Health

The New Medicine: Integrative, Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), - Medical Intuition & Distant Energy Healing: the Mind Body Connection

2006-12-04T07:02:00.001-08:00

by: Brent Atwater

The New Medicine: Integrative, Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM), - Medical Intuition & Distant Energy Healing: the Mind Body Connection

In the Bravewell Collaborative's PBS special on the New Medicine Dana Reeves expressed that traditional medicine is now examining and addressing the entire mind body connection. One of the physicians interviewed stated "It is dumb" to not look at the entire person in order to determine the complete patient diagnosis.

PBS previews state:

"A burgeoning movement is taking place in hospitals and clinics across this country - integrating the best of high-tech medicine with a new attitude that recognizes that treating the patient as a whole person is essential to the healing process. As scientific findings reveal that the mind plays a critical role in the body's capacity to heal, the medical community is beginning to embrace a new range of treatment options, including many once considered fringe.

The National Institutes of Health has been funding rigorous scientific research to determine what alternative healing strategies are safe and effective so that there is solid evidence to broaden medical choices for patients. "Integrative medicine means being able to offer patients a full array of choices from conventional medicine, but to be able to add those complementary and alternative strategies where we have scientific evidence that they work and they're safe," says Dr. Margaret Chesney, Deputy Director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), a division of the NIH. "

Your body's energy system records and stores everything that has occurred since your physical being was born. Its energy blueprint provides a complete information source about what has and is occurring. Your energy divulges whether physical health issues were derived from an emotional connection or are an acquired physical manifestation from cellular deficiency or breakdown. Medical intuition is the science of tapping into this energy blueprint resource to locate the origin of your issues.

Although modern medicine uses MRI's, x-rays, PET, CAT, Trilogy, and MUGA scans to determine physical issues, most emotionally caused physical issues go undetected.

Medical intuitives can provide insight into direct links between the emotions lodged in your energy memory bank, and how those emotions created health issues. Louise Hayes, in her book "You Can Heal Your Life" actually lists disorders, and the common emotional patterns that create health issues.

Medical intuition can also provide insight to physical issues that will be entering the human body. Energy disorders present themselves in the exterior energy field or aura of our body before it enters into the physical body. New Medicine is trying to stop destructive exterior patterns such as thoughts, behaviors, etc. from creating unhealthy energy patterns that eventually create disease in our physical body. Thus the term "mind over matter" has great relevance in today's medical treatment. Additionally, once the physical body is combating unhealthy energy, using your mind to generate healthy energy frequencies helps facilitate healing.

Some medical intuitives are able to see your body's actual cellular and organ structures and systems like an MRI. Those medical intuitives can provide immediate information as to the location, extent and severity of physical disease and disorders, and even provide information about possible future health problems. This viewing ability is an asset in emergency room medicine. It reduces stress and saves time in critical care, intensive care, trauma injury and pediatric care. Medical intuition complements modern techniques by providing a broader knowledge base for the patient to determine their total treatment, and integrates the best of all worlds to create their health care regime using the total mind and body connection.

Energy Healing is another technique. Although considered alternative and complementary health care and medicine, "energy medicine" is now being considered more and more as a valuable healing modality in mainstream medical facilities. Everything has energy. When you reestablish healthy energy patterns, you facilitate the body healing itself. Disease is altered energy that is not resonating at a healthy frequency. Everything has a frequency or it doesn't exist. There are many charts available on the internet that list the frequency of a healthy body (62-78 MHz) or the frequency of particular organs. A diseased organ will not have the same frequency as a healthy organ or an entire body. Energy healing addresses the frequency of your body and its energy centers (chakras), flow directions (meridians), and blockages or any changes in your systems or cells energy patterns.

Energy healing has been around for 2000 years or more, in the form of acupuncture. Acupuncture works by stimulating the patient’s own chi or life-force energy to accelerate the healing process. There are numerous other forms of energy healing that complement and integrate with modern medicine that can be done while you are working with your physician. Quantum touch, Energy Medicine, Healing Hands, Healing Touch, Reiki, Huna, reflexology, Vibrational medicine, acupuncture, shiatsu, acupressure, Craniosacral work, Pranic Healing, Energy psychology, Chinese Medicine and a multitude of others aid the body's energy to facilitate health.

An added value of medical intuition and most forms of energy healing is that the intuitive diagnosis and energy healing services can be performed from a distance or remotely and immediately. This saves valuable time, dehabilitating travel for critically ill individuals, and offers another assessment and healing modality for any person in any location. Both are non-threatening, non invasive, and have no side effects, and are compatible with your current treatments and procedures.

The new medicine integrates alternative complementary medicine and techniques with traditional medicine to address the entire person in order to determine a complete mind body diagnosis and treatment program. The patient is the benefactor by having "all there is" available to them in their choices to facilitate their healing journey.

Feel free to reprint this article in its entirety.

Contact Information:
Brent Atwater, Alternative & Integrative Medical Specialist
Medical Intuitive, Distance Energy Healing
ATL, GA Phone: 404.242.9022 USA
NC Phone: 910.692.5206 USA

Website: http://www.brentatwater.com/
Email: mailto:Brent@BrentAtwater.com

Disclaimer: Brent Atwater is not a medical doctor or associated with any branch of medicine. Brent works in Complementary Alternative Medicine. She offers her opinions based on her intuition, and her personal distant energy healing work, which is not a substitute for medical procedures or treatments. Always consult a physician or trained health care professional concerning any medical problem or condition before undertaking any diet, health related or lifestyle change programs. There are no guarantees with the Energy work.

Brent Atwater: Medical Intuitive, Distant Energy Healing: As an integrative medical & pediatric specialist (CAM), her international Medical Intuitive & Distant Energy Healing has been studied by & or documented at Duke, the ARE, & for pets by the NCSU's Vet school. She participates in evidence based research & clinical trials. ARTIST: An artist 30+yrs, Brent is a pioneer in healing art by scientifically documenting Paintings that Heal™. Her art was featured on "PBS". She founded Just Plain Love™ Charitable Trust to benefit children. AUTHOR: Just Plain Love™ Children's Healing Books. The books are translated into plays performed in children's healthcare facilities turning illness negatives into positives. "Cancer Kids, God's Special Children". "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations, & Actions for Overcoming Your Health Challenges", & "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations & Actions to Help Survive Your Cancer Experience". These books are holistic, alternative medicine & alternative healing for your mind. Brent attended Wake Forest Law School and is a minister.

About The Author

Brent Atwater: Medical Intuitive, Energy Healing: As an alternative medical specialist (CAM), her international evidence based Medical Intuitive & Distance Energy Healing work is published and has been studied by & or documented at Duke, the ARE, & for animals by the NCSU's Vet school. She participates in research & Clinical trials. ARTIST: An artist 30+yrs, Brent is a pioneer in healing art by scientifically documenting Paintings that Heal™. Her art was featured on "PBS". At 16, NC Museum of Art chose her painting for the permanent collection. She founded Just Plain Love™ Charitable Trust to benefit children. AUTHOR: Just Plain Love™ Children's Healing Books. The books are translated into plays performed in children's healthcare facilities turning illness negatives into positives. "Cancer Kids, God's Special Children". "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations, & Actions for Overcoming Your Health Challenges", & "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations & Actions to Help Survive Your Cancer Experience". Brent attended Wake Forest Law School and is a minister.

Healthy Weight Loss - The Truth about Dieting

2006-12-04T06:58:00.000-08:00

by: Christine Sutherland

Very few people realise that nearly 100% of people who lose weight through a diet program put that weight back on even more quickly than before. Read on to discover why our health departments are now saying that even healthy diets should be avoided.

In the first month of a diet the weight you lose is mostly water and muscle weight. As soon as you go off the diet, those are replaced with more fat! In addition, almost no-one can stick to a diet because it is so out of kilter with the person's familiar eating patterns. The very act of dieting both lowers metabolic processing, and increases food cravings. No wonder that three years after going on a diet, over 95% have put that weight back on or are even heavier!

Nevertheless there is no doubt we have a serious weight problem. In Australia the latest National Nutrition Survey showed that we have 45% of women and 65% of men overweight. Over the last 20 years our obesity rate has doubled to 17% of men and 19% of women. According to the National Health & Medical Research Council paper “Acting on Australia’s Weight” our children are 2-3 times more likely to be obese, as their rates have also doubled since the 1980’s.

The costs of overweight are enormous: over $700 million dollars of the public purse, and over $500 million spent attending diet or weight loss clinics. Our hospitals are clogged with people who have diseases which are a consequence of overweight: heart disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, oedema, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, cancers of the endometrium, biliary system disease and respiratory problems. The cost in loss of life is even worse. Every year in Australia we lose many thousands of people to the effects of overweight. We also lose thousands of young women every year dying from dieting diseases such as anorexia and bulimia.

So not only does dieting not work, it's dangerous, and we can no longer afford to tolerate a culture of dieting.

The following are a list of health problems caused by dieting, all of which are thoroughly backed by worldwide consensus research:

1. Diets have been linked with fatal eating disorders, particularly amongst children, and particularly amongst children of mothers who have dieted.

2. Weight loss dieting can cause health problems and can even lead to gall bladder disease and emergency surgery if the decrease is too rapid.

3. Dieting has been linked with lowered libido. Diets can wreck a wonderful sex life and a great relationship!

4. Diets usually cost money, money that could have been spent on lovely new clothes or family treats. If diets worked, this would be a wise investment, but the problem is, the weight loss effects are merely temporary and the damage done by dieting persists!

5. Diets often don’t provide correct nutrition, leading to problems with concentration and memory and also decreased well-being, lowered immune system and more illness.

6. Food deprivation causes food cravings that become so intense that sooner or later everyone busts out of their diet! At this point the myth of willpower is shown to be the awful lie that it truly is.

So why diet? It doesn’t work. It causes problems. And there’s a much better way!

What is this better way? Certainly we now know that healthy weight loss does not involve any special eating regime or exercise regime. Instead the best weight loss programs will ensure that a thorough study is made of how the person behaves and the lifestyle choices they make when they are NOT trying to lose weight. This is the realistic baseline that we're starting from.

Often we find that if the person is fairly active and not overeating too severely, that it is something very small that is nevertheless making a very big difference in weight. It could be that they're eating or drinking something on a regular basis that they had no idea contained so many empty calories. The café latté is a perfect example, as some of these can add up to as much as half one's daily calorie needs! One of these each day could easily add 0.5 kg per week in excess weight. Many people are surprised to learn that it only takes an excess of just 250 calories a day for most people to accumulate an extra 11 kilos of fat every year!

Or it could be that the person has reduced their physical activity level by giving up some sport or activity that they enjoyed and need to give themselves permission, even as adults, to get out there and play and engage with life again. This should not on any account be confused with an exercise regime. This really is about PLAYING and genuine pleasure is the key.

So this is why we should focus on healthy weight loss practices only, and really look at what choices people are making, and why they are making them, before we even begin to construct a plan, not by imposing it on someone, but by working together as a team to build an informed, customised, workable and permanent solution.

Finally, the compulsive and addictive components of weight loss have been so poorly understood that they've been ignored totally, leaving the poor overweight person out of control with cravings. Until now there has not really been a satisfactory answer to cravings, but by using modern deconditioning methods, people can now learn to literally switch off these cravings, quickly and permanently. I hope after reading this article that you would never again consider dieting, and instead look at the real reasons for your weight issues, and real solutions for healthy weight loss! Thank you for reading.

About The Author

Christine Sutherland is the owner of http://www.weightchoice.com.au , an information-packed resource for people who want healthy weight loss from real, permanent solutions. You can view more interesting articles, videos and audios on the WeightChoice web site.

Toxins Clearly Need Treating

2006-12-04T06:57:00.000-08:00

by: Ralph Morton

Using Organic Products Does Make a Difference If you're one of those people who have never given any thought to what ingredients might be in the products you use, you're not alone. And if you're one of the people who believe that if it's on a shelf being advertized and sold, then it must have been tested and be safe to use, well, think again. It is so frustrating to me to see how large corporations sell out their consumers just to make a buck, but then I guess that's what makes the world go round, right?

Profits are put before the health of the public and using "beauty" as the hook, most people are drawn right in. I think it's time that we set new standards for ourselves and our children. Sure everyone wants to look "younger" and "more beautiful," but at what expense? We as consumers need to know what is in the products we are using and how it can affect us today and in the future.

The truth is that few of the chemicals in cosmetics and personal care products are fully tested to find out what kind of affects they have on the humans that use them, and certainly none of the toxic chemicals are tested in relation to other toxic chemicals. After all, you do use more than one product at a time, don't you?

In other words, no one really knows what the adverse reactions are at the time of usage or what's going to happen after they have accumulated in your body over a period of time.

It's time for you to become informed, learn about the ingredients, read about what consumer organizations are doing to try to protect you, find out about healthy alternatives to using synthetic toxic products, learn about the effects of these ingredients and the various reactions that you might have to them.

Find out the truth about fluoride. Why is it that the FDA requires a warning on all fluoridated toothpastes telling the consumer to seek professional help or contact a poison control center immediately if they accidentally swallow more toothpaste than used for brushing?

Learn about the possible link between the aluminium in antiperspirants and Alzheimer's disease and that there is research to suggest a link between aluminium and epilepsy.

Using conventional products is a matter of personal choice.

We can avoid many of these toxic chemicals by simply using organic products instead. We have options. Organic skin care is an area of the organic movement which has made real progress in recent times, and where previously there were few options available, there is now a fairly wide range of grooming products out there. Another option open to consumers is to make your own cosmetics using organic ingredients.

As you can see, we are really required to look after our families and ourselves, no matter what products we are using, they may toxins.

We also find toxins in our vegetables, our meats, our dairy products, a great lot of thought has to go into your selection of foods.

Have you ever asked yourself this question, why is it today we have more obese people? Up 67% of the population are overweight today. There were a great lot less many years ago. A few, but in no way were they around as they are today, and believe me it will get worse. It will not get any better unless people educate themselves. Unless they know why this is happening, the problem will continue to grow.

In order to rid ourselves of these toxins it was required someone came up with a Natural body cleanse which would be able to clean out the fatty particles, and the toxins from the colon, liver, kidneys and lungs, plus all the other organs.

I am happy to say I used John Anderson's natural cleanse from the Isagenix company, after I used it I felt 100% better and had the energy I had lost over the years.

You will also find this company offers Natural Beauty Aids which are worth investigating.

In order to rid ourselves of these toxins it was required someone came up with a body cleanse which would be able to clean out the fat particles, and the toxins from the colon, liver, kidneys and lungs, plus all the other organs. I am happy to say I used John Anderson's natural cleanse, after I used it I felt full of energy, just like I had when I was young.

I would also tell you, I am 78 years old, I feel like a 50 year old because I cleanse regularly. I would also mention, my first 9 day cleanse resulted in the loss of 13lbs.

You are not doing yourself any favors by leaving toxins in your Body, cleanse and feel wonderful.

Toxins are destroying our world. Toxins are the reason we are having an epidemic of people overweight. This article will give you information of how to clean out your system. Hundreds have already been successful of losing weight by reading these articles.If you don't clean it out, the toxins will wear you down. Be sensible, make the adjustment today, be fit and full of energy.

For more information visit http://thisisyourbusiness.net See what ABC and FOX television thought of Cleansing

To contact the Author 604-536-6813 or email noviorbis@telus.net

About The Author

Ralph Morton has many articles on the subject of toxins and has helped hundreds to lose weight the easy way. He would like you to read others Articles. Please visit http://thisisyourbusiness.net and enjoy them. If you do a cleanse you will no doubt lose the weight, however, if you want to become wealthy, Ralph will show you the way.

You can also visit http://theteam.isagenix.com when it loads on the top left click on ISAVIDEOS and listen to Dr Becky Natrajan who will give you full details of what Toxins do to your system.

Also you will find two News Casts, one from FOX, the other from ABC Television programs, each show why cleansing is the way to lose weight.

Do a cleanse and enjoy the benefit of having the energy back that you lost. Be healthy once again.

For further information, noviorbis@telus.net

Is Authentic Hoodia an Oxymoron?

2006-12-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

by: Dan Nessel

We all have our favorite oxymorons - act natural, original copy, jumbo shrimp and the list goes on. With all the spam and misinformation surrounding the weight loss supplement Hoodia, I have been asked if "authentic Hoodia" should be added to the list of Oxymorons. It often does feel like "authentic Hoodia" is an apt Oxymoron, however, the secret that most of the supplement industry does not want you to know is that there are lab tests that can be done to find authentic Hoodia.

In case you have a terrific spam filter - here is the 411 on Hoodia. Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent plant that grows in South Africa. The SAN Bushmen have chewed on Hoodia for close to 1,000 years to reduce their appetite while on long hunting trips. Hoodia is now a highly sought after plant for it ability to suppress appetite. In fact, Hoodia Gordonii is in such high demand it is considered a protected plant and can only be exported with a special permit from the government of South Africa (a CITES permit).

To start, you should always ask to see the CITES Permit for any Hoodia you are looking to buy. However, the fact that a company can produce a document is no guarantee that that document applies to what you are buying from the company. For example, a company may have a valid CITES permit for 50 Kilos of Hoodia Gordonii from South Africa from 2005. The question then becomes, was the supplement you are about to buy actually made from the Hoodia bought under CITES permit in 2005? You really have no way of knowing if you just rely on the CITES or any other import documentation. These documents, if authentic, simply tell you the company you are dealing with has imported real Hoodia Gordonii at some point. These documents do not help you determine if the supplement you are buying from the company is real Hoodia Gordonii.

If you want to determine what is in a capsule of a supplement marketed as Hoodia Gordonii, you need to have the supplement lab tested. Okay, but what does lab tested really mean? When dealing with botanicals, such as Hoodia, there are three lab tests that can help determine the authenticity of a supplement.

Microscopy

In this test the sample of Hoodia is examined under a microscope (usually at 400x magnification). A well trained technician examines the cellular structure of the sample and looks for patterns that match the know cellular structure of Hoodia Gordonii. For example, it is known that pure Hoodia Gordonii has long fibers with whirled striations so this something a technician would try to find when examining a sample.

It is important to note that even if the Hoodia Gordonii plant has been dried, crushed, powdered and processed - the cellular structure should still be intact. So, an authentic finished Hoodia Gordonii supplement should still show the cellular structure of Hoodia when examined in a Microscopy test.

High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC)

The American Heritage Dictionary defines Chromatography as:

"Any of various techniques for the separation of complex mixtures that rely on the differential affinities of substances for a gas or liquid mobile medium and for a stationary adsorbing medium through which they pass, such as paper, gelatin, or magnesia."

If you are like us - the above definition just leaves you scratching your head. In layman's terms - chromatography is a process used to separate samples by the levels of absorbency of the sample.

High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) is the specific type of Chromatography used to test for Hoodia Gordonii in a sample. With HPTLC first a know reference sample of Hoodia Gordonii is tested. This produces a plate with varying colors for separation over time.

While the technical data gets beyond the scope of this article, the idea is that the HPTLC provides a fingerprint of what authentic Hoodia Gordonii looks like when separated under HPTLC. To confirm that a Hoodia supplement is really Hoodia, an HPTLC test is done to see if the Hoodia in question matches the fingerprint of the known Hoodia Gordonii.

What is interesting with HPTLC is you do not need to know what components make up the Hoodia Gordonii plant. The above test says nothing about what the analytes are in Hoodia Gordonii - but it does provide a fingerprint of how Hoodia Gordonii reacts in chromatography.

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

HPLC is another form of Chromatography that is often used in analytical chemistry to identify analytes in a sample. In HPLC the sample is injected through a liquid and the response time of certain components of the sample are measured.

HPLC tests are used to detect the presence of P57 in a sample. P57 is an active ingredient in Hoodia, so if a test shows that a sample has P57 you can be confident that the sample is Hoodia Gordonii.

It is important to note that the current state of Hoodia testing using HPLC is qualitative NOT quantitative. This means that the HPLC is useful in determining if P57 is present in a sample, but it is not accurate enough to determine the quantity of P57 in a sample.

The Whole is Greater than the Sum of the Parts

You might be wondering - why do you need to do 3 tests for Hoodia Gordonii? The reason is no one test is 100% accurate - there is always the chance for false positives and false negatives. However, when you apply 3 different tests to a sample and they all come back positive for Hoodia Gordonii, it greatly reduces the odds of a test error.

Conclusions

If you want to be sure the Hoodia Gordonii supplement you are buying is authentic, make sure you see the results of the three lab tests described above. You also want to make sure that the lab tests were done on the exact LOT Number of finished product that you are buying.

What lab should do the testing? In our experience, Alkemists Labs has the experience and expertise to most accurately complete the above tests.

About The Author

Dan Nessel is a writer and researcher for Hoodia-Advice.Org. Mr. Nessel has spent the last 10 years writing and researching dietary supplements for various online publications. Hoodia-Advice.Org specializes in presenting unbiased research and information on Hoodia Gordonii.

Read more articles at - http://www.hoodia-advice.org

Alternative Cancer Treatments

2006-12-04T06:45:00.000-08:00

by: Om Prakash

Alternative Cancer Treatments are increasingly being used for treating cancer patients. The treatments are either used a sole therapy or in combination with traditional therapies to cure cancer. These treatments are based on the fact that our own immune system provides the first and best defense against cancer. In alternative cancer treatments vaccines stimulate patient's immune system to recognize and destroy tumor cells. The treatments are customized according to the patient ailing with cancer.

Some of the therapies used in an alternative cancer treatment program are:

1. Dendritic Cell Therapy

Cancer occurs when the immune system fails and comes across tumor cells. Macrophage or monocyte is an immune cell that comes in contact with th cancerous or precancerous cell. (Pre)cancerous cell signals the macrophage of any unhealthy cell. Macrophage breaks the cell into little pieces with the help of little packets of enzymes. The little pieces are then either moved to another type of immune cell or transformed to what is call a 'Dendritic Cell'. These cells are found in all tissues of the body. The very first dendritic cell discovered occurs throughout the skin and is called a Langerhan's cell. Dendritic cells are helpful in switching on an immune response and these stimulate the T-cells to become active against tumors.

Experiments have proved that these dendritic cells with tumor antigens can provide effective response against cancer. It is possible to produce large number of dendritic cells from the circulating blood of cancer patients, find source of tumor antigen and mature them.

Dendritic cell therapy is very effective when used with other types of immune therapies. The therapy itself is also useful for patients with high risk of recurrence once the tumor is removed by surgery.

2. Coley Vaccine

This Vaccine was developed by William Coley, a surgeon in 1893 at the New York Cancer Hospital. Coley discovered that when his vaccine caused a fever, the cancer shrank and number of immune cells increased dramatically. Usually, fevers are suppressed with medicinal drugs like acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen. But studies have shown that suppressing a fever not only makes the infection worse but also spreads it. Coley recognized the beneficial effects of fever in cancer patients. He also discovered that when he stopped injecting the vaccine too early, the cancer started growing again. Thus, immune cells could be stimulated to fight the cancer for a limited time only. So, he used repeated injections to stimulate the immune system continuously.

Though it is called Coley's vaccine, it does not work to prevent an infection. Rather, it induces an immune response. Similarly, Coley's toxins are not toxins though they contain endotoxins and exotoxins. Under the therapy, Coley's toxins are injected into the affected tissues. Injection makes the cancer tissue necrotic which is then removed by drains. Injections are repeatedly given either daily or after every two days, however this varies from person to person.

3. Heat Shock Antigen Cancer Vaccine

Immune therapies for cancer stimulate white blood cells to attack cancer cells. Vaccines reprogram patient's immune system to recognize and attack the cells having the cancer fingerprint. Heat shock antigen vaccine captures the particular cancer's 'fingerprint,' which contains unique antigens. The personalized vaccine treats immune systems of cancer patients with little or no side effects.

HSAV is made from patients' tumors and heat shock proteins that are produced by patients' white blood cells. Part or all of the cancerous tissue is removed through surgery. White blood cells contain heat shock proteins that are purified and mixed with purified antigens from the tumor. The mixture is filtered and put into vials. The final product is tested for quality and sterility.

4. Cytokines Cancer Vaccine Treatment

Cytokines, also known as immune hormones can both enhance and suppress immunity. For cancer treatments, cytokines enhance immunity. FDA has approved two cytokines, interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-alfa 2b, to be used against certain cancers. Combinations of cytokines deliver better results. For example, Interleukin-2 stimulates white blood cells to divide. A very high dose of it will be required if it is used individually. However, that can cause negative side effects. The solution to this can be the use of natural combination produced by white blood cells.

By using the combination, the dose of IL-2 can be lowered. Effects of heat shock protein vaccines and dendritic cell vaccines can be enhanced when given with natural cytokine combination.

5. Photodynamic Cancer Therapy

Photodynamic therapy is a revolutionary medical technology that uses light to induce reactions in patient's body. The therapy can destroy unwanted tissues without affecting normal tissues. A drug called a photosensitiser is injected into patient's body. The drug makes cells more sensitive to light and eventually destroys the cell. The drug has no effect until exposed to a particular type of light.

6. Immuno-Augmentive Therapy

The prime objective of IAT is restoring the immune system to enable it to destroy cancer cells. The therapy restores cancer patient's immune competency so that it can control cancer. Once the natural immune system is restored, patient’s own body becomes capable of treating itself. IAT treatment is not a cure for cancer but a means of restoring natural balance of the system.

Om Prakash makes it easy and provides alternative cancer treatment for treating cancer patients. To recieve free part mini-course visit the http://www.immunemedicine.com.

About The Author

Om Prakash is a writer and researcher in the field of alternative health and nutrition. Information about alternative cancer treatment used in this article is from the ITL Cancer Clinic which has excelled in treating cancer through alternative methods with negligible side effects.

Treatment Of Shoulder Pain

2006-12-04T06:44:00.001-08:00

by: Francois L. Botha

Shoulder pain can strike anyone at any time. Whether you’re a javelin-throwing athlete, a weight-lifting gym bunny or a mom picking up a hefty toddler at the wrong angle, no-one is immune from the possibility of straining or damaging this vital, complex area of the body, with its joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves all capable of succumbing to the stresses placed on them.

There are two basic degrees of shoulder pain – acute or chronic. Acute shoulder pain has a sudden onset and lasts temporarily, for example when a muscle is strained.

Chronic shoulder pain may come on more gradually but persists for an indefinite amount of time. Acute pain can develop into chronic pain, especially if not treated correctly at the time of onset.

Shoulder pain should never be ignored as early treatment is the best way to avoid prolonged problems, while occasionally pain can indicate a more serious condition.

Some of the more common causes of shoulder pain include:

Tendonitis – tiny tears in the tendon causes the area to become inflamed, often related to sport activities or work-related strain

Rotator Cuff Shoulder Pain – can be caused by the natural aging process, this affects the rotator cuff which is the group of muscles and tendons that provide the shoulder with its circular motion

Bursitis – the bursa are small, slippery sacs which reduce friction between these soft tissue and bone. If the bursa becomes inflamed due to repetitive motion, for example in manual labor or similar routine jobs, bursitis can result.

Arthritis – most commonly found at the site of an old injury.

Shoulder Pain Treatments

The importance of early diagnosis cannot be stressed enough. The sooner the correct treatment is begun, the sooner the pain can be alleviated and managed, and the chances of further problems are enormously reduced.

The types of shoulder treatments available include surgery, allopathic, and alternative therapies.

Allopathic Shoulder Pain Treatment

Depending on the severity of your pain, and its causes, Pharmaceutical treatments for shoulder pain can be obtained over-the-counter, such as aspirin, or with a doctor’s prescription. Your doctor will be able to recommend the right kind of medication depending on his diagnosis. For example, some conditions do not respond to anti-inflammatories while others respond extremely well. Do not try and guess, ask your medical practitioner.

Remember that many drugs carry the risk of side effects which can be quite severe, such as heart disease, digestive disorders, ulcers and liver damage. This is especially true with long-term use. Make sure you are aware of the risks and discuss alternatives with your doctor if you are unhappy with his proposed medication.

Also keep in mind the risk of addiction with certain long-term medications.

It is important to understand that medicines usually manage pain rather than cure the cause. This is especially true of degenerative conditions.

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is often prescribed along with medication to alleviate shoulder pain. A wide variety of treatments from heat therapy to massage are offered by registered physiotherapists, with a wide range of success being reported, from excellent to fair. Physiotherapy is most helpful in treating shoulder pain so as to prevent frozen shoulder, when the patient stops using the shoulder due to pain and then the muscles seize up, compounding the problem.

Alternative Therapies

For those patients who prefer a more natural approach there is a wide range of alternative treatments available for shoulder pain. These methods of treating shoulder pain are generally more conservative than the standard medical approach, and often just as, if not more, effective.

You can choose from Acupuncture, Chiropractic Massage Therapy and Naprapathy. Check that the practitioners are registered and properly qualified. Many doctors now happily refer their patients to alternative professionals themselves.

Shoulder Pain Surgery

If all else fails you may be faced with the option of surgery. This should always be a last resort, as the results are not guaranteed. Surgery offers limited relief for certain conditions. Also, there are some risks to be taken into consideration. Discuss all your options with your surgeon before making the decision to go ahead with this option.

About The Author

Francois Botha is the developer of Shoulder Institute Cape Town, a website covering http://www.shoulderinstitute.co.za, http://www.shoulderinstitute.co.za/shoulder1.html, shoulder treatments and more.

Acne Scarring

2006-12-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

by: Len Cecchetto

The news is, acne scarring is permanent but can be treated. A final solution for your acne scarring is to have major plastic surgery. Most sever acne is NOT controlled by food, cleanliness, or OTC meds.

However, acne scarring is commonly more significant than this. Acne Scarring is visible markings, lumps or indentations on the skin's surface resulting from scar tissue which has formed as part of the healing proc. The only way to completely prevent acne scarring is by properly treating acne lesions as soon as they form.

The most effective way to prevent acne scarring is to leave the acne alone, however this doesn’t mean you can’t seek expert advice on how best to treat your acne. Acne scarring is most often the result of self-excoriate behavior such as the tendency to pick or squeeze the pimples.

Moderate to sever acne include: nodules, cysts, rosacea and conglobata. For moderate to sever acne, it is advisable to consult with a dermatologist.

Oral Antibiotics:

These are available by prescription for moderate to sever acne. A new topical treatment of moderate to sever acne can help and it’s best to ask your dermatologist first.

Physicians say that the scarring itself represents only a small part of the actual damage.

Acne suffers are aware that where there is acne there will be scarring as well. Many people have the common pimple or breakout, but for a few of the unlucky acne sufferers, acne can cause scarring. Any scarring will improve with time.

Doctors advise people not to squeeze acne themselves, because scarring can result.

Adjacent, no overlapping laser pulses are delivered over the scars. The ultra pulsed carbon dioxide laser, the erbium YAG laser and the pulsed dye yellow light laser are most commonly used for treating acne scarring.

For the improvement of facial acne scarring: a systematic review of the evidence check out Laser resurfacing of the skin The Harmony Pixel Laser is proving to be highly effective in the treatment of acne scarring.

Numerous medical studies have documented the effectiveness of Nd:YAG laser treatments for acne scarring. Acne scar laser treatment is administered by experienced medical staff who have been properly trained in this area. Laser therapy for acne and acne scarring works by targeting the sebaceous, oily glands that cause bacterial entrapment.

Scar reduction is one of the most common uses of laser skin resurfacing. Recent research shows Acne Rosacea can be successfully treated with yellow laser with no side effects. The erbium laser typically is used to produce superficial resurfacing.

Laser skin resurfacing has added to the numerous treatment options available for acne scarring. The latest treatment options for acne scarring are lasers, such as the pulsed carbon dioxide (CO2) laser and the Erbium:YAG laser. There are many treatment options for those who suffer from chronic consistent acne.

The good news is that there are numerous treatment options now available to treat acne scarring. Fortunately there are topical treatment options, depending on the kind of scarring. The first thing to do is to get good advice about the options.

Laser treatment is one of the newer options for getting rid of acne. As with any surgery, it is important to understand the options and procedures. Laser resurfacing is a recent addition to the armamentarium of options for acne scarring. Electrolysis and laser are the best options. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

However, acne scarring is commonly more significant than this. One more cause of acne scarring is the pinching and squeezing of acne. A final solution for your acne scarring is to have major plastic surgery. Acne scarring is one of the most embarrassing skin problems faced by many, but help is out there, so make the most of it.

Acne scarring is permanent but can be treated. The only way to completely prevent acne scarring is by properly treating acne lesions as soon as they form. Acne scarring is almost as embarrassing as actual pimples.

Acne scarring is one of the great misfortunes of many people, young and old. For the lucky majority, acne scarring is a minor annoyance, difficult for others to visualize. Acne scarring is what most teenagers and adults fear. Acne scarring is the end result of the body's healing process.

About The Author

Len Cecchetto has written lots of articles about acne. He suffered as a kid and has had a keen interested in the development of cures over the years. You can find out more at: http://howtorid-acne.blogspot.com

Stroke: Stroke Damage Treatment- Paralysis and Energy Healing

2006-12-04T06:38:00.000-08:00

by: Brent Atwater

Suddenly you feel a portion of your body pause, loose sensation and stop functioning correctly. Your eyes may see double, your tongue might tingle, and your arm or leg may drag for few minutes. If these symptoms continue for a few minutes (15-20) you are having a stroke. Those are the symptoms of a TIA or Transient Ischemic Attack, known as a mini stroke. The sneaky part is that in both a TIA and a lesser stroke, the symptoms come and go for the lucky individual. If you can't produce an even smile on both sides of your face, remember the date, or have continued numbness on one side of your body, go to the hospital emergency room immediately. You have a 3-hour window to have an opportunity to reverse any major damage.

For those who exhibit and experience major impairment and who are unable to obtain immediate treatment, stroke damage may result in paralysis, nerve damage, and other dehabilitating symptoms. The good news is, usually in time, you can have some form of restored function in the areas of your body that were initially damaged.

Acupuncture has recently been providing significant restorative results by improving some physical functions for stroke victims. According to CBC News, "The functional electrical stimulation rowing machine, developed by researchers in Edmonton and England, helps people with disabilities (paraplegics and others) enjoy the benefits of regular exercise."

As a medical intuitive and distance energy healer, energy healing is another modality that provides electromagnetic stimulation and shows great promise in treating and curing stroke damage and regenerating damaged nerves. By using directed electromagnetic bio molecular energy healing, we can reframe bio structures, ie nerve impulse generators and their neural pathways that direct your body's physical functions to their initial blueprint of health. Neural pathways can be restructured so that those with paralysis can move their legs or arms. Numb extremities can be revived and regenerated to sensation.

In several clients with stroke complications, after their cellular and neural connections were restored and regenerated, physical therapy was used to restrengthen their muscles that had weakened due to lack of use during the early stages of their rehabilitation. To date, various stroke symptoms and complications can be lessened or reversed with energy healing.

Energy healing is cutting edge and is being clinically researched as a healing modality that shows great promise in assisting and restoring the physical health of those who have experienced a stroke.

Feel free to reprint this article in its original format.

Contact Information:
Brent Atwater, Alternative Medical Specialist
Medical Intuitive, Distance Energy Healing
ATL, GA Phone: 404.242.9022 USA
NC Phone: 910.692.5206 USA
Website: http://www.brentatwater.com/
Email: mailto:Brent@BrentAtwater.com

Disclaimer: Brent Atwater is not a medical doctor or associated with any branch of medicine. Brent works in Alternative & Integrative Medicine. She offers her opinions based on her intuition, and her personal energy healing work, which is not a substitute for medical procedures or treatments. Always consult a physician or trained health care professional concerning any medical problem or condition before undertaking any diet, health related or lifestyle change programs. As in traditional medicine, there are no guarantees with medical intuition or energy work.

About The Author

Brent Atwater: Medical Intuitive, Energy Healing: As an alternative medical specialist (CAM), her international evidence based Medical Intuitive & Distance Energy Healing work is published and has been studied by & or documented at Duke, the ARE, & for animals by the NCSU's Vet school. She participates in research & Clinical trials. ARTIST: An artist 30+yrs, Brent is a pioneer in healing art by scientifically documenting Paintings that Heal™. Her art was featured on "PBS". At 16, NC Museum of Art chose her painting for the permanent collection. She founded Just Plain Love™ Charitable Trust to benefit children. AUTHOR: Just Plain Love™ Children's Healing Books. The books are translated into plays performed in children's healthcare facilities turning illness negatives into positives. "Cancer Kids, God's Special Children". "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations, & Actions for Overcoming Your Health Challenges", & "Positive Attitudes, Affirmations & Actions to Help Survive Your Cancer Experience". Brent attended Wake Forest Law School and is a minister.

The Differences Between Anorexia And Bulimia

2006-12-04T06:37:00.000-08:00

by: Rob Zawrotny

The distinctions between eating disorders can be confusing. While anorexia and bulimia may have some issues in common, other factors make them distinct. For parents, understanding the differences can be crucial, as early detection and proper treatment significantly improve the chances a child will recover. Following is information to help distinguish between the two.

Definition:

Anorexia is more common in teenagers, while bulimia is more often seen in women in their 20’s. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking there is a set age for either of these diseases. Here are differences between anorexia and bulimia based on the American Psychiatric Association’s definition:

Bulimia Nervosa

•Recurrent episodes of binge eating (minimum average of two binge-eating episodes a week for at least three months).
•A feeling of lack of control over eating during the binges.
•Regular use of one or more of the following to prevent weight gain: self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, strict dieting or fasting, or vigorous exercise.
•Persistent over-concern with body shape and weight.

Anorexia Nervosa

•Refusal to maintain weight that's over the lowest weight considered normal for age and height.
•Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, even though underweight.
•Distorted body image.
•In women, three consecutive missed menstrual periods without pregnancy.

Signs & Symptoms:

While both disorders focus on an obsession with thinness, anorexics display noticeable, often severe weight loss while bulimics usually maintain a healthy weight. Here are other signs and symptoms of these two eating disorders:

Anorexia
•Avoids eating
•Exercises excessively
•Weighs food and counts calories
•Wears baggy clothes
•Takes diet pills
•Has dry skin and thinning hair
•Has fine hair on other parts of body
•Acts moody or depressed
•Feels cold
•Has frequent sensation of dizziness

Bulimia
•Has a puffy face
•Exercises excessively
•Has swollen fingers
•Has cuts and calluses on the back of the hands and knuckles
•Discoloring or staining of teeth
•Goes to the bathroom a lot after eating (to purge)

Health Issues:
Both disorders can cause severe health issues. Bulimia damages the digestive system and can affect electrolyte balances, which in turn damages organs. The starvation of anorexia causes the body to slow down to preserve energy, which in turn has adverse consequences. In extreme cases, both can lead to death. Other health issues include:

Anorexia
•Reduction of bone density
•Cessation of menstrual periods
•Fatigue
•Depression
•Irregular heart rate, leading to possible heart failure
•Mild anemia
•Muscle loss
•Possible kidney failure due to dehydration
•Low blood pressure

Bulimia
•Possible rupture of the esophagus due to frequent vomiting
•Fatigue
•Depression
•Stomach pains
•Irregular heart rate, leading to possible heart failure
•Constipation
•Tooth decay from stomach acid

Treatment:
When seeking treatment, parents may find their child resists admitting they are ill. In dealing with a child suffering from an eating disorder, treatment for involves a team of specialists: doctors, dieticians, and therapists. Self-help groups and treatment centers are also effective. Following are treatment goals and options for anorexia and bulimia, based on recommendations from the National Institute of Mental Health:

Anorexia: The treatment of anorexia has three main phases:
•Restore weight loss
•Treat psychological issues such as depression, self-esteem, and interpersonal conflicts
•Achieve long-term recovery and remission

The use of anti-depressants for treating anorexia should be considered only after weight gain has been established.

Bulimia: The main goal in the treatment of bulimia is to eliminate binging and purging.
•Establish healthy and consistent eating habits, i.e. three meals a day at regular times
•Encourage healthy, not excessive, exercise
•Treat psychological issues such as mood or anxiety disorders

The use of anti-depressants for treating bulimia has been shown to be helpful for those with bulimia and may help prevent relapse.

About The Author

Rob Zawrotny is a copywriter for MWI web design. He has been assisting Avalon Hills Eating Disorder Treatment Center in developing content for those seeking information about Anorexia and Bulimia. Visit http://www.avalonhills.org for more information.

Zyrtec

2006-11-17T08:15:00.004-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zyrtec?
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Zyrtec.

What is Zyrtec?
• Zyrtec is an antihistamine. Antihistamines prevent sneezing, runny nose, itching and watering of the eyes, and other allergic symptoms.
• Zyrtec is used to treat allergies, hives (urticaria), and other allergic inflammatory conditions.
• Zyrtec may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take Zyrtec?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease. You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during your therapy with Zyrtec.
• Zyrtec is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Zyrtec passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take Zyrtec without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Zyrtec. You may require a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take Zyrtec?
• Take Zyrtec exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Zyrtec can be taken with or without food.
• Zyrtec is usually taken once daily. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Store Zyrtec at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a Zyrtec overdose are not well known, but extreme sleepiness, confusion, and weakness may be expected.

What should I avoid while taking Zyrtec?
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zyrtec may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Zyrtec.

What are the possible side effects of Zyrtec?
• Stop taking Zyrtec and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zyrtec and talk to your doctor if you experience
· sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness;
· headache; or
· dry mouth.
• 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 Zyrtec?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· medications for anxiety or sleep such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), temazepam (Restoril), or triazolam (Halcion);
· medications for depression such as amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), or paroxetine (Paxil);
· other cough, cold, or allergy medicines; or
· any other medications that cause drowsiness, sleepiness, or relaxation.
• Heavy sedation may occur if Zyrtec is taken with any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zyrtec. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Zyprexa

2006-11-17T08:15:00.003-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zyprexa?
• Zyprexa is not for use in psychotic conditions that are related to dementia. Zyprexa has caused fatal heart attack and stroke in older adults with dementia-related conditions.
• Zyprexa may cause you to have high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Talk to your doctor if you have any signs of hyperglycemia such as increased thirst or urination, excessive hunger, or weakness. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis while you are taking Zyprexa.
• Do not stop taking Zyprexa without first talking to your doctor. It may be at least 4 weeks before you begin to feel better, and you may need to take the medication for longer than 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions. It is important to take Zyprexa regularly to get the most benefit.
• Do not take Zyprexa for longer than 8 weeks unless your doctor has told you to.
• Zyprexa can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
• Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Zyprexa.
• Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Zyprexa.
• Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking Zyprexa.

What is Zyprexa?
• Zyprexa is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in the brain.
• Zyprexa is used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (manic depression).
• Zyprexa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zyprexa?
• Zyprexa is not for use in psychotic conditions that are related to dementia. Zyprexa has caused fatal heart attack and stroke in older adults with dementia-related conditions.
• Before taking Zyprexa, tell your doctor if you have:
· liver disease;
· kidney disease;
· heart disease, high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems;
· a history of heart attack or stroke;
· a history of breast cancer;
· seizures or epilepsy;
· a personal or family history of diabetes;
· an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating;
· glaucoma; or
· trouble swallowing.
• If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Zyprexa, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
• Zyprexa may cause you to have high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Talk to your doctor if you have any signs of hyperglycemia such as increased thirst or urination, excessive hunger, or weakness. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis while you are taking Zyprexa.
• The olanzapine orally disintegrating tablet (Zyprexa Zydis) may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of Zyprexa if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
• FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
• Zyprexa 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.

How should I take Zyprexa?
• 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.
• Do not take Zyprexa for longer than 8 weeks unless your doctor has told you to.
• Take each tablet with a full glass of water.
• Zyprexa can be taken with or without food.
• Zyprexa is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• To take Zyprexa orally disintegrating tablets (Zyprexa Zydis):
· 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.
· 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.
• It is important to take Zyprexa regularly to get the most benefit.
• Do not stop taking Zyprexa without first talking to your doctor. It may be at least 4 weeks before you begin to feel better, and you may need to take the medication for longer than 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions. It is important to take Zyprexa regularly to get the most benefit.
• To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
• Store Zyprexa 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. Symptoms of an Zyprexa overdose may include drowsiness, agitation, aggression, slurred speech, confusion, increased heart rate, jerky or uncontrolled muscle movements, trouble breathing, or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking Zyprexa?
• Zyprexa can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
• Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Zyprexa.
• Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Zyprexa.
• Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather and during exercise. It is easier to become dangerously overheated and dehydrated while you are taking Zyprexa.

What are the possible side effects of Zyprexa?
• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using Zyprexa and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
· fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
· jerky muscle movements you cannot control;
· sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
· sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
· increased thirst, frequent urination, excessive hunger, or weakness;
· feeling light-headed, fainting; or
· unusual thoughts or behavior, hallucinations, or thoughts about hurting yourself.
• Continue taking Zyprexa and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
· dizziness, drowsiness, or weakness;
· constipation;
· dry mouth;
· swelling in your hands or feet;
· back pain;
· weight gain, increased appetite; or
· upset stomach.
• 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 Zyprexa?
• Before taking Zyprexa, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· a medication to treat high blood pressure or a heart condition;
· carbamazepine (Tegretol);
· fluvoxamine (Luvox); or
· a medication to treat Parkinson's disease including levodopa (Sinemet, Larodopa, Atamet), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), and others.
• If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use Zyprexa, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
• There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Zyprexa. 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.

Zomig

2006-11-17T08:15:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zomig?
• Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you have heart disease including angina (chest pain), history of a heart attack, or high blood pressure. Serious, even fatal, side effects involving the heart have been reported with Zomig and other similar medicines.
• Do not take Zomig if the headache you are experiencing is not like other migraines that you have had.
• Never take more of this medication than is prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms are not being treated, contact your doctor.
• Zomig may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities until you can evaluate the effects of the medication.

What is Zomig?
• Zomig is a headache medicine. It is believed to work by causing vasoconstriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (arteries and veins) around the brain. Zomig also reduces the release of substances in the body that contribute to headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and other migraine symptoms.
• Zomig is used to treat vascular headaches such as migraines. Zomig will not prevent migraines. It will only treat a migraine that is already occurring.
• Zomig may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zomig?
• Do not take Zomig without first talking to your doctor if you
· have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days;
· have taken an ergot-based medication within the last 24 hours--ergot-based medicines include methysergide (Sansert), ergotamine (Ergostat, Medihaler Ergotamine), dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E., Migranal Nasal Spray), and ergotamine combination products (Cafergot, Ercaf, Wigraine, Cafatine, Cafatine-PB, Cafetrate);
· have taken almotriptan (Axert), eletriptan (Relpax), frovatriptan (Frova), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT), or sumatriptan (Imitrex) within the last 24 hours;
· have basilar or hemiplegic migraine headaches;
· have had a heart attack, have angina (chest pain), have irregular heartbeats, or have another type of heart disease;
· have a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA or "mini-stroke");
· are experiencing a headache that is not like other migraines you have had; or
· have an allergy to Zomig or another similar medicine such as almotriptan (Axert), eletriptan (Relpax), frovatriptan (Frova), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), or sumatriptan (Imitrex).
• Taking Zomig may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions, or have taken any of the medications, listed above.
• Before taking Zomig, tell your doctor if you have
· risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol (a type of fat in the blood), are overweight, have diabetes, smoke cigarettes, are postmenopausal, or are a male over 40 years of age;
· liver disease;
· kidney disease; or
· seizures or epilepsy.
• You may not be able to take Zomig, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Each 2.5 mg Zomig-ZMT orally disintegrating tablet contains 2.81 mg phenylalanine. Each 5 mg Zomig-ZMT tablet contains 5.62 mg phenylalanine. Individuals with phenylketonuria may need to monitor their intake of this additive.
• Zomig is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Zomig will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Zomig passes into human breast milk. Do not take Zomig without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Zomig?
• Take Zomig exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take Zomig as soon as you notice symptoms of a migraine, or at any time during an attack.
• Take one or one-half regular Zomig tablet with a glass of water, as directed by your doctor.
• Administration with liquid is not necessary for the Zomig-ZMT orally disintegrating tablets. Just prior to taking a dose, peel open the blister pack and place the tablet on the tongue, where it will dissolve and be swallowed with the saliva. The Zomig-ZMT tablets should not be broken.
• Use the nasal spray as directed by your healthcare provider. Blow your nose gently before use. Remove the protective cap just before use. Hold the nasal sprayer device with your fingers and thumb. Do not press the plunger until you have put the tip of the device into your nostril. Block one nostril by pressing on the side of the nose with your finger. Either nostril can be used. Put the tip of the sprayer into the other nostril as far as feels comfortable and tilt your head slightly back. Breathe in gently through the nose and press the plunger firmly with your thumb at the same time. Keep your head slightly tilted back and remove the tip from your nose. Breathe gently through your mouth for 5-10 seconds. You may feel liquid in your nose or the back of your throat. This is normal and will soon pass.
• If your symptoms do not improve, contact your doctor before taking any more doses of Zomig.
• If your symptoms go away and then return, you can take a another dose of Zomig every 2 hours, if needed, up to a maximum of 10 mg in 24 hours unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Never take more than this amount. Any single form or combination of Zomig regular tablets, orally-disintegrating tablets, and nasal spray should not exceed 10 mg in 24 hours.
• Store Zomig at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and the reach of children. Throw away an unused medication on the expiration date.

What happens if I miss a dose of Zomig?
• Since Zomig is taken to treat migraines as they occur and not to prevent them, missing a dose does not usually occur. Take only the doses you need, according to your doctor's instructions.

What happens if I overdose with Zomig?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Zomig overdose are not well known but may include sedation.

What should I avoid while taking Zomig?
• Zomig may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities until you can evaluate the effects of the medication.

What are the possible side effects of Zomig?
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zomig and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· severe or prolonged chest pain or an irregular heartbeat;
· chest, neck, or jaw pain, tightness, or heaviness;
· sudden or severe stomach pain;
· problems seeing; or
· unusual weakness or numbness.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zomig and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dry mouth;
· unusual taste in the mouth;
· nausea;
· muscle tiredness or weakness;
· tightness, heaviness, or pressure on a body part (other than the chest, neck, or jaw);
· drowsiness or dizziness; or
· tingling, tightness, warmth, or heaviness in a body part.
• 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 Zomig?
• Do not take Zomig if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) within the last 14 days. The combination could cause seizures, nausea, vomiting, sweating, flushing, and dizziness.
• Do not take Zomig if you have taken any of the following medicines within the previous 24 hours:
· an ergot-based medication such as methysergide (Sansert), ergotamine (Ergostat, Medihaler Ergotamine), dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E., Migranal Nasal Spray), an ergotamine combination product (Cafergot, Ercaf, Wigraine, Cafatine, Cafatine-PB, Cafetrate), and others; or
· almotriptan (Axert), frovatriptan (Frova), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT), or sumatriptan (Imitrex).
• Taking Zomig within 24 hours of any of the medicines listed above may be dangerous.
• Before taking Zomig, tell your doctor if you are taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft). You may not be able to take Zomig, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed.
• Before taking Zomig, talk to your doctor if you are taking cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB). You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zomig. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Zoloft

2006-11-17T08:14:00.003-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zoloft?
You may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior at the start of treatment with an antidepressant medication, especially if you are under 18 years old. Talk with your doctor about this risk. While you are taking Zoloft you will need to be monitored for worsening symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts during the first weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. In addition to you watching for changes in your own symptoms, your family or other caregivers should be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

Contact your doctor promptly if you have any of the following side effects, especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation, aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical hyperactivity), thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself. Do not take Zoloft together with pimozide (Orap), or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate). You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAOI before you can take Zoloft. After you stop taking Zoloft, you must wait at least 14 days before you start taking an MAOI. SSRI antidepressants may cause serious or life-threatening lung problems in newborn babies whose mothers take the medication during pregnancy. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking Zoloft, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor.

What is Zoloft?
Zoloft is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Zoloft is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zoloft?
You may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior at the start of treatment with an antidepressant medication, especially if you are under 18 years old. Talk with your doctor about this risk. While you are taking Zoloft you will need to be monitored for worsening symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts during the first weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. In addition to you watching for changes in your own symptoms, your family or other caregivers should be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks.

Do not use Zoloft if you are using pimozide (Orap), or an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), or selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam). Serious and sometimes fatal reactions can occur when these medicines are taken with Zoloft. You must wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAO inhibitor before you can take Zoloft. After you stop taking Zoloft, you must wait at least 14 days before you start taking an MAOI.
Before taking Zoloft, tell your doctor if you have:

liver or kidney disease;
seizures or epilepsy;

bipolar disorder (manic depression); or

a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts.

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

FDA pregnancy category C. SSRI antidepressants may cause serious or life-threatening lung problems in newborn babies whose mothers take the medication during pregnancy. However, you may have a relapse of depression if you stop taking your antidepressant during pregnancy. If you are planning a pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking Zoloft, do not stop taking the medication without first talking to your doctor. It is not known whether Zoloft passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Zoloft?
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. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from the medication.

Take each tablet with water.
Zoloft may be taken with or without food.

Try to take the medicine at the same time each day. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

The oral liquid form of this medicine must be diluted before you take it. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with medicine dropper provided, not with a regular table spoon. Mix the dose with 4 ounces (one-half cup) of water, ginger ale, lemon/lime soda, lemonade, or orange juice. Do not use any other liquids to dilute the medicine. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

It may take 4 weeks or longer before you start feeling better. Do not stop using Zoloft without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly. Store Zoloft at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of Zoloft?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose with Zoloft?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have taken too much of this medication. Symptoms of a Zoloft overdose may include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, agitation, tremor, confusion, seizures, and coma.

What should I avoid while taking Zoloft?
Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Zoloft.
Do not take the liquid form of Zoloft if you are taking disulfiram (Antabuse). Liquid Zoloft may contain alcohol and you could have a severe reaction to the disulfiram.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, other medication for depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by Zoloft.

Zoloft can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What are the possible side effects of Zoloft?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Contact your doctor promptly if you have any of the following side effects, especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation, aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical hyperactivity), thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

seizure (convulsions);

tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching;

problems with balance or coordination; or

agitation, confusion, sweating, fast heartbeat.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

feeling nervous, restless, or unable to sit still;

drowsiness, dizziness, weakness;

sleep problems (insomnia);

nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight; or

decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.

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 Zoloft?
Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine for pain, arthritis, fever, or swelling. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), diclofenac (Voltaren), indomethacin, piroxicam (Feldene), nabumetone (Relafen), etodolac (Lodine), and others. Taking any of these drugs with Zoloft may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.

Before taking Zoloft, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following medicines:

tramadol (Ultram, Ultram ER, Ultracet);

digitoxin (Crystodigin);

phenytoin (Dilantin), valproate (Depacon, Depakene);

lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

any other antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), or paroxetine (Paxil);

almotriptan (Axert), frovatriptan (Frova), sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), or zolmitriptan (Zomig); or

heart rhythm medication such as flecainide (Tambocor), propafenone (Rhythmol), and others.

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

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Zoloft. 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 on Zoloft?
Your pharmacist has additional information about Zoloft written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Sertraline is available with a prescription under the brand name Zoloft. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Zoloft 25 mg-capsule-shaped, green, film-coated, scored tablets

Zoloft 50 mg--capsule-shaped, light-blue, film-coated, scored tablets

Zoloft 100 mg--capsule-shaped, light-yellow, film-coated, scored tablets

Zoloft Oral Concentrate 20 mg/mL-clear, colorless solution with a menthol scent

Zocor

2006-11-17T08:14:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zocor?
• Rare cases of muscle problems and liver problems have been associated with the use of Zocor and other similar medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or flulike symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, dark colored urine or pale colored stools. These may be early symptoms of muscle or liver problems.
• Do not take Zocor without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.
• Alcohol and Zocor can both be damaging to the liver. Alcohol should be used only in moderation. Discuss the use of alcohol with your doctor so that the potential for liver problems can be determined.
• Do not take Zocor if you are pregnant, could become pregnant during treatment, or if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What is Zocor?
• Zocor is an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor. Zocor blocks the production of cholesterol (a type of fat) in the body.
• Zocor is used to reduce the total amounts of cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides (another type of fat), and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in your blood. Zocor (Zocor) is also used to increase the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. These actions may reduce the risk of hardening of the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
• Zocor may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zocor?
• Do not take Zocor without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.
• Before taking Zocor, tell your doctor if you
· have kidney disease,
· drink alcoholic beverages,
· have a chronic muscular disease, or
· have a blood disorder.
• You may not be able to take Zocor, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Zocor is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Zocor is known to cause birth defects if it is taken during pregnancy. Do not take Zocor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Zocor passes into breast milk. Do not take Zocor without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Zocor?
• Take Zocor exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• For the greatest effect, Zocor is usually taken at bedtime or with an evening meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Your doctor may want to monitor your liver function with blood tests before starting treatment with Zocor and every six months after both the start of your treatment and any increase in dose. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor can determine how much monitoring you will require.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Zocor. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
• Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. To realize beneficial effects from Zocor, avoid fatty, high-cholesterol foods.
• It is important to take Zocor regularly to get the most benefit.
• Do not stop taking Zocor without first talking to your doctor. Zocor may need to be taken on a long-term basis for the treatment of high cholesterol.
• Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with Zocor to monitor progress and side effects.
• Store Zocor at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Zocor overdose include nausea, diarrhea, stomach distress, and indigestion.

What should I avoid while taking Zocor?
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Zocor. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
• Alcohol and Zocor can both be damaging to the liver. Alcohol should be used only in moderation. Discuss the use of alcohol with your doctor so that the potential for liver problems can be determined.

What are the possible side effects of Zocor?
• Rare cases of muscle problems and liver problems have been associated with the use of Zocor and other similar medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or flulike symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, dark colored urine or pale colored stools. These may be early symptoms of muscle or liver problems.
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Zocor and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· decreased urine or rust-colored urine; or
· blurred vision.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Zocor and talk to your doctor if you experience
· gas, bloating, nausea, stomach upset, heartburn, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea;
· cough;
· headache; or
· insomnia.
• 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 Zocor?
• Do not take Zocor without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral);
· gemfibrozil (Lopid), clofibrate (Atromid-S), or fenofibrate (Tricor);
· niacin (Nicolar, Nicobid, Slo-Niacin, others);
· erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Ery-Tab, others) or clarithromycin (Biaxin);
· cholestyramine (Questran) or colestipol (Colestid);
· an antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox), fluconazole (Diflucan), or ketoconazole (Nizoral);
· nefazodone (Serzone);
· digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
· warfarin (Coumadin);
· a protease inhibitor such as amprenavir (Agenerase), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir), lopinavir-ritonavir (Kaletra), or saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase);
· amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacer one); or
· verapamil (Calan, Covera-HS, Isoptin, Verelan).
• You may not be able to take Zocor, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zocor. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Zithromax

2006-11-17T08:12:00.002-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zithromax?
• Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics.
• There are many other medicines that can interact with Zithromax. 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.
• Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zithromax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
• Take Zithromax on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
• Do not take Zithromax at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids can make Zithromax less effective when taken at the same time.

What is Zithromax?
• Zithromax is in a group of drugs called macrolide antibiotics. Zithromax fights bacteria in the body.
• Zithromax is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Zithromax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zithromax?
• Do not use Zithromax if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or similar drugs such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), clarithromycin (Biaxin), or other macrolide antibiotics.
• Before taking Zithromax, tell your doctor if you have:
· liver disease;
· kidney disease;
· a heart rhythm disorder; or
· a history of Long QT syndrome.
• If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Zithromax, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
• FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Zithromax passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Zithromax?
• 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. The dose and length of treatment with Zithromax may not be the same for every type of infection.
• Take each tablet or capsule with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
• To use the oral suspension single dose packet: Open the packet and pour the medicine into 2 ounces of water. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. To make sure you get the entire dose, add a little more water to the same glass, swirl gently and drink right away.
• Zithromax capsules must be taken on an empty stomach. Take the capsule at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating a meal
• Zithromax tablets or powder oral suspension may be taken with or without food. Take the tablet or oral suspension with food if the medicine upsets your stomach.
• Do not take Zithromax at the same time as taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium. This includes Rolaids, Maalox, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia, Pepcid Complete, and others. These antacids can make Zithromax less effective when taken at the same time.
• Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
• Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Zithromax will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.
• It is important to take Zithromax regularly to get the most benefit.
• Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Throw away any unused liquid medicine after 10 days.

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.
• Symptoms of an Zithromax overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort.

What should I avoid while taking Zithromax?
• Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or has blood in it, call your doctor. Do not use any medicine to stop the diarrhea unless your doctor has told you to.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Zithromax can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

What are the possible side effects of Zithromax?
• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using Zithromax and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
· diarrhea that is watery or bloody;
· chest pain, uneven heartbeats; or
· nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Continue using Zithromax and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
· mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain;
· dizziness, tired feeling, or headache;
· vaginal itching or discharge; or
· mild itching or skin rash.
• 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 Zithromax?
• Do not take antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of taking Zithromax.
• Before taking Zithromax, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
· nelfinavir (Viracept);
· digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
· ergot medicine such as methysergide (Sansert), ergotamine (Ergostat, Medihaler, Cafergot, Ercaf, Wigraine), dihydroergotamine mesylate (D.H.E., Migranal Nasal Spray);
· triazolam (Halcion);
· carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol);
· cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune);
· phenytoin (Dilantin);
· cholesterol-lowering medicines such as lovastatin (Mevacor), atorvastatin (Lipitor), or cerivastatin (Baycol);
· a calcium channel blocker such as diltiazem (Cartia XT, Diltiazem, Tiazac), felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), nimodipine (Nimotop), verapamil (Calan, Covera-HS);
· HIV medicines such as indinavir (Crixivan), ritonavir (Norvir), saquinavir (Invirase);
· alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion);
· theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Theochron);
· warfarin (Coumadin);
· pimozide (Orap); or
· another antibiotic, especially clarithromycin (Biaxin) or erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S, Ery-Tab).
• If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use Zithromax, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
• There are many other medicines that can interact with Zithromax. 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.

Zetia

2006-11-17T08:12:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Zetia?
• Do not stop taking Zetia unless directed to do so by your doctor. It may be weeks or months before beneficial effects are seen from this medication.

What is Zetia?
• Zetia reduces the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the body.
• Zetia is used to reduce the amount of total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in the blood. Zetia is used with a low cholesterol diet and, in some cases, other cholesterol lowering medications.
• Zetia may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Zetia?
• Before taking Zetia tell your doctor if you
· have liver disease;
· are taking another cholesterol-lowering medication; or
· have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
• You may not be able to take Zetia, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
• Zetia is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Zetia will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Zetiawithout first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Zetia passes into breast milk. Do not take Zetia without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Zetia?
• Take Zetia exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Take Zetia once a day with or without food. It may be easier to remember to take the medication if you take it at the same time every day.
• Zetia should be taken 2 hours before or 4 hours after a bile acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, Questran), colestipol (Colestid), or colesevelam (Welchol).
• Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. To see beneficial effects from Zetia avoid fatty, high-cholesterol foods.
• Your doctor may want to monitor cholesterol levels, liver function, or other factors with blood tests before starting and during treatment with Zetia. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor can determine how much monitoring you will require.
• Do not stop taking Zetia unless directed to do so by your doctor. It may be weeks or months before beneficial effects are seen from this medication.
• Store Zetia at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of Zetia?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose with Zetia?
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of an Zetia overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking Zetia?
• Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. To see beneficial effects from Zetia avoid fatty, high-cholesterol foods.

What are the possible side effects of Zetia?
• If you experience an uncommon allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives), stop taking Zetia and seek emergency medical attention.
• Other, less serious side effects have also been reported, although uncommon. Continue to take Zetia and talk to your doctor if you experience
· abdominal pain;
· diarrhea; or
· tiredness.
• 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 Zetia?
• Before taking Zetia, tell your doctor if you are taking:
· another medicine to lower cholesterol such as gemfibrozil (Lopid), fenofibrate (Tricor), clofibrate (Atromid-S), atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol), lovastatin (Altocor, Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), or simvastatin (Zocor).
· cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral, Gengraf).
• You may not be able to take Zetia, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medications listed above.
• Zetia should be taken 2 hours before or 4 hours after a bile acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, Questran), colestipol (Colestid), or colesevelam (Welchol).
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with cholestyramine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Yasmin

2006-11-17T08:11:00.002-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Yasmin?
• This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
• Yasmin will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV or AIDS.
• Avoid smoking cigarettes while taking Yasmin. Smoking greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clot.
• Drospirenone may raise potassium levels in your blood. Other medical conditions can also affect potassium levels. Before using Yasmin, tell your doctor about all of your current and past medical conditions, and about all the medicines you use.
• Many other drugs can interact with Yasmin and make this medication less effective, increasing your risk of unintended pregnancy. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use, including vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors.
• Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you feel short of breath, have sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden headache, confusion, or problems with vision, speech, or balance.
• Call your doctor right away if you have a breast lump, unusual vaginal bleeding, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

What is Yasmin?
• Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol are female hormones involved in conception.
• Yasmin is used to prevent pregnancy. This medication works by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary).
• Yasmin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Yasmin
• Drospirenone may raise potassium levels in your blood. Other medical conditions can also affect potassium levels. Before using Yasmin, tell your doctor if you have any of the following:
· a history of liver disease;
· a history of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) during a pregnancy or while using birth control pills;
· kidney disease;
· adrenal insufficiency;
· hemophilia or other bleeding disorder;
· unusual vaginal bleeding; or
· any type of breast, uterine, or hormone-dependent cancer.
• Certain medicines can also affect potassium levels. Tell your doctor if you use any of the following drugs:
· heparin;
· aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), indomethacin, naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene);
· a diuretic ("water pill") such as spironolactone (Aldactone), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), amiloride (Midamor), or eplerenone (Inspra);
· a potassium supplement such as Klor-Con, K-Dur, K-Tab;
· an ACE inhibitor such as benazepril (Lotensin), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), enalapril (Vasotec); or
· blood pressure medicine such as candesartan (Atacand), losartan (Cozaar), telmisartan (Micardis).
• If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be able to use Yasmin, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment:
· high blood pressure, angina, heart disease, high cholesterol or triglycerides;
· a history of stroke or blood clot;
· liver or kidney disease;
· asthma;
· epilepsy;
· migraines, depression;
· diabetes;
· gallbladder disease;
· uterine fibroids; or
· you have had a hysterectomy (uterus removed).
• FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.
• Yasmin may affect breast milk. Do not take Yasmin without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Yasmin?
• Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
• Take the first pill in a package on the first day of your period or on the first Sunday after your period begins as directed by your doctor.
• Take one pill every day, no more than 24 hours apart. Try to take the pills at the same time each day to help you remember.
• Taking the pill at night may reduce noticeable side effects such as headache or nausea.
• If you are on a 28-day cycle, take one pill every day. When the pack runs out, throw it away. Begin a new pack the following day. The 28-day cycle contains seven pills that are placebos (with no active ingredients). These are "reminder" pills to keep you on a regular cycle. You will take them while you are on your period.
• You may need to use a backup method of birth control when you first start taking drosperinone and ethinyl estradiol or if you miss a pill. You may also need another form of birth control whenever you use certain other medicines. Some drugs can make birth control pills less effective and you could become pregnant. Follow your doctor's instructions for using a second form of birth control if you have any of these situations.
• See your doctor yearly for physical exams. Check your breasts for lumps monthly while you are taking Yasmin. Your doctor may also want to test the potassium levels in your blood. It is important that you not miss any scheduled appointments with your doctor.
• Yasmin will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases--including HIV or AIDS.
• Store Yasmin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Missing a pill increases your risk of becoming pregnant. Follow the directions on the patient information sheet provided with your medicine. If you do not have an information sheet, call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.
• If you miss one yellow "active" pill, take the dose as soon as you remember or take two pills at the time of your next regularly scheduled dose. You do not need to use backup birth control.
• If you miss two yellow "active" tablets in a row in week one or two, take two tablets each for the next two regularly scheduled doses (one missed tablet plus one regularly scheduled tablet for 2 days in a row). Use another form of birth control for at least 7 days following the missed tablets.
• If you miss two yellow "active" tablets in a row in week three, or if you miss three tablets in a row during any of the first 3 weeks, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new package on the same day if you are a Day 1 starter. If you are a Sunday starter, keep taking a pill every day until Sunday. On Sunday, throw out the rest of the pack and start a new pack of pills that same day. You may not have a period that month, but this is expected. However, if you miss your period 2 months in a row, call your doctor because you might be pregnant.
• If you miss one of the reminder pills in week four, skip that dose and take the next one as directed.
• If you miss a pill, you may become pregnant if you have sex in the 7 days after your missed pill. You MUST use another birth control method (such as condoms or spermicides) as a back-up for those 7 days.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
• An overdose of Yasmin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while taking Yasmin
• Avoid smoking cigarettes while taking Yasmin. Smoking greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clot.

What are the possible side effects of Yasmin?
• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
· chest pain;
· shortness of breath;
· sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
· sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
· unusual vaginal bleeding;
· stomach pain, swelling, or tenderness;
· jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
· breast lump.
• Continue using Yasmin and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
· nausea and vomiting;
· breast tenderness or enlargement;
· swelling of your hands or feet;
· darkened skin, especially on your face;
· changes in your menstrual periods;
· headache, migraine, dizziness, or fainting;
· problems with contact lenses;
· depression;
· vaginal yeast infections; or
· enlargement of uterine fibroids.
• 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 Yasmin?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
· rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater);
· seizure medicine such as phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital (Luminal), carbamazepine (Tegretol);
· an antibiotic such as ampicillin (Omnipen, Totacillin), tetracycline (Brodspec, Sumycin, Panmycin) or griseofulvin (Fulvicin);
· a potassium supplement such as Klor-Con, K-Dur, K-Tab;
· atorvastatin (Lipitor); or
· St. John's wort.
• If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use dropirenone and estradiol.
• Many other drugs can interact with Yasmin and make this medication less effective, increasing your risk of unintended pregnancy. 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.

Xenical

2006-11-17T08:11:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Xenical?
• Xenical may decrease your body's absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins. To ensure adequate nutrition, your doctor may recommend taking a multivitamin that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your vitamin supplement once a day, at least 2 hours before or after a dose of Xenical.
• Do not take more of this medication than has been prescribed for you. Doses greater than 120 mg three times a day have not been shown to provide any additional weight-loss benefit.

What is Xenical?
• Xenical blocks some of the fat that you eat from being absorbed by your body.
• Xenical is used in the management of obesity including weight loss and weight maintenance when used with a reduced-calorie diet.
• Xenical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Xenical?
• Do not take Xenical without first talking to your doctor if you have
· a chronic malabsorption syndrome, or
· gallbladder problems.
• You may not be able to take Xenical if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Before taking Xenical, talk to your doctor if you
· have a history of kidney stones,
· have diabetes,
· have anorexia or bulimia,
· take any other weight-loss medicine, or
· take cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral).
• You may not be able to take Xenical, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Xenical is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Xenical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• It is not known whether Xenical passes into breast milk. Do not take Xenical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Xenical?
• Take Xenical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Xenical is usually taken with each main meal that contains fat. Xenical can be taken during meals or up to one hour after a meal.
• Each time you take Xenical, your meal should contain no more than about 30% of calories from fat. Evenly divide your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein over three main meals a day. Talk to your doctor about following a healthy eating plan.
• If you miss a meal, or if you have a meal without fat, you can skip your dose of Xenical for that meal also.
• If Xenical is taken with any one meal that is very high in fat, there is an increased chance of digestive side effects.
• Do not take more of this medication than has been prescribed for you. Doses greater than 120 mg three times a day have not been shown to provide an additional weight-loss benefit.
• Xenical may decrease your body's absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins. To ensure adequate nutrition, your doctor may recommend taking a multivitamin that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your vitamin supplement once a day, at least 2 hours before or after a dose of Xenical.
• Store Xenical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose up to one hour after a meal. If more than one hour has passed since your last meal, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
• If you miss a meal, or if you have a meal without fat, you can skip your dose of Xenical for that meal also.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of an Xenical overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking Xenical?
• Xenical may decrease your body's absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins. To ensure adequate nutrition, your doctor may recommend taking a multivitamin that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your vitamin supplement once a day, at least 2 hours before or after a dose of Xenical.
• Each time you take Xenical, your meal should contain no more than about 30% of calories from fat. Evenly divide your daily intake of fat, carbohydrates, and protein over three main meals a day. Talk to your doctor about following a healthy eating plan.

What are the possible side effects of Xenical?
• Stop taking Xenical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience a rare allergic reaction including shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.
• Other, less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue to take Xenical and talk to your doctor if you experience
· oily spotting,
· gas with discharge,
· an urgent need to go to the bathroom,
· oily or fatty stools,
· an oily discharge,
· an increased number of bowel movements,
· an inability to control bowel movements, or
· orange or brown colored oil in your stool.
• The bowel changes listed above are a natural effect of blocking fat and indicate that Xenical is working. They generally occur early in treatment, particularly after meals containing higher amounts of fat than are recommended. These symptoms are usually temporary and lessen or disappear as you continue treatment and keep to your recommended diet of meals containing 30% fat.
• 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 Xenical?
• Do not take Xenical without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), or
· warfarin (Coumadin).
• You may not be able to take Xenical, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Before taking Xenical, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines to lower cholesterol:
· atorvastatin (Lipitor),
· cerivastatin (Baycol),
· fluvastatin (Lescol),
· lovastatin (Mevacor),
· pravastatin (Pravachol), or
· simvastatin (Zocor).
• You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the cholesterol-lowering medicines listed above.
• Xenical may decrease your body's absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins. To ensure adequate nutrition, your doctor may recommend taking a multivitamin that contains vitamins D, E, K, and beta-carotene. Take your vitamin supplement once a day, at least 2 hours before or after a dose of Xenical.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Xenical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Xanax

2006-11-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Xanax?
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Xanax will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Xanax XR. Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
• Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is Xanax?
• Xanax is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
• Xanax is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. Xanax is also used to treat panic disorders.
• Xanax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Xanax?
• Do not take Xanax if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Xanax may worsen this condition.
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
· have kidney disease;
· have liver disease;
· have a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
· have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease;
· are depressed or have suicidal thoughts; or
· have mania, bipolar disorder, or another psychiatric condition (other than anxiety or panic disorder).
• You may not be able to take Xanax, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Xanax is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that Xanax is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Xanax passes into breast milk. Do not take Xanax without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Xanax. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of the medication.

How should I take Xanax?
• Take Xanax exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Xanax XR. Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
• Do not take more of the medication than is prescribed for you.
• Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Store Xanax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of an Xanax overdose include sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, a slow heart beat, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking and talking, an appearance of being drunk, and unconsciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Xanax?
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Xanax will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax.
• Xanax may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Xanax?
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Xanax and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
· sores in the mouth or throat;
· yellowing of the skin or eyes;
· a rash;
· hallucinations or severe confusion; or
· changes in vision.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Xanax and talk to your doctor if you experience
· drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness;
· depression;
· nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation;
· difficulty urinating;
· vivid dreams;
· headache;
· dry mouth;
· decreased sex drive; or
· changes in behavior.
• 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 Xanax?
• Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during treatment with Xanax without first talking to your doctor.
• Xanax may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Antacids may decrease the effects of Xanax. Separate doses of an antacid and Xanax by several hours whenever possible.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Xanax. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Wellbutrin

2006-11-17T08:09:00.002-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Wellbutrin?
You should not take Wellbutrin if you have epilepsy or a seizure disorder, an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia, if you are using a second form of bupropion, or if you have suddenly stopped using alcohol or sedatives. Do not take Wellbutrin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.
You may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior at the start of treatment with an antidepressant medication, especially if you are 18 years of age or younger. Talk with your doctor about this risk. While you are taking this medication you will need to be monitored for worsening symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts during the first weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following side effects, especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation, aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical hyperactivity), or thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself.

Do not stop taking Wellbutrin without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly.
Avoid using bupropion to treat more than one condition at a time. If you take Wellbutrin for depression, do not also take Zyban to quit smoking. Too much of this medicine can increase your risk of a seizure.

Do not smoke at any time if you are using a nicotine product along with Zyban. Too much nicotine can cause serious side effects. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. Alcohol may increase your risk of a seizure while you are taking Wellbutrin. If you drink alcohol regularly, talk with your doctor before changing the amount you drink. Wellbutrin can cause seizures in people who drink a lot of alcohol and then suddenly quit drinking when they start using the medication.
There are many other drugs that can affect Wellbutrin. 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.

What is Wellbutrin?
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant medication.

Wellbutrin is used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder.

At least one brand of bupropion (Zyban) is used to help people stop smoking by reducing cravings and other withdrawal effects.

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Wellbutrin?
Do not take Wellbutrin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. You should not take Wellbutrin if you have:
epilepsy or a seizure disorder;

an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia;

if you are using a second form of bupropion; or

if you have suddenly stopped using alcohol or sedatives (such as Valium).

Before taking Wellbutrin, tell your doctor if you have:

heart disease or high blood pressure;

head injury, brain or spinal cord tumor;

kidney disease;

liver disease (especially cirrhosis);

bipolar disorder (manic depression);

diabetes for which you use insulin or take oral medication;

current use of steroids, theophylline (Theo-Dur, Slo-Bid, Bronkodyl Theolair, Respbid), or medicine to treat depression or mental illness; or

recent use of alcohol, sedatives (such as Valium), narcotic pain medicines, diet pills, or street drugs such as "speed" or cocaine.

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

Wellbutrin may cause seizures, especially in people with certain medical conditions or when using certain drugs. Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and the drugs you use.

You may have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior at the start of treatment with an antidepressant medication, especially if you are under 18 years old. While you are taking Wellbutrin, you will need to be monitored for worsening symptoms of depression and/or suicidal thoughts during the first weeks of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed. In addition to you watching for changes in your own symptoms, your family or other caregivers should be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits for at least the first 12 weeks of treatment.

Contact your doctor if you have any of the following side effects, especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation, aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical hyperactivity), or thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Wellbutrin passes into breast milk and could be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take Wellbutrin without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Wellbutrin?
Take Wellbutrin exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from the medication.

Wellbutrin can be taken with or without food.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release tablet (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL, Zyban SR). Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
If you take Zyban to help you stop smoking, you may continue to smoke for about 1 week after you start the medicine. Set a date to quit smoking during the second week of Zyban treatment. By that time you will have enough of the medicine in your blood stream to help you quit smoking. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble quitting after you have used Zyban for at least 7 weeks.

Your doctor may prescribe nicotine patches or gum to help support your smoking cessation treatment. Be sure you read all directions and safety information for the nicotine product. Using nicotine with Zyban may raise your blood pressure and your doctor may want to check your blood pressure regularly. Do not smoke at any time if you are using a nicotine product along with Zyban. Too much nicotine can cause serious side effects.

Do not stop taking Wellbutrin without first talking to your doctor. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking this medication suddenly.
If you use the Wellbutrin extended-release tablet, the tablet shell may pass into your stools (bowel movements). This is normal and does not mean that you are not receiving enough of the medicine.

Store Wellbutrin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of Wellbutrin?
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 with Wellbutrin?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Wellbutrin overdose may include seizures, muscle stiffness, hallucinations, fainting, fast or uneven heartbeat, shallow breathing, heart failure, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Wellbutrin?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Wellbutrin. Alcohol may increase your risk of a seizure while you are taking Wellbutrin. If you drink alcohol regularly, talk with your doctor before changing the amount you drink. Wellbutrin can cause seizures in people who drink a lot of alcohol and then suddenly quit drinking when they start using the medication.
Avoid using bupropion to treat more than one condition at a time. If you take Wellbutrin for depression, do not also take Zyban to quit smoking. Too much of this medicine can increase your risk of a seizure.

Wellbutrin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What are the possible side effects of Wellbutrin?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Wellbutrin and call your doctor at once if you have a seizure (convulsions) or fast, uneven heartbeats.
Continue taking Wellbutrin and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

headache or migraine;

sleep problems (insomnia);

nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth;

confusion, dizziness, agitation, tremors (shaking);

appetite changes, weight loss or gain;

mild itching or skin rash, increased sweating; or

loss of interest in sex.

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 Wellbutrin?
Do not take Wellbutrin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days.

There are many other drugs that can affect Wellbutrin. 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 on Wellbutrin?
Your pharmacist has more information about Wellbutrin written for health professionals that you may read.

Vytorin

2006-11-17T08:09:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Vytorin?
• Do not stop taking Vytorin unless directed to do so by your doctor. It may be weeks or months before beneficial effects are seen from this medication.
• Rare cases of muscle problems and liver problems have been associated with the use of Vytorin and other similar medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or flulike symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, dark colored urine or pale colored stools. These may be early symptoms of muscle or liver problems.
• Do not take Vytorin without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.
• Alcohol and Vytorin can both be damaging to the liver. Alcohol should be used only in moderation. Discuss the use of alcohol with your doctor so that the potential for liver problems can be determined.
• Do not take Vytorin if you are pregnant, could become pregnant during treatment, or if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What is Vytorin?
• Vytorin reduces the amount of cholesterol (a type of fat) absorbed by the body and blocks the production of cholesterol in the body.
• Vytorin is used to reduce the total amounts of cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides (another type of fat), and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in your blood. Vytorin is also used to increase the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. These actions may reduce the risk of hardening of the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
• Vytorin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Vytorin?
• Before taking Vytorin, tell your doctor if you
· have liver or kidney disease;
· drink alcoholic beverages;
· have hypothyroidism (low thyroid function);
· have a chronic muscular disease or have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness;
· are taking another cholesterol-lowering medication; or
· have a blood disorder.
• You may not be able to take Vytorin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
• Vytorin is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that Vytorin is known to cause birth defects if it is taken during pregnancy. Do not take Vytorin if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Vytorin passes into breast milk. Do not take simvastatin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Vytorin?
• Take Vytorin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take Vytorin once a day with or without food. It may be easier to remember to take the medication if you take it at the same time every day.
• Vytorin should be taken 2 hours before or 4 hours after a bile acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, Questran), colestipol (Colestid), or colesevelam (Welchol).
• Your doctor may want to monitor cholesterol levels, liver function, or other factors with blood tests before starting and during treatment with Vytorin. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor can determine how much monitoring you will require.
• Do not stop taking Vytorin unless directed to do so by your doctor. It may be weeks or months before beneficial effects are seen from this medication.
• Store Vytorin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of an Vytorin overdose may include nausea, diarrhea, stomach distress, and indigestion..

What should I avoid while taking Vytorin?
• Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. To see beneficial effects from Vytorin avoid fatty, high-cholesterol foods.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Vytorin. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
• Both alcohol and ezetimibe/simvastatin can be damaging to the liver. Alcohol should be used only in moderation. Discuss the use of alcohol with your doctor so that the potential for liver problems can be determined.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light (e.g., tanning beds). Vytorin may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, and burning may result. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen if exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

What are the possible side effects of Vytorin?
• Rare cases of muscle problems and liver problems have been associated with the use of Vytorin and other similar medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or flulike symptoms or yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, dark colored urine or pale colored stools. These may be early symptoms of muscle or liver problems.
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Vytorin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· decreased urine or rust-colored urine; or
· blurred vision.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Vytorin and talk to your doctor if you experience
· gas, bloating, nausea, stomach upset, heartburn, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea;
· cough;
· tiredness;
· headache; or
· insomnia.
• 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 Vytorin?
• Do not take Vytorin without first talking to your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral);
· atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol), lovastatin (Altocor, Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Crestor) or simvastatin (Zocor);
· gemfibrozil (Lopid), fenofibrate (Tricor) or clofibrate (Atromid-S);
· niacin (Nicolar, Nicobid, Slo-Niacin, others);
· erythromycin (E-Mycin, E.E.S., Ery-Tab, others), telithromycin (Ketek) or clarithromycin (Biaxin);
· cholestyramine (Questran) or colestipol (Colestid);
· an antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox), fluconazole (Diflucan), or ketoconazole (Nizoral);
· nefazodone (Serzone);
· digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
· warfarin (Coumadin);
· a protease inhibitor such as amprenavir (Agenerase), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir), lopinavir-ritonavir (Kaletra), or saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase);
· amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacer one); or
· verapamil (Calan, Covera-HS, Isoptin, Verelan).
• You may not be able to take Vytorin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Vytorin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Voltaren

2006-11-17T08:08:00.002-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Voltaren?
• Take Voltaren with food, milk, or an antacid to lessen stomach upset.
• Do not crush or chew Voltaren tablets. Swallow them whole.
• Contact your doctor if you experience blood in vomit or bloody, black, or tarry stools. These symptoms could indicate damage to the stomach or intestines, which could be dangerous.
• Many over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, and pain medicines contain aspirin or other medicines similar to Voltaren (such as ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and others). Before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, talk to your doctor and pharmacist.
• Avoid alcohol or use it with moderation. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, Voltaren may increase the risk of dangerous stomach bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking Voltaren if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages a day.

What is Voltaren?
• Voltaren is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Voltaren works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.
• Voltaren is used to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness caused by many conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, abdominal cramps associated with menstruation, and ankylosing spondylitis.
• Voltaren may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Voltaren?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
· have an allergy to aspirin or any other NSAIDs,
· have an ulcer or bleeding in your stomach,
· drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day,
· have liver disease,
· have kidney disease,
· have a coagulation (bleeding) disorder,
· have congestive heart failure,
· have fluid retention,
· have heart disease, or
· have high blood pressure.
• You may not be able to take Voltaren, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Voltaren is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Voltaren should not be taken late in pregnancy (the third trimester) because a similar drug is known to affect the baby's heart. Do not take Voltaren without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Voltaren passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medicine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Voltaren?
• Take Voltaren exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Take Voltaren with milk, food, or an antacid to lessen stomach upset.
• Do not crush or chew Voltaren tablets. Swallow them whole.
• Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of Voltaren with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Store Voltaren at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• If you are taking Voltaren on a regular schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.
• If you are taking Voltaren as needed, take the missed dose if it is needed, then wait the recommended or prescribed amount of time before taking another dose.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Voltaren overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, seizures, sweating, numbness or tingling, little or no urine production, and slow breathing.

What should I avoid while taking Voltaren?
• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Voltaren may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.
• Avoid alcohol or use it with moderation. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day, Voltaren may increase the risk of dangerous stomach bleeding. Talk to your doctor before taking Voltaren if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages a day.
• Many over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, and pain medicines contain aspirin or other medicines similar to Voltaren (such as ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and others). Before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, talk to your doctor and pharmacist.

What are the possible side effects of Voltaren?
• Contact your doctor if you experience blood in vomit or bloody, black, or tarry stools. These symptoms could indicate damage to the stomach or intestines, which could be dangerous.
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Voltaren and seek medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· muscle cramps, numbness, or tingling;
· ulcers (open sores) in the mouth;
· rapid weight gain (fluid retention);
· seizures;
· decreased hearing or ringing in the ears;
· yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice); or
· abdominal cramping, indigestion, or heartburn.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Voltaren and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dizziness or headache;
· nausea, diarrhea, or constipation;
· depression;
· fatigue or weakness;
· dry mouth; or
· irregular menstrual periods.
• 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 Voltaren?
• Before taking Voltaren, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs:
· aspirin or another salicylate (form of aspirin) such as salsalate (Disalcid), diflunisal (Dolobid), choline salicylate-magnesium salicylate (Trilisate, Tricosal, others), and magnesium salicylate (Doan's, others);
· another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as etodolac (Lodine), fenoprofen (Nalfon), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others), indomethacin (Indocin), ketoprofen (Orudis, Orudis KT), ketorolac (Toradol), meloxicam (Mobic), nabumetone (Relafen), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox, others), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), or tolmetin (Tolectin);
· an over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or pain medicine that contains aspirin, ibuprofen, Voltaren, or ketoprofen;
· an anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin);
· a steroid such as prednisone (Deltasone);
· insulin or an oral diabetes medicine such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase), and others;
· probenecid (Benemid);
· lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid, others); or
· bismuth subsalicylate in drugs such as Pepto-Bismol.
• You may not be able to take Voltaren, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Voltaren. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Vioxx

2006-11-17T08:08:00.001-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about rofecoxib?
• The manufacturer of rofecoxib (Vioxx) has announced a voluntary withdrawal of the drug from the U.S. and worldwide market. This withdrawal is due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients taking rofecoxib.
• Notify your doctor immediately if you develop abdominal pain, tenderness, or discomfort; nausea; blood in your vomit; bloody, black, or tarry stools; unexplained weight gain; swelling or water retention; fatigue or lethargy; a skin rash; itching; yellowing of your skin or eyes;"flu-like" symptoms; or unusual bruising or bleeding. These symptoms could be early signs of dangerous side effects.

What is rofecoxib?
• Rofecoxib is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Rofecoxib works by reducing substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.
• Rofecoxib is used to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and certain forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis; to manage acute pain in adults; to treat migraines; and to treat menstrual pain.
• Rofecoxib may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking rofecoxib?
• The manufacturer of rofecoxib (Vioxx) has announced a voluntary withdrawal of the drug from the U.S. and worldwide market. This withdrawal is due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients taking rofecoxib.
• Do not take rofecoxib without first talking to your doctor if you have experienced asthma, hives, or an allergic reaction after taking aspirin or another NSAID such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis, Oruvail), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), diflunisal (Dolobid), etodolac (Lodine), fenoprofen (Nalfon), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), indomethacin (Indocin), ketorolac (Toradol), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), celecoxib (Celebrex), valdecoxib (Bextra), or meloxicam (Mobic). You may experience a similar reaction to rofecoxib.
• Before taking rofecoxib, tell your doctor if you
· smoke;
· drink alcohol;
· have ever had an ulcer or bleeding in your stomach;
· have liver disease;
· have kidney disease;
· have asthma;
· have congestive heart failure;
· have fluid retention;
· have heart disease;
· have high blood pressure;
· have a coagulation (bleeding) disorder or are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin); or
· are taking a steroid medicine such as prednisone (Deltasone and others), methylprednisolone (Medrol and others), prednisolone (Prelone, Pediapred, and others), and others.
• You may not be able to take rofecoxib, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions, or are taking any of the medicines, listed above.
• Rofecoxib is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Rofecoxib should not be taken late in pregnancy (the third trimester) because it may affect the formation of the baby's heart. Do not take rofecoxib without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether rofecoxib passes into breast milk. Do not take rofecoxib without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
• If you are over the age of 65 years, you may be more likely to experience side effects from rofecoxib. You may require a lower dosage or special monitoring during treatment.

How should I take rofecoxib?
• Take rofecoxib exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Shake the rofecoxib suspension well before measuring a dose. Use a dose-measuring cup or spoon, not a regular table spoon, to measure the liquid form of rofecoxib to ensure that you measure the correct amount of medicine. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Rofecoxib can be taken with or without food or milk.
• Store rofecoxib 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 the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a rofecoxib overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking rofecoxib?
• There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity during treatment with rofecoxib, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of rofecoxib?
• Notify your doctor immediately if you develop abdominal pain, tenderness, or discomfort; nausea; blood in your vomit; bloody, black, or tarry stools; unexplained weight gain; swelling or water retention; fatigue or lethargy; a skin rash; itching; yellowing of your skin or eyes;"flu-like" symptoms; or unusual bruising or bleeding. These symptoms could be early signs of dangerous side effects.
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking rofecoxib and seek medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· abdominal pain, tenderness, or discomfort;
· bloody, black, or tarry stools;
· nausea or heartburn;
· blood in your vomit;
· unexplained weight gain;
· swelling or water retention;
· unusual fatigue or lethargy;
· a skin rash or itching;
· yellowing of your skin or eyes;
· "flu-like" symptoms; or
· unusual bruising or bleeding.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take rofecoxib and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dizziness;
· mild fatigue or weakness; or
· diarrhea.
• 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 rofecoxib?
• Before taking rofecoxib, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following drugs:
· aspirin or an aspirin-like medication such as salsalate (Disalcid), choline salicylate-magnesium salicylate (Trilisate, Tricosal, others), and magnesium salicylate (Doan's, Bayer Select Backache Formula, others);
· an over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or pain medicine that contains aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen;
· a diuretic (water pill) such as furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (Hydrodiuril, others), chlorothiazide (Diuril, others), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), and others;
· an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) such as benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), and others;
· a steroid medicine such as prednisone (Deltasone and others), methylprednisolone (Medrol and others), prednisolone (Prelone, Pediapred, and others), and others;
· an anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin (Coumadin);
· methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Folex);
· theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theobid, and others);
· lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid, others); or
· rifampin (Rimactane, Rifadin, Rifater).
• You may not be able to take an rofecoxib, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with rofecoxib. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Vicodin

2006-11-17T08:07:00.000-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Vicodin?
• Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Vicodin. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Vicodin may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.

What is Vicodin?
• Hydrocodone (related to codeine) is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It relieves pain.
• Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of hydrocodone.
• Together, Vicodin is used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain.
• Vicodin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Vicodin?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
· a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
· kidney disease;
· liver disease;
· asthma;
· urinary retention;
· an enlarged prostate;
· hypothyroidism;
· seizures or epilepsy;
· gallbladder disease;
· a head injury; or
· Addison's disease.
• You may not be able to take Vicodin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Vicodin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• Vicodin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Vicodin. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.

How should I take Vicodin?
• Take Vicodin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Take Vicodin with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.
• To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of Vicodin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Vicodin may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.
• Store Vicodin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose of this medication. Wait the prescribed amount of time before taking the next dose.

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of an Vicodin overdose may include slow breathing, seizures, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, coma, confusion, tiredness, cold and clammy skin, small pupils, nausea, vomiting, and sweating.

What should I avoid while taking Vicodin?
• Avoid alcohol while taking Vicodin. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Hydrocodone may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.

What are the possible side effects of Vicodin?
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Vicodin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· slow, weak breathing;
· seizures;
· cold, clammy skin;
· severe weakness or dizziness;
· unconsciousness;
· yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
· unusual fatigue, bleeding, or bruising.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Vicodin and talk to your doctor if you experience
· constipation;
· dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
· dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness;
· muscle twitches;
· sweating;
· itching;
· decreased urination; or
· decreased sex drive.
• Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• 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 Vicodin?
• Do not take Vicodin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Dangerous side effects could result.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Vicodin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Viagra

2006-11-17T08:06:00.002-08:00

What is the most important information I should know about Viagra?
• Do not take Viagra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, and others), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). Taking Viagra with a nitrate medicine can cause a serious decrease in blood pressure, leading to fainting, stroke, or heart attack.
• If you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw during sexual activity, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of Viagra.
• Do not take Viagra more than once a day. Allow 24 hours to pass between doses.
• Contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if your erection is painful or lasts longer than 4 hours. A prolonged erection (priapism) can damage the penis.
• A small number of patients have had a sudden loss of eyesight after taking Viagra. This type of vision loss is caused by decreased blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye. It is not clear whether Viagra is the actual cause of such vision loss. Sudden vision loss with Viagra use has occurred most often in people with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoke or are over 50 years old.
• Stop using Viagra and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss.

What is Viagra?
• Viagra relaxes muscles and increases blood flow to particular areas of the body.
• Sildenafil under the name Viagra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men. Another brand of sildenafil is Revatio, which is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension and improve exercise capacity in men and women.
• Viagra may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Viagra?
• Do not take Viagra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems. This includes nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, and others), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket). Nitrates are also found in some recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers"). Taking Viagra with a nitrate medicine can cause a serious decrease in blood pressure, leading to fainting, stroke, or heart attack.
• A small number of patients have had a sudden loss of eyesight after taking Viagra. This type of vision loss is caused by decreased blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye. It is not clear whether Viagra is the actual cause of such vision loss. Sudden vision loss with Viagra use has occurred most often in people with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain pre-existing eye problems, and in those who smoke or are over 50 years old.
• Before taking Viagra, tell your doctor if you have:
· heart disease or heart rhythm problems;
· a recent history (in the past 6 months) of a heart attack, stroke, or heart rhythm disorder;
· congestive heart failure;
· high or low blood pressure;
· coronary artery disease;
· liver disease;
· kidney disease;
· a blood cell disorder such as sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma, or leukemia;
· a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia;
· a stomach ulcer;
· retinitis pigmentosa (an inherited condition of the eye);
· a physical deformity of the penis (such as Peyronie's disease); or
· if you have been told you should not have sexual intercourse for health reasons.
• If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Viagra or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
• FDA pregnancy category B: This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Viagra without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known if Viagra passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Viagra?
• Take Viagra exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.
• Revatio is usually taken three times each day, about 4 to 6 hours apart.
• Viagra is usually taken only when needed, 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. You may take it up to 4 hours before sexual activity. Do not take Viagra more than once per day.
• Viagra can help you have an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. An erection will not occur just by taking a pill. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• If you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw during sexual activity, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of Viagra.
• Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose of Viagra?
• Viagra is used as needed, so you are not likely to miss a dose.
• If you miss a dose of Revatio, 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 with Viagra?
• Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Viagra overdose may include chest pain, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and feeling light-headed or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking Viagra?
• Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Viagra.
• Avoid using other medicines to treat impotence, such as alprostadil (Caverject, Muse, Edex) or yohimbine (Yocon, Yodoxin, others), without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Viagra?
• If you become dizzy or nauseated, or have pain, numbness, or tingling in your chest, arms, neck, or jaw during sexual activity, stop and call your doctor right away. You could be having a serious side effect of Viagra.
• Stop using Viagra and get emergency medical help if you have sudden vision loss.
• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using Viagra and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
· chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;
· irregular heartbeat;
· swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet;
· shortness of breath;
· vision changes;
· feeling light-headed, fainting; or
· penis erection that is painful or lasts 4 hours or longer.
• Continue taking Viagra and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:
· warmth or redness in your face, neck, or chest;
· stuffy nose;
· headache;
· upset stomach; or
· back pain.
• 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 Viagra?
• Do not take Viagra if you are also using a nitrate drug for chest pain or heart problems, including nitroglycerin (Nitrostat, Nitrolingual, Nitro-Dur, Nitro-Bid, Minitran, Deponit, Transderm-Nitro), isosorbide dinitrate (Dilatrate-SR, Isordil, Sorbitrate), and isosorbide mononitrate (Imdur, ISMO, Monoket), or recreational drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite ("poppers").
• Before taking Viagra, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following medications:
· bosentan (Tracleer);
· cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB);
· an antibiotic such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Eryc, Ery-Tab) or clarithromycin (Biaxin);
· doxazosin (Cardura), prazosin (Minipress), Terazosin (Hytrin);
· HIV medicines such as amprenavir (Agenerase), tipranavir (Aptivus), darunavir (Prezista), efavirenz (Sustiva), nevirapine (Viramune), indinavir (Crixivan), saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase), lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra), fosamprenavir (Lexiva), ritonavir (Norvir), atazanavir (Reyataz), or nelfinavir (Viracept);
· an antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral);
· carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital (Luminal), or phenytoin (Dilantin); or
· rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane) or rifabutin (Mycobutin).
• If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to take Viagra, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
• There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Viagra. 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.