Tuesday, 31 July 2012

Care Decongestant Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Galsud Tablets



Care Decongestant Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Active Ingredient:



Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride BP 60.0mg (Per Tablet).



For full list of excipients, see section 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablets.



Round, curved white tablets embossed with “60” on one side.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Indicated for the relief of nasal, sinus and upper respiratory congestion.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



For oral administration.



Adults and children over 12 years:



One tablet four times daily.



Children under 12 years:



Not recommended.



4.3 Contraindications



This product should not be used in patients hypersensitive to pseudoephedrine or any of the other ingredients. It is contra-indicated in patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors or who have received these agents in the last two weeks.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Caution should be used when prescribing pseudoephedrine for patients with cardiovascular disease including hypertension, those with diabetes, hyperthyroidism, raised intraocular pressure, prostatic enlargement or bladder dysfunction.



Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the LAPP lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Caution should be exercised with patients receiving other sympathomimetic agents, appetite suppressants or other amphetamine type agents. Pseudoephedrine may antagonise the effects of antihypertensive agents, severe hypertension may occur in patients receiving beta-blockers. Hypertensive crisis may occur if pseudoephedrine is co-administered with MAOIs.



The antibacterial agent furazolidone is known to cause progressive inhibition of monoamine oxidase. Although there have been no reports of hypertensive crisis, it may not be administered concurrently with pseudoephedrine.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



No data are available for the use of this product in pregnancy. Pseudoephedrine has been used for many years without reports of serious problems. However, caution is required and pseudoephedrine should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. Pseudoephedrine has been detected in human milk with a small percentage of the total maternal dose potentially administered to the suckling infant. Although the effects on the infant have not been monitored the risk is judged to be low.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



None stated.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Pseudoephedrine may cause insomnia in some patients. Sleep disturbances and hallucinations have been reported rarely. A fixed drug eruption, in the form of erythematous nodular patches, has been associated rarely with pseudoephedrine.



4.9 Overdose



The symptoms of overdose include irritability, nervousness, tremor, palpitations, convulsions, urinary retention and hypertension.



Overdose should be treated by general supportive measures. In the event of gross overdose, the stomach should be emptied using airways protective gastric lavage. Respiratory and circulatory function should be maintained by supportive measures. Convulsions should be controlled using anti-convulsant therapy. Catheterisation of the bladder may be required.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic Group: Nasal decongestant for systemic use



Sympathomimetics: ATC code: R01B A02



Pseudoephedrine has direct and indirect sympathomimetic activity and is an orally effective upper respiratory decongestant. Pseudoephedrine is substantially less potent than ephedrine in producing both tachycardia and elevation in systolic blood pressure and considerably less potent in causing stimulation of the central nervous system.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride is readily and completely absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract. It is resistant to metabolism by monoamine oxidase and is largely excreted unchanged in the urine.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



There are no pre-clinical data of relevance that are additional to the presciber, which are additional to those already included in other sections of the SmPC.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Lactose



Microcrystalline cellulose



Magnesium stearate



6.2 Incompatibilities



None stated.



6.3 Shelf Life



Three years from the date of manufacture.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store in a cool dry place.



Protect from light.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



White opaque PVC blister 250 microns thick backed by hard temper aluminium foil 20 microns thick.



Pack sizes 4, 8 and 12 tablets.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None stated.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Thornton & Ross Limited



Linthwaite



Huddersfield



West Yorkshire



HD7 5QH



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00240/0109



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



31 May 2003



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



13/03/2009




Sunday, 29 July 2012

Aspirin Chewable Tablets



Pronunciation: AS-pir-in
Generic Name: Aspirin
Brand Name: Examples include Bayer Children's and St. Joseph 81 mg Adult


Aspirin Chewable Tablets are used for:

Treatment of aches and pains associated with headache, common cold, and sore throat and for reduction of fever. It may be used to reduce the risk of death and lessen the damaging effects of an acute heart attack. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in certain men and women who have already had a heart attack or ischemic stroke. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Aspirin Chewable Tablets are a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by inhibiting several different chemical processes within the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever. It also reduces the tendency for blood to clot.


Do NOT use Aspirin Chewable Tablets if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Aspirin Chewable Tablets

  • you are a child or teenager with influenza (flu) or chickenpox

  • you have bleeding problems such as hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, or low blood platelets

  • you have had a severe allergic reaction (eg, severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness), to aspirin, tartrazine, or an NSAID (eg, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)

  • you are taking anticoagulants (eg, heparin, warfarin) or methotrexate

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



Before using Aspirin Chewable Tablets:


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


  • if you are pregnant, plan 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 or other substances

  • if you have alcoholism or if you consume 3 or more alcohol containing drinks every day

  • if you have asthma, bleeding or clotting problems, growths in the nose (nasal polyps), kidney or liver problems, stomach or peptic ulcers (bleeding ulcers), heartburn, upset stomach, stomach pain, influenza (flu) or chicken pox, or vitamin K deficiency

  • if you are a child with a stroke, a weakened blood vessel (cerebral aneurysm) or bleeding in the brain, or Kawasaki syndrome (a rare inflammation causing heart problems in children)

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


  • Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (eg, acetazolamide) because they may decrease Aspirin Chewable Tablets's effectiveness

  • Anticoagulants (eg, heparin, warfarin) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen, celecoxib) because the risk of their side effects, including risk of bleeding, may be increased by Aspirin Chewable Tablets

  • Insulin and oral antidiabetics (eg, glyburide, nateglinide) because the risk of their side effects, including low blood sugar (eg, hunger, shakiness or weakness, dizziness, headache, sweating), may be increased by Aspirin Chewable Tablets

  • Methotrexate or valproic acid because the risk of their actions and side effects may be increased by Aspirin Chewable Tablets

  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (eg, enalapril), probenecid, or sulfinpyrazone because their effectiveness may be decreased by Aspirin Chewable Tablets

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Aspirin Chewable Tablets 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 Aspirin Chewable Tablets:


Use Aspirin Chewable Tablets as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take Aspirin Chewable Tablets by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

  • Aspirin Chewable Tablets may be swallowed whole, chewed, or crushed and dissolved in a glass of water, milk, or juice before swallowing.

  • Take Aspirin Chewable Tablets with a full glass of water (8 oz/240 mL).

  • Use Aspirin Chewable Tablets exactly as directed on the package, unless instructed differently by your doctor. If you are taking Aspirin Chewable Tablets without a prescription, follow any warnings and precautions on the label.

  • If you miss a dose of Aspirin Chewable Tablets and you are taking it regularly, take 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 take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Aspirin Chewable Tablets.



Important safety information:


  • Do not take Aspirin Chewable Tablets for more than 10 days for pain or for more than 3 days for fever unless directed to do so by your health care provider.

  • Aspirin Chewable Tablets has aspirin in it. Before you start any new medicine, check the label to see if it has aspirin in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Talk to your doctor before you take Aspirin Chewable Tablets or other pain relievers/fever reducers if you drink more than 3 drinks with alcohol per day. Aspirin Chewable Tablets may cause stomach bleeding. Your risk may be greater if you drink alcohol while you are using Aspirin Chewable Tablets.

  • Serious stomach ulcers or bleeding can occur with the use of Aspirin Chewable Tablets. Taking it in high doses or for a long time, smoking, or drinking alcohol increases the risk of these side effects. Taking Aspirin Chewable Tablets with food will NOT reduce the risk of these effects. Contact your doctor or emergency room at once if you develop severe stomach or back pain; black, tarry stools; vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds; or unusual weight gain or swelling.

  • Aspirin Chewable Tablets may reduce the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your blood. Avoid activities that may cause bruising or injury. Tell your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding. Tell your doctor if you have dark, tarry, or bloody stools.

  • Aspirin has been linked to a serious illness called Reye syndrome. Do not give Aspirin Chewable Tablets to a child or teenager who has the flu, chickenpox, or a viral infection. Contact your doctor with any questions or concerns.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Aspirin Chewable Tablets before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • If Aspirin Chewable Tablets has a strong vinegar-like smell upon opening, do not use. It means the medicine is breaking down. Throw the bottle away safely and out of the reach of children; contact your pharmacist and replace.

  • Use Aspirin Chewable Tablets with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially those with a blood coagulation disorder.

  • Aspirin Chewable Tablets should not be used 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 Aspirin Chewable Tablets while you are pregnant. Aspirin Chewable Tablets are not recommended during the last 3 months (third trimester) of pregnancy because it may cause harm to the fetus. Aspirin Chewable Tablets are found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Aspirin Chewable Tablets, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Aspirin Chewable Tablets:


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:



Heartburn; nausea; upset stomach.



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); black or bloody stools; confusion; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; hearing loss; ringing in the ears; severe stomach pain; unusual bruising; vomiting.



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: Aspirin 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; fever; hearing loss; lethargy; lightheadedness, especially upon standing; nausea; rapid breathing; rapid or irregular heartbeat; ringing in the ears; seizures; shortness of breath; stomach pain; vomiting.


Proper storage of Aspirin Chewable Tablets:

Store Aspirin Chewable Tablets 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. Keep Aspirin Chewable Tablets out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Aspirin Chewable Tablets are 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 Aspirin Chewable Tablets. 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 Aspirin resources


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


Compare Aspirin with other medications


  • Angina
  • Angina Pectoris Prophylaxis
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis
  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome
  • Aseptic Necrosis
  • Back Pain
  • Fever
  • Heart Attack
  • Ischemic Stroke
  • Ischemic Stroke, Prophylaxis
  • Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Kawasaki Disease
  • Myocardial Infarction, Prophylaxis
  • Niacin Flush
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Pain
  • Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation
  • Prosthetic Heart Valves
  • Prosthetic Heart Valves, Mechanical Valves
  • Revascularization Procedures, Prophylaxis
  • Rheumatic Fever
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Sciatica
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
  • Thromboembolic Stroke Prophylaxis
  • Transient Ischemic Attack

Wednesday, 18 July 2012

Minims Proxymetacaine and Fluorescein






Minims*



Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


Proxymetacaine Hydrochloride


BP 0.5% w/v and Fluorescein Sodium BP 0.25% w/v




About Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


The name of this medicine is Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein. Each Minims unit contains proxymetacaine hydrochloride in a concentration of 0.5% w/v and fluorescein sodium in a concentration of 0.25% w/v. The solution also contains purified water, providone K30, sodium hydroxide and hydrochlorid acid. Each Minims unit is a sterile, single-use container which holds approximately 0.5ml of solution. Each carton contains 20 Minims units. Proxymetacaine is a local anaesthetic which temporarily numbs the surface of the eye. Fluorescein temporarily colours your eyes orange or green and helps your doctor or eye specialist to examine them.




Who makes Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein ?


Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein is manufactured by



Laboratoire Chauvin S.A. ZI Ripotier,

07200/Aubenas,

France


The Marketing Authorisations for Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein (PL 0033/0152) is held by



Chauvin Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

106 London Road,

Kingston-Upon-Thames

KT2 6TN

England




What is Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein?


Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein is used to numb and stain the surface of the eye, for a short time only, to allow a variety of procedures to be performed. Most often, Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein is used to allow your doctor or eye specialist to measure the pressure inside your eye or to perform minor operations such as the removal of foreign bodies. This product is not intended for use as a long term treatment for painful eye conditions.




Before using Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


Are you allergic to any of the substances mentioned in the section "About Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein"?


Do you suffer from heart disease?


Do you have an over-active thyroid gland?


If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you should tell your doctor or eye specialist before using this product.


If you are pregnant (or think you might be) or if you are breast feeding, you should tell your doctor or eye specialist before Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein is used. You may still receive this eye drop but it is possible that an alternative may be used.


Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein may cause mild stinging when the drops are first added. You sight may also become blurred for a short time. Make sure that you do not drive or operate machinery until your sight has returned to normal.


Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein is not intended for long term use. Frequent use of local anaesthetic in the eye over long periods of time may affect your eyesight.


This product should not be used in premature babies.




Using Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


The doctor or eye specialist will put the drops in for you. One or two drops will be instilled into your eye immediately before the procedure. You may be asked to press on the inner corners of your eyes for a minute to stop the solution draining into your nose and throat, through the tear ducts.


Your eye will remain numb for up to 30 minutes. It is important not to rub your eye and to keep it free of dust during the time your eye is numb.


Your doctor or eye specialist will make sure that your eye is properly protected.


If too much stain has been put in to your eye it may be washed away using a sterile saline solution.


The Minims unit should be thrown away after a single use, even if some solution remains.


It is very unlikely that you will suffer an overdose from Minims.


Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein, but if you suddenly feel unwell after receiving the drops, tell your doctort or eye specialist.




After using Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein may cause allergic reaction wich have occasionally occured. These can affect the cornea (the clear membrane covering the front of the eye) and the iris. Your doctor or eye specialist will be able to tell you if an allergic reaction occurs. Other possible side effects which are very rare, include redness and irriatation of the eye, swelling around the eye, rarely difficulty in breathing and symptoms of shock and itchy skin rash with raised eye blotches.


Tell your doctor or eye specialist if you suffer from any unwanted effects after using Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluoresceinthat are not mentioned in this leaflet.




Storing Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein


  • The expiry date is printed on each Minims unit overwrap and on the carton label. Do not use it after this date.

  • Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein should be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C and prevented from freezing.

  • If necessary, the product may be stored at temperatures not exceeding 25°C for up to 1 month only, in which case a label bearing the relevant expiry date will be affixed to the carton label.


This leaflet applies to Minims Proxymetacaine & Fluorescein only, but it does not contain all the information that is known about it. If you have any questions or are not sure about anything, ask a doctor, eye specialist or pharmacist.


* Trade Mark


Date of Preparation: January 1999.


Date of Partial Revision: August 2005.




Chauvin Pharmaceuticals Ltd

106 London Road

Kingston-Upon-Thames

KT2 6TN

England

Tel:020 8781 2900

Fax:020 8781 2901


Art.76439 0504107/4





Nicotinell classic 4mg medicated chewing gum





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Nicotinell® classic 4mg medicated chewing gum


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



One piece of medicated chewing gum contains 4mg nicotine (as 20 mg nicotine – polacrilin (1:4)).



For excipients, see section 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Medicated chewing gum.



Each piece of coated chewing gum is off-white in colour and rectangular in shape.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Nicotinell gum is indicated for the relief of nicotine withdrawal symptoms, as an aid to smoking cessation.



Concurrent counselling/behavioural support is recommended as it is likely to increase the chances of a successful quit.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults and elderly



Users should stop smoking completely during treatment with Nicotinell gum.



One piece of Nicotinell gum to be chewed when the user feels the urge to smoke. Normally, 8-12 pieces per day can be used, up to a maximum of 15 pieces per day.



The 4 mg chewing gum is intended to be used by smokers with a strong or very strong nicotine dependency and those who have previously failed to stop smoking with the aid of nicotine replacement therapy.



The optimal dosage form is selected according to the following table:









If an adverse event is noted when high dose forms are initiated, this should be replaced by the lower dosage form.



The characteristics of chewing-gum as a pharmaceutical form are such that individually different nicotine levels can result in the blood. Therefore, dosage frequency should be adjusted according to individual requirements within the stated maximum limit.



Directions for use:



1. One piece of gum should be chewed until the taste becomes strong.



2. The chewing gum should be rested between the gum and cheek.



3. When the taste fades, chewing should commence again.



4. The chewing routine should be repeated for 30 minutes.



The treatment time is individual. Normally, treatment should continue for at least 3 months.



After three months, the user should gradually cut down the number of pieces chewed each day until they have stopped using the product.



Treatment should be discontinued when the dose has been reduced to 1-2 pieces of gum per day. Use of nicotine products like Nicotinell gum beyond 6 months is generally not recommended. Some ex-smokers may need treatment with the gum for longer to avoid returning to smoking. Patients who have been using oral nicotine replacement therapy beyond 9 months are advised to seek additional help and information from health care professionals.



Nicotinell gum is sugar free.



Adolescents (aged 12-18 years of age)



The above recommendation can be used for adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years of age. As data are limited in this age group, medical advice should be obtained should it be found necessary to use the gum beyond 12 weeks.



Concomitant use of acidic beverages such as coffee or soda may decrease the buccal absorption of nicotine. Acidic beverages should be avoided for 15 minutes prior to chewing the gum.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to nicotine or any components of the gum.



Nicotinell gum should not be used by non-smokers.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Any risks that may be associated with nicotine replacement therapy are substantially outweighed by the well established dangers of continued smoking.



Precautions: Users should stop smoking completely during therapy with Nicotinell gum. They should be informed that if they continue to smoke while using the gums they may experience increased adverse effects due to the hazards of smoking, including cardiovascular effects.



Cardiovascular disease



In stable cardiovascular disease Nicotinell gum presents a lesser hazard than continuing to smoke. However dependant smokers currently hospitalised as a result of a recent myocardial infarction, severe disrythmia, or recent cerebrovascular accident who are considered to be haemodynamically unstable should be encouraged to stop smoking with non-pharmacological interventions. If this fails, Nicotinell gum may be considered but as data on safety in this patient group are limited, initiation should only be under medical supervision.



Diabetes mellitus



Patients with diabetes mellitus should be advised to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely than usual when nicotine replacement therapy is initiated as catecholamines released by nicotine can affect carbohydrate metabolism.



Allergic reactions



Angioedema and urticaria have been reported.



Gastro-intestinal disease



Swallowed nicotine may exacerbate symptoms in patients suffering from oesophagitis, gastritis, or peptic ulcers and oral nicotine replacement therapy preparations should be used with caution in these conditions. Ulcerative stomatitis have been reported.



Renal and or hepatic impairment



Should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment and/or severe renal impairment as the clearance of nicotine or its metabolites may be decreased with the potential for increased adverse effects.



Danger in small children



Doses of nicotine tolerated by adult and adolescent smokers can produce severe toxicity in small children that may be fatal. Products containing nicotine should not be left where they may be misused, handled or ingested by children. Nicotinell gum should be disposed of with care.



Pheochromocytoma and uncontrolled hyperthyroidism



Nicotinell gum should be used with caution in patients with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or pheochromocytoma as nicotine causes the release of catecholamines.



Transferred dependence



Transferred dependence is rare and is both less harmful and easier to break than smoking dependence.



Stopping smoking



Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in tobacco smoke induce the metabolism of drugs catalysed by CYP 1A2 (and possibly CYP 1A1). When a smoker stops, this may result in slower metabolism and a consequential rise in blood levels of drugs such as theophylline, tacrine, olanzapine and clozapine.



Other warnings



If denture wearers experience difficulty in chewing the gum, it is recommended that they use a different pharmaceutical form of nicotine replacement therapy.



Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine.



Nicotinell 4mg gum contains sorbital (E420) 0.2g per gum and maltitol liquid (E965) 0.03g per piece, a source of 0.04g fructose. Calorific value 1.1 kcal/piece of gum.



Nicotinell 4mg gum contains sodium 11.52 mg per piece of gum.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No information is available on interactions between Nicotinell gum and other drugs. No clinically relevant interactions between nicotine replacement therapy and other drugs has definitely been established, however nicotine may possibly enhance the haemodynamic effects of adenosine.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



Smoking during pregnancy is associated with risks such as intra-uterine growth retardation, premature birth or still birth. Stopping smoking is the single most effective intervention for improving the health of the pregnant smoker and her baby. The earlier abstinence is achieved the better.



Ideally smoking cessation during pregnancy should be achieved without nicotine replacement therapy. For women unable to quit on their own nicotine replacement therapy may be recommended to assist a quit attempt. The risk of using nicotine replacement therapy to the foetus is lower than that expected with tobacco smoking, due to lower maximal plasma concentrations and no additional exposure to polycyclic hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.



However as nicotine passes to the foetus affecting breathing movements and has a dose-dependant effect on placental/foetal circulation, the decision to use nicotine replacement therapy should be made on a risk-benefit assessment as early on in pregnancy as possible with the aim of discontinuing use after 2-3 months.



Intermittent dose products may be preferable as these usually provide a lower daily dose of nicotine than patches. However, patches may be preferred if the woman is suffering from nausea during pregnancy. If patches are used they should be removed before going to bed to avoid exposure overnight when the foetus would not normally be subjected to smoke derived nicotine.



Lactation



Nicotine from smoking and nicotine replacement therapy is found in breast milk. However the amounts of nicotine the infant is exposed to is relatively small and less hazardous than the second-hand smoke they would otherwise be exposed to.



Using intermittent dose products, compared to patches, may minimize the amount of nicotine in the breast milk as the time between administrations of nicotine replacement therapy and feeding can be more easily prolonged.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Some symptoms such as dizziness, headache and sleep disturbances may be related to the withdrawal of nicotine associated with stopping smoking.



In principle, Nicotinell gums can cause adverse reactions similar to those associated with nicotine administered by other means (including smoking) and these are mainly dose dependant. At recommended doses Nicotinell gum has not been found to cause any serious adverse effects. Excessive consumption of Nicotinell gum by those who have not been in the habit of inhaling tobacco smoke could possibly lead to nausea, faintness or headaches.



Most of the side effects which are reported by patients occur generally during the first 3-4 weeks after initiation of therapy.



Nicotine from gums may sometimes cause a slight irritation of the throat and increase salivation at the start of the treatment.



The gum may stick to and in rare cases damage dentures and dental appliances.



Common (> 1/100).



Nervous system disorders: headache, dizziness



Gastrointestinal disorders: hiccups, gastric symptoms e.g. nausea, vomiting, indigestion, heartburn, increased salivation, irritation or sore mouth or throat



Musculoskeletal, connective and bone disorders: jaw muscle ache.



Uncommon (>1/1,000, <1/100)



Cardiac disorders: palpitations



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: erythema, urticaria



Rare (<1/1,000)



Cardiac disorders: cardiac arrhythmias (e.g. atrial fibrillation)



Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity, angioneurotic oedema and anaphylactic reactions.



4.9 Overdose



In overdose, symptoms corresponding to heavy smoking may be seen, however the toxicity of nicotine cannot be directly compared with that of smoking, because tobacco smoke contains additional toxic substances (eg. carbon monoxide and tar).



Overdose with Nicotinell gum may only occur if many pieces are chewed simultaneously. Nicotine toxicity after ingestion will most likely be minimized as a result of early nausea and vomiting that occur following excessive nicotine exposure. Risk of poisoning by swallowing the gum is small. Since the release of nicotine from the gum is slow, very little nicotine is absorbed from the stomach and intestine, and if any is, it will be inactivated in the liver.



Chronic smokers can tolerate doses of nicotine that, in a non-smoker, would be more toxic, because of the development of tolerance.



Symptoms



The minimum lethal dose of nicotine in a non-tolerant man has been estimated to be 40-60mg. Symptoms of acute nicotine poisoning include nausea, salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, sweating, headache, dizziness, disturbed hearing and marked weakness. In extreme cases, these symptoms may be followed by hypotension, rapid or weak or irregular pulse, breathing difficulties, prostration, circulatory collapse and terminal convulsions.



Management of overdose



Following overdose, symptoms may be rapid particularly in children. All nicotine intake should stop immediately and the patient should be treated symptomatically. Artificial respiration with oxygen should be instituted if necessary. Activated charcoal reduces the gastro-intestinal absorption of nicotine.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



ATC Code: N07B A01



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Drugs used in nicotine dependence



Nicotine, the primary alkaloid in tobacco products and a naturally occurring autonomous substance, is a nicotine receptor agonist in the peripheral and central nervous systems and has pronounced CNS and cardiovascular effects. On consumption of tobacco products, nicotine has proven to be addictive, resulting in craving and other withdrawal symptoms when administration is stopped. This craving and these withdrawal symptoms include a strong urge to smoke, dysphoria, insomnia, irritability, frustration or anger, anxiety, concentration difficulties agitation and increased appetite or weight gain. The gum replaces part of the nicotine that would have been administrated via tobacco and reduces the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms and smoking urge.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



When the gum is chewed, nicotine is steadily released into the mouth and is rapidly absorbed through the buccal mucosa. A proportion, by the swallowing of nicotine containing saliva, reaches the stomach and intestine where it is inactivated.



The nicotine peak plasma mean concentration after a single dose of the 4 mg coated gum is approximately 9.3 nanograms per ml (after 60 minutes) (average plasma concentration of nicotine when smoking a cigarette is 15-30 nanograms per ml).



Nicotine is eliminated mainly via hepatic metabolism; small amounts of nicotine are eliminated in unchanged form via the kidneys. The plasma half-life is approximately three hours. Nicotine crosses the blood-brain barrier, the placenta and is detectable in breast milk.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



No definite conclusion can be drawn on the genotoxic activity of nicotine in vitro. Nicotine was negative in in-vivo tests.



Animal experiments have shown that nicotine induces post-implantation loss and reduces the growth of foetuses.



The results of carcinogenicity assays did not provide any clear evidence of a tumorigenic effect of nicotine.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Gum base (containing butylhydroxytoluene)



Calcium carbonate



Sorbitol (E420)



Maltitol liquid (E965)



Sodium carbonate anhydrous



Sodium hydrogen carbonate



Polacrilin



Glycerol



Purified water



Levomenthol



Tutti flavour



Xylitol



Mannitol (E421)



Gelatin



Titanium dioxide (E171)



Carnauba wax



Talc.



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



2 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 25oC.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



The chewing-gum is packed in PVC/PVdC/aluminium blisters each containing either 2 or 12 pieces of gum. The blisters are packed in boxes containing 2, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 96, 108, 120 and 204 pieces of gum.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Novartis Consumer Health UK Ltd



Trading as Novartis Consumer Health



Wimblehurst Road,



Horsham,



West Sussex RH12 5AB



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00030/0436



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



14/11/2008



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



14/11/2008



Legal category: GSL




Noroxin


Generic Name: norfloxacin (Oral route)

nor-FLOX-a-sin

Oral route(Tablet)

Fluoroquinolones, including norfloxacin, are associated with an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture in all ages. Risk further increases with age over 60 years, concomitant steroid therapy, and kidney, heart, or lung transplants. Fluoroquinolones, including norfloxacin, may exacerbate muscle weakness in persons with myasthenia gravis. Avoid in patients with known history of myasthenia gravis .



Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Noroxin

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic


Chemical Class: Fluoroquinolone


Uses For Noroxin


Norfloxacin is used to treat certain bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. Norfloxacin may mask or delay the symptoms of syphilis. It is not effective against syphilis infections.


Norfloxacin belongs to the class of medicines known as fluoroquinolone antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, this medicine will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections.


This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Before Using Noroxin


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 this medicine, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine 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 norfloxacin in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.


Geriatric


Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of norfloxacin in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related heart or kidney problems, or develop severe tendon problems (including tendon rupture), which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving norfloxacin.


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. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.


  • Cisapride

  • Dronedarone

  • Mesoridazine

  • Pimozide

  • Sparfloxacin

  • Thioridazine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Acarbose

  • Acecainide

  • Acetohexamide

  • Alfuzosin

  • Alosetron

  • Amiodarone

  • Amitriptyline

  • Amoxapine

  • Apomorphine

  • Arsenic Trioxide

  • Asenapine

  • Astemizole

  • Azimilide

  • Azithromycin

  • Benfluorex

  • Bretylium

  • Chloroquine

  • Chlorpromazine

  • Chlorpropamide

  • Ciprofloxacin

  • Citalopram

  • Clarithromycin

  • Clomipramine

  • Crizotinib

  • Dasatinib

  • Desipramine

  • Disopyramide

  • Dofetilide

  • Dolasetron

  • Droperidol

  • Erythromycin

  • Flecainide

  • Fluconazole

  • Gatifloxacin

  • Gemifloxacin

  • Gliclazide

  • Glimepiride

  • Glipizide

  • Gliquidone

  • Glyburide

  • Granisetron

  • Guar Gum

  • Halofantrine

  • Haloperidol

  • Ibutilide

  • Iloperidone

  • Imipramine

  • Insulin

  • Insulin Aspart, Recombinant

  • Insulin Glulisine

  • Insulin Lispro, Recombinant

  • Lapatinib

  • Levofloxacin

  • Lopinavir

  • Lumefantrine

  • Mefloquine

  • Metformin

  • Methadone

  • Miglitol

  • Moricizine

  • Moxifloxacin

  • Mycophenolate Mofetil

  • Nilotinib

  • Nortriptyline

  • Octreotide

  • Ofloxacin

  • Ondansetron

  • Paliperidone

  • Pazopanib

  • Perflutren Lipid Microsphere

  • Posaconazole

  • Procainamide

  • Prochlorperazine

  • Promethazine

  • Propafenone

  • Protriptyline

  • Quetiapine

  • Quinidine

  • Quinine

  • Ranolazine

  • Salmeterol

  • Saquinavir

  • Sematilide

  • Sodium Phosphate

  • Sodium Phosphate, Dibasic

  • Sodium Phosphate, Monobasic

  • Solifenacin

  • Sorafenib

  • Sotalol

  • Sunitinib

  • Tedisamil

  • Telavancin

  • Telithromycin

  • Terfenadine

  • Tetrabenazine

  • Tizanidine

  • Tolazamide

  • Tolbutamide

  • Toremifene

  • Trazodone

  • Trifluoperazine

  • Trimipramine

  • Troglitazone

  • Vandetanib

  • Vardenafil

  • Vemurafenib

  • Voriconazole

  • Ziprasidone

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Aluminum Carbonate, Basic

  • Aluminum Hydroxide

  • Aluminum Phosphate

  • Betamethasone

  • Calcium

  • Corticotropin

  • Cortisone

  • Cosyntropin

  • Cyclosporine

  • Deflazacort

  • Dexamethasone

  • Didanosine

  • Dihydroxyaluminum Aminoacetate

  • Dihydroxyaluminum Sodium Carbonate

  • Fludrocortisone

  • Fluocortolone

  • Hydrocortisone

  • Iron

  • Magaldrate

  • Magnesium Carbonate

  • Magnesium Hydroxide

  • Magnesium Oxide

  • Magnesium Trisilicate

  • Methylprednisolone

  • Paramethasone

  • Prednisolone

  • Prednisone

  • Probenecid

  • Sucralfate

  • Triamcinolone

  • Warfarin

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. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using this medicine with any of the following may cause an increased risk of certain side effects but may be unavoidable in some cases. If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use this medicine, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.


  • Dairy Food

Other Medical Problems


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


  • Brain or spinal cord disease, including hardening of the arteries in the brain, or epilepsy or other seizures or

  • Diabetes or

  • Diarrhea or

  • Heart attack, recent or

  • Heart rhythm problems (e.g., prolonged QT interval) or history of or

  • Hypokalemia (low potassium in the blood), uncorrected or

  • Slow heartbeat—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

  • G6PD deficiency (an enzyme problem)—Anemia may occur while using this medicine.

  • Kidney disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of this medicine from the body.

  • Myasthenia gravis (severe muscle weakness) or

  • Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendon), history of or

  • Tendon rupture, history of—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

  • Organ transplant (e.g., heart, kidney, or lung) or

  • Tendon disorder (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), history of—Use with caution. May increase the risk of tendon problems.

Proper Use of Noroxin


Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.


This medicine comes with a Medication Guide. It is very important that you read and understand this information. Be sure to ask your doctor about anything you do not understand.


Swallow the tablet with a glass (8 ounces) of water. Drink plenty of fluids while you are being treated with this medicine. Drinking extra water will help to prevent some unwanted effects of norfloxacin.


Norfloxacin should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, milk, or other dairy products.


If you are taking aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids, iron supplements, multivitamins, Didanosine (Videx®), sucralfate (Carafate®), or zinc, do not take them at the same time that you take this medicine. It is best to take these medicines at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking norfloxacin. These medicines may keep norfloxacin from working properly.


Avoid caffeine-containing products (e.g., coffee, soda, or chocolate) while you are using this medicine. Norfloxacin may cause caffeine to stay in your body longer than usual.


Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time, even if you feel better after the first few doses. Your infection may not clear up if you stop using the medicine too soon.


Dosing


The dose of this medicine 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 this medicine. 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 form (tablets):
    • For infections:
      • Adults—400 milligrams (mg) two times a day, taken every 12 hours. Some infections may require 800 mg once a day.

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



Missed Dose


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


Storage


Store the medicine 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.


Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.


Precautions While Using Noroxin


If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.


This medicine may cause serious allergic reactions including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you have a rash; itching; hives; hoarseness; shortness of breath; trouble with breathing; trouble with swallowing; or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after you receive this medicine.


Serious skin reactions can occur with this medicine. Check with your doctor right away if you have blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin; red skin lesions; severe acne or skin rash; sores or ulcers on the skin; or fever or chills while you are using this medicine.


Liver problems can occur while using this medicine. Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you have dark urine, clay-colored stools, abdominal or stomach pain, or yellow eyes or skin.


Norfloxacin may cause some people to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert. If these reactions are especially bothersome, check with your doctor.


Norfloxacin may cause diarrhea, and in some cases it can be severe. It may occur 2 months or more after you stop using this medicine. Do not take any medicine to treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor. Diarrhea medicines may make the diarrhea worse or make it last longer. If you have any questions about this or if mild diarrhea continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.


Tell your doctor right away if you start having numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet. These may be symptoms of a condition called peripheral neuropathy.


Norfloxacin may rarely cause inflammation or even tearing of a tendon (the cord that attaches muscles to bones). The risk of having tendon problems may be increased if you are over 60 years of age, using steroid medicines (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, or Medrol®), if you have severe kidney problems, a history of tendon problems (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or if you have received an organ (e.g., heart, kidney, or lung) transplant. If you get sudden pain or swelling in a tendon after exercise (e.g., in the ankle, back of the knee or leg, shoulder, elbow, or wrist), stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away. Refrain from exercise until your doctor says otherwise.


Some people who take norfloxacin may become more sensitive to sunlight than they are normally. Exposure to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause severe sunburn, or skin rash, redness, itching, or discoloration. When you begin using this medicine:


  • Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., if possible.

  • Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.

  • Apply a sun block product that has a skin protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Some people may require a product with a higher SPF number, especially if they have a fair complexion. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

  • Do not use a sunlamp or tanning bed or booth.

If you have a severe reaction from the sun, check with your doctor.


Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.


Noroxin 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:


Rare
  • Chest pain or discomfort

  • chills

  • diarrhea

  • discouragement

  • fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

  • feeling sad or empty

  • fever

  • flushing or redness of the skin

  • hives or welts

  • increased sweating

  • irritability

  • irritation or soreness of the mouth

  • itching of the rectal area

  • itching skin

  • lack of appetite

  • loss of interest or pleasure

  • nausea

  • pain and inflammation at the joints

  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

  • redness of the skin

  • shortness of breath

  • skin rash

  • sweating

  • swelling of the foot or hand

  • swelling of the stomach

  • tingling of the fingers

  • tiredness

  • trouble with concentrating

  • trouble with sleeping

  • unusually warm skin

  • vomiting

Incidence not known
  • Abdominal or stomach cramps

  • abdominal or stomach tenderness

  • anxiety

  • back, leg, or stomach pains

  • black, tarry stools

  • bleeding gums

  • blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

  • bloating

  • blood in the urine or stools

  • blurred vision

  • bone pain

  • burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

  • clay-colored stools

  • cold sweats

  • constipation

  • cool, pale skin

  • cough or hoarseness

  • cracks in the skin

  • dark-colored urine

  • decreased frequency or amount of urine

  • diarrhea, watery and severe, which may also be bloody

  • difficulty with breathing, chewing, swallowing, or talking

  • difficulty with moving

  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

  • double vision

  • drooping eyelids

  • dry mouth

  • dry skin

  • false sense of well-being

  • fever with or without chills

  • fruit-like breath odor

  • general body swelling

  • general feeling of tiredness or weakness

  • greatly decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine

  • headache

  • inability to move the arms and legs

  • increased blood pressure

  • increased hunger

  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

  • increased thirst

  • increased urination

  • indigestion

  • irregular or slow heart rate

  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

  • light-colored stools

  • loss of heat from the body

  • lower back or side pain

  • mood or mental changes

  • mood swings

  • muscle aching or cramping

  • muscle pain or stiffness

  • muscle weakness

  • nervousness

  • nightmares

  • nosebleeds

  • numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

  • pain or burning while urinating

  • pain, inflammation, or swelling in the calves, shoulders, or hands

  • pain, swelling, or redness in the joints

  • painful or difficult urination

  • pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

  • personality changes

  • pinpoint red spots on the skin

  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

  • red skin lesions, often with a purple center

  • red, irritated eyes

  • red, swollen skin

  • scaly skin

  • seizures

  • severe sunburn

  • severe tiredness

  • shakiness and unsteady walk

  • skin rash

  • slurred speech

  • sore throat

  • sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

  • sores, welting, or blisters

  • stomach pain, continuing

  • sudden decrease in the amount of urine

  • sudden numbness and weakness in the arms and legs

  • swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs

  • swelling or inflammation of the mouth

  • swollen glands

  • tightness in the chest

  • unexplained weight loss

  • unpleasant breath odor

  • unsteadiness, awkwardness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination

  • unusual behavior, such as disorientation to time or place, failure to recognize people, hyperactivity, or restlessness

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • unusual weight loss

  • vomiting of blood

  • weakness in the arms, hands, legs, or feet

  • weight gain

  • wheezing

  • yellowing of the eyes or skin

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:


Less common
  • Lack or loss of strength

Rare
  • Acid or sour stomach

  • belching

  • bitter taste

  • cramps

  • excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines

  • full feeling

  • heartburn

  • heavy bleeding

  • pain

  • passing gas

  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

  • sleeplessness

  • stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

  • unable to sleep

  • weight loss

Incidence not known
  • Change in taste

  • continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears

  • hearing loss

  • itching of the vagina or outside genitals

  • loss of taste

  • pain during sexual intercourse

  • seeing double

  • thick, white curd-like vaginal discharge without odor or with mild odor

  • uncontrolled eye movements

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: Noroxin side effects (in more detail)



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More Noroxin resources


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


  • Noroxin Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Noroxin MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Noroxin Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • Noroxin Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Norfloxacin Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Noroxin with other medications


  • Bladder Infection
  • Campylobacter Gastroenteritis
  • Epididymitis, Non-Specific
  • Gonococcal Infection, Uncomplicated
  • Kidney Infections
  • Prostatitis
  • Salmonella Enteric Fever
  • Salmonella Gastroenteritis
  • Shigellosis
  • Small Bowel Bacterial Overgrowth
  • Traveler's Diarrhea
  • Urinary Tract Infection

Sunday, 15 July 2012

Macrobid Capsules 100mg B.P.





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Macrobid 100mg Capsules.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Macrobid is a modified release, hard gelatin capsule containing the equivalent of 100mg of Nitrofurantoin in the form of nitrofurantoin macrocrystals and nitrofurantoin monohydrate.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



The 100mg capsule has an opaque blue cap and opaque yellow body and bears the monogram “GS 100”.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the treatment of and prophylaxis against acute or recurrent, uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections or pyelitis either spontaneous or following surgical procedures.



Macrobid is specifically indicated for the treatment of infections when due to susceptible strains of Escherichia coli, Enterococci, Staphylococci, Citrobacter, Klebsiella and Enterobacter.



Most strains of Proteus and Serratia are resistant. All Pseudomonas strains are resistant.



Macrobid is not indicated for the treatment of associated renal cortical or perinephric abscesses.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Route of administration: Oral



Adults and children over 12 years of age.



The dose should be taken with food or milk (e.g. at meal times).



Acute or recurrent uncomplicated UTI and pyelitis -100mg twice daily for seven days.



Surgical Prophylaxis - 100 mg twice daily on the day of the procedure and 3 days thereafter.



Elderly



Provided there is no significant renal impairment, in which nitrofurantoin is contraindicated, the dosage should be that for any normal adult.



See precaution and risks to elderly patients associated with long term therapy.



Children under 12 years



Macrobid is a fixed dosage and is therefore not suitable for children under 12 years



4.3 Contraindications



Patients suffering from renal dysfunction with a creatinine clearance of less than 60ml/minute or elevated serum creatinine.



In infants under three months of age as well as pregnant patients at term (during labour and delivery) because of the theoretical possibility of haemolytic anaemia in the foetus or in the newborn infant due to immature erythrocyte enzyme systems.



Patients with known hypersensitivity to nitrofurantoin or other nitrofurans.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Nitrofurantoin is not effective for the treatment of parenchymal infections of a unilaterally functioning kidney. A surgical cause for infection should be excluded in recurrent or severe cases.



Since pre-existing conditions may mask hepatic or pulmonary adverse reactions, nitrofurantoin should be used with caution in patients with pulmonary disease, hepatic dysfunction, neurological disorders and allergic diathesis.



Peripheral neuropathy and susceptibility to peripheral neuropathy, which may become severe or irreversible has occurred and may be life threatening. Therefore, treatment should be stopped at the first signs of neural involvement (paraesthesiae).



Nitrofurantoin should be used with caution in patients with anaemia, diabetes mellitus, electrolyte imbalance, debilitating conditions, and vitamin B (particularly folate) deficiency.



Acute, subacute and chronic pulmonary reactions have been observed in patients treated with nitrofurantoin. If these reactions occur, nitrofurantoin should be discontinued immediately.



Chronic pulmonary reactions (including pulmonary fibrosis and diffuse interstitial pneumonitis ) can develop insidiously, and may occur commonly in elderly patients. Close monitoring of the pulmonary conditions of patients receiving long-term therapy is warranted (especially in the elderly).



Patients should be monitored closely for signs of hepatitis (particularly in long term use).



Urine may be coloured yellow or brown after taking Nitrofurantoin. Patients on Nitrofurantoin are susceptible to false positive urinary glucose (if tested for reducing substances).



Nitrofurantoin should be discontinued at any signs of haemolysis in those with suspected glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.



Gastrointestinal reactions may be minimised by taking the drug with food or milk, or by adjustment of dosage.



For long term treatment monitor the patient closely for appearance of hepatic or pulmonary symptoms and other evidence of toxicity.



Discontinue treatment with nitrofurantoin if otherwise unexplained pulmonary, hepatotoxic, haematological or neurological syndromes occur.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Concomitant administration of magnesium trisilicate with nitrofurantoin reduces absorption.



Uricosuric drugs such as probenecid and sulphinpyrazone may inhibit renal tubular secretion of nitrofurantoin. The resulting increase in serum levels may increase toxicity. Decreased urinary levels could lessen its efficacy as a urinary tract antibacterial.



Concurrent use with quinolones is not recommended.



There may be decreased antibacterial activity for nitrofurantoin in the presence of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and urine alkalinising agents.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Animal studies with nitrofurantoin have shown no teratogenic effects. Nitrofurantoin has been in extensive clinical use since 1952 and its suitability in human pregnancy has been well documented.



Nitrofurantoin is however contraindicated in infants under three months of age and in pregnant women during labour and delivery because of the possible risk of haemolysis of the infants immature red cells.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Macrobid may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery if affected in this way until such symptoms go away.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Respiratory



If any of the following respiratory reactions occur the drug should be discontinued.



Acute pulmonary reactions usually occur within the first week of treatment and are reversible on cessation of therapy. Acute pulmonary reactions are commonly manifested by fever, chills ,cough, chest pain, dyspnoea, pulmonary infiltration with consolidation or pleural effusion on chest x-ray, and eosinophilia. In subacute pulmonary reactions, fever and eosinophilia occur less often than in the acute form



Chronic pulmonary reactions occur rarely in patients who have received continuous therapy for six months or longer and are more common in elderly patients. Changes in ECG have occurred, associated with pulmonary reactions.



Minor symptoms such as fever, chills, cough and dyspnoea may be significant. Collapse and cyanosis have been reported rarely. The severity of chronic pulmonary reactions and their degree of resolution appear to be related to the duration of therapy after the first clinical signs appear. It is important to recognise symptoms as early as possible. Pulmonary function may be impaired permanently, even after cessation of therapy.



Hepatic



Hepatic reactions including cholestatic jaundice and chronic active hepatitis occur rarely. Fatalities have been reported. Cholestatic jaundice is generally associated with short-term therapy (usually up to two weeks). Chronic active hepatitis, occasionally leading to hepatic necrosis is generally associated with long-term therapy (usually after six months). The onset may be insidious. Treatment should be stopped at the first sign of hepatotoxicity.



Neurological



Peripheral neuropathy (including optical neuritis) with symptoms of sensory as well as motor involvement, which may become severe or irreversible, has been reported infrequently. Less frequent reactions of unknown causal relationship are depression, euphoria, confusion, psychotic reactions, nystagmus, vertigo, dizziness, asthenia, headache and drowsiness. Treatment should be stopped at the first sign of neurological involvement.



Gastrointestinal



Nausea and anorexia have been reported. Emesis, abdominal pain and diarrhoea are less common gastrointestinal reactions.



Hypersensitivity



Exfoliative dermatitis and erythema multiforme (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome) have been reported rarely.



Allergic skin reactions manifesting as angioneurotic oedema, maculopapular, erythematous or eczematous eruptions, urticaria, rash, and pruritus have occurred. Lupus-like syndrome associated with pulmonary reactions to nitrofurantoin has been reported.



Other hypersensitivity reactions include anaphylaxis, sialadenitis, pancreatitis, drug fever and arthralgia.



Haematological



Agranulocytosis, leucopenia, granulocytopenia, haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, anaemia, megaloblastic anaemia and eosinophilia have occurred. Cessation of therapy has generally returned the blood picture to normal. Aplastic anaemia has been reported rarely.



Other



Transient alopecia and benign intracranial hypertension.



Superinfections by fungi or resistant organisms such as Pseudomonas may occur. However, these are limited to the genito-urinary tract.



4.9 Overdose



Symptoms and signs of overdose include gastric irritation, nausea and vomiting. There is no specific antidote. Nitrofurantoin can be haemodialysed. Standard treatment is by induction of emesis or by gastric lavage in cases of recent ingestion. Monitoring of full blood count, liver function tests and pulmonary function, are recommended. A high fluid intake should be maintained to promote urinary excretion of the drug.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Nitrofurantoin is a broad spectrum antibacterial agent, active against the majority of urinary pathogens. It is bactericidal in renal tissue and throughout the urinary tract. The wide range of organisms sensitive to the bacterial activity include Escherichia coli, Enteroccus faecalis, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Staphylococcus species: (eg S. aureus, S. saprophyticus, S. epidermidis)



Clinically, most common urinary pathogens are sensitive to nitrofurantoin. Some strains of Enterobacter and Klebsiella are resistant. Nitrofurantoin is not active against most strains of Proteus species or Serratia species. It has no activity against Pseudomonas species.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Clinical Pharmacology:



Each Macrobid capsule contains two forms of nitrofurantoin. 25% of the dose is macrocrystalline nitrofurantoin which has slower dissolution and absorption than nitrofurantoin microcrystals. The remaining 75% of the dose is microcrystalline nitrofurantoin contained in a powdered blend which on exposure to gastric and intestinal fluids forms a gel matrix resulting in a modified release of active ingredient over time. Combined these systems provide a clinically effective bactericidal urine concentration at therapeutic doses. Approx. 20-25% of the total single dose of nitrofurantoin is recovered from the urine unchanged over 24 hours.



Plasma nitrofurantoin concentrations at therapeutic doses of the Macrobid capsule are low, with peak levels usually less than 1 mcg/ml. Nitrofurantoin is highly soluble in urine to which it may impart a brown colour. Unlike many drugs the presence of food or agents delaying gastric emptying increases the bioavailability of the Macrobid capsule.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



None stated.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Macrobid Capsules contain talc, corn starch, lactose carbopol, povidone, sugar, magnesium stearate, gelatin, Sodium lauryl sulphate and colouring agents (E104, E171, E132).



Printing ink contains Shellac, Propylene Glycol (E1520), Titanium Dioxide (E171) and Black iron oxide (E172).



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



The expiry date for the product should not exceed 2 years from the date of its manufacture.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Capsules should be stored in light and moisture resistant containers.



Storage temperature should not exceed 30oC (aluminium/ aluminium).



Do not store above 25oC (For PVC/ polyethylene/aclar/aluminium blisters)



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



There are two pack sizes, one consists of 14 capsules and the other is a sample pack containing 2 capsules.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



A patient information leaflet is provided with the product.



No Data Held



ADMINISTRATIVE DATA


7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Goldshield Pharmaceuticals Limited



NLA Tower



12-16 Addiscombe Road



Croydon



Surrey



CR0 0XT



United Kingdom.



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL: 12762/0052.



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



31st March 2000.



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



13/08/2010




Friday, 13 July 2012

Lignospan Forte Injection





Dosage Form: injection, solution
LIGNOSPAN FORTE (Lidocaine HCl 2% and Epinephrine 1:50,000 Injection)

LIGNOSPAN STANDARD (Lidocaine HCl 2% and Epinephrine 1:100,000 Injection)

(Lidocaine hydrochloride and epinephrine injection, USP)

Rx only


Solutions for local anesthesia in Dentistry



Lignospan Forte Injection Description


LIGNOSPAN FORTE and LIGNOSPAN STANDARD are sterile isotonic solution containing a local anesthetic agent, Lidocaine Hydrochloride, and a vasoconstrictor, Epinephrine (as bitartrate) and are administered parenterally by injection. Both solutions are available in single dose cartridges of 1.7 mL (See INDICATIONS AND USAGE for specific uses). The solutions contain lidocaine hydrochloride which is chemically designated as acetamide, 2-(diethylamino)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-monohydrochloride, and has the following structural formula :


C14H22N20•HCl• H20     M.W. 288.8



Epinephrine is ( - )-3,4-Dihydroxy- -[(Methylamino) methyl] benzyl alcohol and has the following structural formula :


C9H13NO3•C4H606     M.W. 333.3





























COMPOSITION OF AVAILABLE SOLUTIONS
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATIONFORMULA
SINGLE DOSE CARTRIDGE
Lidocaine hydrochlorideEpinephrine

(as the bitartrate)
Sodium ChloridePotassium metabisulfiteEdetate Disodium
Concentration %Dilution(mg/mL)(mg/mL)(mg/mL)
The pH of the LIGNOSPAN FORTE and the LIGNOSPAN STANDARD solutions are adjusted to USP limits with sodium hydroxide.
21:50,0006.51.20.25
21:100,0006.51.20.25

Lignospan Forte Injection - Clinical Pharmacology



Mechanism of action


Lidocaine stabilizes the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses, thereby effecting local anesthetic action.



Onset and duration of anesthesia


When used for infiltration anesthesia in dental patients, the time of onset averages less than two minutes for each of the two forms of LIGNOSPAN. LIGNOSPAN FORTE (lidocaine HCI 2% solution with a 1:50,000 epinephrine concentration) or LIGNOSPAN STANDARD (lidocaine HCI 2% solution with a1:100,000 epinephrine concentration) provide an average pulp anesthesia of at least 60 minutes with an average duration of soft tissue anesthesia of approximately 2.5 hours.When used for nerve blocks in dental patients, the time of onset for both forms of LIGNOSPAN averages 2-4 minutes. LIGNOSPAN FORTE (lidocaine HCI 2% solution with a 1:50,000 epinephrine concentration) or LIGNOSPAN STANDARD (lidocaine HCI 2% solution with a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration) provide pulp anesthesia averaging at least 90 minutes with an average duration of soft tissue anesthesia of 3 to 3.5 hours.



Hemodynamics


Excessive blood levels may cause changes in cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, and mean arterial pressure. These changes may be attributable to a direct depressant effect of the local anesthetic agent on various components of the cardiovascular system and/or the beta-adrenergic receptor stimulating action of epinephrine when present.



Pharmacokinetics and metabolism


Information derived from diverse formulations, concentrations and usages reveals that lidocaine is completely absorbed following parenteral administration, its rate of absorption depending, for example, upon various factors such as the site of administration and the presence or absence of a vasoconstrictor agent. Except for intravascular administration, the highest blood levels are obtained following intercostal nerve block and the lowest after subcutaneous administration.


The plasma binding of lidocaine is dependent on drug concentration, and the fraction bound decreases with increasing concentratlon. At concentration of 1 to 4 μg of free base per mL, 60 to 80 percent of lidocaine is protein bound. Binding is also dependent on the plasma concentration of the alpha-l-acid glycoprotein.


Lidocaine crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, presumably by passive diffusion.


Lidocaine is metabolized rapidly by the liver, and metabolites and unchanged drug are excreted by the kidneys. Biotransformation includes oxidative N-dealkylation, ring hydroxylation, cleavage of the amide linkage, and conjugation. N-dealkylation, a major pathway of biotransformation, yields the metabolites monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide. The pharmacological/toxicological actions of these metabolites are similar to, but less potent than those of lidocaine. Approximately 90% of lidocaine administered is excreted in the form of various metabolites, and less than 10% is excreted unchanged. The primary metabolite in urine is a conjugate of 4-hydroxy-2, 6-dimethylaniline.


Studies of lidocaine metabolism following intravenous bolus injections have shown that the elimination half-life of this agent is typically 1.5 to 2.0 hours. Because of the rapid rate at which lidocaine is metabolized, any condition that affects liver function may alter lidocaine kinetics. The half-life may be prolonged two-fold or more in patients with liver dysfunction. Renal dysfunction does not affect lidocaine kinetics but may increase the accumulation of metabolites.


Factors such as acidosis and the use of CNS stimulants and depressants affect the CNS levels of lidocaine required to produce overt systemic effects. Objective adverse manifestations become increasingly apparent with increasing venous plasma levels above 6.0 μg free base per mL. In the rhesus monkey, arterial blood levels of 18-21 μg/mL have been shown to be the threshold for convulsive activity.



Indications and Usage for Lignospan Forte Injection


LIGNOSPAN Solutions are indicated for the production of local anesthesia for dental procedures by nerve block or infiltration techniques.


Only accepted procedures for these techniques as described in standard textbooks are recommended.



Contraindications


LINGOSPAN is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to local anesthetics of the amide type or to any components of the injectable formulations.



Warnings


DENTAL PRACTITIONERS WHO EMPLOY LOCAL ANESTHETIC AGENTS SHOULD BE WELL VERSED IN DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF EMERGENCIES WHICH MAY ARISE FROM THEIR USE. RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT, OXYGEN AND OTHER RESUSCITATIVE DRUGS SHOULD BE AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE USE.


To minimize the likelihood of intravascular injection, aspiration should be performed before the local anesthetic solution is injected. If blood is aspirated, the needle must be repositioned until no return of blood can be elicited by aspiration. Note, however, that the absence of blood in the syringe does not assure that intravascular injection will be avoided.


Local anesthetic procedures should be used with caution when there is inflammation and/or sepsis in the region of the proposed injection.


LIGNOSPAN solutions contain potassium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown and probably low. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in nonasthmatic people.


LIGNOSPAN, along with other local anesthetics, is capable of producing methemoglobinemia. The clinical signs of methemoglobinemia are cyanosis of the nail beds and lips, fatigue and weakness. If methemoglobinemia does not respond to administration of oxygen, administration of methylene blue intravenously 1-2 mg/kg body weight over a 5 minute period is recommended.


The American Heart Association has made the following recommendations regarding the use of local anesthetics with vasoconstrictors in patients with ischemic heart disease: "Vasoconstrictor agents should be used in local anesthesia solutions during dental practice only when it is clear that the procedure will be shortened or the analgesia rendered more profound. When a vasoconstrictor is indicated, extreme care should be taken to avoid intravascular injection. The minimum possible amount of vasoconstrictor should be used." (Kaplan, EL, editor: Cardiovascular disease in dental practice, Dallas 1986, American Heart Association.)



Precautions



General


The safety and effectiveness of lidocaine depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions and readiness for emergencies. Consult standard textbooks for specific techniques and precautions for various regional anesthetic procedures. Resuscitative equipment, oxygen and other resuscitative drugs should be available for immediate use (See WARNINGS AND ADVERSE REACTIONS).


The lowest dosage that results in effective anesthesia should be used to avoid high plasma levels and serious adverse effects. Repeated doses of lidocaine may cause significant increases in blood levels with each repeated dose due to slow accumulation of the drug or its metabolites. Tolerance to elevated blood levels varies with the status of the patient. Debilitated, elderly patients, acutely ill patients, and children should be given reduced doses commensurate with their age and physical condition.


If sedatives are employed to reduce patient apprehension, reduced doses should be used since local anesthetic agents, like sedatives, are central nervous system depressants which in combination may have an additive effect. Young children should be given minimal doses of each agent.


Lidocaine should be used with caution in patients with severe shock or heart block. Lidocaine should also be used with caution in patients with impaired cardiovascular function. Local anesthetic solutions containing a vasoconstrictor should be used with caution in areas of the body supplied by end arteries or having otherwise compromised blood supply. Patients with peripheral vascular disease and those with hypertensive vascular disease may exhibit exaggerated vasoconstrictor response. Ischemic injury (such as exfoliating or ulcerating lesions) or necrosis may result. Preparations containing a vasoconstrictor should be used with caution in patients during or following the administration of potent general anesthetic agents, since cardiac arrhythmias may occur under such conditions.


Cardiovascular and respiratory (adequacy of ventilation) vital signs and the patient's state of consciousness should be monitored after each local anesthetic injection. Restlessness, anxiety tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, depression or drowsiness should alert the practitioner to the possibility of central nervous system toxicity. Signs and symptoms of depressed cardiovascular function may commonly result from a vasovagal reaction, particularly if the patient is in an upright position : placing the patient in the recumbent position is recommended when an adverse response is noted after injection of a local anesthetic (See ADVERSE REACTIONS - Cardiovascular System.).Vasovagal reactions may elicit a range of clinical manifestations, from pre-syncope (e.g., lightheadedness, pallor, nausea, sweating, visual disturbances, weakness) to brief loss of consciousness (i.e., syncope).


Lidocaine should be used with caution in patients with hepatic disease, since amide-type local anesthetics are metabolized by the liver. Patients with severe hepatic disease, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations.


Many drugs used during the conduct of anesthesia are considered potential triggering agents for familial malignant hyperthermia. Since it is not known whether amide-type local anesthetics may trigger this reaction, and since the need for supplemental general anesthesia cannot be predicted in advance, it is suggested that a standard protocol for management should be available. Early unexplained signs of tachycardia, tachypnea, labile blood pressure and metabolic acidosis may precede temperature elevation. Successful outcome is dependent on early diagnosis, prompt discontinuance of the suspected triggering agent (s) and prompt treatment, including oxygen therapy, dantrolene (consult dantrolene sodium intravenous package insert before using) and other supportive measures.


Lidocaine should be used with caution in persons with known drug sensitivities. Patients allergic to para-aminobenzoic acid derivatives (procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, etc.) have not shown cross sensitivity to lidocaine.



Use in the Head and Neck Area


Small doses of local anesthetics injected into the head and neck area, including retrobulbar, dental and stellate ganglion blocks, may produce adverse reactions similar to systemic toxicity seen with unintentional intravascular injections of larger doses. Confusion, convulsions, respiratony depression and/or respiratory arrest, and cardiovascular stimulation or depression have been reported. These reactions may be due to intra-arterial injection of the local anesthetic with retrograde flow to the cerebral circulation. Patients receiving these blocks should have their circulation and respiration monitored and be constantly observed. Resuscitative equipment and personnel for treating adverse reactions should be immediately available. Dosage recommendations should not be exceeded (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).



Information for Patients


The patient should be informed of the possibility of temporary loss of sensation and muscle function following infiltration or nerve block injections.


The patient should be advised to to exert caution to avoid inadvertent trauma to the lips, tongue, cheek mucosae or soft palate when these structures are anesthetized. The ingestion of food should therefore be postponed until normal function returns. The patient should be advised to consult the dentist if anesthesia persists or if a rash develops.



Clinically Significant Drug Interactions


The administration of local anesthetic solutions containing epinephrine or norepinephrine to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants or phenothiazines may produce severe prolonged hypotension or hypertension.


Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. In situations when concurrent therapy is necessary, careful patient monitoring is essential.


Concurrent administration of vasopressor drugs and ergot-type oxytocic drugs may cause severe, persistent hypertension or cerebrovascular accidents.


As the LIGNOSPAN STANDARD and the LIGNOSPAN FORTE solutions both contain a vasoconstrictor (epinephrine), concurrent use of either with a Beta-adrenergic blocking agent (propranolol, timolol, etc.) may result in dose-dependent hypertension and bradycardia with possible heart block.



Drug/Laboratory test interactions


The intramuscular injection of lidocaine may result in an increase in creatine phosphokinase levels. Thus, the use of this enzyme determination, without isoenzyme separation, as a diagnostic test for the presence of acute myocardial infarction may be compromised by the intramuscular injection of lidocaine.



Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, impairment of fertility


Studies of lidocaine in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic and mutagenic potential or the effect on fertility have not been conducted.



PREGNANCY


Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category B

Reproduction studies have been performed in rats at doses up to 6.6 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus caused by lidocaine. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response. General consideration should be given to this fact before administering lidocaine to women of childbearing potential, especially during early pregnancy when maximum organogenesis takes place.



Nursing mothers


It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when lidocaine is administered to a nursing woman.



Pediatric use


Dosages in pediatric population should be reduced, commensurate with age, body weight and physical condition (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).



Adverse Reactions


Adverse experiences following the administration of lidocaine are similar in nature to those observed with other amide-type local anesthetic agents. These adverse experiences are, in general, dose-related and may result from high plasma levels (which may be caused by excessive dosage, rapid absorption, unintended intravascular injection or slow metabolic degradation), injection technique, volume of injection, hypersensitivity, idiosyncrasy or diminished tolerance on the part of the patient. Serious adverse experiences are generally systemic in nature. The following types are those most commonly reported :



Central Nervous System


CNS manifestations are excitatory and/or depressant and may be characterized by lightheadedness, nervousness, apprehension, euphoria, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, tinnitus, blurred or double vision, vomiting, sensations of heat, cold or numbness, twitching, tremors, convulsions, unconsciousness, respiratory depression and arrest. The excitatory manifestations may be very brief or may not occur at all, in which case the first manifestation of toxicity may be drowsiness merging into unconsciousness and respiratory arrest.


Drowsiness following the administration of lidocaine is usually an early sign of a high blood level of the drug and may occur as a consequence of rapid absorption.



Cardiovascular system


Cardiovascular manifestations in response to lidocaine are usually depressant and are characterized by bradycardia, hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse, which may lead to cardiac arrest.In addition, the beta-adrenergic receptor-stimulating action of epinephrine may lead to excitatory cardiovascular responses, such as tachycardia, palpitations, and hypertension.


Signs and symptoms of depressed cardiovascular function may commonly result from a vasovagal reaction, particularly if the patient is in an upright position. Less commonly, they may result from a direct effect of the drug. Failure to recognize the premonitory signs such as sweating, a feeling of faintness, changes in pulse or sensorium may result in progressive cerebral hypoxia and seizure or serious cardiovascular catastrophe. Management consists of placing the patient in the recumbent position and ventilation with oxygen. Supportive treatment of circulatory depression may require the administration of intravenous fluids and, when appropriate, a vasopressor (e.g, ephedrine) as directed by the clinical situation.



Allergic reactions


Allergic reactions are characterized by cutaneous lesions, urticaria, edema, anaphylactoid reactions, or dyspnea due to bronchoconstriction. Allergic reactions as a result of sensitivity to lidocaine are extremely rare and, if they occur, should be managed by conventional means. The detection of sensitivity by skin testing is of doubtful value.



Neurologic reactions


The incidences of adverse reactions (e.g., persistent neurologic deficit) associated with the use of local anesthetics may be related to the technique employed, the total dose of local anesthetic administered, the particular drug used, the route of administration, and the physical condition of the patient.


Persistent paresthesias of the lips, tongue, and oral tissues have been reported with the use of lidocaine, with slow, incomplete, or no recovery. These post-marketing events have been reported chiefly following nerve blocks in the mandible and have involved the trigeminal nerve and its branches.



Overdosage


Acute emergencies from local anesthetics are generally related to high plasma levels encountered during therapeutic use of local anesthetics or to unintended subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution (See ADVERSE REACTIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).



Management of local anesthetic emergencies


The first consideration is prevention, best accomplished by careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and the patient's state of consciousness after each local anesthetic injection. At the first sign of change, oxygen should be administered.


The first step in the management of convulsions consists of immediate attention to the maintenance of a patent airway and assisted or controlled ventilation with oxygen and a delivery system capable of permitting immediate positive airway pressure by mask.


Immediately after the institution of these ventilatory measures, the adequacy of the circulation should be evaluated, keeping in mind that drugs used to treat convulsions sometimes depress the circulation when administered intravenously. Should convulsions persist despite adequate respiratory support, and if the status of the circulation permits, small increments of an ultra-short acting barbiturate (such as thiopental or thiamylal) or a benzodiazepine (such as diazepam) may be administered intravenously. The clinician should be familiar, prior to use of local anesthetics, with these anticonvulsant drugs. Supportive treatment of clrculatory depression may require administration of intravenous fluids and, when appropriate, a vasopressor as directed by the clinical situation (e.g., ephedrine).


If not treated immediately, both convulsions and cardiovascular depression can result in hypoxia, acidosis, bradycardia, arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. If cardiac arrest should occur, standard cardio-pulmonary resuscitative measures should be instituted. Endotracheal intubation, employing drugs and techniques familiar to the clinician, may be indicated, after initial administration of oxygen by mask, if difficulty is encountered in the maintenance of a patent airway or if prolonged ventilatory support (assisted or controlled) is indicated.


Dialysis is of negligible value in the treatment of acute overdosage with lidocaine.


The intravenous LD50 of lidocaine HCI in female mice is 26 (21-31) mg/kg and the subcutaneous LD50 is 264 (203-304) mg /kg.



Lignospan Forte Injection Dosage and Administration


The dosage of LIGNOSPAN (lidocaine HCL and epinephrine) depends on the physical status of the patient, the area of the oral cavity to be anesthetized, the vascularity of the oral tissues, and the technique of anesthesia used. The least volume of solution that results in effective local anesthesia should be administered; time should be allowed between injections to observe the patient for manifestations of an adverse reaction. For specific techniques and procedures of a local anesthesia in the oral cavity, refer to standard textbooks.


For most routine dental procedures, LIGNOSPAN STANDARD (lidocaine HCI 2% with a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration) is preferred. However, when greater depth and a more pronounced hemostasis are required, LIGNOSPAN FORTE (lidocaine HCI 2 % with 1:50,000 epinephrine concentration) should be used.


Dosage requirements should be determined on an individual basis. In oral infiltration and / or mandibular block, initial dosages of 1.0 - 5.0 mL (1/2 to 2.5 cartridges) of LIGNOSPAN (lidocaine HCI 2% solutions with a 1:50,000 or a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration) are usually effective.


In children under 10 years of age, it is rarely necessary to administer more than one-half cartridge (0.9-1.0 mL or 18-20 mg of lidocaine) per procedure to achieve local anesthesia for a procedure involving a single tooth. In maxillary infiltration, this amount will often suffice to the treatment of two or even three teeth. In the mandibular block, however, satisfactory anesthesia achieved with this amount of drug, will allow treatment of the teeth of an entire quadrant. Aspiration is recommended since it reduces the possibility of intravascular injection, thereby keeping the incidence of side effects and anesthetic failures to a minimum. Moreover, injection should always be made slowly.


Maximum recommended dosages for LIGNOSPAN (lidocaine HCI 2% solutions with a 1:50,000 or a 1:100,000 epinephrine concentration).



Adult


For normal healthy adults, the amount of lidocaine HCI administered should be kept below 500 mg, and in any case, should not exceed 7 mg/kg (3.2 mg/lb) of body weight.



Pediatric


Pediatric patients : It is difficult to recommend a maximum dose of any drug for pediatric patients since this varies as a function of age and weight. For pediatric patients of less than ten years who have a normal lean body mass and normal body development, the maximum dose may be determined by the application of one of the standard pediatric drug formulas (e.g., Clark's rule). For example, in pediatric patients of five years weighing 50 Ibs, the dose of lidocaine hydrochloride should not exceed 75-100mg when calculated according to Clark's rule. In any case, the maximum dose of lidocaine hydrochloride should not exceed 7 mg/kg (3.2 mg/lb) of body weight.


NOTE : Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever the solution and container permit. Solutions that are discolored and / or contain particulate matter should not be used and any unused portion of a cartridge of LINGOSPAN should be discarded.



How is Lignospan Forte Injection Supplied


-

LINGOSPAN FORTE (Lidocaine Hydrochloride 2% and Epinephrine 1:50,000 injection) is available in cardboard boxes containing 5 blisters of 10 x 1.7 mL cartridges. (NDC 51004-1096-7).

-

LINGOSPAN STANDARD (Lidocaine Hydrochloride 2% and Epinephrine 1:100,000 injection) is available in cardboard boxes containing 5 blisters of 10 x 1.7 mL cartridges.(NDC 51004-1095-6)


Store at controlled room temperature, below 25°C (77°F). Protect from light. Do not permit to freeze.


BOXES : For protection from light, retain in box until time of use. Once opened, the box should be reclosed by closing the end flap.


Do not use if color is pinkish or darker than slightly yellow or if it contains a precipitate.



STERILIZATION : STORAGE AND TECHNICAL PROCEDURES


  1. Cartridges should not be autoclaved, because the closures employed cannot withstand autoclaving temperatures and pressures.

  2. If chemical disinfection of anesthetic cartridges is desired, either isopropyl alcohol (91%) or 70% ethyl alcohol is recommended. Many commercially available brands of rubbing alcohol, as well as solutions of ethyl alcohol not of U.S.P grade, contain denaturants that are injurious to rubber and, therefore, are not to be used. It is recommended that chemical disinfection be accomplished just prior to use by wiping the cartridge cap thoroughly with a pledge of cotton that has been moistened with recommended alcohol.

  3. Certain metallic ions (mercury, zinc, copper, etc.) have been related to swelling and edema after local anesthesia in dentistry. Therefore, chemical disinfectants containing or releasing these ions are not recommended. Antirust tablets usually contain sodium nitrite or some similar agents that may be capable of releasing metal ions. Because of this, aluminium sealed cartridges should not be kept in such solutions.

  4. Quaternary ammonium salts, such as benzalkonium chloride, are electrolytically incompatible with aluminium. Cartridges of Lidocaine and Epinephrine Injections are sealed with aluminium caps and therefore should not be immersed in any solution containing these salts.

  5. To avoid leakage of solutions during injection, be sure to penetrate the center of the rubber diaphragm when loading the syringe. An off-center penetration produces an oval shaped puncture that allows leakage around the needle.

    Other causes of leakage and breakage include badly worn syringes, aspirating syringes with bent harpoons, the use of syringes not designed to take 1.7 mL cartridges, and inadvertent freezing.

  6. Cracking of glass cartridges is most often the result of an attempt to use a cartridge with an extruded plunger. An extruded plunger loses its lubrication and can be forced back into the cartridge only with difficulty. Cartridges with extruded plungers should be discarded.

  7. Store at controlled room temperature, below 25°C (77°F).


Manufactured by :

Novocol Pharmaceutical of Canada, Inc.

25 Wolseley Court

Cambridge, Ontario

N1R 6X3

Made in Canada



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1.7 mL Cartridge Carton


NDC 51004-1096-7


LIGNOSPAN FORTE


LIDOCAINE HCl 2% and EPINEPHRINE 1:50,000


(LIDOCAINE HYDROCHLORIDE AND EPINEPHRINE INJECTION,USP


50 Cartridges • 1.7 mL each


FOR DENTAL BLOCK AND INFILTRATION ONLY


Rx Only










LIGNOSPAN FORTE 
lidocaine hydrochloride and epinephrine bitartrate  injection, solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)51004-1096
Route of AdministrationSUBCUTANEOUSDEA Schedule    











Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
Lidocaine Hydrochloride (Lidocaine)Lidocaine Hydrochloride20 mg  in 1 mL
Epinephrine Bitartrate (Epinephrine)Epinephrine0.02 mg  in 1 mL














Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
Potassium Metabisulfite1.2 mg  in 1 mL
Sodium Chloride6.5 mg  in 1 mL
Edetate Disodium0.25 mg  in 1 mL
Sodium Hydroxide 
Water 


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      














Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
151004-1096-750 CARTRIDGE In 1 CARTONcontains a CARTRIDGE
11.7 mL In 1 CARTRIDGEThis package is contained within the CARTON (51004-1096-7)










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA08839010/15/2011


Labeler - Novocol Pharmaceutical of Canada, Inc. (201719960)

Registrant - Novocol Pharmaceutical of Canada, Inc. (201719960)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Novocol Pharmaceutical of Canada, Inc.201719960MANUFACTURE
Revised: 11/2011Novocol Pharmaceutical of Canada, Inc.