Saturday, June 9, 2012

pantothenic acid


pan-TOE-then-ik AS-id


Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Panto-250

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet, Extended Release

  • Tablet

  • Solution

  • Capsule, Liquid Filled

Therapeutic Class: Nutritive Agent


Pharmacologic Class: Vitamin B


Uses For pantothenic acid


Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in only small amounts and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B 5) is needed for the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.


No problems have been found that are due to a lack of pantothenic acid alone. However, a lack of one B vitamin usually goes along with a lack of others, so pantothenic acid is often included in B complex products.


Claims that pantothenic acid is effective for treatment of nerve damage, breathing problems, itching and other skin problems, and poisoning with some other drugs; for getting rid of or preventing gray hair; for preventing arthritis, allergies, and birth defects; or for improving mental ability have not been proven.


This vitamin is available without a prescription.


Importance of Diet


For good health, it is important that you eat a balanced and varied diet. Follow carefully any diet program your health care professional may recommend. For your specific dietary vitamin and/or mineral needs, ask your health care professional for a list of appropriate foods. If you think that you are not getting enough vitamins and/or minerals in your diet, you may choose to take a dietary supplement.


Pantothenic acid is found in various foods including peas and beans (except green beans), lean meat, poultry, fish, and whole-grain cereals. Little pantothenic acid is lost from foods with ordinary cooking.


Vitamins alone will not take the place of a good diet and will not provide energy. Your body also needs other substances found in food—protein, minerals, carbohydrates, and fat.


The daily amount of pantothenic acid needed is defined in several different ways.


  • For U.S.—

  • Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) are the amount of vitamins and minerals needed to provide for adequate nutrition in most healthy persons. RDAs for a given nutrient may vary depending on a person's age, sex, and physical condition (e.g., pregnancy).

  • Daily Values (DVs) for nutrients are used on food and dietary supplement labels to indicate the percent of the recommended daily amount of each nutrient that a serving provides. DVs replace the previous designation of United States Recommended Daily Allowances (USRDAs).

  • For Canada—

  • Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs) are used to determine the amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein needed to provide adequate nutrition and lessen the risk of chronic disease.

Because lack of pantothenic acid is so rare, there is no RDA or RNI for this vitamin. The following daily intakes are thought to be plenty for most individuals:


  • Infants and children—
    • Birth to 3 years of age: 2 to 3 milligrams (mg).

    • 4 to 6 years of age: 3 to 4 mg.

    • 7 to 10 years of age: 4 to 5 mg.


  • Adolescents and adults—4 to 7 mg.

Before Using pantothenic acid


If you are taking this dietary supplement without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label. For this supplement, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to pantothenic acid or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Problems in children have not been reported with intake of normal daily recommended amounts.


Geriatric


Problems in older adults have not been reported with intake of normal daily recommended amounts.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.


Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.


Proper Use of pantothenic acid


Dosing


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


The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.


  • For oral dosage forms (capsules, tablets, oral solution):
    • To prevent deficiency, the amount taken by mouth is based on normal daily recommended intakes:
      • Adults and teenagers—4 to 7 milligrams (mg) per day.

      • Children 7 to 10 years of age—4 to 5 mg per day.

      • Children 4 to 6 years of age—3 to 4 mg per day.

      • Children birth to 3 years of age—2 to 3 mg per day.


    • To treat deficiency:
      • Adults, teenagers, and children—Treatment dose is determined by prescriber for each individual based on severity of deficiency.



Missed Dose


If you miss a dose of pantothenic acid, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.


Storage


Store the dietary supplement in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.


Keep out of the reach of children.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


pantothenic acid Side Effects


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



The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.


The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.


More pantothenic acid resources


  • Pantothenic acid Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Pantothenic acid Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Pantothenic acid - Add your own review/rating


Compare pantothenic acid with other medications


  • Dietary Supplementation

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Salitop Lotion


Pronunciation: SAL-i-SIL-ik AS-id
Generic Name: Salicylic Acid
Brand Name: Examples include Salacyn and Salitop


Salitop Lotion is used for:

Removing excess skin in certain conditions, including calluses, psoriasis, and warts. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Salitop Lotion is a topical salicylate. It works by causing the skin to swell, soften, and then slough or peel in areas where it is applied.


Do NOT use Salitop Lotion if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Salitop Lotion

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Salitop Lotion:


Some medical conditions may interact with Salitop Lotion. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness) to aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) (eg, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)

  • if you have liver or kidney problems, a skin infection, skin irritation, diabetes, or poor blood circulation

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Salitop Lotion. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Anticoagulants (eg, heparin, warfarin), aspirin, methotrexate, or sulfonylureas (eg, glipizide) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Salitop Lotion

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Salitop Lotion may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Salitop Lotion:


Use Salitop Lotion as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Apply Salitop Lotion in the evening before bedtime unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

  • Wash the affected area with soap and water, then soak.

  • Completely dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected area and gently massage until the medicine is evenly distributed.

  • Wash the medicine off in the morning. If excessive drying or irritation occurs, a mild cream or lotion may be applied.

  • Talk with your doctor about whether you should cover or bandage the affected area. Follow your doctor's instructions.

  • Use Salitop Lotion on a regular schedule around the clock, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

  • Be sure to wash your hands after each use unless your hands are part of the treated area.

  • If you miss a dose of Salitop Lotion, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Salitop Lotion.



Important safety information:


  • Salitop Lotion is for external use only. Avoid getting Salitop Lotion in your eyes, nose, or mouth, or on the genitals. If contact with your eyes occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes. Do not inhale the vapors of Salitop Lotion.

  • Be sure to apply Salitop Lotion only to the affected area and not to normal healthy skin.

  • Do not use any other medicines or drying products on your skin unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

  • Salitop Lotion may be harmful if swallowed. If you may have taken Salitop Lotion by mouth, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

  • Salitop Lotion may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are using Salitop Lotion.

  • Salitop Lotion has a salicylate in it. Before you start taking or using any new medicine, check the label to see if it has aspirin or a salicylate (eg, sports injury creams) in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Salitop Lotion contains a salicylate, which has been linked to Reye syndrome. Do not give Salitop Lotion to a child or teenager who has the flu, chickenpox, or a viral infection. Contact your doctor with any questions or concerns

  • Salitop Lotion should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 2 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • Caution is advised when using Salitop Lotion in CHILDREN younger than 12 years old; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Salitop Lotion while you are pregnant. It is not known if Salitop Lotion is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while you are using Salitop Lotion.


Possible side effects of Salitop Lotion:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Dry, peeling, red, or scaling skin.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); severe irritation.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Salitop side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include agitation; diarrhea; dizziness; loss of appetite; loss of hearing; mental disturbances; nausea; rapid or difficult breathing; ringing in the ears; seizures; sluggishness; vomiting; yellowing of the skin or eyes.


Proper storage of Salitop Lotion:

Store Salitop Lotion at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Salitop Lotion out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Salitop Lotion, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Salitop Lotion is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Salitop Lotion. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Salitop resources


  • Salitop Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Salitop Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Salitop Drug Interactions
  • Salitop Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Salitop - Add your own review/rating


Compare Salitop with other medications


  • Acne
  • Dermatological Disorders

Sunday, June 3, 2012

teriparatide Subcutaneous


ter-i-PAR-a-tide


Subcutaneous route(Solution)

In male and female rats, teriparatide caused an increase in the incidence of osteosarcoma that was dependent on dose and treatment duration. Teriparatide should not be prescribed for patients who are at increased baseline risk for osteosarcoma (including those with Paget's disease of bone or unexplained elevations of alkaline phosphatase, open epiphyses, or prior external beam or implant radiation therapy involving the skeleton) .



Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Forteo

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Solution

Therapeutic Class: Calcium Regulator


Pharmacologic Class: Parathyroid


Uses For teriparatide


Teriparatide is a synthetic form of the natural human parathyroid hormone and is used by injection to treat osteoporosis. Teriparatide forms new bone, increases bone mineral density and bone strength, and as a result reduces the chance of getting a fracture (broken bone). Teriparatide can be used by men or postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who are at high risk for having fractures. Teriparatide can be used by people who have had a fracture related to osteoporosis, or who have multiple risk factors for fracture, or who cannot use other osteoporosis treatments.


Teriparatide has been used by injection into a vein as a test to help diagnose problems of the parathyroid gland. This test determines whether you have hypoparathyroidism or a type of pseudohypoparathyroidism.


This product, for use as a test to help diagnose problems of the parathyroid gland, was withdrawn from the U.S. market in January 1997.


Before Using teriparatide


In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For teriparatide, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to teriparatide or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of teriparatide in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established. Use in children or young adults is not recommended due to possible effects on growing bones .


Geriatric


Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatrics-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of teriparatide in the elderly .


Pregnancy








Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
All TrimestersCAnimal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding


There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.


Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.


Other Medical Problems


The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of teriparatide. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


  • Alkaline phosphatase (an enzyme in the blood), elevated levels or

  • Bone cancer, or history of or

  • Hypercalcemia (high calcium in the blood) or

  • Metabolic bone disease or

  • Paget's disease (bone disease) or

  • Radiation therapy of bones, history of—Should not use in these conditions.

  • Urolithiasis (kidney stone), active or recent—May make this condition worse.

Proper Use of teriparatide


If you are injecting teriparatide yourself, use it exactly as directed by your doctor. Special patient instructions will come with the medicine. Read the directions carefully before using the medicine. Make sure you understand:


  • Where to give the injection.

  • How to give the injection.

  • How long the injection is stable.

If you have any questions, check with your health care professional.


Do not use the medicine if you see solid particles in the liquid.


Do not use the medicine beyond the expiration date on the package.


For the first few doses, inject the medicine where you can sit or lie down right away in case you get dizzy.


Dosing


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


The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.


  • For subcutaneous injection dosage form:
    • For osteoporosis:
      • Adults—20 micrograms (mcg) once daily, injected under the skin on the thigh or abdominal (gut) wall.

      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.



Missed Dose


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


Storage


Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.


Keep out of the reach of children.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


Throw away the teriparatide pen at 28 days after the first injection, even if there is still medicine in it. Do not use the medicine if it has been frozen.


Precautions While Using teriparatide


It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that teriparatide is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.


Do not inject teriparatide into a vein or muscle.


teriparatide may cause lightheadedness or fast heartbeats. If this happens, sit or lie down until you feel better. If you do not feel better, call your health care provider before continuing treatment.


teriparatide Side Effects


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



Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:


More common
  • Abdominal pain

  • confusion

  • constipation

  • depression

  • dry mouth

  • headache

  • incoherent speech

  • increased urination

  • loss of appetite

  • metallic taste

  • muscle weakness

  • nausea

  • thirst

  • unusual tiredness

  • vomiting

  • weight loss

Less common
  • Arm, back, or jaw pain

  • chest pain or discomfort

  • chest tightness or heaviness

  • cough

  • difficult or labored breathing

  • fainting

  • fast or irregular heartbeat

  • fever or chills

  • nausea

  • shortness of breath

  • sneezing

  • sore throat

  • sweating

  • tightness in the chest

  • wheezing

Incidence not known
  • Hives or welts

  • itching

  • redness of the skin

  • skin rash

  • swelling or puffiness of the mouth and face

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:


More common
  • Acid or sour stomach

  • belching

  • blurred vision

  • body aches or pain

  • congestion

  • diarrhea

  • difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

  • difficulty with moving

  • dizziness

  • heartburn

  • hoarseness

  • indigestion

  • lack or loss of strength

  • muscle pain or stiffness

  • muscle spasm

  • nervousness

  • pain in the joints

  • pounding in the ears

  • runny nose

  • tender, swollen glands in the neck

  • trouble with swallowing

  • voice changes

Less common
  • Abdominal or stomach cramps

  • back pain

  • discomfort

  • discouragement

  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

  • feeling sad or empty

  • indigestion

  • irritability

  • lack of appetite

  • leg cramps

  • loss of interest or pleasure

  • neck pain

  • rash

  • sensation of spinning

  • sleeplessness

  • swollen mouth and tongue

  • tiredness

  • tooth disorder

  • trouble concentrating

  • trouble sleeping

  • unpleasant taste

  • urge to have bowel movement

Rare
  • Pain at the place of injection during or following the injection

  • tingling feeling in the hands and feet

  • urge for bowel movement

Incidence not known
  • Bruising at the injection site

  • flushing

  • minor bleeding at the injection site

  • unusually warm skin

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.


Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: teriparatide Subcutaneous side effects (in more detail)



The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.


The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.


More teriparatide Subcutaneous resources


  • Teriparatide Subcutaneous Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Teriparatide Subcutaneous Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Teriparatide Subcutaneous Drug Interactions
  • Teriparatide Subcutaneous Support Group
  • 15 Reviews for Teriparatide Subcutaneous - Add your own review/rating


Compare teriparatide Subcutaneous with other medications


  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Osteoporosis

Friday, June 1, 2012

Avodart 0.5mg soft capsules





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Avodart® 0.5 mg soft capsules.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each capsule contains 0.5 mg dutasteride.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Capsules, soft.



The capsules are opaque, yellow, oblong soft gelatin capsules marked with GX CE2.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).



Reduction in the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR) and surgery in patients with moderate to severe symptoms of BPH.



For information on effects of treatment and patient populations studied in clinical trials please see section 5.1.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Avodart can be administered alone or in combination with the alpha-blocker tamsulosin (0.4mg) (see sections 4.4, 4.8 and 5.1).



Adults (including elderly):



The recommended dose of Avodart is one capsule (0.5 mg) taken orally once a day. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not chewed or opened as contact with the capsule contents may result in irritation of the oropharyngeal mucosa. The capsules may be taken with or without food. Although an improvement may be observed at an early stage, it can take up to 6 months before a response to the treatment can be achieved. No dose adjustment is necessary in the elderly.



Renal impairment



The effect of renal impairment on dutasteride pharmacokinetics has not been studied. No adjustment in dosage is anticipated for patients with renal impairment (see section 5.2).



Hepatic impairment



The effect of hepatic impairment on dutasteride pharmacokinetics has not been studied so caution should be used in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment (see section 4.4 and section 5.2). In patients with severe hepatic impairment, the use of dutasteride is contraindicated (see section 4.3).



4.3 Contraindications



Avodart is contraindicated in:



- women and children and adolescents (see section 4.6).



- patients with hypersensitivity to dutasteride, other 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, soya, peanut or any of the other excipients.



- patients with severe hepatic impairment.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Combination therapy should be prescribed after careful benefit risk assessment due to the potential increased risk of adverse events and after consideration of alternative treatment options including monotherapies (see section 4.2).



In a 4-year clinical study, the incidence of cardiac failure (a composite term of reported events, primarily cardiac failure and congestive cardiac failure) was higher among subjects taking the combination of Avodart and an alpha blocker tamsulosin, than it was among subjects not taking the combination. No causal relationship between Avodart (alone or in combination with an alpha blocker) and cardiac failure has been established (see section 5.1).



Digital rectal examination, as well as other evaluations for prostate cancer, must be performed on patients with BPH prior to initiating therapy with Avodart and periodically thereafter.



Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin, therefore, women, children and adolescents must avoid contact with leaking capsules (see section 4.6). If contact is made with leaking capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water.



Dutasteride was not studied in patients with liver disease. Caution should be used in the administration of dutasteride to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment (see section 4.2, section 4.3 and section 5.2).



Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration is an important component in the detection of prostate cancer. Generally, a total serum PSA concentration greater than 4 ng/mL (Hybritech) requires further evaluation and consideration of prostate biopsy. Physicians should be aware that a baseline PSA less than 4 ng/mL in patients taking Avodart does not exclude a diagnosis of prostate cancer. Avodart causes a decrease in serum PSA levels by approximately 50%, after 6 months, in patients with BPH, even in the presence of prostate cancer. Although there may be individual variation, the reduction in PSA by approximately 50% is predictable as it was observed over the entire range of baseline PSA values (1.5 to 10 ng/mL). Therefore to interpret an isolated PSA value in a man treated with Avodart for six months or more, PSA values should be doubled for comparison with normal ranges in untreated men. This adjustment preserves the sensitivity and specificity of the PSA assay and maintains its ability to detect prostate cancer. Any sustained increases in PSA levels while on Avodart should be carefully evaluated, including consideration of noncompliance to therapy with Avodart.



Total serum PSA levels return to baseline within 6 months of discontinuing treatment. The ratio of free to total PSA remains constant even under the influence of Avodart. If clinicians elect to use percent free PSA as an aid in the detection of prostate cancer in men undergoing Avodart therapy, no adjustment to its value appears necessary.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



For information on the decrease of serum PSA levels during treatment with dutasteride and guidance concerning prostate cancer detection, please see section 4.4.



Effects of other drugs on the pharmacokinetics of dutasteride



Use together with CYP3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein-inhibitors:



Dutasteride is mainly eliminated via metabolism. In vitro studies indicate that this metabolism is catalysed by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5. No formal interaction studies have been performed with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. However, in a population pharmacokinetic study, dutasteride serum concentrations were on average 1.6 to 1.8 times greater, respectively, in a small number of patients treated concurrently with verapamil or diltiazem (moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 and inhibitors of P-glycoprotein) than in other patients.



Long-term combination of dutasteride with drugs that are potent inhibitors of the enzyme CYP3A4 (e.g. ritonavir, indinavir, nefazodone, itraconazole, ketoconazole administered orally) may increase serum concentrations of dutasteride. Further inhibition of 5-alpha reductase at increased dutasteride exposure, is not likely. However, a reduction of the dutasteride dosing frequency can be considered if side effects are noted. It should be noted that in the case of enzyme inhibition, the long half-life may be further prolonged and it can take more than 6 months of concurrent therapy before a new steady state is reached.



Administration of 12g colestyramine one hour after a 5mg single dose of dutasteride did not affect the pharmacokinetics of dutasteride.



Effects of dutasteride on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs



Dutasteride has no effect on the pharmacokinetics of warfarin or digoxin. This indicates that dutasteride does not inhibit/induce CYP2C9 or the transporter P-glycoprotein. In vitro interaction studies indicate that dutasteride does not inhibit the enzymes CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 or CYP3A4.



In a small study (N=24) of two weeks duration in healthy men, dutasteride (0.5 mg daily) had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of tamsulosin or terazosin. There was also no indication of a pharmacodynamic interaction in this study.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Avodart is contraindicated for use by women.



Fertility



Dutasteride has been reported to affect semen characteristics (reduction in sperm count, semen volume, and sperm motility) in healthy men (see section 5.1). The possibility of reduced male fertility cannot be excluded.



Pregnancy



As with other 5 alpha reductase inhibitors, dutasteride inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone and may, if administered to a woman carrying a male foetus, inhibit the development of the external genitalia of the foetus (see section 4.4). Small amounts of dutasteride have been recovered from the semen in subjects receiving Avodart 0.5 mg day. Based on studies in animals, it is unlikely that a male foetus will be adversely affected if his mother is exposed to the semen of a patient being treated with Avodart (the risk of which is greatest during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy). However, as with all 5 alpha reductase inhibitors, when the patient's partner is or may potentially be pregnant it is recommended that the patient avoids exposure of his partner to semen by use of a condom.



Lactation



It is not known whether dutasteride is excreted in human milk.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Based on the pharmacodynamic properties of dutasteride, treatment with dutasteride would not be expected to interfere with the ability to drive or operate machinery.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



AVODART AS MONOTHERAPY



Approximately 19% of the 2167 patients who received dutasteride in the 2 year Phase III placebo-controlled trials developed adverse reactions during the first year of treatment. The majority of events were mild to moderate and occurred in the reproductive system. No change to the adverse event profile was apparent over a further 2 years in open-label extension studies.



The following table shows adverse reactions from controlled clinical trials and post-marketing experience. The listed adverse events from clinical trials are investigator-judged drug-related events (with incidence more than or equal to 1%) reported with a higher incidence in patients treated with dutasteride compared with placebo during the first year of treatment. Adverse events from post-marketing experience were identified from spontaneous post-marketing reports; therefore the true incidence is unknown:








































Organ system




Adverse reaction




Incidence from clinical trial data


 


Incidence during year 1 of treatment (n=2167)




Incidence during year 2 of treatment (n=1744)


  


Reproductive system and breast disorders




Impotence




6.0%




1.7%




Altered (decreased) libido




3.7%




0.6%


 


Ejaculation disorders




1.8%




0.5%


 


Breast disorders (includes breast enlargement and/or breast tenderness)




1.3%




1.3%


 


Immune system disorders




Allergic reactions including rash, pruritus, urticaria, localised oedema, and angioedema




Incidence estimated from post-marketing data


 


Unknown


   


Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders




Alopecia (primarily body hair loss), hypertrichosis




Uncommon


 


AVODART IN COMBINATION WITH THE ALPHA-BLOCKER TAMSULOSIN



Data from 4 year CombAT Study, comparing dutasteride 0.5mg (n=1623) and tamsulosin 0.4mg (n=1611) once daily alone and in combination (n=1610) have shown that the incidence of any investigator-judged drug-related adverse event during the first, second, third and forth years of treatment respectively was 22%, 6%, 4% and 2% for dutasteride/tamsulosin combination therapy, 15%, 6 %. 3% and 2% for dutasteride monotherapy and 13%,5%, 2% and 2% for tamsulosin monotherapy. The higher incidence of adverse events in the combination therapy group in the first year of treatment was due to a higher incidence of reproductive disorders, specifically ejaculation disorders, observed in this group.



The following investigator-judged drug-related adverse events have been reported with an incidence of greater than or equal to 1% during the first year of treatment in the CombAT Study; the incidence of these events during the four years of treatment is shown in the table below:


























































































































































System Organ Class




Adverse Reaction




Incidence during treatment period


   


Year 1




Year 2




Year 3




Year 4


  


Combinationa (n)




(n=1610)




(n=1428)




(n=1283)




(n=1200)


 


Dutasteride




(n=1623)




(n=1464)




(n=1325)




(n=1200)


 


Tamsulosin




(n=1611)




(n=1468)




(n=1281)




(n=1112)


 


Reproductive system and breast disorders, Psychiatric disorders, Investigations




Impotence



 

 

 

 


Combinationa




6.3%




1.8%




0.9%




0.4%


 


Dutasteride




5.1%




1.6%




0.6%




0.3%


 


Tamsulosin




3.3%




1.0%




0.6%




1.1%


 


Altered (decreased) libido



 

 

 

 
 


Combinationa




5.3%




0.8%




0.2%




0%


 


Dutasteride




3.8%




1.0%




0.2%




0%


 


Tamsulosin




2.5%




0.7%




0.2%




<0.1%


 


Ejaculation disorders



 

 

 

 
 


Combinationa




9.0%




1.0%




0.5%




<0.1%


 


Dutasteride




1.5%




0.5%




0.2%




0.3%


 


Tamsulosin




2.7%




0.5%




0.2%




0.3%


 


Breast disordersb



 

 

 

 
 


Combinationa




2.1%




0.8%




0.9%




0.6%


 


Dutasteride




1.7%




1.2%




0.5%




0.7%


 


Tamsulosin




0.8%




0.4%




0.2%




0%


 


Nervous system disorders




Dizziness



 

 

 

 


Combinationa




1.4%




0.1%




<0.1%




0.2%


 


Dutasteride




0.7%




0.1%




<0.1%




<0.1%


 


Tamsulosin




1.3%




0.4%




<0.1%




0%


 


a Combination = dutasteride 0.5 mg once daily plus tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily.



b Includes breast tenderness and breast enlargement.



4.9 Overdose



In volunteer studies of Avodart, single daily doses of dutasteride up to 40 mg/day (80 times the therapeutic dose) have been administered for 7 days without significant safety concerns. In clinical studies, doses of 5mg daily have been administered to subjects for 6 months with no additional adverse effects to those seen at therapeutic doses of 0.5 mg. There is no specific antidote for Avodart, therefore, in suspected overdosage symptomatic and supportive treatment should be given as appropriate.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: testosterone-5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.



ATC code: G04C B02.



Dutasteride reduces circulating levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by inhibiting both type 1 and type 2, 5α-reductase isoenzymes which are responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT.



AVODART AS MONOTHERAPY



Effects on DHT/Testosterone:



Effect of daily doses of Avodart on the reduction on DHT is dose dependant and is observed within 1-2 weeks (85% and 90% reduction, respectively).



In patients with BPH treated with dutasteride 0.5 mg/day, the median decrease in serum DHT was 94% at 1 year and 93% at 2 years and the median increase in serum testosterone was 19% at both 1 and 2 years.



Effect on Prostate Volume:



Significant reductions in prostate volume have been detected as early as one month after initiation of treatment and reductions continued through Month 24 (p<0.001). Avodart led to a mean reduction of total prostate volume of 23.6% (from 54.9 ml at baseline to 42.1 ml) at Month 12 compared with a mean reduction of 0.5% (from 54.0 ml to 53.7 ml) in the placebo group. Significant (p<0.001) reductions also occurred in prostate transitional zone volume as early as one month continuing through Month 24, with a mean reduction in prostate transitional zone volume of 17.8% (from 26.8 ml at baseline to 21.4 ml) in the Avodart group compared to a mean increase of 7.9% (from 26.8ml to 27.5 ml) in the placebo group at Month 12. The reduction of the prostate volume seen during the first 2 years of double-blind treatment was maintained during an additional 2 years of open-label extension studies. Reduction of the size of the prostate leads to improvement of symptoms and a decreased risk for AUR and BPH-related surgery.



CLINICAL STUDIES



Avodart 0.5 mg/day or placebo was evaluated in 4325 male subjects with moderate to severe symptoms of BPH who had prostates



The most important clinical efficacy parameters were American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUA-SI), maximum urinary flow (Qmax) and the incidence of acute urinary retention and BPH-related surgery.



AUA-SI is a seven-item questionnaire about BPH-related symptoms with a maximum score of 35. At baseline the average score was approx. 17. After six months, one and two years treatment the placebo group had an average improvement of 2.5, 2.5 and 2.3 points respectively while the Avodart group improved 3.2, 3.8 and 4.5 points respectively. The differences between the groups were statistically significant. The improvement in AUA-SI seen during the first 2 years of double-blind treatment was maintained during an additional 2 years of open-label extension studies.



Qmax (maximum urine flow):



Mean baseline Qmax for the studies was approx 10 ml/sec (normal Qmax



Acute Urinary Retention and Surgical Intervention



After two years of treatment, the incidence of AUR was 4.2% in the placebo group against 1.8% in the Avodart group (57% risk reduction). This difference is statistically significant and means that 42 patients (95% CI 30-73) need to be treated for two years to avoid one case of AUR.



The incidence of BPH-related surgery after two years was 4.1% in the placebo group and 2.2% in the Avodart group (48% risk reduction). This difference is statistically significant and means that 51 patients (95% CI 33-109) need to be treated for two years to avoid one surgical intervention.



Hair distribution



The effect of dutasteride on hair distribution was not formally studied during the phase III programme, however, 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors could reduce hair loss and may induce hair growth in subjects with male pattern hair loss (male androgenetic alopecia).



Thyroid function:



Thyroid function was evaluated in a one year study in healthy men. Free thyroxine levels were stable on dutasteride treatment but TSH levels were mildly increased (by 0.4 MCIU/mL) compared to placebo at the end of one year's treatment. However, as TSH levels were variable, median TSH ranges (1.4 - 1.9 MCIU/mL ) remained within normal limits (0.5 - 5/6 MCIU/mL), free thyroxine levels were stable within the normal range and similar for both placebo and dutasteride treatment, the changes in TSH were not considered clinically significant. In all the clinical studies, there has been no evidence that dutasteride adversely affects thyroid function.



Breast neoplasia:



In the 2 year clinical trials, providing 3374 patient years of exposure to dutasteride, and at the time of registration in the 2 year open label extension, there were 2 cases of breast cancer reported in dutasteride-treated patients and 1 case in a patient who received placebo.



However, the relationship between breast cancer and dutasteride is not clear.



Effects on male fertility



The effects of dutasteride 0.5mg/day on semen characteristics were evaluated in healthy volunteers aged 18 to 52 (n=27 dutasteride, n=23 placebo) throughout 52 weeks of treatment and 24 weeks of post-treatment follow-up. At 52 weeks, the mean percent reduction from baseline in total sperm count, semen volume and sperm motility were 23%, 26% and 18%, respectively, in the dutasteride group when adjusted for changes from baseline in the placebo group. Sperm concentration and sperm morphology were unaffected. After 24 weeks of follow-up, the mean percent change in total sperm count in the dutasteride group remained 23% lower than baseline. While mean values for all parameters at all time points remained within the normal ranges and did not meet the predefined criteria for a clinically significant change (30%), two subjects in the dutasteride group had decreases in sperm count of greater than 90% from baseline at 52 weeks, with partial recovery at the 24 week follow-up. The possibility of reduced male fertility cannot be excluded.



AVODART IN COMBINATION WITH THE ALPHA-BLOCKER TAMSULOSIN



Avodart 0.5 mg/day (n = 1,623), tamsulosin 0.4 mg/day (n = 1,611) or the combination of Avodart 0.5 mg plus tamsulosin 0.4 mg (n = 1,610) were evaluated in male subjects with moderate to severe symptoms of BPH who had prostates





The primary efficacy endpoint at 4 years of treatment was time to first event of AUR or BPH-related surgery. After 4 years of treatment, combination therapy statistically significantly reduced the risk of AUR or BPH-related surgery (65.8% reduction in risk p<0.001 [95% CI 54.7% to 74.1%]) compared to tamsulosin monotherapy. The incidence of AUR or BPH-related surgery by Year 4 was 4.2% for combination therapy and 11.9% for tamsulosin (p<0.001). Compared to Avodart monotherapy, combination therapy reduced the risk of AUR or BPH-related surgery by 19.6% (p=0.18 [95% CI -10.9% to 41.7%]). The incidence of AUR or BPH-related surgery by Year 4 was 4.2% for combination therapy and 5.2% for Avodart.



Secondary efficacy endpoints after 4 years of treatment included time to clinical progression (defined as a composite of: IPSS deterioration by

















































Parameter




Time-point




Combination




Avodart




Tamsulosin




AUR or BPH related surgery (%)




Incidence at Month 48




4.2




5.2




11.9a




Clinical progression* (%)




Month 48




12.6




17.8b




21.5a




IPSS (units)




[Baseline]



Month 48 (Change from Baseline)




[16.6]



-6.3




[16.4]



-5.3b




[16.4]



-3.8a




Qmax (mL/sec)




[Baseline]



Month 48 (Change from Baseline)




[10.9]



2.4




[10.6]



2.0




[10.7]



0.7a




Prostate Volume (ml)




[Baseline]



Month 48 (% Change from Baseline)




[54.7]



-27.3




[54.6]



-28.0




[55.8]



+4.6a




Prostate Transition Zone Volume (ml)#




[Baseline]



Month 48 (% Change from Baseline)




[27.7]



-17.9




[30.3]



-26.5




[30.5]



18.2a




BPH Impact Index (BII) (units)




[Baseline]



Month 48 (Change from Baseline)




[5.3]



-2.2




[5.3]



-1.8b




[5.3]



-1.2a




IPSS Question 8 (BPH-related Health Status) (units)




[Baseline]



Month 48 (Change from Baseline)




[3.6]



-1.5




[3.6]



-1.3b




[3.6]



-1.1a



Baseline values are mean values and changes from baseline are adjusted mean changes.



* Clinical progression was defined as a composite of: IPSS deterioration by



# Measured at selected sites (13% of randomized patients)



a. Combination achieved significance (p<0.001) vs. tamsulosin at Month 48



b. Combination achieved significance (p<0.001) vs. Avodart at Month 48



Cardiac failure:



In this 4 year BPH study the incidence of the composite term cardiac failure in the combination group (14/1610, 0.9%) was higher than in either monotherapy group: Avodart, (4/1623, 0.2%) and tamsulosin, (10/1611, 0.6%) (see section 4.4).



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption



Following oral administration of a single 0.5 mg dutasteride dose, the time to peak serum concentrations of dutasteride is 1 to 3 hours. The absolute bioavailability is approximately 60%. The bioavailability of dutasteride is not affected by food.



Distribution



Dutasteride has a large volume of distribution (300 to 500 L) and is highly bound to plasma proteins (>99.5%). Following daily dosing, dutasteride serum concentrations achieve 65% of steady state concentration after 1 month and approximately 90% after 3 months.



Steady state serum concentrations (Css) of approximately 40 ng/mL are achieved after 6 months of dosing 0.5mg once a day. Dutasteride partitioning from serum into semen averaged 11.5%.



Elimination



Dutasteride is extensively metabolized in vivo. In vitro, dutasteride is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 3A4 and 3A5 to three monohydroxylated metabolites and one dihydroxylated metabolite.



Following oral dosing of dutasteride 0.5 mg/day to steady state, 1.0% to 15.4% (mean of 5.4%) of the administered dose is excreted as unchanged dutasteride in the faeces. The remainder is excreted in the faeces as 4 major metabolites comprising 39%, 21%, 7%, and 7% each of drug-related material and 6 minor metabolites (less than 5% each). Only trace amounts of unchanged dutasteride (less than 0.1% of the dose) are detected in human urine.



The elimination of dutasteride is dose dependent and the process appears to be described by two elimination pathways in parallel, one that is saturable at clinically relevant concentrations and one that is non saturable.



At low serum concentrations (less than 3ng/mL), dutasteride is cleared rapidly by both the concentration dependent and concentration independent elimination pathways. Single doses of 5 mg or less showed evidence of rapid clearance and a short half-life of 3 to 9 days.



At therapeutic concentrations, following repeat dosing of 0.5 mg/day, the slower, linear elimination pathway is dominating and the half-life is approx. 3-5 weeks.



Elderly



Dutasteride pharmacokinetics were evaluated in 36 healthy male subjects between the ages of 24 and 87 years following administration of a single 5mg dose of dutasteride. No significant influence of age was seen on the exposure of dutasteride but the half-life was shorter in men under 50 years of age. Half-life was not statistically different when comparing the 50-69 year old group to the greater than 70 years old.



Renal impairment



The effect of renal impairment on dutasteride pharmacokinetics has not been studied. However, less than 0.1% of a steady-state 0.5 mg dose of dutasteride is recovered in human urine, so no clinically significant increase of the dutasteride plasma concentrations is anticipated for patients with renal impairment (see section 4.2).



Hepatic impairment



The effect on the pharmacokinetics of dutasteride in hepatic impairment has not been studied (see section 4.3). Because dutasteride is eliminated mainly through metabolism the plasma levels of dutasteride are expected to be elevated in these patients and the half-life of dutasteride be prolonged (see section 4.2 and section 4.4).



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Current studies of general toxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity did not show any particular risk to humans.



Reproduction toxicity studies in male rats have shown a decreased weight of the prostate and seminal vesicles, decreased secretion from accessory genital glands and a reduction in fertility indices (caused by the pharmacological effect of dutasteride). The clinical relevance of these findings is unknown.



As with other 5 alpha reductase inhibitors, feminisation of male foetuses in rats and rabbits has been noted when dutasteride was administered during gestation. Dutasteride has been found in blood from female rats after mating with dutasteride treated males. When dutasteride was administered during gestation to primates, no feminisation of male foetuses was seen at blood exposures sufficiently in excess of those likely to occur via human semen. It is unlikely that a male foetus will be adversely affected following seminal transfer of dutasteride.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Capsule contents:



mono- and diglycerides of caprylic/capric acid



butylhydroxytoluene (E321).



Capsule shell:



gelatin



glycerol



titanium dioxide (E171)



iron oxide yellow (E172)



triglycerides, medium chain



lecithin.



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



4 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 30°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Blisters of opaque PVC/PVDC film containing 10 soft gelatin capsules packed into containers of 10, 30, 60 and 90 capsules. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Dutasteride is absorbed through the skin, therefore contact with leaking capsules must be avoided. If contact is made with leaking capsules, the contact area should be washed immediately with soap and water (see section 4.4).



Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.



Administrative Data


7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



GlaxoSmithKline UK Limited



980 Great West Road



Brentford



Middlesex



TW8 9GS



United Kingdom



Trading as:



GlaxoSmithKline UK Ltd



Stockley Park West



Uxbridge



Middlesex,



UB11 1BT



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



19494/0006



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



17 January 2003/ 13 February 2008



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



October 2011/




West-Decon


Generic Name: chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine (klor fen IR a meen/fen ill toe LOX a meen/fen ill EFF rin/fen ill proe pa NOLE a meen)

Brand Names: Andecon Pediatric Drops, Naldecon, Naldelate, Nalgest, Nalphen, Nalspan, Prop-A-Hist, Sinucon, Uni Decon, West-Decon


What is West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?

Chlorpheniramine and phenyltoloxamine are antihistamines. They block the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Chlorpheniramine and phenyltoloxamine prevent sneezing; itchy, watery eyes and nose; and other symptoms of allergies and hay fever.


Phenylephrine and phenylpropanolamine are decongestants. They constrict blood vessels (veins and arteries). This reduces the blood flow to certain areas and allows nasal and respiratory (breathing) passages to open up.


Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine is used to treat nasal congestion and sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold.


Phenylpropanolamine, an ingredient in this product, has been associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.


Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?


Phenylpropanolamine, an ingredient in this product, has been associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.


Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine.

Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, talk to your doctor.


Who should not take West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?


Do not take chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have


  • kidney disease,

  • liver disease,


  • diabetes,




  • glaucoma,




  • any type of heart disease or high blood pressure,




  • thyroid disease,




  • emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or




  • difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.



You may not be able to take chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.


Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. This medication passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not take this medication 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 chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine. You may require a lower dose of this medication. Read the package label for directions or consult your doctor or pharmacist before treating a child with this medication. Children are more susceptible than adults to the effects of medicines and may have unusual reactions.

How should I take West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?


Take chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine exactly as directed. 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. Do not crush, chew, or break the long-acting or sustained-release forms of this medication. Swallow them whole. If you are unsure of the formulation of the medicine, ask your pharmacist for help.

If you cannot swallow the tablets or capsules, look for a liquid form of the medication.


To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid forms of chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine 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.


Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of this medication can cause serious harm.

Do not take chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine for longer than 7 days in a row. If your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you have a fever, talk to your doctor.


Store chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine 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.

Symptoms of a chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine overdose include a dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, nausea, and vomiting.


What should I avoid while taking West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?


Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine.

Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, other antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine is taken with any of these medications.


West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine) side effects


Serious side effects are unlikely to occur. Stop taking chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine 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 chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine and talk to your doctor or try another similar medication if you experience



  • dryness of the eyes, nose, and mouth;




  • drowsiness or dizziness;




  • blurred vision;




  • difficulty urinating; or




  • excitation in children.



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 West-Decon (chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/ phenylephrine/ phenylpropanolamine)?


Do not take chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, or sleep aids while taking chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Other medications may also contain chlorpheniramine, phenyltoloxamine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, or other similar drugs. You may accidentally take too much of these medicines.


Chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, other antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine is taken with any of these medications.


Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.



More West-Decon resources


  • West-Decon Drug Interactions
  • West-Decon Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for West-Decon - Add your own review/rating


Compare West-Decon with other medications


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Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist has additional information about chlorpheniramine/ phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?


Many formulations of chlorpheniramine/phenyltoloxamine/phenylephrine/phenylpropanolamine available both over the counter and with a prescription. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.