Velosulin BR

Generic Name: insulin regular (IN soo lin REG yoo lar)

Brand Names: Humulin R, Novolin R, Novolin R Innolet, Novolin R PenFill, ReliOn/Novolin R

What is Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin regular is a long-acting form of insulin that is slightly different from other forms of insulin that are not man-made.

Insulin regular is used to treat diabetes.

Insulin regular may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Also be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin doses if needed.

Never share an injection pen or cartridge with another person. Sharing injection pens or cartridges can allow disease such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from one person to another.

Insulin is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

Do not change the brand of insulin or syringe you are using without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Some brands of insulin regular and syringes are interchangeable, while others are not. Your doctor and/or pharmacist know which brands can be substituted for one another.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to insulin, or if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Before using insulin regular, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including any oral (by mouth) diabetes medications.

Insulin regular is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.

Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

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 insulin regular 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 use Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Insulin regular is given as an injection (shot) under your skin. Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist will give you specific instructions on how and where to inject this medicine. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Choose a different place in your injection skin area each time you use this medication. Do not inject into the same place two times in a row.

Insulin regular should look as clear as water. Do not use the medication if has changed colors, looks cloudy, or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Some insulin needles can be used more than once, depending on needle brand and type. But a reused needle must be properly cleaned, recapped, and inspected for bending or breakage. Reusing needles also increases your risk of infection. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you are able to reuse your insulin needles.

Do not change the brand of insulin or syringe you are using without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Some brands of insulin regular and syringes are interchangeable, while others are not. Your doctor and/or pharmacist know which brands can be substituted for one another. Never share an injection pen or cartridge with another person. Sharing injection pens or cartridges can allow disease such as hepatitis or HIV to pass from one person to another.

Check your blood sugar carefully during a time of stress or illness, if you travel, exercise more than usual, or skip meals. These things can affect your glucose levels and your insulin dose needs may also change.

Watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin doses if needed.

Ask your doctor how to adjust your insulin regular dose if needed. Do not change your dose without first talking to your doctor. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you have diabetes, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are diabetic. Storing unopened vials and cartridges: Keep in the carton and store in a refrigerator, protected from light. Unopened vials may also be stored at room temperature, away from heat and bright light.

Storing after your first use: Keep the "in-use" vials or cartridges at room temperature.

Do not freeze insulin regular, and throw away the medication if it has become frozen.

Throw away any insulin not used before the expiration date on the medicine label.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since insulin regular is used before meals or snacks, you may not be on a timed dosing schedule. Whenever you use insulin regular, be sure to eat a meal or snack within 15 to 30 minutes. Do not use extra insulin to make up a missed dose.

It is important to keep insulin regular on hand at all times. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An insulin overdose can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Symptoms of severe hypoglycemia include extreme weakness, blurred vision, sweating, trouble speaking, tremors, stomach pain, confusion, seizure (convulsions), or coma.

What should I avoid while using Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Do not change the brand of insulin regular or syringe you are using without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid drinking alcohol. Your blood sugar may become dangerously low if you drink alcohol while using insulin regular.

Velosulin BR (insulin regular) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of insulin allergy: itching skin rash over the entire body, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, sweating, or feeling like you might pass out.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common side effect of insulin. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, trouble concentrating, confusion, or seizure (convulsions). Watch for signs of low blood sugar. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Tell your doctor if you have itching, swelling, redness, or thickening of the skin where you inject insulin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Velosulin BR (insulin regular)?

Using certain medicines can make it harder for you to tell when you have low blood sugar. Tell your doctor if you use any of the following:

• 
  

  albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin);

  
  


• 
  

  clonidine (Catapres);

  
  


• 
  

  reserpine;

  
  


• 
  

  guanethidine (Ismelin); or

  
  


• 
  

  beta-blockers such as atenolol (Tenormin), bisoprolol (Zebeta), labetalol (Normodyne, Trandate), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), nadolol (Corgard), propranolol (Inderal, InnoPran), timolol (Blocadren), and others.

  
  

There are many other medicines that can increase or decrease the effects of insulin on lowering your blood sugar. 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.

More Velosulin BR resources

• Velosulin BR Side Effects (in more detail)
• Velosulin BR Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Velosulin BR Drug Interactions
• Velosulin BR Support Group
• 1 Review for Velosulin BR - Add your own review/rating

• Humulin R MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Humulin R Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Humulin R (Concentrated) MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Novolin R Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare Velosulin BR with other medications

• Diabetes, Type 1
• Diabetes, Type 2
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis
• Gestational Diabetes
• Growth Hormone Reserve Test
• Hyperkalemia
• Insulin Resistance Syndrome
• Nonketotic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about insulin regular.

See also: Velosulin BR side effects (in more detail)

Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets

Pronunciation: nor-ETH-in-drone/ETH-i-nil ES-tra-DYE-ol/FER-us FUE-ma-rate
Generic Name: Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol
Brand Name: Lo Loestrin Fe

Cigarette smoking increases the risk of serious heart problems associated with use of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking. Women who are over 35 years old have a greater risk. Women who are over 35 years old and smoke should not use Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.

Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol is used for:

Preventing pregnancy. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol is a progesterone and estrogen combination birth control pill. It also contains iron. It works by preventing ovulation. It may also change cervical mucus to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg, and change the lining of the uterus to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

Do NOT use Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol


• you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant


• you have a history of blood clotting problems, severe blood clots (eg, in the lungs, legs, eyes), or certain blood vessel problems (eg, in the brain or heart, bleeding in the brain, a heart attack, a stroke)


• you have a history of breast cancer; endometrial, cervical, or vaginal cancer; or estrogen-dependent growths


• you have certain heart problems (eg, heart valve problems, certain types of irregular heartbeat); certain types of headaches or migraines; uncontrolled high blood pressure; or undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding


• you have diabetes that affects circulation, nerves, eyes or kidney; liver disease; or liver tumors


• you have had surgery and are or will be confined to a bed or a chair for an extended period of time


• you are over 35 years old and you smoke

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

Before using Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol:

Some medical conditions may interact with Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. 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 a history of endometriosis, growths in the uterus, an abnormal mammogram, irregular menstrual periods, abnormal vaginal bleeding, a lump in the breast, or fibrocystic breast disease, or if a family member has had breast cancer


• if you have a history of diabetes or high blood sugar, gallbladder problems, migraines or severe or persistent headaches, heart problems (eg, heart failure, angina), high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol or lipid levels, kidney or liver problems, blood or bleeding problems, mental or mood problems (eg, depression), lupus, high blood calcium levels, chloasma (dark skin patches), chorea (jerky, involuntary movements of the face, arms, or legs), varicose veins, pancreas problems, seizures, or a condition called hereditary angioedema


• if you smoke, are very overweight, are past menopause or have not yet had your first menstrual period, have certain blood problems (eg, porphyria), or have fluid retention or swelling problems


• if you have a history of yellowing of the eyes or skin caused by pregnancy or prior birth control use


• if you will be having surgery or will be confined to a bed or a chair for a long period of time


• if a family member has a history of high blood triglyceride levels

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

• Tranexamic acid because it may increase the risk of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's side effects


• Azole antifungals (eg, ketoconazole), HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), or nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) (eg, efavirenz) because they may decrease Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's effectiveness, resulting in pregnancy or breakthrough bleeding, or they may increase the risk of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's side effects


• Acitretin, aprepitant, armodafinil, barbiturates (eg, phenobarbital), bosentan, carbamazepine, felbamate, griseofulvin, hydantoins (eg, phenytoin), modafinil, nevirapine, oxcarbazepine, penicillins (eg, ampicillin), phenylbutazone, rifamycins (eg, rifampin), rufinamide, St. John's wort, tetracyclines (eg, doxycycline), topiramate, or troglitazone because they may decrease Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's effectiveness, resulting in breakthrough bleeding or pregnancy


• Corticosteroids (eg, prednisolone), theophylline, tizanidine, or troleandomycin because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol


• Certain antiseizure medicines (eg, phenytoin, valproic acid), lamotrigine, or penicillamine because their effectiveness may be decreased by Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol 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 Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol:

Use Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• An extra patient leaflet is available with Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.


• Take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol by mouth with or without food.


• Talk with your doctor about how you should start to take your first pack of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. If you begin to take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol during the first 24 hours of your period, you do not need to use an extra form of birth control. If you begin to take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol on the Sunday after your period starts, you will need to use an extra form of birth control for 7 days after you start taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.


• If you are switching from another birth control pill to Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol, start Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol on the same day that you would have started a new pack of your previous birth control pills. If you are switching to Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol from another type of hormonal birth control (eg, patch, vaginal ring), ask your doctor or pharmacist about when to start taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.


• Take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol at the same time each day. Take the tablets in the order directed on the blister pack. After taking the last pill in the pack, start taking the first pill from the new pack the very next day.


• Severe vomiting or diarrhea may decrease Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's effectiveness. Talk with your doctor about what to do if severe vomiting or diarrhea occurs while you take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. If you vomit or have diarrhea within 3 to 4 hours after you take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol, this should be considered a missed dose.


• For Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol to be effective, it must be taken every day. Do not skip doses even if you do not have sex very often. Do not skip pills if you are spotting, bleeding, or nauseated. If you have these side effects and they do not go away, check with your doctor.


• On the days you take the brown tablets (iron), certain other medicines should not be taken at the same time. If you take antacids, bisphosphonates (eg, etidronate), cephalosporins (eg, cefdinir), methyldopa, quinolones (eg, ciprofloxacin), tetracyclines (eg, minocycline), thyroid hormones (eg, levothyroxine), or thrombopoietin mimetics (eg, eltrombopag), ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take them with the iron tablets.


• If you miss 1 dose of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol, take it as soon as possible. Take your next dose at the regular time. This means you may take 2 doses on the same day. You do not need to use a backup form of birth control if you only miss 1 pill. If you miss more than 1 dose, read the extra patient leaflet that comes with Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol or contact your doctor for instructions. You must use a backup form of birth control (eg, condom, spermicide) if you miss more than 1 dose. If you are not sure how to handle missed doses, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms) and talk with your doctor.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.

Important safety information:

• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol may increase the risk of a stroke, a heart attack, blood clots, high blood pressure, or similar problems. The risk is greater if you smoke. Do not smoke or use other tobacco products while taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.


• Bleeding or spotting may occur while you are taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol, especially during the first 3 months. Do not stop taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol if this occurs. If bleeding or spotting is persistent or if it occurs after menstrual cycles that were previously regular, contact your doctor.


• If you miss more than 2 periods in a row or if you miss 1 period when you have not taken your pills correctly, contact your doctor. Also, if you have morning sickness or unusual breast tenderness, contact your doctor. You may be pregnant if any of these occur.


• Certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and other medicines may decrease the effectiveness of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may decrease Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol's effectiveness. To prevent pregnancy while taking these medicines, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms). You may also need to use an extra form of birth control for a period of time after you stop taking these medicines. Check with your doctor for more information.


• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. If possible, Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol should be stopped at least 4 weeks before surgery or any time you might be confined to a bed or chair for a long period of time (eg, long plane flight, bedrest, lengthy illness).


• You should usually not take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol within 4 weeks after giving birth or after a second-trimester abortion. Talk with your doctor about how to start taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol in these instances.


• If you start to take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol after giving birth and you have not yet had a period, use an extra form of birth control for 7 days after you start to take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.


• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol may cause dark skin patches on your face. Exposure to the sun may make these patches darker. If patches develop, use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing when exposed to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths.


• If you wear contact lenses and you develop problems with them or other vision changes, contact your doctor.


• You may experience a delay in being able to become pregnant after stopping Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. This effect may be greater in patients who had irregular periods before starting Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. Discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.


• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol does not stop the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) to others through blood or sexual contact. Use barrier methods of birth control (eg, condoms) if you have HIV infection or an STD.


• When your medicine supply is low, get more from your doctor or pharmacist as soon as you can. Do not run out of medicine. Your chance of becoming pregnant may be increased if you do not take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol every day as directed.


• Diabetes patients - Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.


• Examine your breasts monthly as directed by your doctor. Report any lumps right away.


• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol may interfere with certain lab tests, such as cholesterol or diabetes. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.


• Lab tests, including breast exams, Pap, physicals, and blood pressure, may be performed while you use Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.


• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol should not be used in CHILDREN who have not yet had their first menstrual period; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Do not take Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol if you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while you are taking Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol.

Possible side effects of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol:

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:

Breast tenderness; bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods; headache; nausea.

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; unusual hoarseness); breast pain, lump, or discharge; calf or leg pain, swelling, or tenderness; change in the amount of urine produced; chest pain or heaviness; confusion; coughing up blood; fainting; irregular heartbeat; left-sided jaw, neck, shoulder, or arm pain; mental or mood changes (eg, depression); migraines; missed menstrual period; numbness of an arm or leg; one-sided weakness; persistent, severe, or recurring headache or dizziness; persistent vaginal spotting; severe or persistent trouble sleeping; severe stomach pain or tenderness; shortness of breath; slurred speech; sudden, severe vomiting; swelling of the fingers, hands, legs, or ankles; symptoms of liver problems (eg, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite); unusual or severe vaginal bleeding; unusual tiredness or weakness; vaginal irritation or discharge; vision changes (eg, sudden vision loss, double vision).

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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include severe nausea; unexplained vaginal bleeding.

Proper storage of Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol:

Store Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

• If you have any questions about Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.


• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol 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 Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol. 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 Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol resources

• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol Drug Interactions
• Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol Support Group
• 654 Reviews for Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol - Add your own review/rating

Compare Norethindrone/Ethinyl Estradiol with other medications

• Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
• Acne
• Birth Control
• Endometriosis
• Gonadotropin Inhibition
• Menstrual Disorders
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
• Postmenopausal Symptoms
• Prevention of Osteoporosis

latanoprost Ophthalmic

la-TAN-oh-prost

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Xalatan

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antiglaucoma

Pharmacologic Class: Prostaglandin

Uses For latanoprost

Latanoprost is used to treat certain kinds of glaucoma. It is also used to treat a condition called hypertension of the eye. Latanoprost appears to work by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye. This lowers the pressure in the eye.

latanoprost is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before Using latanoprost

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 latanoprost, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to latanoprost 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

Studies on latanoprost have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of latanoprost in children with use in other age groups.

Geriatric

Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults. Although there is no specific information comparing use of latanoprost in the elderly with use in other age groups, latanoprost has been used mostly in elderly patients and is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal 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 latanoprost. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Eye disease, such as iritis or uveitis—Use of latanoprost may make the condition worse

• Eye problems, such as loss of the lens of the eye or


• Intraocular lens (IOL) replacement—May be more prone to an adverse reaction called macular edema

• Kidney disease or


• Liver disease—Higher blood levels of latanoprost may result, which may lead to increased side effects

Proper Use of latanoprost

Use latanoprost only as directed. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of too much medicine being absorbed into the body and the chance of side effects.

If your doctor ordered two different eye drops to be used together, wait at least 5 minutes between the times you apply the medicines. This will help to keep the second medicine from “washing out” the first one.

It is important that your doctor check your eye pressure at regular visits to make certain that your glaucoma is being controlled.

Contact lenses should be removed before you use latanoprost. You should wait at least 15 minutes after using the eye drops before reinserting them.

To use the eye drops:

• First, wash your hands. Tilt the head back and, pressing your finger gently on the skin just beneath the lower eyelid, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space. Drop the medicine into this space. Let go of the eyelid and gently close the eyes. Do not blink. Keep the eyes closed and apply pressure to the inner corner of the eye with your finger for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed by the eye.


• Immediately after using the eye drops, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.


• To keep the medicine as germ-free as possible, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface (including the eye). Also, keep the container tightly closed.

Dosing

The dose of latanoprost 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 latanoprost. 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 ophthalmic solution (eye drops) dosage form:
  
  • For glaucoma or hypertension of the eye:
    
    • Adults—Use one drop in the affected eye(s) once a day in the evening.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of latanoprost, 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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Before the bottle has been opened for the first time, store in the refrigerator. After the bottle has been opened, store at room temperature (up to 25 °C [77 °F]) for up to 6 weeks, or in the refrigerator.

Precautions While Using latanoprost

While you are using latanoprost, the iris (colored part) of your treated eye(s) may slowly become more brown in color. This is more likely to happen if you have blue-brown, gray-brown, green-brown, or yellow-brown eyes. The change in color of the iris is noticeable usually within several months or years from the start of treatment with latanoprost. In addition, there may be a darkening of eyelid skin color. Also, your eyelashes may become longer, thicker, and darker. These changes to the iris, eyelid, and lashes may be permanent even if you stop using latanoprost. Also, these changes to the iris, eyelid, and lashes will affect only the eye being treated with latanoprost. Therefore, if only one eye is being treated, only that eye may develop darker iris, eyelid, and eyelashes and other changes to the eyelashes, and you may have differently appearing eyes. Check with your doctor if you have any questions about this.

Latanoprost may cause your eyes to become more sensitive to light than they are normally. Wearing sunglasses and avoiding too much exposure to bright light may help lessen the discomfort.

latanoprost 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:

Less common

• Eyelid crusting, redness, swelling, discomfort, or pain

Rare

• Cough


• difficulty breathing


• noisy breathing


• redness of eye or inside of eyelid


• shortness of breath


• swelling of the eye


• tightness in chest


• wheezing

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Blurred vision, eye irritation, or tearing


• darkening of eyelid skin color


• increase in brown color in colored part of eye


• longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes

Less common

• Angina pectoris or other chest pain


• cold or flu symptoms


• eye pain


• pain in muscles, joints, or back


• skin rash

Rare

• Discharge from the eye


• double vision or other change in vision


• fever


• sensitivity of eye to light


• sore throat

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

• Burning of eye


• feeling of something in eye


• itching of eye


• stinging of eye

Less common

• Dryness of eye

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: latanoprost Ophthalmic 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 latanoprost Ophthalmic resources

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

• Xalatan Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Xalatan Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Xalatan Drops MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Xalatan Consumer Overview

Compare latanoprost Ophthalmic with other medications

• Glaucoma, Open Angle
• Intraocular Hypertension

Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream

Pronunciation: sul-fa-SEE-ta-mide/SULL-fer
Generic Name: Sulfacetamide/Sulfur
Brand Name: Rosac

Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream is used for:

Treating acne. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream is a sulfonamide antibiotic, drying agent, and sunscreen combination. It works by killing bacteria and gently drying the skin to help treat acne. The sunscreen protects the skin from irritation due to sunburn.

Do NOT use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream


• you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness) to any other sulfonamide medicine, such as acetazolamide, celecoxib, certain diuretics (eg, hydrochlorothiazide), glyburide, probenecid, sulfamethoxazole, valdecoxib, or zonisamide

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

Before using Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream:

Some medical conditions may interact with Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream. 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 a history of lupus

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

• Silver-containing products (eg, silver sulfadiazine) because they may decrease Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream's effectiveness


• Methenamine because it may increase the risk of Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream's side effects

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream 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 Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream:

Use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream is for use on the skin only. Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream may stain clothing and the skin if too much is used.


• Wash your hands before and immediately after using Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream. Gently wash the affected area and pat dry. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected area. Avoid getting Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth.


• To clear up your infection completely, use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream for the full course of treatment. Keep using it even if you feel better in a few days.


• Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream works best if it is used at the same time each day.


• Continue to use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.


• If you miss a dose of Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream, 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 Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream.

Important safety information:

• It may take several days for Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream to work fully.


• Avoid getting Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth.


• Talk with your doctor before you use any other medicines or cleansers on your skin.


• Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.


• Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections.


• Be sure to use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.


• Long-term or repeated use of Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.


• If you use topical products too often, your condition may become worse.


• Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 12 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream while you are pregnant. It is not known if Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream is found in breast milk after topical use. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream:

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:

Irritation, stinging, or burning of the 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); bloody diarrhea; fever; joint pain; red, swollen, or blistered skin; severe diarrhea; sores in the mouth; stomach cramps/pain.

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: Sulfacetamide/Sulfur 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. Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of ingestion may include change in the amount of urine; nausea; vomiting.

Proper storage of Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream:

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

General information:

• If you have any questions about Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.


• Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream 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 Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream. 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 Sulfacetamide/Sulfur resources

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

Compare Sulfacetamide/Sulfur with other medications

• Acne
• Rosacea
• Seborrheic Dermatitis