Friday, 27 April 2012

Astramorph PF



morphine sulfate

Dosage Form: injection, solution


451103/Revised: June 2008


Astramorph/PF™ (Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP) Preservative-Free


 


Rx only




DESCRIPTION:


Morphine is the most important alkaloid of opium and is a phenanthrene derivative.  It is available as the sulfate salt, having the following structural formula:




7,8-Didehydro-4,5-epoxy-17-methyl-(5α,6α)-morphinan-3,6-diol sulfate (2:1) (salt), pentahydrate


        (C17H19NO3)2 •H2SO4 • 5H2O                                              Molecular Weight is 758.83


Preservative-free ASTRAMORPH/PF (Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP) is a sterile, nonpyrogenic, isobaric solution of morphine sulfate, free of antioxidants, preservatives or other potentially neurotoxic additives and is intended for intravenous, epidural or intrathecal administration as a narcotic analgesic.  Each milliliter contains morphine sulfate 0.5 mg or 1 mg and sodium chloride 9 mg in Water for Injection.  pH range is 2.5–6.5.  Ampules and vials are sealed under nitrogen. Each ampule and vial is intended for SINGLE USE ONLY.  Discard any unused portion.  DO NOT HEAT-STERILIZE.



CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY:


Morphine produces a wide spectrum of pharmacologic effects including analgesia, dysphoria, euphoria, somnolence, respiratory depression, diminished gastrointestinal motility and physical dependence.  Opiate analgesia involves at least three anatomical areas of the central nervous system: the periaqueductal-periventricular gray matter, the ventromedial medulla and the spinal cord.  A systemically administered opiate may produce analgesia by acting at any, all or some combination of these distinct regions.  Morphine interacts predominantly with the μ-receptor.  The μ-binding sites of opioids are very discretely distributed in the human brain, with high densities of sites found in the posterior amygdala, hypothalamus, thalamus, nucleus caudatus, putamen and certain cortical areas.  They are also found on the terminal axons of primary afferents within laminae I and II (substantia gelatinosa) of the spinal cord and in the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve.


Morphine has an apparent volume of distribution ranging from 1.0 to 4.7 L/kg after intravenous dosage.  Protein binding is low, about 36%, and muscle tissue binding is reported as 54%.  A blood-brain barrier exists, and when morphine is introduced outside of the CNS (e.g., intravenously), plasma concentrations of morphine remain higher than the corresponding CSF morphine levels.  Conversely, when morphine is injected into the intrathecal space, it diffuses out into the systemic circulation slowly, accounting for the long duration of action of morphine administered by this route.


Morphine has a total plasma clearance which ranges from 0.9 to 1.2 L/kg/h (liters/kilogram/hour) in postoperative patients, but shows considerable interindividual variation.  The major pathway of clearance is hepatic glucuronidation to morphine-3-glucuronide, which is pharmacologically inactive.  The major excretion path of the conjugate is through the kidneys, with about 10% in the feces.  Morphine is also eliminated by the kidneys, 2 to 12% being excreted unchanged in the urine. Terminal half-life is commonly reported to vary from 1.5 to 4.5 hours, although the longer half-lives were obtained when morphine levels were monitored over protracted periods with very sensitive radioimmunoassay methods.  The accepted elimination half-life in normal subject is 1.5 to 2 hours.


"Selective" blockade of pain sensation is possible by neuraxial application of morphine.  In addition, duration of analgesia may be much longer by this route compared to systemic administration.  However, CNS effects, associated with systemic administration, are still seen.  These include respiratory depression, sedation, nausea and vomiting, pruritus and urinary retention.  In particular, both early and late respiratory depression (up to 24 hours post dosing) have been reported following neuraxial administration.  Circulation of the spinal fluid may also result in high concentrations of morphine reaching the brain stem directly.


The incidence of unwanted CNS effects, including delayed respiratory depression, associated with neuraxial application of morphine, is related to the circulatory dynamics of the epidural venous plexus and the spinal fluid.  The lipid solubility and degree of ionization of morphine plays an important part in both the onset and duration of analgesia and the CNS effects. Morphine has a pKa 7.9, with an octanol/water partition coefficient of 1.42 at pH 7.4.  At this pH, the tertiary amino group in each of the opioids is mostly ionized, making the molecule water soluble.  Morphine, with additional hydroxyl groups on the molecule, is significantly more water soluble than any other opioid in clinical use.


Morphine, injected into the epidural space, is rapidly absorbed into the general circulation.  Absorption is so rapid that the plasma concentration-time profiles closely resemble those obtained after intravenous or intramuscular administration.  Peak plasma concentrations averaging 33 to 40 ng/mL (range 5 to 62 ng/mL) are achieved within 10 to 15 minutes after administration of 3 mg of morphine.  Plasma concentrations decline in a multiexponential fashion.  The terminal half-life is reported to range from 39 to 249 minutes (mean of 90±34.3 min) and, though somewhat shorter, is similar in magnitude as values reported after intravenous and intramuscular administration (1.5 to 4.5 h).  CSF concentrations of morphine, after epidural doses of 2 to 6 mg in postoperative patients, have been reported to be 50 to 250 times higher than corresponding plasma concentrations.  The CSF levels of morphine exceed those in plasma after only 15 minutes and are detectable for as long as 20 hours after the injection of 2 mg of epidural morphine.  Approximately 4% of the dose injected epidurally reaches the CSF.  This corresponds to the relative minimum effective epidural and intrathecal doses of 5 mg and 0.25 mg, respectively.  The disposition of morphine in the CSF follows a biphasic pattern, with an early half-life of 1.5 h and a late phase half-life of about 6 h.  Morphine crosses the dura slowly, with an absorption half-life across the dura averaging 22 minutes.  Maximum CSF concentrations are seen 60 to 90 minutes after injection.  Minimum effective CSF concentrations for postoperative analgesia average 150 ng/mL (range <1 to 380 ng/mL).


The intrathecal route of administration circumvents meningeal diffusion barriers and, therefore, lower doses of morphine produce comparable analgesia to that induced by the epidural route.  After intrathecal bolus injection of morphine, there is a rapid initial distribution phase lasting 15 to 30 minutes and a half-life in the CSF of 42 to 136 min (mean 90 ± 16 min). Derived from limited data, it appears that the disposition of morphine in the CSF, from 15 minutes postintrathecal administration to the end of a six-hour observation period, represents a combination of the distribution and elimination phases.  Morphine concentrations in the CSF averaged 332 ± 137 ng/mL at 6 hours, following a bolus dose of 0.3 mg of morphine.  The apparent volume of distribution of morphine in the intrathecal space is about 22 ± 8 mL.


Time-to-peak plasma concentrations, however, are similar (5 to 10 min) after either epidural or intrathecal bolus administration of morphine.  Maximum plasma morphine concentrations after 0.3 mg intrathecal morphine have been reported from <1 to 7.8 ng/mL.  The minimum analgesic morphine plasma concentration during Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA) has been reported as 20 to 40 ng/mL, suggesting that any analgesic contribution from systemic redistribution would be minimal after the first 30 to 60 minutes with epidural administration and virtually absent with intrathecal administration of morphine.



INDICATIONS AND USAGE:


Astramorph/PF is a systemic narcotic analgesic for administration by the intravenous, epidural or intrathecal routes.  It is used for the management of pain not responsive to non-narcotic analgesics.  Astramorph/PF, administered epidurally or intrathecally, provides pain relief for extended periods without attendant loss of motor, sensory or sympathetic function.



CONTRAINDICATIONS:


Astramorph/PF is contraindicated in those medical conditions which would preclude the administration of opioids by the intravenous route—allergy to morphine or other opiates, acute bronchial asthma, upper airway obstruction.


Astramorph/PF, like all opioid analgesics, may cause severe hypotension in an individual whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a depleted blood volume or a concurrent administration of drugs, such as phenothiazines or general anesthetics (see also, PRECAUTIONS: Use with Other Central Nervous System Depressants).



WARNINGS:


Morphine sulfate may be habit forming (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).  Overdoses may cause respiratory depression, coma and death.


Astramorph/PF administration should be limited to use by those familiar with the management of respiratory depression. Rapid intravenous administration may result in chest wall rigidity.


Prior to any epidural or intrathecal drug administration, the physician should be familiar with patient conditions (such as infection at the injection site, bleeding diathesis, anticoagulant therapy, etc.) which call for special evaluation of the benefit versus risk potential.


In the case of epidural or intrathecal administration, Astramorph/PF should be administered by or under the direction of a physician experienced in the techniques and familiar with the patient management problems associated with epidural or intrathecal drug administration.  Because epidural administration has been associated with less potential for immediate or late adverse effects than intrathecal administration, the epidural route should be used whenever possible.  SEVERE RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION UP TO 24 HOURS FOLLOWING EPIDURAL OR INTRATHECAL ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN REPORTED.





BECAUSE OF THE RISK OF SEVERE ADVERSE EFFECTS WHEN THE EPIDURAL OR INTRATHECAL ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION IS EMPLOYED, PATIENTS MUST BE OBSERVED IN A FULLY EQUIPPED AND STAFFED ENVIRONMENT FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS AFTER THE INITIAL DOSE.



THE FACILITY MUST BE EQUIPPED TO RESUSCITATE PATIENTS WITH SEVERE OPIATE OVERDOSAGE, AND THE PERSONNEL MUST BE FAMILIAR WITH THE USE AND LIMITATIONS OF SPECIFIC NARCOTIC ANTAGONISTS (NALOXONE, NALTREXONE) IN SUCH CASES.



Tolerance and Myoclonic Activity:


PATIENTS SOMETIMES MANIFEST UNUSUAL ACCELERATION OF NEURAXIAL MORPHINE REQUIREMENTS, WHICH MAY CAUSE CONCERN REGARDING SYSTEMIC ABSORPTION AND THE HAZARDS OF LARGE DOSES; THESE PATIENTS MAY BENEFIT FROM HOSPITALIZATION AND DETOXIFICATION.  TWO CASES OF MYOCLONIC-LIKE SPASM OF THE LOWER EXTREMITIES HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN PATIENTS RECEIVING MORE THAN 20 MG/DAY OF INTRATHECAL MORPHINE.  AFTER DETOXIFICATION, IT MIGHT BE POSSIBLE TO RESUME TREATMENT AT LOWER DOSES, AND SOME PATIENTS HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFULLY CHANGED FROM CONTINUOUS EPIDURAL MORPHINE TO CONTINUOUS INTRATHECAL MORPHINE.  REPEAT DETOXIFICATION MAY BE INDICATED AT A LATER DATE.  THE UPPER DAILY DOSAGE LIMIT FOR EACH PATIENT DURING CONTINUING TREATMENT MUST BE INDIVIDUALIZED.



PRECAUTIONS:



General:


Control of pain by neuraxial opiate delivery is always accompanied by considerable risk to the patients and requires a high level of skill to be successfully accomplished.  The task of treating these patients must be undertaken by experienced clinical teams, well-versed in patient selection, evolving technology and emerging standards of care.  For safety reasons, it is recommended that administration of Astramorph/PF by the epidural or intrathecal routes be limited to the lumbar area. Intrathecal use has been associated with a higher incidence of respiratory depression than epidural use.


Seizures may result from high doses.  Patients with known seizure disorders should be carefully observed for evidence of morphine-induced seizure activity.



Use in Patients with Increased Intracranial Pressure or Head Injury:


Astramorph/PF should be used with extreme caution in patients with head injury or increased intracranial pressure.  Pupillary changes (miosis) from morphine may obscure the existence, extent and course of intracranial pathology.  High doses of neuraxial morphine may produce myoclonic events (see WARNINGS and ADVERSE REACTIONS). Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for adverse drug reactions when evaluating altered mental status or movement abnormalities in patients receiving this modality of treatment.



Use in Chronic Pulmonary Disease:


Care is urged in using this drug in patients who have a decreased respiratory reserve (e.g., emphysema, severe obesity, kyphoscoliosis or paralysis of the phrenic nerve).  Astramorph/PF should not be given in cases of chronic asthma, upper airway obstruction or in any other chronic pulmonary disorder without due consideration of the known risk of acute respiratory failure following morphine administration in such patients.



Use in Hepatic or Renal Disease:


The elimination half-life of morphine may be prolonged in patients with reduced metabolic rates and with hepatic and/or renal dysfunction.  Hence, care should be exercised in administering Astramorph/PF epidurally to patients with these conditions, since high blood morphine levels, due to reduced clearance, may take several days to develop.



Use in Biliary Surgery or Disorders of the Biliary Tract:


As significant morphine is released into the systemic circulation from neuraxial administration, the ensuing smooth muscle hypertonicity may result in biliary colic.



Use with Disorders of the Urinary System:


Initiation of neuraxial opiate analgesia is frequently associated with disturbances of micturition, especially in males with prostatic enlargement.  Early recognition of difficulty in urination and prompt intervention in cases of urinary retention is indicated.



Use in Ambulatory Patients:


Patients with reduced circulating blood volume, impaired myocardial function or on sympatholytic drugs should be monitored for the possible occurrence of orthostatic hypotension, a frequent complication in single-dose neuraxial morphine analgesia.



Use with Other Central Nervous System Depressants:


The depressant effects of morphine are potentiated by the presence of other CNS depressants such as alcohol, sedatives, antihistaminics or psychotropic drugs. Use of neuroleptics in conjunction with neuraxial morphine may increase the risk of respiratory depression.



Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility:


Morphine is without known carcinogenic or mutagenic effects and is not known to impair fertility at non-narcotic doses in animals, but studies of the carcinogenic and mutagenic potential or the effect on fertility of Astramorph/PF have not been conducted.



Pregnancy:


TERATOGENIC EFFECTS–PREGNANCY CATEGORY C:

Morphine sulfate is not teratogenic in rats at 35 mg/kg/day (thirty-five times the usual human dose) but does result in increased pup mortality and growth retardation at doses that narcotize the animal (>10 mg/kg/day, ten times the usual human dose).  Astramorph/PF should only be given to pregnant women when no other method of controlling pain is available and means are at hand to manage the delivery and perinatal care of the opiate-dependent infant. 


NONTERATOGENIC EFFECTS:

Infants born to mothers who have been taking morphine chronically may exhibit withdrawal symptoms.



Labor and Delivery:


Intravenous morphine readily passes into the fetal circulation and may result in respiratory depression in the neonate. Naloxone and resuscitative equipment should be available for reversal of narcotic-induced respiratory depression in the neonate.  In addition, intravenous morphine may reduce the strength, duration and frequency of uterine contraction resulting in prolonged labor.


Epidurally and intrathecally administered morphine readily passes into the fetal circulation and may result in respiratory depression of the neonate.  Controlled clinical studies have shown that epidural administration has little or no effect on the relief of labor pain.



Nursing Mothers:


Morphine is excreted in maternal milk.  Effects on the nursing infant are not known.



Pediatric Use:


Adequate studies, to establish the safety and effectiveness of spinal morphine in pediatric patients, have not been performed, and usage in this population is not recommended.



Geriatric Use:


The pharmacodynamic effects of neuraxial morphine in the elderly are more variable than in the younger population. Patients will vary widely in the effective initial dose, rate of development of tolerance and the frequency and magnitude of associated adverse effects as the dose is increased.  Initial doses should be based on careful clinical observation following "test doses", after making due allowances for the effects of the patient's age and infirmity on his/her ability to clear the drug, particularly in patients receiving epidural morphine.


Elderly patients may be more susceptible to respiratory depression and/or respiratory arrest following administration of morphine.



ADVERSE REACTIONS:


The most serious adverse experience encountered during administration of Astramorph/PF is respiratory depression and/or respiratory arrest.  This depression and/or respiratory arrest may be severe and could require intervention (see WARNINGS and OVERDOSAGE). Because of delay in maximum CNS effect with intravenously administered drug (30 min), rapid administration may result in overdosing. Single-dose neuraxial administration may result in acute or delayed respiratory depression for periods at least as long as 24 hours.



Tolerance and Myoclonus:


See WARNINGS for discussion of these and related hazards.


While low doses of intravenously administered morphine have little effect on cardiovascular stability, high doses are excitatory, resulting from sympathetic hyperactivity and increase in circulating catecholamines.  Excitation of the central nervous system, resulting in convulsions, may accompany high doses of morphine given intravenously. Dysphoric reactions may occur after any size dose and toxic psychoses have been reported.



Pruritus:


Single-dose epidural or intrathecal administration is accompanied by a high incidence of pruritus that is dose-related but not confined to the site of administration. Pruritus, following continuous infusion of epidural or intrathecal morphine, is occasionally reported in the literature; these reactions are poorly understood as to their cause.



Urinary retention:


Urinary retention, which may persist 10 to 20 hours following single epidural or intrathecal administration, is a frequent side effect and must be anticipated primarily in male patients, with a somewhat lower incidence in females.  Also frequently reported in the literature is the occurrence of urinary retention during the first several days of hospitalization for the initiation of continuous intrathecal or epidural morphine therapy. Patients who develop urinary retention have responded to cholinomimetic treatment and/or judicious use of catheters (see PRECAUTIONS).



Constipation:


Constipation is frequently encountered during continuous infusion of morphine; this can usually be managed by conventional therapy.



Headache:


Lumbar puncture-type headache is encountered in a significant minority of cases for several days following intrathecal catheter implantation; this, generally, responds to bed rest and/or other conventional therapy.



Other:


Other adverse experiences reported following morphine therapy include—Dizziness, euphoria, anxiety, hypotension, confusion, reduced male potency, decreased libido in men and women, and menstrual irregularities including amenorrhea, depression of cough reflex, interference with thermal regulation and oliguria.  Evidence of histamine release such as urticaria, wheals and/or local tissue irritation may occur. Nausea and vomiting are frequently seen in patients following morphine administration.


Pruritus, nausea/vomiting and urinary retention, if associated with continuous infusion therapy, may respond to intravenous administration of a low dose of naloxone (0.2 mg).  The risks of using narcotic antagonists in patients chronically receiving narcotic therapy should be considered.


In general, side effects are amenable to reversal by narcotic antagonists.



NALOXONE INJECTION AND RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE FOR ADMINISTRATION IN CASE OF LIFE-THREATENING OR INTOLERABLE SIDE EFFECTS AND WHENEVER ASTRAMORPH/PF THERAPY IS BEING INITIATED.


DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE:



Controlled Substance:


Morphine sulfate is a Schedule II narcotic under the United States Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S.C. 801–886).


Morphine is the most commonly cited prototype for narcotic substances that possess an addiction-forming or addiction-sustaining liability.  A patient may be at risk for developing a dependence to morphine if used improperly or for overly long periods of time. As with all potent opioids which are μ-agonists, tolerance as well as psychological and physical dependence to morphine may develop irrespective of the route of administration (intravenous, intramuscular, intrathecal, epidural or oral). Individuals with a prior history of opioid or other substance abuse or dependence, being more apt to respond to the euphorogenic and reinforcing properties of morphine, would be considered to be at greater risk.


Care must be taken to avert withdrawal in patients who have been maintained on parenteral/oral narcotics when epidural or intrathecal administration is considered. Withdrawal symptoms may occur when morphine is discontinued abruptly or upon administration of a narcotic antagonist.



OVERDOSAGE:


PARENTERAL ADMINISTRATION OF NARCOTICS IN PATIENTS RECEIVING EPIDURAL OR INTRATHECAL MORPHINE MAY RESULT IN OVERDOSAGE.


Overdosage of morphine is characterized by respiratory depression, with or without concomitant CNS depression.  In severe overdosage, apnea, circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest and death may occur.  Since respiratory arrest may result either through direct depression of the respiratory center or as the result of hypoxia, primary attention should be given to the establishment of adequate respiratory exchange through provision of a patent airway and institution of assisted, or controlled, ventilation.  The narcotic antagonist, naloxone, is a specific antidote.  An initial dose of 0.4 to 2 mg of naloxone should be administered intravenously, simultaneously with respiratory resuscitation.  If the desired degree of counteraction and improvement in respiratory function is not obtained, naloxone may be repeated at 2- to 3-minute intervals.  If no response is observed after 10 mg of naloxone has been administered, the diagnosis of narcotic-induced, or partial narcotic-induced, toxicity should be questioned.  Intramuscular or subcutaneous administration may be used if the intravenous route is not available.


As the duration of effect of naloxone is considerably shorter than that of epidural or intrathecal morphine, repeated administration may be necessary.  Patients should be closely observed for evidence of renarcotization.



DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:


Astramorph/PF is intended for intravenous, epidural or intrathecal administration.



Intravenous Administration:


DOSAGE:

The initial dose of morphine sulfate should be 2 mg to 10 mg/70 kg of body weight.  No information is available regarding the use of Astramorph/PF in patients under the age of 18.



Geriatric Use:


Administer with extreme caution (see PRECAUTIONS).



Epidural Administration:


ASTRAMORPH/PF SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED EPIDURALLY BY OR UNDER THE DIRECTION OF A PHYSICIAN EXPERIENCED IN THE TECHNIQUE OF EPIDURAL ADMINISTRATION AND WHO IS THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THE LABELING.  IT SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED ONLY IN SETTINGS WHERE ADEQUATE PATIENT MONITORING IS POSSIBLE.  RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT AND A SPECIFIC ANTAGONIST (NALOXONE INJECTION) SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION AS WELL AS COMPLICATIONS WHICH MIGHT RESULT FROM INADVERTENT INTRATHECAL OR INTRAVASCULAR INJECTION.  (NOTE: INTRATHECAL DOSAGE IS USUALLY 1/10 THAT OF EPIDURAL DOSAGE.)  PATIENT MONITORING SHOULD BE CONTINUED FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS AFTER EACH DOSE, SINCE DELAYED RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION MAY OCCUR.


Proper placement of a needle or catheter in the epidural space should be verified before Astramorph/PF is injected. Acceptable techniques for verifying proper placement include: a) aspiration to check for absence of blood or cerebrospinal fluid, or b) administration of 5 mL (3 mL in obstetric patients) of 1.5% PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lidocaine and Epinephrine (1:200,000) Injection and then observe the patient for lack of tachycardia (this indicates that vascular injection has not been made) and lack of sudden onset of segmental anesthesia (this indicates that intrathecal injection has not been made).



EPIDURAL ADULT DOSAGE:


Initial injection of 5 mg in the lumbar region may provide satisfactory pain relief for up to 24 hours.  If adequate pain relief is not achieved within one hour, careful administration of incremental doses of 1 to 2 mg at intervals sufficient to assess effectiveness may be given.  No more than 10 mg/24 hr should be administered.


Thoracic administration has been shown to dramatically increase the incidence of early and late respiratory depression even at doses of 1 to 2 mg.


For continuous infusion an initial dose of 2 to 4 mg/24 hours is recommended.  Further doses of 1 to 2 mg may be given if pain relief is not achieved initially.



Geriatric Use:


Administer with extreme caution (see PRECAUTIONS).



EPIDURAL PEDIATRIC USE:


No information on use in pediatric patients is available (see PRECAUTIONS).



Intrathecal Administration



NOTE: INTRATHECAL DOSAGE IS USUALLY 1/10 THAT OF EPIDURAL DOSAGE.

ASTRAMORPH/PF SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED INTRATHECALLY BY OR UNDER THE DIRECTION OF A PHYSICIAN EXPERIENCED IN THE TECHNIQUE OF INTRATHECAL ADMINISTRATION AND WHO IS THOROUGHLY FAMILIAR WITH THE LABELING. IT SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED ONLY IN SETTINGS WHERE ADEQUATE PATIENT MONITORING IS POSSIBLE. RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT AND A SPECIFIC ANTAGONIST (NALOXONE INJECTION) SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION AS WELL AS COMPLICATIONS WHICH MIGHT RESULT FROM INADVERTENT INTRAVASCULAR INJECTION. PATIENT MONITORING SHOULD BE CONTINUED FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS AFTER EACH DOSE, SINCE DELAYED RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION MAY OCCUR. RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION (BOTH EARLY AND LATE ONSET) HAS OCCURRED MORE FREQUENTLY FOLLOWING INTRATHECAL ADMINISTRATION THAN EPIDURAL ADMINISTRATION.



INTRATHECAL ADULT DOSAGE:


A single injection of 0.2 to 1 mg may provide satisfactory pain relief for up to 24 hours.  (CAUTION: THIS IS ONLY 0.4 TO 2 ML OF THE 5 MG/10 ML AMPULE/VIAL OR 0.2 TO 1 ML OF THE 10 MG/10 ML AMPULE/VIAL OF ASTRAMORPH/PF). DO NOT INJECT INTRATHECALLY MORE THAN 2 ML OF THE 5 MG/10 ML AMPULE/VIAL OR 1 ML OF THE 10 MG/10 ML AMPULE/VIAL.  USE IN THE LUMBAR AREA ONLY IS RECOMMENDED.  Repeated intrathecal injections of Astramorph/PF are not recommended.  A constant intravenous infusion of naloxone, 0.6 mg/hr, for 24 hours after intrathecal injection may be used to reduce the incidence of potential side effects.



Geriatric Use:


Administer with extreme caution (see PRECAUTIONS).



REPEAT DOSAGE:


If pain recurs, alternative routes of administration should be considered, since experience with repeated doses of morphine by the intrathecal route is limited.



INTRATHECAL PEDIATRIC USE:


No information on use in pediatric patients is available (see PRECAUTIONS).



SAFETY AND HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS



Astramorph/PF is supplied in sealed ampules and vials. Accidental dermal

exposure should be treated by the removal of any contaminated clothing and

rinsing the affected area with water.

    Each ampule/vial of Astramorph/PF contains a potent narcotic which has

been associated with abuse and dependence among health care providers.

Due to the limited indications for this product, the risk of overdosage and

the risk of its diversion and abuse, it is recommended that special

measures be taken to control this product within the hospital or clinic.

Astramorph/PF should be subject to rigid accounting, rigorous control of

wastage and restricted access.


    Parenteral drug products should be inspected for particulate matter and

discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container

permit. DO NOT USE IF COLOR IS DARKER THAN PALE YELLOW, IF IT IS DISCOLORED IN ANY OTHER WAY OR IF IT CONTAINS A PRECIPITATE. 



How is Astramorph PF Supplied


Preservative-Free ASTRAMORPH/PFTM (Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP) is available in ampules and single dose vials for intravenous, epidural, or intrathecal administration:































Product    


No. 

NDC


No. 
Strength   Vial Size 
279180 63323-291-800.5 mg/mL 2 mL (1 mg) ampule packaged in tens.
27919763323-291-970.5 mg/mL10 mL (5 mg) ampule packaged in fives.
279110 63323-291-100.5 mg/mL 10 mL (5 mg) single dose vial packaged in fives.  E-Z off vial closures. 
279280 63323-292-801 mg/mL 2 mL (2 mg) ampule packaged in tens. 
279297 63323-292-971 mg/mL 10 mL (10 mg) ampule packaged in fives. 
279210 63323-292-101 mg/mL       10 mL (10 mg) single dose vial packaged in fives.  E-Z off vial closures. 

Storage


PROTECT FROM LIGHT. Store in carton at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature] until ready to use.  DO NOT FREEZE.


Astramorph/PF contains no preservative or antioxidant.  DISCARD ANY UNUSED PORTION.  DO NOT HEAT-STERILIZE.


 


All trademarks are the property of APP Pharmaceuticals, LLC.



Manufactured for:



451103/Revised: June 2008



PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 2 mL Ampule Carton Panel


NDC 63323-291-80


279180


10 Ampules, 2 mL


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


1 mg/2 mL (0.5 mg/mL)


For IV, Epidural, or Intrathecal Administration.


Preservative-Free


Rx only





PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 2 mL Ampule Label


NDC 63323-291-80


2 mL


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


1 mg/2 mL (0.5 mg/mL)


Preservative-Free



 



PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 10 mL Ampule Carton Panel


NDC 63323-291-97


279197


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


5 mg/10 mL (0.5 mg/mL)


For IV, Epidural, or Intrathecal Administration.


Preservative-Free


Rx only


Contains Five 10 mL Ampules






PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 10 mL Ampule Label


NDC 63323-291-97


10 mL


Preservative-Free


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


5 mg/10 mL (0.5 mg/mL)


For IV, Epidural, or Intrathecal Administration.




PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 10 mL Single Use Vial Carton Panel


NDC 63323-292-10


279210


Contains Five 10 mL Single Use Vials

E-Z OFF™ vial

Preservative-Free


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


10 mg/10 mL (1 mg/mL)


For IV, Epidural, or Intrathecal Administration.


Rx only







PACKAGE LABEL- PRINCIPAL DISPLAY- Astramorph 10 mL Single Use Vial Label


NDC 63323-292-10


279210


Astramorph/PF™

(Morphine Sulfate Injection, USP)


10 mg/10 mL (1 mg/mL)


For IV, Epidural, or Intrathecal Administration.


10 mL Single Use Vial











ASTRAMORPH  PF
morphine sulfate  injection, solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)63323-291
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUS, EPIDURAL, INTRATHECALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
MORPHINE SULFATE (MORPHINE)MORPHINE SULFATE0.5 mg  in 1 mL






Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
SODIUM CHLORIDE9 mg  in 1 mL


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      






















Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
163323-291-975 AMPULE In 1 BOXcontains a AMPULE
110 mL In 1 AMPULEThis package is contained within the BOX (63323-291-97)
263323-291-8010 AMPULE In 1 BOXcontains a AMPULE
22 mL In 1 AMPULEThis package is contained within the BOX (63323-291-80)










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA07105109/28/2009







ASTRAMORPH  PF
morphine sulfate  injection, solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)63323-292
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUS, EPIDURAL, INTRATHECALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
MORPHINE SULFATE (MORPHINE)MORPHINE SULFATE1 mg  in 1 mL






Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
SODIUM CHLORIDE9 mg  in 1 mL


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      














Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
163323-292-105 VIAL In 1 BOXcontains a VIAL
110 mL In 1 VIALThis package is contained within the BOX (63323-292-10)










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
ANDAANDA07105209/28/2009


Labeler - APP Pharmaceuticals, LLC (608775388)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
AstraUSA, Inc176500158MANUFACTURE
Revised: 09/2009APP Pharmaceuticals, LLC




More Astramorph PF resources


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


  • Astramorph PF Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Astramorph PF Solution MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Morphine Concentrate MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Avinza Consumer Overview

  • Avinza Extended-Release Capsules MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Avinza Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Infumorph Solution MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

Wednesday, 25 April 2012

Zirtek Allergy





Zirtek ALLERGY



Cetirizine hydrochloride



ONE-A-DAY




What You Should Know About Your Tablets



Please read this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine. It provides a summary of the information currently available on Zirtek Allergy. For further information or advice ask your doctor or pharmacist.






What Is In Zirtek Allergy



Each tablet contains 10 mg of cetirizine hydrochloride together with microcrystalline cellulose (E460), lactose, colloidal anhydrous silica and magnesium stearate (E572). The film coating contains hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (E464), titanium dioxide (E171) and polyethylene glycol.



The tablets are small white oblong film-coated tablets, each scored and bearing the code Y/Y. Your medicine is supplied in blister packs of 21 and 30 tablets.



Your medicine belongs to the antihistamine group of drugs.





Product licence number:



PL 00039/0542





This medicine is manufactured and licenced by:




UCB Pharma Ltd

208 Bath Road

Slough

Berkshire

SL1 3WE





When Is Zirtek Allergy Used



This medicine treats people suffering from hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), year round allergies such as dust or pet allergies (perennial allergic rhinitis) and urticaria (swelling, redness and itchiness of the skin).#



Antihistamines like Zirtek Allergy relieve the unpleasant symptoms and discomfort associated with the above conditions, such as sneezing, irritated, runny and blocked up nose, itchy, red and watering eyes and skin rashes.





Before Taking Zirtek Allergy



If you are pregnant or if your doctor has told you that you have kidney problems, you should consult your doctor before taking these tablets. You should not take this medicine if you are breastfeeding or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of its constituents (see ‘What is in Zirtek Allergy´).



If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking these tablets.



As with all antihistamines, you should avoid excessive alcohol consumption when taking your tablets.



If you have ever had a reaction to an antihistamine in the past consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking these tablets.





How To Take Your Tablets



Adults and children 6 years and over should take one tablet daily. Children aged 6 – 12 years may either take half a tablet twice daily or one tablet daily.



Each dose should be taken with water.



REMEMBER... If you forget to take a tablet, you should take one as soon as you remember, but wait at least 24 hours before taking your next tablet.



If you accidentally take a larger dose than recommended consult your doctor immediately.



You may feel drowsy or dizzy, taking half your dose twice a day may reduce this. Zirtek Allergy tablets are not for use in children under 6 years of age.



If symptoms persist consult your doctor.





After Taking Zirtek Allergy Tablets



These tablets do not cause side-effects in most people. However, as with all medicines, some people can react differently. If you:



  • have frequent headaches

  • have an upset stomach

  • become agitated

  • have diarrhoea

  • get a dry mouth

  • feel weak and/or unwell

  • experience unusual touch sensation

  • experience fatigue, dizziness or drowsiness

  • experience itchiness and skin rash

Stop taking the tablets and tell your doctor.



Other rare side effects have been reported such as bleeding and bruising easily, rapid heart beat, difficulty focussing, blurred vision, swelling, allergic reaction/shock, changes in liver function, fits, confusion, depression, aggression, weight increase, unusual limb movements, experience a bad taste in the mouth, fainting, hallucination, insomnia, bed wetting, pain and/or difficulty passing water, red and/or blotchy skin rash.



If you notice anything unusual or have these or any other unexpected effects stop taking the tablets and tell you doctor. These tablets do not normally cause drowsiness. However, individuals can react differently to treatment. If you are affected you should not drive or operate machinery, but should persist with the tablets as any drowsiness doesn’t usually last very long.





Storing Your Tablets.



Keep your tablets out of reach and sight of children.



Do not use after the expiry date shown under EXP on the end panel of the carton.




LEGAL STATUS: P.



Date of preparation of this leaflet: October 2005



UCB 2004 – UCB logo





Sunday, 22 April 2012

Altarussin DM


Generic Name: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin (DEX troe me THOR fan and gwye FEN e sin)

Brand Names: Allfen DM, Altarussin DM, Aquatab DM, Benylin Expectorant, Drituss DM, Extuss LA, Fenesin DM IR, Glycotuss-DM, Guaifen DM, Mucinex Children's Cough, Mucinex DM, MucusRelief DM, Naldecon DX Liquigel, Relacon LAX, Respa-DM, Robitussin Cough & Congestion, Tussi-Bid, Tussi-Organidin DM NR, Vicks 44E


What is Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.


Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through your mouth.


The combination of dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is used to treat cough and chest congestion caused by the common cold, infections, or allergies.


Dextromethorphan will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?


Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Do not use any other over-the-counter cough or cold medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains dextromethorphan or guaifenesin. Dextromethorphan will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?


Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medication if you have emphysema or chronic bronchitis.


FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether this medication 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.

Artificially-sweetened liquid forms of cold medicine may contain phenylalanine. This would be important to know if you have phenylketonuria (PKU). Check the ingredients and warnings on the medication label if you are concerned about phenylalanine.


How should I take Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Cold medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.


Do not give this medication to a child younger than 2 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children.

Measure the liquid form of this medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.


Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin granules should be sprinkled directly onto the tongue and swallowed right away.


Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medication. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken a cold medicine within the past few days.


Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Since cough or cold medicine is usually taken only as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous.


What should I avoid while taking Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?


This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of this medication.

Avoid taking diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants (such as ADHD medications) without your doctor's advice. Taking a stimulant together with cough or cold medicine can increase your risk of unpleasant side effects.


Do not use any other over-the-counter cough or cold medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin are contained in many medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains dextromethorphan or guaifenesin.

Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness;




  • confusion, hallucinations; or




  • slow, shallow breathing.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • dizziness;




  • headache;




  • skin rash or itching; or




  • nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset.



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.


What other drugs will affect Altarussin DM (dextromethorphan and guaifenesin)?


Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:



  • celecoxib (Celebrex);




  • cinacalcet (Sensipar);




  • darifenacin (Enablex);




  • imatinib (Gleevec);




  • quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex);




  • ranolazine (Ranexa);




  • ritonavir (Norvir);




  • sibutramine (Meridia);




  • terbinafine (Lamisil);




  • medicines to treat high blood pressure; or




  • an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), and others.



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



More Altarussin DM resources


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


  • Atuss-12 DX Extended-Release Liquid MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Bidex-A Extended-Release Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Duratuss DM 12 Suspension MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Guaifenesin DM Elixir MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Humibid CS MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Mucinex DM Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Mucinex DM Maximum Strength Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Robitussin DM infant drops

  • Scot-Tussin DM Liquid MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Tussin DM Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Altarussin DM with other medications


  • Cough
  • Expectoration


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about dextromethorphan and guaifenesin.

See also: Altarussin DM side effects (in more detail)


Saturday, 21 April 2012

Celontin



methsuximide

Dosage Form: capsule
Celontin®

(Methsuximide Capsules, USP)

Celontin Description


Celontin (methsuximide) is an anticonvulsant succinimide, chemically designated as N,2-Dimethyl-2-phenylsuccinimide, with the following structural formula:



Each Celontin capsule contains 150 mg or 300 mg methsuximide, USP. Also contains starch, NF. The capsule contains colloidal silicon dioxide, NF; D&C yellow No. 10; FD&C yellow No. 6; gelatin, NF; and sodium lauryl sulfate, NF.



Celontin - Clinical Pharmacology


Methsuximide suppresses the paroxysmal three cycle per second spike and wave activity associated with lapses of consciousness which is common in absence (petit mal) seizures. The frequency of epileptiform attacks is reduced, apparently by depression of the motor cortex and elevation of the threshold of the central nervous system to convulsive stimuli.



Indications and Usage for Celontin


Celontin is indicated for the control of absence (petit mal) seizures that are refractory to other drugs.



Contraindications


Methsuximide should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to succinimides.



Warnings



Blood dyscrasias


Blood dyscrasias, including some with fatal outcome, have been reported to be associated with the use of succinimides; therefore, periodic blood counts should be performed. Should signs and/or symptoms of infection (eg, sore throat, fever) develop, blood counts should be considered at that point.



Effects on Liver


It has been reported that succinimides have produced morphological and functional changes in animal liver. For this reason, methsuximide should be administered with extreme caution to patients with known liver or renal disease. Periodic urinalysis and liver function studies are advised for all patients receiving the drug.



Systemic Lupus Erythematosus


Cases of systemic lupus erythematosus have been reported with the use of succinimides. The physician should be alert to this possibility.



Suicidal Behavior and Ideation


Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including Celontin, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Patients treated with any AED for any indication should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior.


Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials (mono- and adjunctive therapy) of 11 different AEDs showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI:1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. In these trials, which had a median treatment duration of 12 weeks, the estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27,863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16,029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in drug-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too small to allow any conclusion about drug effect on suicide.


The increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with AEDs was observed as early as one week after starting drug treatment with AEDs and persisted for the duration of treatment assessed. Because most trials included in the analysis did not extend beyond 24 weeks, the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior beyond 24 weeks could not be assessed.


The risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior was generally consistent among drugs in the data analyzed. The finding of increased risk with AEDs of varying mechanisms of action and across a range of indications suggests that the risk applies to all AEDs used for any indication. The risk did not vary substantially by age (5–100 years) in the clinical trials analyzed.


Table 1 shows absolute and relative risk by indication for all evaluated AEDs.




























Table 1 Risk by indication for antiepileptic drugs in the pooled analysis
IndicationPlacebo Patients with Events Per 1000 PatientsDrug Patients with Events Per 1000 PatientsRelative Risk: Incidence of Events in Drug Patients/Incidence in Placebo PatientsRisk Difference: Additional Drug Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients
Epilepsy1.03.43.52.4
Psychiatric5.78.51.52.9
Other1.01.81.90.9
Total2.44.31.81.9

The relative risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior was higher in clinical trials for epilepsy than in clinical trials for psychiatric or other conditions, but the absolute risk differences were similar for the epilepsy and psychiatric indications.


Anyone considering prescribing Celontin or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, the prescriber needs to consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated.


Patients, their caregivers, and families should be informed that AEDs increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of the signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to healthcare providers.



Usage in Pregnancy


Reports suggest an association between the use of anticonvulsant drugs by women with epilepsy and an elevated incidence of birth defects in children born to these women. Data are more extensive with respect to phenytoin and phenobarbital, but these are also the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsants; less systematic or anecdotal reports suggest a possible similar association with the use of all known anticonvulsant drugs.


The reports suggesting an elevated incidence of birth defects in children of drug-treated epileptic women cannot be regarded as adequate to prove a definite cause and effect relationship. There are intrinsic methodologic problems in obtaining adequate data on drug teratogenicity in humans; the possibility also exists that other factors, eg, genetic factors or the epileptic condition itself, may be more important than drug therapy in leading to birth defects. The great majority of mothers on anticonvulsant medication deliver normal infants. It is important to note that anticonvulsant drugs should not be discontinued in patients in whom the drug is administered to prevent major seizures because of the strong possibility of precipitating status epilepticus with attendant hypoxia and threat to life. In individual cases where the severity and frequency of the seizure disorder are such that the removal of medication does not pose a serious threat to the patient, discontinuation of the drug may be considered prior to and during pregnancy, although it cannot be said with any confidence that even minor seizures do not pose some hazard to the developing embryo or fetus.


The prescribing physician will wish to weigh these considerations in treating or counseling epileptic women of childbearing potential.



Precautions



General


It is recommended that the physician withdraw the drug slowly on the appearance of unusual depression, aggressiveness, or other behavioral alterations.


As with other anticonvulsants, it is important to proceed slowly when increasing or decreasing dosage, as well as when adding or eliminating other medication. Abrupt withdrawal of anticonvulsant medication may precipitate absence (petit mal) status.


Methsuximide, when used alone in mixed types of epilepsy, may increase the frequency of grand mal seizures in some patients.



Information for Patients


Inform patients of the availability of a Medication Guide, and instruct them to read the Medication Guide prior to taking Celontin. Instruct patients to take Celontin only as prescribed.


Methsuximide may impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving a motor vehicle or other such activity requiring alertness; therefore, the patient should be cautioned accordingly. Patients taking methsuximide should be advised of the importance of adhering strictly to the prescribed dosage regimen.


Patients should be instructed to promptly contact their physician if they develop signs and/or symptoms suggesting an infection (eg, sore throat, fever).


ADVICE TO THE PHARMACIST AND PATIENT: Since methsuximide has a relatively low melting temperature (124° F), storage conditions which may promote high temperatures (closed cars, delivery vans, or storage near steam pipes) should be avoided. Do not dispense or use capsules that are not full or in which contents have melted. Effectiveness may be reduced. Protect from excessive heat (104° F).


Patients, their caregivers, and families should be counseled that AEDs, including Celontin, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to healthcare providers.


Patients should be encouraged to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry if they become pregnant. This registry is collecting information about the safety of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. To enroll, patients can call the toll free number 1-888-233-2334 (see PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy section).



Drug Interactions


Since Celontin (methsuximide) may interact with concurrently administered antiepileptic drugs, periodic serum level determinations of these drugs may be necessary (eg, methsuximide may increase the plasma concentrations of phenytoin and phenobarbital).



Pregnancy


To provide information regarding the effects of in utero exposure to Celontin, physicians are advised to recommend that pregnant patients taking Celontin enroll in the (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. This can be done by calling the toll free number 1-888-233-2334, and must be done by patients themselves. Information on the registry can also be found at the website:

http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org/.


See WARNINGS.



Pediatric Use


See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.



Adverse Reactions


Gastrointestinal System: Gastrointestinal symptoms occur frequently and have included nausea or vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, weight loss, epigastric and abdominal pain, and constipation.


Hemopoietic System: Hemopoietic complications associated with the administration of methsuximide have included eosinophilia, leukopenia, monocytosis, and pancytopenia with or without bone marrow suppression.


Nervous System: Neurologic and sensory reactions reported during therapy with methsuximide have included drowsiness, ataxia or dizziness, irritability and nervousness, headache, blurred vision, photophobia, hiccups, and insomnia. Drowsiness, ataxia, and dizziness have been the most frequent side effects noted. Psychologic abnormalities have included confusion, instability, mental slowness, depression, hypochondriacal behavior, and aggressiveness. There have been rare reports of psychosis, suicidal behavior, and auditory hallucinations.


Integumentary System: Dermatologic manifestations which have occurred with the administration of methsuximide have included urticaria, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and pruritic erythematous rashes.


Cardiovascular: Hyperemia.


Genitourinary System: Proteinuria, microscopic hematuria.


Body as a Whole: Periorbital edema.



Overdosage


Acute overdoses may produce nausea, vomiting, and CNS depression including coma with respiratory depression. Methsuximide poisoning may follow a biphasic course. Following an initial comatose state, patients have awakened and then relapsed into a coma within 24 hours. It is believed that an active metabolite of methsuximide, N-desmethylmethsuximide, is responsible for this biphasic profile. It is important to follow plasma levels of N-desmethylmethsuximide in methsuximide poisonings. Levels greater than 40 µg/mL have caused toxicity, and coma has been seen at levels of 150 µg/mL.



Treatment


Treatment should include emesis (unless the patient is or could rapidly become obtunded, comatose, or convulsing) or gastric lavage, activated charcoal, cathartics, and general supportive measures. Charcoal hemoperfusion may be useful in removing the N-desmethyl metabolite of methsuximide. Forced diuresis and exchange transfusions are ineffective.



Celontin Dosage and Administration


Optimum dosage of Celontin must be determined by trial. A suggested dosage schedule is 300 mg per day for the first week. If required, dosage may be increased thereafter at weekly intervals by 300 mg per day for the three weeks following to a daily dosage of 1.2 g. Because therapeutic effect and tolerance vary among patients, therapy with Celontin must be individualized according to the response of each patient. Optimal dosage is that amount of Celontin which is barely sufficient to control seizures so that side effects may be kept to a minimum. The smaller capsule (150 mg) facilitates administration to small children.


Celontin may be administered in combination with other anticonvulsants when other forms of epilepsy coexist with absence (petit mal).



How is Celontin Supplied


N 0071-0525-24 (P-D 525)–Celontin Capsules, #1 capsule each containing 300 mg methsuximide; bottles of 100.


N 0071-0537-24 (P-D 537)–Celontin Capsules, Half-Strength, #3 capsule each containing 150 mg methsuximide; bottles of 100.



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


Protect from light and moisture. Protect from excessive heat 40°C (104°F).




LAB-0156-4.0

October 2010



MEDICATION GUIDE


Celontin (Suh lŏn' tĭn)

(methsuximide)


Capsules


Read this Medication Guide before you start taking Celontin and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment. If you have any questions about Celontin, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.


What is the most important information I should know about Celontin?


Do not stop taking Celontin without first talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping Celontin suddenly can cause serious problems.


Celontin can cause serious side effects, including:


1.

Rare but serious blood problems that may be life-threatening. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:
  • fever, swollen glands, or sore throat that come and go or do not go away

  • frequent infections or an infection that does not go away

  • easy bruising

  • red or purple spots on your body

  • bleeding gums or nose bleeds

  • severe fatigue or weakness


2.

Systematic Lupus Erythematosus. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms:
  • joint pain and swelling

  • muscle pain

  • fatigue

  • low-grade fever

  • pain in the chest that is worse with breathing

  • unexplained skin rash


3.

Like other antiepileptic drugs, Celontin may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in a very small number of people, about 1 in 500.

Call a healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:


  • thoughts about suicide or dying

  • attempts to commit suicide

  • new or worse depression

  • new or worse anxiety

  • feeling agitated or restless

  • panic attacks

  • trouble sleeping (insomnia)

  • new or worse irritability

  • acting aggressive, being angry, or violent

  • acting on dangerous impulses

  • an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania)

  • other unusual changes in behavior or mood

How can I watch for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions?


  • Pay attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings.

  • Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider as scheduled.

Call your healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you are worried about symptoms.


Do not stop Celontin without first talking to a healthcare provider. Stopping Celontin suddenly can cause serious problems. Stopping a seizure medicine suddenly in a patient who has epilepsy can cause seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus).


Suicidal thoughts or actions can be caused by things other than medicines. If you have suicidal thoughts or actions, your healthcare provider may check for other causes.



What is Celontin?


Celontin is a prescription medicine used to treat absence (petit mal) seizures that have not gotten better with other seizure medicines.


Who should not take Celontin?


Do not take Celontin if you are allergic to succinimides (methsuximide or ethosuximide) or any of the ingredients in Celontin. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in Celontin.


What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Celontin?


Before you take Celontin, tell your healthcare provider if you:


  • have or have had liver problems

  • have or have had depression, mood problems or suicidal thoughts or behavior

  • have any other medical conditions

  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Celontin can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while taking Celontin. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take Celontin while you are pregnant.
    • If you become pregnant while taking Celontin, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy. You can enroll in this registry by calling 1-888-233-2334.


  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Celontin can pass into breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide how you will feed your baby while you take Celontin.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking Celontin with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well they work. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider.


Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them with you to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist each time you get a new medicine.


How should I take Celontin?


  • Take Celontin exactly as prescribed. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much Celontin to take.

  • Your healthcare provider may change your dose. Do not change your dose of Celontin without talking to your healthcare provider.

  • If you take too much Celontin, call your healthcare provider or your local Poison Control Center right away.

What should I avoid while taking Celontin?


  • Do not drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy while taking Celontin without first discussing this with your healthcare provider. Celontin taken with alcohol or medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness may make your sleepiness or dizziness worse.

  • Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how Celontin affects you. Celontin can slow your thinking and motor skills.

What are the possible side effects of Celontin?


  • See "What is the most important information I should know about Celontin?"

Celontin may cause other serious side effects, including:


  • Grand mal seizures can happen more often or become worse

The most common side effects of Celontin include:





  • drowsiness

  • dizziness

  • headache

  • blurred vision

  • nausea or vomiting

  • constipation


  • diarrhea

  • weight loss

  • problems with walking and coordination (unsteadiness)

  • stomach pain

  • loss of appetite

Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.


These are not all the possible side effects with Celontin. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.


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


How should I store Celontin?


  • Store Celontin at room temperature, between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C).

  • Keep Celontin capsules in a dry place.

  • Keep Celontin out of the light.

  • Protect Celontin from heat.

  • Do not use Celontin capsules that if they do not look full or if the contents have melted.

Keep Celontin and all medicines out of the reach of children.


General information about Celontin


Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use Celontin for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give Celontin to other people, even if they have the same condition. It may harm them.


This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about Celontin. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about Celontin that is written for healthcare professionals.


For more information, go to www.pfizer.com or call 1-800-438-1985.


What are the ingredients in Celontin?


Active ingredient: methsuximide


Inactive ingredients: starch, colloidal silicon dioxide NF, D&C yellow No. 10, FD&C yellow No.6, gelatin NF, and sodium lauryl sulfate NF.


This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.



LAB-0404-1.0

October 2010



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 300 mg Capsule Bottle Label


NDC 0071-0525-24


100 Capsules

Rx only


Celontin®

(Methsuximide Capsules, USP)


300 mg


Pfizer

Distributed by

Parke-Davis

Division of Pfizer Inc, NY, NY 10017










Celontin 
methsuximide  capsule










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0071-0537
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
methsuximide (methsuximide)methsuximide150 mg














Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
silicon dioxide 
D&C YELLOW NO. 10 
FD&C YELLOW NO. 6 
gelatin 
sodium lauryl sulfate 


















Product Characteristics
ColorYELLOW (light yellow/cream)Scoreno score
ShapeCAPSULESize16mm
FlavorImprint Code150;mg;PD537
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
10071-0537-24100 CAPSULE In 1 BOTTLENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA01059602/08/195712/20/2010







Celontin 
methsuximide  capsule










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)0071-0525
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
methsuximide (methsuximide)methsuximide300 mg














Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
silicon dioxide 
D&C YELLOW NO. 10 
FD&C YELLOW NO. 6 
gelatin 
sodium lauryl sulfate 


















Product Characteristics
ColorYELLOW (light yellow/cream)Scoreno score
ShapeCAPSULESize19mm
FlavorImprint Code300;mg;PD525
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
10071-0525-24100 CAPSULE In 1 BOTTLENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA01059602/08/1957


Labeler - Parke-Davis Div of Pfizer Inc (829076962)









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Pharmacia & Upjohn Company829076566MANUFACTURE









Establishment
NameAddressID/FEIOperations
Farmea286080408MANUFACTURE
Revised: 12/2010Parke-Davis Div of Pfizer Inc

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