Saturday, October 29, 2016

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic


Generic Name: gatifloxacin ophthalmic (GAT i FLOX a sin off THAL mik)

Brand names: Zymar, Zymaxid


What is gatifloxacin ophthalmic?

Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic in a group of drugs called fluoroquinolones (flor-o-KWIN-o-lones). Gatifloxacin fights bacteria in the body.


Gatifloxacin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria.

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about gatifloxacin ophthalmic?


You should not use this medication if you allergic to gatifloxacin

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to gatifloxacin (Tequin) or similar medications such as levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.


Avoid wearing contact lenses while you still have active symptoms of the eye infection you are treating. Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as severe swelling, burning, redness, or discomfort, eye pain or vision changes, signs of new eye infection (drainage, crusting, or oozing), or the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using gatifloxacin ophthalmic?


You should not use this medication if you allergic to gatifloxacin

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to gatifloxacin (Tequin) or similar medications such as levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.


FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether gatifloxacin ophthalmic is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether gatifloxacin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use gatifloxacin eye drops in a child younger than 1 year old.

How should I use gatifloxacin ophthalmic?


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


You may need to use the eye drops every 2 hours for the first couple of days, and then every 4 hours for the rest of your treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions.


Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:



  • Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the dropper tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.




  • Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.




  • Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct. If you use more than one drop in the same eye, wait about 5 minutes before putting in the next drop.




Do not allow the dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.


Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


You may rinse the eyes with warm water if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of gatifloxacin ophthalmic is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.


What should I avoid while using gatifloxacin ophthalmic?


You should not wear contact lenses while you still have active symptoms of the eye infection you are treating.


Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Avoid caffeine while you are using gatifloxacin, because the medication can make the effects of caffeine stronger.

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • severe swelling, burning, redness, or discomfort in or around your eye;




  • eye pain, vision changes, increased sensitivity of your eyes to light;




  • signs of new infection, such as drainage, crusting, or oozing of your eyes or eyelids;




  • the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • mild itching, burning, redness, or irritation;




  • watery eyes;




  • puffy eyelids;




  • headache;




  • unpleasant taste in your mouth after using the drops.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


Gatifloxacin ophthalmic Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Conjunctivitis:

gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3%:
Days 1 and 2: Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake, up to 8 times daily.
Days 3 through 7: Instill 1 drop up to 4 times daily while awake.
gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.5%:
Day 1: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times on daily.
Days 2 through 7: Instill one drop two to four times daily in the affected eye(s) while awake.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Conjunctivitis:

1 year or older:
gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3%:
Days 1 and 2: Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake, up to 8 times daily.
Days 3 through 7: Instill 1 drop up to 4 times daily while awake.
gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.5%:
Day 1: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake, up to 8 times on daily.
Days 2 through 7: Instill one drop two to four times daily in the affected eye(s) while awake.


What other drugs will affect gatifloxacin ophthalmic?


It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on gatifloxacin used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:



  • theophylline (Elixophyllin, Theo-24, Uniphyl);




  • a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin); or




  • cyclosporine used in the eyes (Restasis) or taken by mouth (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf).



This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with gatifloxacin ophthalmic. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More gatifloxacin ophthalmic resources


  • Gatifloxacin ophthalmic Dosage
  • Gatifloxacin ophthalmic Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Gatifloxacin ophthalmic Support Group
  • 7 Reviews for Gatifloxacin - Add your own review/rating


  • Zymar Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zymar eent Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Zymar Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Zymar Drops MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Zymaxid Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zymaxid Consumer Overview



Compare gatifloxacin ophthalmic with other medications


  • Conjunctivitis
  • Conjunctivitis, Bacterial
  • Ophthalmic Surgery


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about gatifloxacin ophthalmic.



Friday, October 28, 2016

Amlodipine 5 mg tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Amlodipine 5 mg tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains Amlodipine besilate equivalent to 5 mg of amlodipine.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablet



White or almost white, flat, bevelled edges, barrel-shaped tablet debossed with "C" on one side and "58" on the other side.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Chronic stable and vasospastic angina pectoris.



Essential hypertension.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



For oral use.



The tablets should be taken with a glass of liquid (e.g. a glass of water) with or without food.



In adults



For the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris, the starting dose is 5 mg once daily. If the desired therapeutic effect cannot be achieved within 2-4 weeks, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 10 mg daily (given as a single dose) depending on the individual response of the patient. Amlodipine can be used as monotherapy or in combination with anti-anginal medication in patients suffering from angina pectoris.



Children with hypertension from 6 years to 17 years of age



The recommended antihypertensive oral dose in pediatric patients ages 6-17 years is 2.5 mg once daily as a starting dose, up-titrated to 5 mg once daily if blood pressure goal is not achieved after 4 weeks. Doses in excess of 5 mg daily have not been studied in pediatric patients (see section 5.1 and section 5.2). The effect of amlodipine on blood pressure in patients less than 6 years of age is not known



The 2.5 mg dose cannot be obtained with Amlodipine 5 mg tablets as these tablets are not manufactured to break into two equal halves.



Elderly patients



For elderly patients, the normal dose is recommended; however, caution is advised when the dose is increased (see section 5.2).



Patients with renal impairment



The normal dosage is recommended (see section 5.2). Amlodipine is not dialyzable. Amlodipine should be administered with particular caution to patients undergoing dialysis (see section 4.4).



Patients with hepatic impairment



In patients with hepatic impairment, no dosage regimen has been defined, therefore amlodipine should be administered with caution (see section 4.4).



4.3 Contraindications



Amlodipine is contraindicated in patients with:



- hypersensitivity to amlodipine, other dihydropyridines or any of the excipients



- severe hypotension



- shock (including cardiogenic shock)



- obstruction of the outflow tract of the left ventricle (e.g. high grade aortic stenosis)



- haemodynamically unstable heart failure after acute myocardial infarction



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



The safety and efficacy of amlodipine in hypertensive crisis has not been established.



Patients with cardiac failure:



Patients with heart failure should be treated with caution. In a long-term, placebo controlled study in patients with severe heart failure (NYHA class III and IV) the reported incidence of pulmonary oedema was higher in the amlodipine treated group than in the placebo group, but this was not associated with worsening of the heart failure (see section 5.1).



Use in patients with impaired hepatic function:



The half life of amlodipine is prolonged in patients with impaired liver function; dosage recommendations have not been established. Amlodipine should therefore be administered with caution in these patients.



Use in elderly patients



In elderly patients, caution is advised when the dosage is increased (see section 5.2).



Use in renal failure



Amlodipine may be used in such patients at normal doses. Changes in amlodipine plasma concentrations are not correlated with degree of renal impairment. Amlodipine is not dialyzable



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Effects of other medicinal products on amlodipine



CYP3A4 inhibitors: With concomitant use with the CYP3A4 inhibitor erythromycin in young patients and diltiazem in elderly patients respectively the plasma concentration of amlodipine increased by 22% and 50 % respectively. However, the clinical relevance of this finding is uncertain. It cannot be ruled out that strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir) may increase the plasma concentrations of amlodipine to a greater extent than diltiazem. Amlodipine should be used with caution together with CYP3A4 inhibitors. However, no adverse events attributable to such interaction have been reported.



CYP3A4 inducers: There is no data available regarding the effect of CYP3A4 inducers on amlodipine. The concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. rifampicin, hypericum perforatum) may give a lower plasma concentration of amlodipine. Amlodipine should be used with caution together with CYP3A4 inducers.



In clinical interaction studies grapefruit juice, cimetidine, aluminium/ magnesium (antacid) and sildenafil did not affect the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.



Effects of amlodipine on other medicinal products



The blood pressure lowering effects of amlodipine adds to the blood pressure-lowering effects of other antihypertensive agents.



In clinical interaction studies, amlodipine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, digoxin, ethanol (alcohol), warfarin or cyclosporin.



There is no effect of amlodipine on laboratory parameters.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



The safety of amlodipine in human pregnancy has not been established.



Reproductive studies in rats have shown no toxicity except for delayed date of delivery and prolonged duration of labour at dosages 50 times greater than the maximum recommended dosage for humans.



Use in pregnancy is only recommended when there is no safer alternative and when the disease itself carries greater risk for the mother and foetus.



Lactation



It is not known whether amlodipine is excreted in breast milk. A decision on whether to continue/discontinue breast-feeding or to continue/discontinue therapy with amlodipine should be made taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding to the child and the benefit of amlodipine therapy to the mother.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Amlodipine can have minor or moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines. If patients taking amlodipine suffer from dizziness, headache, fatigue or nausea the ability to react may be impaired.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The following undesirable effects have been observed and reported during treatment with amlodipine with the following frequencies: Very common (

































































































System Organ Class




Frequency




Undesirable effects




Blood and the lymphatic system disorders




Very Rare




Leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia




Immune system disorders




Very Rare




Allergic reactions




Metabolism and nutrition disorders




Very Rare




Hyperglycaemia




Psychiatric disorders




Uncommon




Insomnia, mood changes (including anxiety), depression




Rare




Confusion


 


Nervous system disorders




Common




Somnolence, dizziness, headache (especially at the beginning of the treatment)




Uncommon




Tremor, dysgeusia, syncope, hypoesthesia, paresthesia


 


Very Rare




Hypertonia, peripheral neuropathy


 


Eye disorders




Uncommon




Visual disturbance (including diplopia)




Ear and labyrinth disorders




Uncommon




Tinnitus




Cardiac disorders




Uncommon




Palpitations




Very Rare




Myocardial infarction, arrhythmia (including bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation)


 


Vascular disorders




Common




Flushing




Uncommon




Hypotension


 


Very Rare




Vasculitis


 


Respiratory, thoracic and medicinal disorders




Uncommon




Dyspnoea, rhinitis




Very Rare




Cough


 


Gastrointestinal disorders




Common




Abdominal pain, nausea




Uncommon




Vomiting, dyspepsia, altered bowel habits (including diarrohea and constipation), dry mouth


 


Very Rare




Pancreatitis, gastritis, gingival hyperplasia


 


Hepato-biliary disorders




Very Rare




Hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic enzymes increased*




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders




Uncommon




Alopecia, purpura, skin discolouration, hyperhydrosis, pruritus, rash, exanthema




Very Rare




Angioedema, erythema multiforme, urticaria, exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Quincke oedema, photosensitivity


 


Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders




Common




Ankle swelling




Uncommon




Arthralgia, myalgia, muscle cramps, back pain


 


Renal and urinary disorders




Uncommon




Micturition disorder, nocturia, increased urinary frequency




Reproductive system and breast disorders




Uncommon




Impotence, gynecomastia




General disorders and administration site conditions




Common




Oedema, fatigue




Uncommon




Chest pain, asthenia, pain, malaise


 


Investigations




Uncommon




Weight increase, weight decrease



*mostly consistent with cholestatis



4.9 Overdose



In humans experience with intentional overdose is limited



Symptoms:



Available data suggest that gross overdosage could result in excessive peripheral vasodilatation and possibly reflex tachycardia. Marked and probably prolonged systemic hypotension up to and including shock with fatal outcome have been reported.



Treatment:



Clinically significant hypotension due to amlodipine overdosage calls for active cardiovascular support including frequent monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function, elevation of extremities and attention to circulating fluid volume and urine output.



A vasoconstrictor may be helpful in restoring vascular tone and blood pressure, provided that there is no contraindication to its use. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be beneficial in reversing the effects of calcium channel blockade.



Gastric lavage may be worthwhile in some cases. In healthy volunteers the use of charcoal up to 2 hours after administration of amlodipine 10 mg has been shown to reduce the absorption rate of amlodipine.



Since amlodipine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be of benefit.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Selective calcium channel blockers with mainly vascular effects; Dihydropyridine derivatives



ATC code: C 08 CA 01



Amlodipine is a calcium antagonist that inhibits the influx of calcium ions into the cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. The mechanism of the antihypertensive action is the result of the direct relaxing effect on the arterial smooth muscle.



The mechanism that enables amlodipine to reduce angina pectoris has not been completely clarified; however, the two following mechanisms are involved:



1. Amlodipine dilates peripheral arterioles and thus, reduces the total peripheral resistance (afterload) against which the heart works. This reduction of the heart load leads to a reduction of the energy consumption as well as of the oxygen requirements of the myocardium.



2. The dilatation of the main coronary vessels and coronary arterioles probably is involved in the mechanism of action of amlodipine. This dilatation increases the myocardial oxygen supply in patients suffering from Prinzmetal's angina pectoris.



In patients suffering from hypertension, once daily administration produces a clinically significant reduction in blood pressure (both in lying and standing position), lasting for 24 hours.



In patients suffering from angina pectoris, once daily administration increases total exercise time, the time to occurrence of angina and the time to a 1 mm ST segment depression. Amlodipine reduces both the frequency of anginal attacks and the use of glyceryl trinitrate tablets.



Use in Patients with Heart Failure



Haemodynamic studies and exercise based controlled clinical trials in NYHA Class II-IV heart failure patients have shown that amlodipine did not lead to clinical deterioration as measured by exercise tolerance, left ventricular ejection fraction and clinical symptomatology.



A placebo controlled study (PRAISE) designed to evaluate patients in NYHA Class III-IV heart failure receiving digoxin, diuretics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors has shown that amlodipine did not lead to an increase in risk of mortality or combined mortality and morbidity in patients with heart failure.



In a follow-up, long-term, placebo controlled study (PRAISE-2) of amlodipine in patients with NYHA III and IV heart failure without clinical symptoms or objective findings suggestive of underlying ischaemic disease, on stable doses of ACE inhibitors, digitalis, and diuretics, amlodipine had no effect on total or cardiovascular mortality. In this same population amlodipine was associated with increased reports of pulmonary oedema despite no significant difference in the incidence of worsening heart failure as compared to placebo.



Use in Children with Hypertension, aged 6-17 years



In a study involving 268 children aged 6-17 years with predominantly secondary hypertension, comparison of a 2.5mg dose, and 5.0mg dose of amlodipine with placebo, showed that both doses reduced Systolic Blood Pressure significantly more than placebo. The difference between the two doses was not statistically significant.



The long-term effects of amlodipine on growth, puberty and general development have not been studied. The long-term efficacy of amlodipine on therapy in childhood to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in adulthood have also not been established.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption and distribution



After oral administration of therapeutic doses, amlodipine is slowly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The bioavailability of amlodipine is not influenced by concomitant intake of food. The absolute bioavailability of the unchanged active substance is approximately 64-80%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 6-12 hours after administration. The volume of distribution is approximately 20 l/kg. The pKa of amlodipine is 8.6. In vitro plasma protein binding is approximately 98%.



Metabolism and elimination



The plasma half-life varies between 35 and 50 hours. Steady-state plasma concentration is reached after 7-8 days.



Amlodipine is extensively metabolised into inactive metabolites. Approximately 60% of the administered dose is excreted in the urine, 10% of which is in a non-metabolised form.



Use in Elderly



The time to reach peak plasma concentrations of amlodipine is similar in elderly and younger subjects. Amlodipine clearance tends to be decreased with resulting increases in AUC and elimination half life in elderly patients. Increases in AUC and elimination half life in patients with congestive heart failure were as expected for the patient agze group study (See Section 4.4).



Patients with impaired renal function



Amlodipine is extensively metabolised into inactive metabolites. 10% of the parent compound is excreted unchanged in the urine. The changes in the plasma concentration of amlodipine are not related to the degree of renal impairment. These patients can be treated with a normal dosage of amlodipine. Amlodipine is not dialyzable.



Patients with impaired hepatic function



The half-life of amlodipine is prolonged in patients with impaired hepatic function.



Use in Children and Adolescents



A population PK study has been conducted in 74 hypertensive children aged from 12 months to 17 years (with 34 patients aged 6 to 12 years and 28 patients aged 13 to 17 years) receiving amlodipine between 1.25 and 20 mg given either once or twice daily. In children 6 to 12 years and in adolescents 13-17 years of age the typical oral clearance (CL/F) was 22.5 and 27.4 L/hr respectively in males and 16.4 and 21.3 L/hr respectively in females. Large variability in exposure between individuals was observed. Data reported in children below 6 years is limited.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Animal studies have shown no special risks for humans. This is based on information from pharmacological studies concerning safety and on information on repeat dose toxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. Reproductive studies in animals have shown a delayed parturition, difficult labour and an increased foetal and neonatal death at high dosages.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Microcrystalline cellulose



Calcium hydrogen phosphate, anhydrous



Sodium starch glycolate



Magnesium stearate



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



This medicinal product does not require any special storage conditions.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



PVC/ PVdC-Aluminium blister.



7, 10, 14, 15, 20, 28, 30, 50, 56, 60, 84, 90, 98, 100, 120, 200, 250, 300 and 500 tablets



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Milpharm Limited



Ares, Odyssey Business Park



West End Road



South Ruislip HA4 6QD



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16363/0249



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



11/05/2011



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



11/05/2011





Eporatio 20,000 IU





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Eporatio 20,000 IU/1 ml solution for injection in pre


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



One pre-filled syringe contains 20,000 international units (IU) (166.7 µg) epoetin theta in 1 ml solution for injection corresponding to 20,000 IU (166.7 µg) epoetin theta per ml.



Epoetin theta (recombinant human erythropoietin) is produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells (CHO



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for injection (injection) in pre



The solution is clear and colourless.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



- Treatment of symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure in adult patients.



- Treatment of symptomatic anaemia in adult cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Special requirements



Epoetin theta treatment should be initiated by physicians experienced in the above-mentioned indications.



Routes of administration



The solution can be administered subcutaneously (SC) or intravenously (IV). Subcutaneous use is preferable in patients who are not undergoing haemodialysis, in order to avoid puncturing peripheral veins. If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, the same route of administration should be used. Epoetin theta should be administered by the subcutaneous route to cancer patients with non



Posology



Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure



Anaemia symptoms and sequelae may vary with age, gender, and overall burden of disease; a physician's evaluation of the individual patient's clinical course and condition is necessary. Epoetin theta should be administered either subcutaneously or intravenously in order to increase haemoglobin level to not greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l).



Due to intra-patient variability, occasional individual haemoglobin values for a patient above and below the desired haemoglobin level may be observed. Haemoglobin variability should be addressed through dose management, with consideration for the haemoglobin target range of 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). A sustained haemoglobin level of greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should be avoided; guidance for appropriate dose adjustment if haemoglobin values exceeding 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) are observed are described below.



A rise in haemoglobin of greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) over a four week period should be avoided. If the rise in haemoglobin is greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) in 4 weeks or the haemoglobin value exceeds 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), the dose should be reduced by 25 to 50%. It is recommended that haemoglobin be monitored every two weeks until levels have stabilised and periodically thereafter. If the haemoglobin level continues to increase, therapy should be interrupted until the haemoglobin level begins to decrease, at which point therapy should be restarted at a dose approximately 25% below the previously administered dose.



In the presence of hypertension or existing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular or peripheral vascular diseases, the increase in haemoglobin and the target haemoglobin value should be determined individually taking into account the clinical picture.



Treatment with epoetin theta is divided into two stages.



Correction phase



Subcutaneous administration: The initial posology is 20 IU/kg body weight 3 times per week. The dose may be increased after 4 weeks to 40 IU/kg, 3 times per week, if the increase in haemoglobin is not adequate (< 1 g/dl [0.62 mmol/l] within 4 weeks). Further increases of 25% of the previous dose may be made at monthly intervals until the individual target haemoglobin level is obtained.



Intravenous administration: The initial posology is 40 IU/kg body weight 3 times per week. The dose may be increased after 4 weeks to 80 IU/kg, 3 times per week, and by further increases of 25% of the previous dose at monthly intervals, if needed.



For both routes of administration, the maximum dose should not exceed 700 IU/kg body weight per week.



Maintenance phase



The dose should be adjusted as necessary to maintain the individual target haemoglobin level between 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), whereby a haemoglobin level of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should not be exceeded. If a dose adjustment is required to maintain the desired haemoglobin level, it is recommended that the dose be adjusted by approximately 25%.



Subcutaneous administration: The weekly dose can be given as one injection per week or three times per week.



Intravenous administration: Patients who are stable on a three times weekly dosing regimen may be switched to twice-weekly administration.



If the frequency of administration is changed, haemoglobin level should be monitored closely and dose adjustments may be necessary.



The maximum dose should not exceed 700 IU/kg body weight per week.



If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, haemoglobin level should be monitored closely and the same route of administration should be used.



Patients should be monitored closely to ensure that the lowest approved dose of epoetin theta is used to provide adequate control of the symptoms of anaemia.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



Epoetin theta should be administered by the subcutaneous route to patients with anaemia (e.g. haemoglobin concentration



Due to intra-patient variability, occasional individual haemoglobin values for a patient above and below the desired haemoglobin level may be observed. Haemoglobin variability should be addressed through dose management, with consideration for the haemoglobin target range of 10 g/dl (6.21 mmol/l) to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). A sustained haemoglobin level of greater than 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) should be avoided; guidance for appropriate dose adjustment if haemoglobin values exceeding 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) are observed are described below.



The recommended initial dose is 20,000 IU, independent of bodyweight, given once-weekly. If, after 4 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin value has increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l), the current dose should be continued. If the haemoglobin value has not increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l) a doubling of the weekly dose to 40,000 IU should be considered. If, after an additional 4 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin increase is still insufficient an increase of the weekly dose to 60,000 IU should be considered.



The maximum dose should not exceed 60,000 IU per week.



If, after 12 weeks of therapy, the haemoglobin value has not increased by at least 1 g/dl (0.62 mmol/l), response is unlikely and treatment should be discontinued.



If the rise in haemoglobin is greater than 2 g/dl (1.24 mmol/l) in 4 weeks or the haemoglobin level exceeds 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l), the dose should be reduced by 25 to 50%. Treatment with epoetin theta should be temporarily discontinued if haemoglobin levels exceed 13 g/dl (8.07 mmol/l). Therapy should be reinitiated at approximately 25% lower than the previous dose after haemoglobin levels fall to 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) or below.



Therapy should be continued up to 4 weeks after the end of chemotherapy.



Patients should be monitored closely to ensure that the lowest approved dose of epoetin theta is used to provide adequate control of the symptoms of anaemia.



Special populations



Paediatric patients



There is no experience in children and adolescents.



Method of administration



The solution can be administered subcutaneously or intravenously. Subcutaneous use is preferable in patients who are not undergoing haemodialysis, in order to avoid puncturing peripheral veins. If epoetin theta is substituted for another epoetin, the same route of administration should be used. In cancer patients with non



Subcutaneous injections should be given into the abdomen, arm or thigh.



Eporatio is supplied in a single use pre-filled syringe. The solution should be visually inspected prior to use. Only clear, colourless solutions without particles should be used. The solution for injection should not be shaken. It should be allowed to reach a comfortable temperature (15 °C



Eporatio must not be mixed with other medicinal products (see section 6.2).



The injection sites should be rotated and the injection performed slowly to avoid discomfort at the site of injection.



4.3 Contraindications



- Hypersensitivity to the active substance, other epoetins and derivatives or to any of the excipients.



- Uncontrolled hypertension.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



General



Supplementary iron therapy is recommended for all patients with serum ferritin values below 100 µg/l or with transferrin saturation below 20%. To ensure effective erythropoiesis, iron status has to be evaluated for all patients prior to and during treatment.



Non-response to therapy with epoetin theta should prompt a search for causative factors. Deficiencies of iron, folic acid or vitamin B12 reduce the effectiveness of epoetins and should therefore be corrected. Intercurrent infections, inflammatory or traumatic episodes, occult blood loss, haemolysis, aluminium intoxication, underlying haematological diseases or bone marrow fibrosis may also compromise the erythropoietic response. A reticulocyte count should be considered as part of the evaluation.



Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA)



If typical causes of non-response are excluded, and the patient has a sudden drop in haemoglobin associated with reticulocytopenia, an examination of anti-erythropoietin antibodies and the bone marrow for diagnosis of pure red cell aplasia should be considered. Discontinuation of treatment with epoetin theta should be taken into account.



PRCA caused by neutralising anti-erythropoietin antibodies has been reported in association with erythropoietin therapy. These antibodies have been shown to cross-react with all epoetins, and patients suspected or confirmed to have neutralising antibodies to erythropoietin should not be switched to epoetin theta (see section 4.8).



Hypertension



Patients on epoetin theta therapy can experience an increase in blood pressure or aggravation of existing hypertension particularly during the initial treatment phase.



Therefore, in patients treated with epoetin theta, special care should be taken to monitor closely and control blood pressure. Blood pressure should be controlled adequately before initiation and during therapy to avoid acute complications, such as hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms (e.g. headaches, confused state, speech disturbances, impaired gait) and related complications (seizures, stroke), which may also occur in individual patients with otherwise normal or low blood pressure. If these reactions occur, they require the immediate attention of a physician and intensive medical care. Particular attention should be paid to sudden sharp migraine-like headaches as a possible warning signal.



Increases in blood pressure may require treatment with antihypertensive medicinal products or a dose increase of existing antihypertensive medicinal products. In addition, a reduction of the administered dose of epoetin theta needs to be considered. If blood pressure values remain high, temporary interruption of epoetin theta therapy may be required. Once hypertension has been controlled with more intensified therapy, epoetin theta therapy should be re-started at a reduced dose.



Misuse



Misuse of epoetin theta by healthy persons may lead to an excessive increase in haemoglobin and haematocrit. This may be associated with life-threatening cardiovascular complications.



Special populations



Due to limited experience, the efficacy and safety of epoetin theta could not be assessed in patients with impaired liver function or homozygous sickle cell anaemia.



In clinical trials, patients over 75 years of age had a higher incidence of serious and severe adverse events irrespective of a causal relationship to treatment with epoetin theta. Furthermore, deaths were more frequent in this patient group compared to younger patients.



Laboratory monitoring



It is recommended that haemoglobin measurement, a complete blood count and platelet count be performed regularly.



Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure



The use of epoetin theta in nephrosclerotic patients not yet undergoing dialysis should be defined individually, as a possible accelerated progression of renal failure cannot be ruled out with certainty.



During haemodialysis, patients treated with epoetin theta may require increased anticoagulation treatment to prevent clotting of the arterio-venous shunt.



In patients with chronic renal failure, the maintenance haemoglobin concentration should not exceed the upper limit of the target haemoglobin concentration recommended in section 4.2. In clinical trials, an increased risk of death and serious cardiovascular events was observed when epoetins were administered to target a haemoglobin level in excess of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l). Controlled clinical trials have not shown significant benefits attributable to the administration of epoetins when the haemoglobin concentration is increased beyond the level necessary to control symptoms of anaemia and to avoid blood transfusion.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



Effect on tumour growth



Epoetins are growth factors that primarily stimulate red blood cell production. Erythropoietin receptors may be expressed on the surface of a variety of tumour cells. As with all growth factors, there is a concern that epoetins could stimulate the growth of any type of malignancy (see section 5.1).



In several controlled studies, epoetins have not been shown to improve overall survival or decrease the risk of tumour progression in patients with anaemia associated with cancer. In controlled clinical studies, use of epoetins has shown:









 

- shortened time to tumour progression in patients with advanced head and neck cancer receiving radiation therapy when administered to target a haemoglobin level in excess of 14 g/dl (8.69 mmol/l),

 

- shortened overall survival and increased deaths attributed to disease progression at 4 months in patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving chemotherapy when administered to target a haemoglobin value of 12

 

- increased risk of death when administered to target a haemoglobin value of 12 g/dl (7.45 mmol/l) in patients with active malignant disease receiving neither chemotherapy nor radiation therapy.


Epoetins are not indicated for use in this patient population.



In view of the above, in some clinical situations blood transfusion should be the preferred treatment for the management of anaemia in patients with cancer. The decision to administer recombinant erythropoietins should be based on a benefit-risk assessment with the participation of the individual patient, which should take into account the specific clinical context. Factors that should be considered in this assessment should include the type of tumour and its stage, the degree of anaemia, life



Excipients



This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per pre-filled syringe, i.e. essentially 'sodium-free'.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No interaction studies have been performed.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



For epoetin theta no clinical data on exposed pregnancies are available. Animal studies with other epoetins do not indicate direct harmful effects with respect to pregnancy, embryonal/foetal development, parturition or postnatal development (see section 5.3). Caution should be exercised when prescribing to pregnant women.



It is unknown whether epoetin theta is excreted in human breast milk, but data in neonates show no absorption or pharmacological activity of erythropoietin when given together with breast milk. A decision on whether to continue/discontinue breast-feeding or to continue/discontinue therapy with epoetin theta should be made taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding to the child and the benefit of epoetin theta therapy for the woman.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Epoetin theta has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The safety of epoetin theta has been evaluated based on results from clinical studies including 972 patients.



Approximately 9% of patients can be expected to experience an adverse reaction. The most frequent undesirable effects are hypertension, influenza-like illness and headache.



Adverse reactions listed below are classified according to System Organ Class. Frequency groupings are defined according to the following convention:















Very common:


Common:


Uncommon:


Rare:


Very rare:

< 1/10,000;

Not known:

cannot be estimated from the available data.














































System organ class




Adverse reaction




Frequency


 


Symptomatic anaemia associated with chronic renal failure




Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy


  


Blood and lymphatic system disorders




Thromboembolic events







 




Not known




Shunt thrombosis




Common







 


 


Immune system disorders




Hypersensitivity reactions




Not known


 


Nervous system disorders




Headache




Common


 


Vascular disorders




Hypertension




Common


 


Hypertensive crisis




Common







 


 


Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders




Skin reactions




Common


 


Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders




Arthralgia







 




Common




General disorders and administration site conditions




Influenza-like illness




Common


 


Shunt thrombosis may occur, especially in patients who have a tendency to hypotension or whose arterio-venous fistulae exhibit complications (e.g. stenoses, aneurisms) (see section 4.4).



One of the most frequent adverse reactions during treatment with epoetin theta is an increase in blood pressure or aggravation of existing hypertension particularly during the initial treatment phase. Hypertension occurs in chronic renal failure patients more often during the correction phase than during the maintenance phase. Hypertension can be treated with appropriate medicinal products (see section 4.4).



Hypertensive crisis with encephalopathy-like symptoms (e.g. headaches, confused state, speech disturbances, impaired gait) and related complications (seizures, stroke) may also occur in individual patients with otherwise normal or low blood pressure (see section 4.4).



Skin reactions such as rash, pruritus or injection site reactions may occur.



Symptoms of influenza-like illness such as fever, chills and asthenic conditions have been reported.



Certain adverse reactions have not yet been observed with epoetin theta, but are generally accepted as being attributable to epoetins:



In isolated cases in patients with chronic renal failure, neutralising anti-erythropoietin antibody-mediated PRCA associated with therapy with other epoetins has been reported. If PRCA is diagnosed, therapy with epoetin theta must be discontinued and patients should not be switched to another recombinant epoetin (see section 4.4).



4.9 Overdose



The therapeutic margin of epoetin theta is very wide. In the case of overdose, polycythaemia can occur. In the event of polycythaemia, epoetin theta should be temporarily withheld.



If severe polycythaemia occurs, conventional methods (phlebotomy) may be indicated to reduce the haemoglobin level.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Other anti-anaemic preparations, ATC code: B03XA01



Mechanism of action



Human erythropoietin is an endogenous glycoprotein hormone that is the primary regulator of erythropoiesis through specific interaction with the erythropoietin receptor on the erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. It acts as a mitosis-stimulating factor and differentiation hormone. The production of erythropoietin primarily occurs in and is regulated by the kidney in response to changes in tissue oxygenation. Production of endogenous erythropoietin is impaired in patients with chronic renal failure and the primary cause of their anaemia is erythropoietin deficiency. In patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy the aetiology of anaemia is multifactorial. In these patients, erythropoietin deficiency and a reduced response of erythroid progenitor cells to endogenous erythropoietin both contribute significantly towards their anaemia.



Epoetin theta is identical in its amino acid sequence and similar in its carbohydrate composition (glycosylation) to endogenous human erythropoietin.



Preclinical efficacy



The biological efficacy of epoetin theta has been demonstrated after intravenous and subcutaneous administration in various animal models in vivo (mice, rats, dogs). After administration of epoetin theta, the number of erythrocytes, the haematocrit values and reticulocyte counts increase.



Clinical efficacy and safety



Symptomatic anaemia associated chronic renal failure



Data from correction phase studies in 284 chronic renal failure patients show that the haemoglobin response rates (defined as haemoglobin levels above 11 g/dl at two consecutive measurements) in the epoetin theta group (88.4% and 89.4% in studies in patients on dialysis and not yet undergoing dialysis, respectively) were comparable to epoetin beta (86.2% and 81.0%, respectively). The median time to response was similar in the treatment groups with 56 days in haemodialysis patients and 49 days in patients not yet undergoing dialysis.



Two randomised controlled studies were conducted in 270 haemodialysis patients and 288 patients not yet undergoing dialysis, who were on stable treatment with epoetin beta. Patients were randomised to continue their current treatment or to be converted to epoetin theta (same dose as epoetin beta) in order to maintain their haemoglobin levels. During the evaluation period (weeks 15 to 26), the mean and median level of haemoglobin in patients treated with epoetin theta was virtually identical to their baseline haemoglobin level. In these two studies, 180 haemodialysis patients and 193 patients not undergoing dialysis were switched from maintenance phase treatment with epoetin beta to treatment with epoetin theta for a period of six months showing stable haemoglobin values and a similar safety profile as epoetin beta. In the clinical studies, patients not yet undergoing dialysis (subcutaneous administration) discontinued the study more frequently than haemodialysis patients (intravenous administration) as they had to terminate the study when starting dialysis.



In two long-term studies, the efficacy of epoetin theta was evaluated in 124 haemodialysis patients and 289 patients not yet undergoing dialysis. The haemoglobin levels remained within the desired target range and epoetin theta was well tolerated over a period of up to 15 months.



In the clinical studies, pre-dialysis patients were treated once-weekly with epoetin theta, 174 patients in the maintenance phase study and 111 patients in the long-term study.



Symptomatic anaemia in cancer patients with non-myeloid malignancies receiving chemotherapy



409 cancer patients receiving chemotherapy were included in two prospective, randomised double



Effect on tumour growth



Erythropoietin is a growth factor that primarily stimulates red cell production. Erythropoietin receptors may be expressed on the surface of a variety of tumour cells.



Survival and tumour progression have been examined in five large controlled studies involving a total of 2,833 patients, of which four were double-blind placebo-controlled studies and one was an open-label study. Two of the studies recruited patients who were being treated with chemotherapy. The target haemoglobin concentration in two studies was> 13 g/dl; in the remaining three studies it was 12



Data from three placebo-controlled clinical studies in 586 anaemic cancer patients conducted with epoetin theta, showed no negative effect of epoetin theta on survival. During the studies, mortality was lower in the epoetin theta group (6.9%) compared to placebo (10.3%).



A systematic review has also been performed involving more than 9,000 cancer patients participating in 57 clinical trials. Meta-analysis of overall survival data produced a hazard ratio point estimate of 1.08 in favour of controls (95% CI: 0.99, 1.18; 42 trials and 8,167 patients). An increased relative risk of thromboembolic events (RR 1.67, 95% CI: 1.35, 2.06; 35 trials and 6,769 patients) was observed in patients treated with recombinant human erythropoietin. There is therefore consistent evidence to suggest that there may be significant harm to patients with cancer who are treated with recombinant human erythropoietin. The extent to which these outcomes might apply to the administration of recombinant human erythropoietin to patients with cancer, treated with chemotherapy to achieve haemoglobin concentrations less than 13 g/dl, is unclear because few patients with these characteristics were included in the data reviewed.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



General



The pharmacokinetics of epoetin theta have been examined in healthy volunteers, in patients with chronic renal failure and in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. The pharmacokinetics of epoetin theta are independent of age or gender.



Subcutaneous administration



Following subcutaneous injection of 40 IU/kg body weight epoetin theta at three different sites (upper arm, abdomen, thigh) in healthy volunteers, similar plasma level profiles were observed. The extent of absorption (AUC) was slightly greater after injection in the abdomen in comparison to the other sites. The maximum concentration is reached after an average of 10 to 14 hours and the average terminal half-life ranges from approximately 22 to 41 hours.



Average bioavailability of epoetin theta after subcutaneous administration is approximately 31% compared with intravenous administration.



In pre-dialysis patients with chronic renal failure following subcutaneous injection of 40 IU/kg body weight, the protracted absorption results in a concentration plateau, whereby the maximum concentration is reached after an average of approximately 14 hours. The terminal half-life is higher than after intravenous administration, with an average of 25 hours after single dosing and 34 hours in steady state after repeated dosing three times weekly, without leading to an accumulation of epoetin theta.



In cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, after repeated subcutaneous administration of 20,000 IU epoetin theta once-weekly, the terminal half-life is 29 hours after the first dose and 28 hours in steady state. No accumulation of epoetin theta was observed.



Intravenous administration



In patients with chronic renal failure undergoing haemodialysis, the elimination half-life of epoetin theta is 6 hours after single dosing and 4 hours in steady state after repeated intravenous administration of 40 IU/kg body weight epoetin theta three times weekly. No accumulation of epoetin theta was observed. Following intravenous administration, the volume of distribution approximates to total blood volume.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Non-clinical data with epoetin theta reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of safety pharmacology and repeated-dose toxicity.



Non-clinical data with other epoetins reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of genotoxicity and toxicity to reproduction.



In reproductive toxicity studies performed with other epoetins, effects interpreted as being secondary to decreased maternal body weight were observed at doses sufficiently in excess to the recommended human dose.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Sodium dihydrogen phosphate dihydrate



Sodium chloride



Polysorbate 20



Trometamol



Hydrochloric acid (6 M) (for pH adjustment)



Water for injections



6.2 Incompatibilities



In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products.



6.3 Shelf Life



2 years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C).



Do not freeze.



Keep the pre-filled syringe in the outer carton in order to protect from light.



For the purpose of ambulatory use, the patient may remove the product from the refrigerator and store it at a temperature not above 25 °C for a single period of up to 7 days without exceeding the expiry date. Once removed from the refrigerator, the medicinal product must be used within this period or disposed of.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



1 ml of solution in a pre-filled syringe (type I glass) with a tip cap (bromobutyl rubber), a plunger stopper (teflonised chlorobutyl rubber), an injection needle (stainless steel) and with or without a pre



Pack sizes of 1, 4 and 6 pre-filled syringes with or without safety device.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



The pre



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



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



ratiopharm GmbH



Graf-Arco-Straße 3



89079 Ulm



Germany



info@ratiopharm.de



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



EMEA/H/C/0010350000/21



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



Date of first authorisation: 29 October 2009



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) http://www.emea.europa.eu/.





Zanaflex Capsule



Generic Name: tizanidine (Oral route)

tye-ZAN-i-deen

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Comfort Pac w/Tizanidine

  • Zanaflex

  • Zanaflex Capsule

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Capsule

  • Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Skeletal Muscle Relaxant, Centrally Acting


Uses For Zanaflex Capsule


Tizanidine is used to help relax certain muscles in your body. It relieves the spasms, cramping, and tightness of muscles caused by medical problems such as multiple sclerosis or certain injuries to the spine. Tizanidine does not cure these problems, but it may allow other treatment, such as physical therapy, to be more helpful in improving your condition.


Tizanidine acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to produce its muscle relaxant effects. Its actions on the CNS may also cause some of the medicine's side effects.


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


Before Using Zanaflex Capsule


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


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


Geriatric


Studies in older adults show that tizanidine stays in the body a little longer than it does in younger adults. Your doctor will consider this when deciding on your dose.


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.


  • Ciprofloxacin

  • Fluvoxamine

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.


  • Acyclovir

  • Amiodarone

  • Cimetidine

  • Desogestrel

  • Dienogest

  • Drospirenone

  • Estradiol Cypionate

  • Estradiol Valerate

  • Ethinyl Estradiol

  • Ethynodiol Diacetate

  • Etonogestrel

  • Famotidine

  • Levonorgestrel

  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate

  • Mestranol

  • Mexiletine

  • Norelgestromin

  • Norethindrone

  • Norfloxacin

  • Norgestimate

  • Norgestrel

  • Ofloxacin

  • Propafenone

  • Rofecoxib

  • Ticlopidine

  • Vemurafenib

  • Verapamil

  • Zileuton

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.


  • Fosphenytoin

  • Lisinopril

  • Phenytoin

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.


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:


  • Kidney disease or

  • Liver disease—The chance of side effects may be increased; higher blood levels of tizanidine may result and a smaller dose may be needed

Proper Use of tizanidine

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain tizanidine. It may not be specific to Zanaflex Capsule. Please read with care.


When you take the different dosage forms (tablets, capsules, capsule contents sprinkled over applesauce) of tizanidine with food, it effects the amount of the medicine absorbed into your blood differently. Follow your doctor's instructions for when to take this medicine and whether or not you should take it with food.


Take this medicine only as directed. Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than recommended on the label, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.


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 (capsules and tablets):
    • For muscle relaxation:
      • Adults—The dose is 8 milligrams (mg) every six to eight hours as needed. No more than 36 mg should be taken within a twenty-four-hour period.

      • 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.


Precautions While Using Zanaflex Capsule


Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits, especially during the first few weeks of treatment with this medicine. During this time the amount of medicine you are taking may have to be changed often to meet your individual needs.


Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Unwanted effects may occur if the medicine is stopped suddenly. Check with your doctor for the best way to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely.


This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds; sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping medicine; prescription pain medicine or narcotics; barbiturates; medicine for seizures; other muscle relaxants; or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your doctor before taking any of the above while you are using tizanidine.


This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, clumsiness or unsteadiness, or vision problems in some people. 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 not alert, well-coordinated, and able to see well.


Tizanidine may cause dryness of the mouth. For temporary relief, use sugarless candy or gum, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if dry mouth continues for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the chance of dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease, and fungus infections.


Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur when you get up suddenly from a lying or sitting position. Getting up slowly may help lessen this problem.


Zanaflex Capsule 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 as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:


More common
  • Chest pain or discomfort

  • fever

  • loss of appetite

  • lower back or side pain

  • nausea and/or vomiting

  • nervousness

  • pain or burning while urinating

  • painful or difficult urination

  • sores on the skin

  • tingling, burning, or prickling sensations

  • unusual tiredness

  • yellow eyes or skin

Less common
  • Black, tarry stools

  • bloody vomit

  • blurred vision

  • chills or sore throat

  • coldness

  • convulsions (seizures)

  • cough or hoarseness

  • dark urine

  • dry, puffy skin

  • eye pain

  • fainting

  • influenza (flu)-like symptoms

  • irregular heartbeat

  • kidney stones

  • persistent anorexia

  • pruritus

  • right upper quadrant tenderness

  • seeing things that are not there

  • shortness of breath

  • slow or irregular heartbeat

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • weight gain

Incidence not known
  • Continuing vomiting

  • general feeling of tiredness or weakness

  • headache

  • light-colored stools

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:


Symptoms of overdose
  • Blurred vision

  • change in consciousness

  • chest pain or discomfort

  • confusion

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness

  • difficult or troubled breathing

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

  • irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

  • lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting

  • loss of consciousness

  • pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin

  • severe sleepiness

  • shortness of breath

  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

  • slow or irregular heartbeat

  • sweating

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

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


More common
  • Anxiety

  • back pain

  • constipation

  • depression

  • diarrhea

  • difficulty in speaking

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

  • drowsiness

  • dry mouth

  • heartburn

  • increased sweating

  • increased muscle spasms or tone

  • muscle weakness

  • pain or burning in throat

  • runny nose

  • skin rash

  • sleepiness

  • stomach pain

  • uncontrolled movements of the body

Less common
  • Difficulty swallowing

  • dry skin

  • general feeling of discomfort or illness

  • increased need to urinate

  • joint or muscle pain or stiffness

  • loss of hair

  • migraine headache

  • mood changes

  • neck pain

  • passing urine more often

  • shivering

  • swelling of feet or lower legs

  • swollen area that feels warm and tender

  • trembling or shaking

  • trouble sleeping

  • unusual feeling of well-being

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • weight loss

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: Zanaflex Capsule side effects (in more detail)



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


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


More Zanaflex Capsule resources


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


Compare Zanaflex Capsule with other medications


  • Cluster Headaches
  • Muscle Spasm