hours before or after fexofenadine.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking fexofenadine, call your doctor.
- you should know that fexofenadine 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.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
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.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Fexofenadine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- headache
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- back pain
- cough
Fexofenadine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

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.

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.


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ANTIHISTAMINES,ANTIALLERGICS

Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride

How does it work?
Zocet tablets contain the active ingredient levocetirizine dihydrochloride, which is a type of medicine called a non-sedating antihistamine. It works by preventing the actions of histamine.
Histamine is a substance produced by the body as part of its defence mechanisms. It is stored in cells called mast cells, in almost all tissues of the body. When the body reacts to a foreign substance (known as an allergen, eg flower pollen), the mast cells stimulated by the allergen release their stores of histamine.
The released histamine then binds to its receptors (H-1 receptors), causing a chain reaction that results in allergic symptoms. It causes an increase in blood flow to the area of the allergy, and the release of other chemicals that add to the allergic response.
All this results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction. In hayfever, histamine causes inflammation of the nose, eyes, skin or airways and results in itchy watery eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion.
Levocetirizine works by blocking histamine receptors. It does not prevent the actual release of histamine from mast cells, but prevents it binding to its receptors. This in turn prevents the release of other allergy chemicals and increased blood supply to the area, and provides relief from the typical symptoms of hayfever.
Levocetirizine can also be used to relieve the symptoms of a condition called chronic idiopathic urticaria. This is a chronic itchy rash, similar to nettle rash, but with no apparant cause. Blocking the actions of histamine relieves the itching and reduces the rash associated with this condition.
Levocetirizine is called a non-sedating antihistamine as it does not enter the brain in significant amounts, and is therefore unlikely to cause drowsiness. However, some people may experience some slight sleepiness or fatigue.

What is it used for?
• Hayfever (seasonal allergic rhinitis)
• Hayfever that occurs throughout the year due to allergies, eg pets, dust mites (perennial allergic rhinitis)
• Ongoing itchy rash with no known cause (chronic idiopathic urticaria)

Warning!
• Although levocetirizine is a non-sedating antihistamine, very rarely some people may experience drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinary. You should make sure you know how this medicine affects you before you perform potentially hazardous activites.
• It is recommended that you avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol while taking this medicine.
• If you are due to have any skin prick tests to diagnose allergies you should stop taking your antihistamines at least 48 hours before the tests. This is because antihistamines can prevent or lessen the skin reactions that indicate an allergy, and so can make the test results unreliable.

Use with caution in
• Decreased kidney function

Not to be used in
• Children under six years of age
• Severely decreased kidney function
• Allergy to medicines that contain piperazine derivatives (your doctor will know more about this - tell them if you are allergic to any medicines)
• Rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption (tablets contain lactose).
This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.
If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
• The safety of this medicine in pregnancy has not been established. It should therefore be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the benefits to the mother outweigh any risks to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
• This medicine may pass into breast milk. It should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the nursing infant. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Sleepiness
• Weakness or loss of strength (asthenia)
• Abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Weight gain
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?
There have been no studies on the effects of taking this medicine with any others, but the related antihistamine cetirizine does not interact significantly with other medicines. Since levocetirizine is a relatively new medicine, make sure you always tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking it if you buy or are prescribed any other medicines, so that they can check that the combination is safe. This includes over-the-counter medicines and herbal medicines.

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GASTRO –INTESTINALS

Pancreatin

How does it work?
Pancrex V tablets, forte tablets, capsules and powder all contain the active ingredient pancreatin, which is a mixture of digestive enzymes normally released by the pancreas to digest food.
Pancreatin contains the pancreatic enzymes lipase, amylase and protease. These assist the digestion of fat, carbohydrates and proteins. The enzymes in Pancrex V are extracted from pig pancreas glands.
Pancreatin supplements are given by mouth in conditions where the natural secretion of these enzymes by the pancreas is reduced or absent. These conditions include chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) and cystic fibrosis. Pancreatin may also be necessary if a tumour (eg pancreatic cancer) obstructs the outflow of enzymes from the pancreas. The supplements are also needed following surgical removal of the pancreas or stomach.
The enzymes in pancreatin work by digesting food as it passes through the intestines. The medicine must be taken at the same time as a meal or snack to allow the enzymes to mix with the food.
Pancrex V capsules can be swallowed whole or the capsule contents mixed with food. For infants, the capsule contents should be mixed with a feed. If the capsule contents are mixed with liquid, the mixture should not be allowed to stand for longer than an hour before taking.
Pancrex V powder should be swallowed dry or mixed with a little water or milk just before food. For infants, the powder should be mixed with a feed. If the powder is mixed with liquid, the mixture should not be allowed to stand for longer than an hour before taking.
Pancrex V tablets and forte tablets have a special coating that helps protect the pancreatin from stomach acid. This allows more of the medicine to pass into the intestines with the food, which is where the enzymes would normally be released as part of digestion. The tablets should be swallowed whole without chewing to avoid damaging the protective coating. They should be taken just before food.

What is it used for?
Aiding digestion of food in conditions where there is reduced or absent production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas, for example in chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer or following surgical removal of the pancreas (pancreatectomy) or stomach (gastrectomy).

Warning!
• This medicine should be taken just before meals. Follow the instructions given by your doctor or dietician.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose. If you think a higher dose is needed because fatty stools or abdominal pain are still present you should consult your doctor or dietician.
• People taking this medicine should make sure they drink plenty of fluids each day.
• Several children with cystic fibrosis taking high doses of pancreatin have experienced narrowing of the bowel that has required surgery. For this reason, the total dose of pancreatic enzyme supplements used in patients with cystic fibrosis should not usually exceed 10 000 units of lipase per kg body-weight daily. As a precaution, all people taking this medicine should consult their doctor immediately if they develop any new abdominal symptoms, or any change in their existing abdominal symptoms, so that any possible colonic problems can be ruled out.
• You should store Pancrex V below 15°C in the original container. Keep the container tightly closed. The ability of the enzymes to digest food decreases over time. If the container is left in very warm conditions, the digestive activity decreases faster. Do not take the medicine after the expiry date on the bottle.

Not to be used in
• Allergy to pork proteins.
• Pancrex V tablets and forte tablets contain lactose and are not suitable for people with lactase insufficiency, galactosaemia or glucose/galactose malabsorption syndrome.
This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.
If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
• Pancreatin is not known to be harmful when used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, as with all medicines, it should only be used if clearly necessary. You should seek medical advice from your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abnormal stools
• Allergic skin reactions
• Mouth irritation if the medicine is held in the mouth
• High level of uric acid in the blood or urine in people taking high doses
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?
Pancreatin is expected to reduce the blood glucose lowering effect of the antidiabetic medicine acarbose.
It is not known to affect any other medicines.


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