Thursday, 29 September 2016

Nateglinide





Nateglinide Description


Nateglinide Tablets, USP are an oral antidiabetic agent used in the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus [also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes]. Nateglinide,(-)-N-[(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexane)carbonyl]-D-phenylalanine, is structurally unrelated to the oral sulfonylurea insulin secretagogues.


The structural formula is as shown




Nateglinide is a white powder with a molecular weight of 317.43. It is freely soluble in methanol, ethanol, and chloroform, soluble in ether, sparingly soluble in acetonitrile and octanol, and practically insoluble in water. Nateglinide biconvex tablets contain 60 mg, or 120 mg, of Nateglinide for oral administration.


Inactive Ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, pregelatinized starch. The 60 mg also contains iron oxide red, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, talc, and titanium dioxide. In addition, the 120 mg contains FD&C Yellow #6/Sunset Yellow Aluminum Lake, iron oxide yellow.



Nateglinide - Clinical Pharmacology



Mechanism of Action


Nateglinide is an amino-acid derivative that lowers blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas. This action is dependent upon functioning beta-cells in the pancreatic islets. Nateglinide interacts with the ATP-sensitive potassium (K+ ATP) channel on pancreatic beta-cells. The subsequent depolarization of the beta cell opens the calcium channel, producing calcium influx and insulin secretion. The extent of insulin release is glucose dependent and diminishes at low glucose levels. Nateglinide is highly tissue selective with low affinity for heart and skeletal muscle.



Pharmacokinetics


Absorption

Following oral administration immediately prior to a meal, Nateglinide is rapidly absorbed with mean peak plasma drug concentrations (Cmax) generally occurring within 1 hour (Tmax) after dosing. When administered to patients with Type 2 diabetes over the dosage range 60 mg to 240 mg three times a day for one week, Nateglinide demonstrated linear pharmacokinetics for both AUC (area under the time/plasma concentration curve) and Cmax. Tmax was also found to be independent of dose in this patient population. Absolute bioavailability is estimated to be approximately 73%. When given with or after meals, the extent of Nateglinide absorption (AUC) remains unaffected. However, there is a delay in the rate of absorption characterized by a decrease in Cmax and a delay in time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax). Plasma profiles are characterized by multiple plasma concentration peaks when Nateglinide is administered under fasting conditions. This effect is diminished when Nateglinide is taken prior to a meal.


Distribution

Based on data following intravenous (IV) administration of Nateglinide, the steady-state volume of distribution of Nateglinide is estimated to be approximately 10 liters in healthy subjects. Nateglinide is extensively bound (98%) to serum proteins, primarily serum albumin, and to a lesser extent α1 acid glycoprotein. The extent of serum protein binding is independent of drug concentration over the test range of 0.1 to 10 mcg/mL.


Metabolism

Nateglinide is metabolized by the mixed-function oxidase system prior to elimination. The major routes of metabolism are hydroxylation followed by glucuronide conjugation. The major metabolites are less potent antidiabetic agents than Nateglinide. The isoprene minor metabolite possesses potency similar to that of the parent compound Nateglinide.


In vitro data demonstrate that Nateglinide is predominantly metabolized by cytochrome P450 isoenzymes CYP2C9 (70%) and CYP3A4 (30%).


Excretion

Nateglinide and its metabolites are rapidly and completely eliminated following oral administration. Within 6 hours after dosing, approximately 75% of the administered 14C-Nateglinide was recovered in the urine. Eighty-three percent of the 14C-Nateglinide was excreted in the urine with an additional 10% eliminated in the feces. Approximately 16% of the 14C-Nateglinide was excreted in the urine as parent compound. In all studies of healthy volunteers and patients with Type 2 diabetes, Nateglinide plasma concentrations declined rapidly with an average elimination half-life of approximately 1.5 hours. Consistent with this short elimination half-life, there was no apparent accumulation of Nateglinide upon multiple dosing of up to 240 mg three times daily for 7 days.


Drug Interactions

In vitro drug metabolism studies indicate that Nateglinide is predominantly metabolized by the cytochrome P450 isozyme CYP2C9 (70%) and to a lesser extent CYP3A4 (30%). Nateglinide is a potential inhibitor of the CYP2C9 isoenzyme in vivo as indicated by its ability to inhibit the in vitro metabolism of tolbutamide. Inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolic reactions was not detected in in vitro experiments.


Glyburide: In a randomized, multiple-dose crossover study, patients with Type 2 diabetes were administered 120 mg Nateglinide three times a day before meals for 1 day in combination with glyburide 10 mg daily. There were no clinically relevant alterations in the pharmacokinetics of either agent.


Metformin: When Nateglinide 120 mg three times daily before meals was administered in combination with metformin 500 mg three times daily to patients with Type 2 diabetes, there were no clinically relevant changes in the pharmacokinetics of either agent.


Digoxin: When Nateglinide 120 mg before meals was administered in combination with a single 1 mg dose of digoxin to healthy volunteers, there were no clinically relevant changes in the pharmacokinetics of either agent.


Warfarin: When healthy subjects were administered Nateglinide 120 mg three times daily before meals for four days in combination with a single dose of warfarin 30 mg on day 2, there were no alterations in the pharmacokinetics of either agent. Prothrombin time was not affected.


Diclofenac: Administration of morning and lunch doses of Nateglinide 120 mg in combination with a single 75 mg dose of diclofenac in healthy volunteers resulted in no significant changes to the pharmacokinetics of either agent.


Special Populations

Geriatric: Age did not influence the pharmacokinetic properties of Nateglinide. Therefore, no dose adjustments are necessary for elderly patients.


Gender: No clinically significant differences in Nateglinide pharmacokinetics were observed between men and women. Therefore, no dose adjustment based on gender is necessary.


Race: Results of a population pharmacokinetic analysis including subjects of Caucasian, Black, and other ethnic origins suggest that race has little influence on the pharmacokinetics of Nateglinide.


Renal Impairment: Compared to healthy matched subjects, patients with Type 2 diabetes and moderate-to-severe renal insufficiency (CrCl 15 to 50 mL/min) not on dialysis displayed similar apparent clearance, AUC and Cmax. Patients with Type 2 diabetes and renal failure on dialysis exhibited reduced overall drug exposure. However, hemodialysis patients also experienced reductions in plasma protein binding compared to the matched healthy volunteers.


Hepatic Impairment: The peak and total exposure of Nateglinide in non-diabetic subjects with mild hepatic insufficiency were increased by 30% compared to matched healthy subjects. Nateglinide should be used with caution in patients with chronic liver disease. (See PRECAUTIONS, Hepatic Impairment.)



Pharmacodynamics


Nateglinide is rapidly absorbed and stimulates pancreatic insulin secretion within 20 minutes of oral administration. When Nateglinide is dosed three times daily before meals there is a rapid rise in plasma insulin, with peak levels approximately 1 hour after dosing and a fall to baseline by 4 hours after dosing.


In a double-blind, controlled clinical trial in which Nateglinide was administered before each of three meals, plasma glucose levels were determined over a 12-hour, daytime period after 7 weeks of treatment. Nateglinide was administered 10 minutes before meals. The meals were based on standard diabetic weight maintenance menus with the total caloric content based on each subject’s height. Nateglinide produced statistically significant decreases in fasting and postprandial glycemia compared to placebo.



CLINICAL STUDIES


A total of 3,566 patients were randomized in nine double-blind, placebo-or active-controlled studies 8 to 24 weeks in duration to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Nateglinide. 3,513 patients had efficacy values beyond baseline. In these studies Nateglinide was administered up to 30 minutes before each of three main meals daily.


Nateglinide Monotherapy Compared to Placebo


In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 24-week study, patients with Type 2 diabetes with HbA1c ≥6.8% on diet alone were randomized to receive either Nateglinide (60 mg or 120 mg three times daily before meals) or placebo. Baseline HbA1c ranged from 7.9% to 8.1% and 77.8% of patients were previously untreated with oral antidiabetic therapy. Patients previously treated with antidiabetic medications were required to discontinue that medication for at least 2 months before randomization. The addition of Nateglinide before meals resulted in statistically significant reductions in mean HbA1c and mean fasting plasma glucose (FPG) compared to placebo (see Table 1). The reductions in HbA1c and FPG were similar for patients naïve to, and those previously exposed to, antidiabetic medications.


In this study, one episode of severe hypoglycemia (plasma glucose <36 mg/dL) was reported in a patient treated with Nateglinide 120 mg three times daily before meals. No patients experienced hypoglycemia that required third party assistance. Patients treated with Nateglinide had statistically significant mean increases in weight compared to placebo (see Table 1).


In another randomized, double-blind, 24-week, active-and placebo-controlled study, patients with Type 2 diabetes were randomized to receive Nateglinide (120 mg three times daily before meals), metformin 500 mg (three times daily), a combination of Nateglinide 120 mg (three times daily before meals) and metformin 500 mg (three times daily), or placebo. Baseline HbA1c ranged from 8.3% to 8.4%. Fifty-seven percent of patients were previously untreated with oral antidiabetic therapy. Nateglinide monotherapy resulted in significant reductions in mean HbA1c and mean FPG compared to placebo that were similar to the results of the study reported above (see Table 2).































Table 1: Endpoint results for a 24-week, fixed dose study of Nateglinide monotherapy
HbA1c (%)Placebo N=168Nateglinide 60 mg three times daily before meals N=167Nateglinide 120 mg three times daily before meals N=168

a p-value ≤0.004


Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo (mean8.0 +0.27.9 -0.3 -0.5a8.1 -0.5 -0.7a
FPG (mg/dL)N=172N=171N=169
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo (mean)167.9 +9.1161.0 +0.4 -8.7a166.5 -4.5 -13.6a
Weight (kg)N=170N=169N=166
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo (mean)85.8 -0.783.7 +0.3 +1.0a86.3 +0.9 +1.6a

Nateglinide Monotherapy Compared to Other Oral Antidiabetic Agents


Glyburide


In a 24-week, double-blind, active-controlled trial, patients with Type 2 diabetes who had been on a sulfonylurea for ≥ 3 months and who had a baseline HbA1c ≥6.5% were randomized to receive Nateglinide (60 mg or 120 mg three times daily before meals) or glyburide 10 mg once daily. Patients randomized to Nateglinide had significant increases in mean HbA1c and mean FPG at endpoint compared to patients randomized to glyburide.


Metformin


In another randomized, double-blind, 24-week, active- and placebo-controlled study, patients with Type 2 diabetes were randomized to receive Nateglinide (120 mg three times daily before meals), metformin 500 mg (three times daily), a combination of Nateglinide 120 mg (three times daily before meals) and metformin 500 mg (three times daily), or placebo. Baseline HbA1c ranged from 8.3% to 8.4%. Fifty-seven percent of patients were previously untreated with oral antidiabetic therapy. Patients previously treated with antidiabetic medications were required to discontinue medication for at least 2 months before randomization. The reductions in mean HbA1c and mean FPG at endpoint with metformin monotherapy were significantly greater than the reductions in these variables with Nateglinide monotherapy (see Table 2). Relative to placebo, Nateglinide monotherapy was associated with significant increases in mean weight whereas metformin monotherapy was associated with significant decreases in mean weight. Among the subset of patients naïve to antidiabetic therapy, the reductions in mean HbA1c and mean FPG for Nateglinide monotherapy were similar to those for metformin monotherapy (see Table 2). Among the subset of patients previously treated with other antidiabetic agents, primarily glyburide, HbA1c in the Nateglinide monotherapy group increased slightly from baseline, whereas HbA1c was reduced in the metformin monotherapy group (see Table 2).


Nateglinide Combination Therapy


Metformin


In the active and placebo-controlled study of metformin and Nateglinide described above, the combination of Nateglinide and metformin resulted in statistically significantly greater reductions in HbA1c and FPG compared to either Nateglinide or metformin monotherapy (see Table 2). Nateglinide, alone or in combination with metformin, significantly reduced the prandial glucose elevation form pre-meal to 2-hours post-meal compared to placebo and metformin alone.


In this study, one episode of severe hypoglycemia (plasma glucose ≤36 mg/dL) was reported in a patient receiving the combination of Nateglinide and metformin and four episodes of severe hypoglycemia were reported in a single patient in the metformin treatment arm. No patient experienced an episode of hypoglycemia that required third party assistance. Compared to placebo, Nateglinide monotherapy was associated with a statistically significant increase in weight, while no significant change in weight was observed with combined Nateglinide and metformin therapy (see Table 2).


In another 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients with Type 2 diabetes with HbA1c ≥6.8% after treatment with metformin (≥1500 mg daily for ≥1 month) were first entered into a four-week run-in period of metformin monotherapy (2000 mg daily) and then randomized to receive Nateglinide (60 mg or 120 mg three times daily before meals) or placebo in addition to metformin. Combination therapy with Nateglinide and metformin was associated with statistically significantly greater reductions in HbA1c compared to metformin monotherapy (-0.4% and -0.6% for Nateglinide 60 mg and Nateglinide 120 mg plus metformin, respectively).



































Table 2: Endpoint results for a 24-week study of Nateglinide monotherapy and combination with metformin
HbA1c (%) AllPlacebo N=160Nateglinide 120 mg three times daily before meals N=171Metformin 500 mg three times daily N=172Nateglinide 120 mg before meals plus Metformin* N=162

a p-value ≤0.05 vs. placebob


p-value ≤0.03 vs. metformin


c p-value ≤0.05 vs. combination


* Metformin was administered three times daily


Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo Naïve8.3 +0.4 N=988.3 -0.4bc -0.8a N=998.4 -0.8c -1.2a N=98.4 -1.5 -1.9a N=81
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo Non-Naïve8.2 +0.3 N=628.1 -0.7c -1.0a N=728.3 -0.8c -1.1a N=748.2 -1.6 -1.9a N=81
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo FPG (mg/dL) All8.3 +0.6 N=1668.5 +0.004bc -0.6a N=1738.7 -0.8c -1.4a N=1748.7 -1.4 -2.0a N=167
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo Weight (kg) All194.0 +8.0 N=160196.5 -13.1bc -21.1a N=169196.0 -30.0c -38.0a N=169197.7 -44.9 -52.9a N=160
Baseline (mean) Change from baseline (mean) Difference from placebo85.0 -0.485.0 +0.9 bc +1.3 a86.0 -0.1 +0.387.4 +0.2 +0.6

Rosiglitazone


A 24-week, double blind multicenter, placebo-controlled trial was performed in patients with Type 2 diabetes not adequately controlled after a therapeutic response to rosiglitazone monotherapy 8 mg daily. The addition of Nateglinide (120 mg three times per day with meals) was associated with statistically significantly greater reductions in HbA1c compared to rosiglitazone monotherapy. The difference was -0.77% at 24 weeks. The mean change in weight from baseline was about +3 kg for patients treated with Nateglinide plus rosiglitazone vs about +1 kg for patients treated with placebo plus rosiglitazone.


Glyburide


In a 12-week study of patients with Type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on glyburide 10 mg once daily, the addition of Nateglinide (60 mg or 120 mg three times daily before meals) did not produce any additional benefit.



Indications and Usage for Nateglinide


Nateglinide Tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.



Contraindications


Nateglinide Tablets are contraindicated in patients with:


  1. Known hypersensitivity to the drug or its inactive ingredients.

  2. Type 1 diabetes.

  3. Diabetic ketoacidosis. This condition should be treated with insulin.


Precautions


Macrovascular Outcomes: There have been no clinical studies establishing conclusive evidence of macrovascular risk reduction with Nateglinide or any other antidiabetic drug.


Hypoglycemia: All oral blood glucose lowering drugs that are absorbed systemically are capable of producing hypoglycemia. The frequency of hypoglycemia is related to the severity of the diabetes, the level of glycemic control, and other patient characteristics. Geriatric patients, malnourished patients, and those with adrenal or pituitary insufficiency or severe renal impairment are more susceptible to the glucose lowering effect of these treatments. The risk of hypoglycemia may be increased by strenuous physical exercise, ingestion of alcohol, insufficient caloric intake on an acute or chronic basis, or combinations with other oral antidiabetic agents. Hypoglycemia may be difficult to recognize in patients with autonomic neuropathy and/or those who use beta-blockers. Nateglinide should be administered prior to meals to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients who skip meals should also skip their scheduled dose of Nateglinide to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.


Hepatic Impairment: Nateglinide should be used with caution in patients with moderate-to-severe liver disease because such patients have not been studied.


Loss of Glycemic Control


Transient loss of glycemic control may occur with fever, infection, trauma, or surgery. Insulin therapy may be needed instead of Nateglinide therapy at such times. Secondary failure, or reduced effectiveness of Nateglinide over a period of time, may occur.



Information for Patients


Patients should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of Nateglinide and of alternative modes of therapy. The risks and management of hypoglycemia should be explained. Patients should be instructed to take Nateglinide 1 to 30 minutes before ingesting a meal, but to skip their scheduled dose if they skip the meal so that the risk of hypoglycemia will be reduced. Drug interactions should be discussed with patients. Patients should be informed of potential drug-drug interactions with Nateglinide.



Laboratory Tests


Response to therapies should be periodically assessed with glucose values and HbA1c levels.



Drug Interactions


Nateglinide is highly bound to plasma proteins (98%), mainly albumin. In vitro displacement studies with highly protein-bound drugs such as furosemide, propranolol, captopril, nicardipine, pravastatin, glyburide, warfarin, phenytoin, acetylsalicylic acid, tolbutamide, and metformin showed no influence on the extent of Nateglinide protein binding. Similarly, Nateglinide had no influence on the serum protein binding of propranolol, glyburide, nicardipine, warfarin, phenytoin, acetylsalicylic acid and tolbutamide in vitro. However, prudent evaluation of individual cases is warranted in the clinical setting.


Certain drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs), salicylates, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and non-selective beta-adrenergic-blocking agents, guanethidine, and CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, amiodarone, miconazole, oxandrolone) may potentiate the hypoglycemic action of Nateglinide and other oral antidiabetic drugs.


Certain drugs including thiazides, corticosteroids, thyroid products, sympathomimetics, somatropin, rifampin, phenytoin and dietary supplements (St. John’s wort) may reduce the hypoglycemic action of Nateglinide and other oral antidiabetic drugs. Somatostatin analogues may potentiate or attenuate the hypoglycemic action of Nateglinide.


When these drugs are administered to or withdrawn from patients receiving Nateglinide, the patient should be observed closely for changes in glycemic control.



Drug/Food Interactions


The pharmacokinetics of Nateglinide were not affected by the composition of a meal (high protein, fat, or carbohydrate). However, peak plasma levels were significantly reduced when Nateglinide was administered 10 minutes prior to a liquid meal. Nateglinide did not have any effect on gastric emptying in healthy subjects as assessed by acetaminophen testing.



Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis and Impairment of Fertility


Carcinogenicity: A two-year carcinogenicity study in Sprague-Dawley rats was performed with oral doses of Nateglinide up to 900 mg/kg/day, which produced AUC exposures in male and female rats approximately 30 and 40 times the human therapeutic exposure respectively with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg, three times daily before meals. A two-year carcinogenicity study in B6C3F1 mice was performed with oral doses of Nateglinide up to 400 mg/kg/day, which produced AUC exposures in male and female mice approximately 10 and 30 times the human therapeutic exposure with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg, three times daily before meals. No evidence of a tumorigenic response was found in either rats or mice.


Mutagenesis: Nateglinide was not genotoxic in the in vitro Ames test, mouse lymphoma assay, chromosome aberration assay in Chinese hamster lung cells, or in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test.


Impairment of Fertility: Fertility was unaffected by administration of Nateglinide to rats at doses up to 600 mg/kg (approximately 16 times the human therapeutic exposure with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg three times daily before meals).



Pregnancy


Pregnancy Category C:

Nateglinide was not teratogenic in rats at doses up to 1000 mg/kg (approximately 60 times the human therapeutic exposure with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg, three times daily before meals). In the rabbit, embryonic development was adversely affected and the incidence of gallbladder agenesis or small gallbladder was increased at a dose of 500 mg/kg (approximately 40 times the human therapeutic exposure with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg, three times daily before meals). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Nateglinide should not be used during pregnancy.



Labor and Delivery


The effect of Nateglinide on labor and delivery in humans is not known.



Nursing Mothers


Studies in lactating rats showed that Nateglinide is excreted in the milk; the AUC 0-48h ratio in milk to plasma was approximately 1:4. During the peri- and postnatal period body weights were lower in offspring of rats administered Nateglinide at 1000 mg/kg (approximately 60 times the human therapeutic exposure with a recommended Nateglinide dose of 120 mg, three times daily before meals). It is not known whether Nateglinide is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, Nateglinide should not be administered to a nursing woman.



Pediatric Use


Clinical trials to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been conducted.



Geriatric Use


No differences were observed in safety or efficacy of Nateglinide between patients age 65 and over, and those under age 65. However, greater sensitivity of some older individuals to Nateglinide therapy cannot be ruled out.



Adverse Reactions


In clinical trials, approximately 2,600 patients with Type 2 diabetes were treated with Nateglinide. Of these, approximately 1,335 patients were treated for 6 months or longer and approximately 190 patients for one year or longer.


Hypoglycemia was relatively uncommon in all treatment arms of the clinical trials. Only 0.3% of Nateglinide patients discontinued due to hypoglycemia. Symptoms suggestive of hypoglycemia have been observed after administration of Nateglinide. These symptoms included sweating, trembling, dizziness, increased appetite, palpitations, nausea, fatigue and weakness.


Gastrointestinal symptoms, especially diarrhea and nausea, were no more common in patients using the combination of Nateglinide and metformin than in patients receiving metformin alone. Likewise, peripheral edema was no more common in patients using the combination of Nateglinide and rosiglitazone than in patients receiving rosiglitazone alone. The following table lists events that occurred more frequently in Nateglinide patients than placebo patients in controlled clinical trials.





































Common Adverse Events (≥2% in Nateglinide patients) in Nateglinide Monotherapy Trials (% of patients)
Preferred TermPlaceboN=458NateglinideN=1441
Upper Respiratory Infection8.110.5
Back Pain3.74.0
Flu Symptoms2.63.6
Dizziness2.23.6
Arthropathy2.23.3
Diarrhea3.13.2
Accidental Trauma1.72.9
Bronchitis2.62.7
Coughing2.22.4
Hypoglycemia0.42.4

During post-marketing experience, rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, itching and urticaria have been reported. Similarly, cases of jaundice, cholestatic hepatitis and elevated liver enzymes have been reported.



Laboratory Abnormalities


Uric Acid:There were increases in mean uric acid levels for patients treated with Nateglinide alone, Nateglinide in combination with metformin, metformin alone, and glyburide alone. The respective differences from placebo were 0.29 mg/dL, 0.45 mg/dL, 0.28 mg/dL, and 0.19 mg/dL. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown.



Overdosage


In a clinical study in patients with Type 2 diabetes, Nateglinide was administered in increasing doses up to 720 mg a day for 7 days and there were no clinically significant adverse events reported. There have been no instances of overdose with Nateglinide in clinical trials. However, an overdose may result in an exaggerated glucose-lowering effect with the development of hypoglycemic symptoms. Hypoglycemic symptoms without loss of consciousness or neurological findings should be treated with oral glucose and adjustments in dosage and/or meal patterns. Severe hypoglycemic reactions with coma, seizure, or other neurological symptoms should be treated with intravenous glucose. As Nateglinide is highly protein bound, dialysis is not an efficient means of removing it from the blood.



Nateglinide Dosage and Administration


Nateglinide Tablets USP should be taken 1 to 30 minutes prior to meals.



Monotherapy and Combination with Metformin or a Thiazolidinedione


The recommended starting and maintenance dose of Nateglinide, alone or in combination with metformin or a thiazolidinedione, is 120 mg three times daily before meals.


The 60 mg dose of Nateglinide, either alone or in combination with metformin or a thiazolidinedione, may be used in patients who are near goal HbA1c when treatment is initiated.



Dosage in Geriatric Patients


No special dose adjustments are usually necessary. However, greater sensitivity of some individuals to Nateglinide therapy cannot be ruled out.



Dosage in Renal and Hepatic Impairment


No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild-to-severe renal insufficiency or in patients with mild hepatic insufficiency. Dosing of patients with moderate-to-severe hepatic dysfunction has not been studied. Therefore, Nateglinide should be used with caution in patients with moderate-to-severe liver disease (see PRECAUTIONS, Hepatic Impairment).



How is Nateglinide Supplied


Nateglinide Tablets, USP


60 mg


Pink color coated, round biconvex, beveled edge tablet debossed with “P 984” on one side and plain on the other side


Bottles of 100……………NDC 49884-984-01


Bottles of 500……………NDC 49884-984-05


Bottles of 1000…………..NDC-49884-984-10


120 mg


Orange color coated, oval shaped biconvex, tablet debossed with “P 985” on one side and plain on the other side


Bottles of 100……………NDC 49884-985-01


Bottles of 500……………NDC 49884-985-05


Bottles of 1000…………..NDC-49884-985-10


Storage


Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].


Dispense in a tight, light resistant containers.


Manufactured by:


Par Pharmaceutical Companies, Inc.


Spring Valley, NY 10977


R09/2011



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL – 60 MG, 100 TABLETS CONTAINER





PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL – 120 MG, 100 TABLETS CONTAINER











Nateglinide  
Nateglinide   tablet, coated










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)49884-984
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
Nateglinide (Nateglinide)Nateglinide60 mg
























Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
COLLOIDAL SILICON DIOXIDE 
CROSCARMELLOSE SODIUM 
LACTOSE MONOHYDRATE 
MAGNESIUM STEARATE 
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
POVIDONE 
POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 
POLYVINYL ALCOHOL 
TALC 
TITANIUM DIOXIDE 


















Product Characteristics
ColorpinkScoreno score
ShapeROUNDSize1mm
FlavorImprint CodeP;984
Contains      


















Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
149884-984-01100 TABLET In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
249884-984-05500 TABLET In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone
349884-984-101000 TABLET In 1 BOTTLE, PLASTICNone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA07746309/08/2009






Nateglinide  
Nateglinide   tablet, coated










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)49884-985
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
Nateglinide (Nateglinide)Nateglinide120 mg


















Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
COLLOIDAL SILICON DIOXIDE 
CROSCARMELLOSE SODIUM 
LACTOSE MONOHYDRATE 
MAGNESIUM STEARATE 
CELLULOSE, MICROCRYSTALLINE 
POVIDONE 
FD&C YELLOW NO. 6 


















Product Characteristics
ColororangeScoreno score
ShapeOVALSize6mm
FlavorImprint CodeP;985
Contains      



Packaging
#

Tuesday, 27 September 2016

Fenoglide


Generic Name: fenofibrate (Oral route)

fen-oh-FYE-brate

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Antara

  • Fenoglide

  • Lipofen

  • Lofibra

  • Tricor

  • Triglide

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet

  • Capsule

Therapeutic Class: Antihyperlipidemic


Chemical Class: Fibric Acid


Uses For Fenoglide


Fenofibrate is used together with a proper diet to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride (fat-like substances) levels in the blood. This may help prevent the development of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) caused by high levels of triglycerides in the blood.


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


Before Using Fenoglide


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:


In addition to its helpful effects in treating your medical problem, this type of medicine may have some harmful effects. Results of large studies using other agents that are similar to fenofibrate seem to suggest that fenofibrate may increase the patient's risk of cancer, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallstones, and problems from gallbladder surgery. Studies with fenofibrate in rats found an increased risk of liver and pancreatic tumors when doses up to 6 times the human dose were given for a long time. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor before taking this medicine.


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 fenofibrate 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 fenofibrate in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related kidney problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving fenofibrate.


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 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.


  • Acenocoumarol

  • Anisindione

  • Atorvastatin

  • Cerivastatin

  • Dicumarol

  • Fluvastatin

  • Lovastatin

  • Phenindione

  • Phenprocoumon

  • Pitavastatin

  • Pravastatin

  • Rosuvastatin

  • Simvastatin

  • Warfarin

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.


  • Colchicine

  • Colestipol

  • Cyclosporine

  • Ezetimibe

  • Glimepiride

  • Rosiglitazone

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


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


Other Medical Problems


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


  • Diabetes or

  • Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid)

  • Kidney disease—Use with caution. May cause side effects to become worse.

  • Blood clotting problems (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), history of or

  • Muscle pain or tenderness, history of or

  • Muscle weakness, history of—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

  • Breastfeeding mothers or

  • Gallbladder disease, or history of or

  • Kidney disease, severe or

  • Liver disease (including cirrhosis) or

  • Liver enzymes, persistently elevated—Should not be used with these conditions.

Proper Use of fenofibrate

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


Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.


In addition to this medicine, your doctor may change your diet to one that is low in fat, sugar, and cholesterol. Carefully follow your doctor's order about any special diet.


This medicine is usually taken once a day. Take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain the medication's effect.


Fenoglide®, Lipofen®, and Lofibra™ should be taken with a meal. Antara™, Tricor®, and Triglide™ can be taken with or without a meal.


Swallow Tricor® tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.


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):
    • For high cholesterol:
      • Adults—
        • Antara™: 130 milligrams (mg) once a day with a meal.

        • Lipofen®: At first, 150 mg once a day with a meal. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.

        • Lofibra™: 200 mg once a day with a meal.


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


    • For high triglycerides or fats:
      • Adults—
        • Antara™: At first, 43 milligrams (mg) once a day with a meal. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed.

        • Lipofen®: At first, 50 to 150 mg once a day with a meal. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 150 mg per day.

        • Lofibra™: At first, 67 mg once a day with a meal. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed.


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



  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For high cholesterol:
      • Adults—
        • Fenoglide®: At first, 120 milligrams (mg) per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.

        • Tricor®: At first, 145 mg once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.

        • Triglide®: 160 mg once a day.


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


    • For high triglycerides or fats:
      • Adults—
        • Fenoglide®: At first, 40 to 120 milligrams (mg) per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 120 mg per day.

        • Tricor®: At first, 48 to 145 mg once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed.

        • Triglide®: At first, 50 to 160 mg once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed.


      • 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 Fenoglide


It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly to lower your cholesterol and triglyceride (fat) levels and to decide if you should continue to take it. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.


Check with your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have unusual tiredness or a fever. These could be symptoms of a serious muscle problem called myopathy.


Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you have dark-colored urine, diarrhea, a fever, muscle cramps or spasms, muscle pain or stiffness, or feel very tired or weak. These could be symptoms of a serious muscle problem called rhabdomyolysis, which can cause kidney problems.


Pancreatitis may occur while you are using this medicine. Tell your doctor right away if you have sudden and severe stomach pain, chills, constipation, nausea, vomiting, fever, or lightheadedness.


This medicine may increase your risk of having gallstones. Check with your doctor right away if you have severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting.


Serious skin reactions can occur with this medicine. Check with your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms while using this medicine: blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin; chills; diarrhea; itching; joint or muscle pain; rash; red skin lesions, often with a purple center; sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips; or unusual tiredness or weakness.


Check with your doctor right away if you have signs of a fever, chills, or sore throat. These could be symptoms of an infection resulting from low white blood cell counts, which may be caused by this medicine.


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.


Fenoglide Side Effects


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


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


Less common
  • Chills

  • fever

  • hives

  • itching

  • muscle aches and pains

  • nausea or vomiting

  • skin rash

Rare
  • Bloating or pain of the stomach

  • chronic indigestion

  • cough

  • dark urine

  • general ill feeling

  • loss of appetite

  • muscle cramps, pain, stiffness, swelling, or weakness

  • shortness of breath or troubled breathing

  • sore throat

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusual tiredness

  • yellow eyes or skin

Incidence not known
  • Bloody urine

  • constipation

  • decreased frequency or amount of urine

  • difficulty with moving

  • fast heartbeat

  • general tiredness and weakness

  • increased blood pressure

  • increased thirst

  • indigestion

  • light-colored stools

  • lower back or side pain

  • muscle cramps or spasms

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

  • pale skin

  • swelling of the face, fingers, or lower legs

  • swollen joints

  • troubled breathing

  • troubled breathing with exertion

  • upper right abdominal or stomach pain

  • vomiting

  • weight gain

  • yellow 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:


More common
  • Chest congestion

  • difficulty with breathing

  • runny nose

  • sneezing

  • sore throat

  • stuffy nose

Less common
  • Back pain

  • belching

  • decreased sexual drive

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • eye irritation

  • gas

  • headache

  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

  • lack or loss of strength

  • nausea

Incidence not known
  • Lack or loss of strength

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: Fenoglide 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 Fenoglide resources


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


  • Fenoglide Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Fenofibrate Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Fenofibrate Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Fenofibrate Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Antara Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Antara MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Lipofen Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Lipofen MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Lofibra Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Tricor Consumer Overview

  • Tricor Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Triglide Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Fenoglide with other medications


  • Hyperlipoproteinemia
  • Hyperlipoproteinemia Type IIa, Elevated LDL
  • Hyperlipoproteinemia Type IIb, Elevated LDL VLDL
  • Hyperlipoproteinemia Type IV, Elevated VLDL
  • Hyperlipoproteinemia Type V, Elevated Chylomicrons VLDL
  • Hypertriglyceridemia

Desferrioxamine Mesylate DBL




Desferrioxamine Mesylate DBL may be available in the countries listed below.


Ingredient matches for Desferrioxamine Mesylate DBL



Deferoxamine

Deferoxamine mesilate (a derivative of Deferoxamine) is reported as an ingredient of Desferrioxamine Mesylate DBL in the following countries:


  • Australia

  • Hong Kong

  • New Zealand

  • Singapore

International Drug Name Search

Monday, 26 September 2016

Florinef Acetate


Generic Name: fludrocortisone (Oral route)

floo-droe-KOR-ti-sone

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Florinef Acetate

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Endocrine-Metabolic Agent


Pharmacologic Class: Adrenal Mineralocorticoid


Uses For Florinef Acetate


Fludrocortisone is a corticosteroid (cortisone-like medicine). It belongs to the family of medicines called steroids. Your body naturally produces similar corticosteroids, which are necessary to maintain the balance of certain minerals and water for good health. If your body does not produce enough corticosteroids, your doctor may have prescribed this medicine to help make up the difference.


Fludrocortisone may also be used to treat other medical conditions as determined by your doctor.


Fludrocortisone is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although these uses are not included in product labeling, fludrocortisone is used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:


  • Idiopathic orthostatic hypotension (a certain type of low blood pressure)

  • Too much acid in the blood, caused by kidney disease

Before Using Florinef Acetate


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


Fludrocortisone may slow or stop growth in children or growing adolescents when used for a long time. The natural production of corticosteroids by the body may also be decreased by the use of this medicine. Before this medicine is given to a child or adolescent, you and your child's doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it. Follow the doctor's directions very carefully to lessen the chance that these unwanted effects will occur.


Geriatric


Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing the use of fludrocortisone in the elderly with its use in other age groups.


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.


  • Rotavirus Vaccine, Live

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.


  • Bupropion

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.


  • Alatrofloxacin

  • Balofloxacin

  • Cinoxacin

  • Ciprofloxacin

  • Clinafloxacin

  • Enoxacin

  • Fleroxacin

  • Flumequine

  • Fosphenytoin

  • Furosemide

  • Gemifloxacin

  • Grepafloxacin

  • Itraconazole

  • Levofloxacin

  • Licorice

  • Lomefloxacin

  • Moxifloxacin

  • Norfloxacin

  • Ofloxacin

  • Pefloxacin

  • Phenytoin

  • Prulifloxacin

  • Rifampin

  • Rifapentine

  • Rosoxacin

  • Rufloxacin

  • Saiboku-To

  • Sparfloxacin

  • Temafloxacin

  • Tosufloxacin

  • Trovafloxacin Mesylate

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


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


Other Medical Problems


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


  • Bleeding problems—Using fludrocortisone and also using aspirin may cause bleeding problems to become worse.

  • Bone disease—Fludrocortisone may make bone disease worse because it causes more calcium to pass into the urine

  • Edema (swelling of feet or lower legs) or

  • Heart disease or

  • High blood pressure or

  • Kidney disease—Fludrocortisone causes the body to retain (keep) more salt and water. These conditions may be made worse by this extra body water

  • Herpes infection of the eye—may cause a hole in the cornea of the eye.

  • Liver disease or

  • Abdominal surgery (fresh) or

  • Diseases of the intestines or

  • Myasthenia gravis or

  • Tuberculosis or

  • Ulcers in the stomach or intestines—Fludrocortisone suppresses the immune system. Infections with these conditions may be made worse by this suppression.

  • Thyroid disease—The body may not get fludrocortisone out of the bloodstream at the usual rate, which may increase the effect of fludrocortisone or cause more side effects

Proper Use of Florinef Acetate


Your doctor may want you to control the amount of sodium in your diet. When fludrocortisone is used to treat certain types of kidney diseases, too much sodium may cause high blood sodium, high blood pressure, and excess body water.


Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more or less of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. 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 forms (tablets):
    • Adults
      • For adrenal gland deficiency: 50 to 200 micrograms a day.

      • For adrenogenital syndrome: 100 to 200 micrograms a day.


    • Children: For adrenal gland deficiency: 50 to 100 micrograms a day.


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 Florinef Acetate


Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine does not cause unwanted effects.


If you will be using this medicine for a long time, your doctor may want you to carry a medical identification card stating that you are using this medicine.


While you are taking fludrocortisone, be careful to limit the amount of alcohol you drink.


Florinef Acetate Side Effects


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


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


Less common or rare
  • Abdominal pain

  • agitation or combativeness

  • anxiety

  • back or rib pain

  • blindness

  • bloating

  • bloody or black, sticky stools

  • blurred vision

  • burning in stomach

  • changes in skin color

  • chest pain or tightness

  • chills

  • confusion

  • constipation

  • convulsions

  • cough

  • coughing up blood

  • darkened urine

  • decrease in height

  • decreased range of motion

  • decreased urine output

  • decreased vision

  • depression

  • difficulty swallowing

  • dry mouth

  • expressed fear of impending death

  • eye pain

  • eyeballs bulge out of eye sockets

  • fainting or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position

  • fast or slow heartbeat

  • fever

  • flushed dry skin

  • fractures in arms or legs without any injury

  • fractures in the neck or back

  • fruit-like breath odor

  • hallucinations

  • headache

  • heartburn

  • hives

  • increased fat deposits on face, neck, and trunk

  • increased hunger

  • increased thirst

  • increased urination

  • indigestion

  • irregular breathing or shortness of breath

  • irregular heartbeat

  • joint pain

  • lack or slowing of normal growth in children

  • walking with a limp

  • loss of appetite

  • loss of consciousness

  • muscle cramps or pain

  • nausea or vomiting

  • nervousness

  • pain, tenderness, or swelling of foot or leg

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

  • patients taking oral medicines or insulin for diabetes may need to increase the amount they take

  • pounding in the ears

  • problems with wound healing

  • redness and itching of skin

  • redness of eyes

  • redness of face

  • severe or continuing dizziness

  • severe weakness of arms and legs

  • skin rash

  • sweating

  • swelling of face, fingers, feet, or lower legs

  • swelling of nasal passages, face, or eyelids

  • swollen neck veins

  • tearing of eyes

  • unexplained weight loss

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • vision changes

  • weight gain

  • wheezing

  • yellow 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 or rare
  • Acne, pimples

  • bruising, large, flat, blue or purplish patches in the skin

  • change in color of skin or nails

  • increased sweating

  • loss of muscle mass

  • menstrual changes

  • muscle weakness

  • reddish purple lines on arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin

  • sleeplessness, trouble sleeping, unable to sleep

  • small, red, or purple spots on skin

  • swelling of abdominal or stomach area, full or bloated feeling or pressure in the stomach

  • thin, fragile skin

  • unusual increase in hair growth

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: Florinef Acetate 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 Florinef Acetate resources


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


  • Florinef Acetate Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • Florinef Acetate Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Fludrocortisone Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Fludrocortisone MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Florinef Acetate with other medications


  • Addison's Disease
  • Adrenogenital Syndrome
  • Dysautonomia
  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

Flonase



Generic Name: fluticasone propionate (Nasal route)


floo-TIK-a-sone PROE-pee-oh-nate


Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Flonase

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Spray

Therapeutic Class: Corticosteroid, Intermediate


Pharmacologic Class: Fluticasone


Uses For Flonase


Fluticasone belongs to the family of medicines known as corticosteroids (cortisone-like medicines). Corticosteroids belong to the family of medicines called steroids. Fluticasone is sprayed into the nose to help relieve the stuffy or runny nose, irritation, sneezing, and discomfort of hay fever, other nasal allergies, and these symptoms when not caused by allergies.


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


Before Using Flonase


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


There is no specific information comparing the use of nasal fluticasone in children up to 4 years of age with use in other age groups. Corticosteroids taken by mouth or injection have been shown to slow growth in children and cause reduced adrenal gland function. Before nasal fluticasone is given to a child, you and the child's doctor should talk about the good this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it.


Geriatric


Although there is no specific information comparing use of nasal corticosteroids in the elderly with use in other age groups, these medicines are not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than they do in younger adults.


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 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.


  • Atazanavir

  • Boceprevir

  • Bupropion

  • Clarithromycin

  • Darunavir

  • Indinavir

  • Itraconazole

  • Ketoconazole

  • Nefazodone

  • Nelfinavir

  • Ritonavir

  • Saquinavir

  • Telaprevir

  • Telithromycin

  • Tipranavir

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


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


Other Medical Problems


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


  • Glaucoma—Rare cases of glaucoma have been reported following use of nasal corticosteroids, including nasal fluticasone

  • Herpes simplex (virus) infection of the eye or

  • Infections (viral, bacterial, parasitic, or fungal)—Nasal corticosteroids may cover up the signs of these infections

  • Injury to the nose (recent) or

  • Nose surgery (recent) or

  • Sores in the nose—Nasal corticosteroids may prevent proper healing of these conditions

  • Tuberculosis (active or history of)—Nasal corticosteroids may cover up the signs of this infection or cause it to start up again

Proper Use of fluticasone

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


This medicine usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine.


Before using this medicine, prime the pump on the medicine bottle and clear the nasal passages by blowing your nose. Then, insert the nosepiece into the nostril, and with the head tilted slightly forward, spray while breathing in gently through the nostril.


Avoid spraying in the eyes.


In order for this medicine to help you, it must be used regularly as ordered by your doctor. This medicine usually begins to work in about 12 hours, but several days may pass before you feel its full effects.


Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of absorption through the lining of the nose and the chance of unwanted 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 nasal spray dosage form:
    • For allergies:
      • Adults—2 sprays in each nostril once a day, or 1 spray in each nostril two times a day. Later, your doctor may decrease your dose to 1 spray in each nostril once a day.

      • Children 4 years of age and older (including teenagers)—1 spray in each nostril once a day. Your doctor may need to increase the dose in some children, up to 2 sprays in each nostril once a day, or 1 spray in each nostril twice a day.

      • Children younger than 4 years of age—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. Do not refrigerate. Keep from freezing.


Keep out of the reach of children.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


Precautions While Using Flonase


If you will be using this medicine for more than a few weeks, your doctor should check your progress at regular visits.


Check with your doctor:


  • if signs of a nose, sinus, or throat infection occur.

  • if your symptoms do not improve within 3 weeks.

  • if your condition gets worse.

Flonase 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
  • Bloody mucus or unexplained nosebleeds

  • cough

  • headache

  • nausea

  • shortness of breath

  • vomiting

Less common
  • Diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • excessive mucus

  • fever

  • general aches and pains

  • loss of appetite

  • stomach pain

  • weakness

  • runny nose

Rare
  • White patches inside nose or throat

Symptoms of overdose
  • Blindness

  • blurred vision

  • bone fractures

  • excess facial hair growth in females

  • fullness of face, neck, and trunk

  • high blood pressure

  • impotence in males

  • increased thirst or urination

  • lack of menstrual periods

  • muscle wasting

  • 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
  • Burning, dryness, or other irritation inside the nose

  • sore throat

Less common
  • Runny nose

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: Flonase side effects (in more detail)



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More Flonase resources


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


  • Flonase eent Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Flonase Consumer Overview

  • Flonase Spray MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Flonase Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Veramyst Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Veramyst Spray MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Veramyst Consumer Overview



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