Citalopram Hydrobromide (Celexa) Medication Guide

Brand name: Celexa
Generic name: Citalopram Hydrobromide

Suicidality in Children and Adolescents

Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in short-term studies in children and adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of Celexa or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Patients who are started on therapy should be observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. Celexa is not approved for use in pediatric patients. (See Warnings and Precautions: Pediatric Use)

Pooled analyses of short-term (4 to 16 weeks) placebo-controlled trials of 9 antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) in children and adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or other psychiatric disorders (a total of 24 trials involving over 4400 patients) have revealed a greater risk of adverse events representing suicidal thinking or behavior (suicidality) during the first few months of treatment in those receiving antidepressants. The average risk of such events in patients receiving antidepressants was 4%, twice the placebo risk of 2%. No suicides occurred in these trials.

Adults with Major Depressive Disorder may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality), whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications, and this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Patients being treated with antidepressants should be observed closely for clinical worsening and suicidality, especially at the beginning of a course of drug therapy, or at the time of dose changes, either increases or decreases. Celexa is contraindicated in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), pimozide (see DRUG INTERACTIONS), or in patients with a hypersensitivity to citalopram hydrobromide. As with other SSRIs, caution is indicated in the coadministration of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) with Celexa. As with other psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake, patients should be cautioned regarding the risk of bleeding associated with the concomitant use of Celexa with NSAIDs, aspirin, or other drugs that affect coagulation. The most frequent adverse events reported with Celexa vs placebo in clinical trials were nausea (21% vs 14%), dry mouth (20% vs 14%), somnolence (18% vs 10%), insomnia (15% vs 14%), increased sweating (11% vs 9%), tremor (8% vs 6%), diarrhea (8% vs 5%), and ejaculation disorder (6% vs 1%).

Full Celexa prescribing information
Celexa patient information in plain English

About Using Antidepressants in Children and Teenagers What is the most important information I should know if my child is being prescribed an antidepressant?

Parents or guardians need to think about 4 important things when their child is prescribed an antidepressant:

1. There is a risk of suicidal thoughts or actions

2. How to try to prevent suicidal thoughts or actions in your child

3. You should watch for certain signs if your child is taking an antidepressant

4. There are benefits and risks when using antidepressants

1. There is a Risk of Suicidal Thoughts or Actions
Children and teenagers sometimes think about suicide, and many report trying to kill themselves.

Antidepressants increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some children and teenagers. But suicidal thoughts and actions can also be caused by depression, a serious medical condition that is commonly treated with antidepressants. Thinking about killing yourself or trying to kill yourself is called suicidality or being suicidal.

A large study combined the results of 24 different studies of children and teenagers with depression or other illnesses. In these studies, patients took either a placebo (sugar pill) or an antidepressant for 1 to 4 months. No one committed suicide in these studies, but some patients became suicidal. On sugar pills, 2 out of every 100 became suicidal. On the antidepressants, 4 out of every 100 patients became suicidal.

For some children and teenagers, the risks of suicidal actions may be especially high. These include patients with

  • Bipolar illness (sometimes called manic-depressive illness)
  • A family history of bipolar illness
  • A personal or family history of attempting suicide

If any of these are present, make sure you tell your healthcare provider before your child takes an antidepressant.

2. How to Try to Prevent Suicidal Thoughts and Actions
To try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions in your child, pay close attention to changes in her or his moods or actions, especially if the changes occur suddenly. Other important people in your child's life can help by paying attention as well (e.g., your child, brothers and sisters, teachers, and other important people). The changes to look out for are listed in Section 3, on what to watch for.

Whenever an antidepressant is started or its dose is changed, pay close attention to your child.

After starting an antidepressant, your child should generally see his or her healthcare provider:

  • Once a week for the first 4 weeks
  • Every 2 weeks for the next 4 weeks
  • After taking the antidepressant for 12 weeks
  • After 12 weeks, follow your healthcare provider's advice about how often to come back
  • More often if problems or questions arise (see Section 3)

Once a week for the first 4 weeks - Every 2 weeks for the next 4 weeks - After taking the antidepressant for 12 weeks - After 12 weeks, follow your healthcare provider's advice about how often to come back - More often if problems or questions arise (see Section 3)

3. You Should Watch for Certain Signs If Your Child is Taking an Antidepressant
Contact your child's healthcare provider right away if your child exhibits any of the following signs for the first time, or if they seem worse, or worry you, your child, or your child's teacher:

  • Thoughts about suicide or dying
  • Attempts to commit suicide
  • New or worse depression
  • New or worse anxiety
  • Feeling very agitated or restless
  • Panic attacks
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • New or worse irritability
  • Acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
  • Acting on dangerous impulses
  • An extreme increase in activity and talking
  • Other unusual changes in behavior or mood

Never let your child stop taking an antidepressant without first talking to his or her healthcare provider.

Stopping an antidepressant suddenly can cause other symptoms.

4. There are Benefits and Risks When Using Antidepressants
Antidepressants are used to treat depression and other illnesses. Depression and other illnesses can lead to suicide. In some children and teenagers, treatment with an antidepressant increases suicidal thinking or actions. It is important to discuss all the risks of treating depression and also the risks of not treating it. You and your child should discuss all treatment choices with your healthcare provider, not just the use of antidepressants.

Other side effects can occur with antidepressants (see section below).

Of all the antidepressants, only fluoxetine (Prozac®) has been FDA approved to treat pediatric depression.

For obsessive compulsive disorder in children and teenagers, FDA has approved only fluoxetine (Prozac® ), sertraline (Zoloft® ), fluvoxamine, and clomipramine (Anafranil® ) .

Your healthcare provider may suggest other antidepressants based on the past experience of your child or other family members.

Is this all I need to know if my child is being prescribed an antidepressant?

No. This is a warning about the risk for suicidality. Other side effects can occur with antidepressants. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider to explain all the side effects of the particular drug he or she is prescribing. Also ask about drugs to avoid when taking an antidepressant. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist where to find more information.

*Prozac® is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company
*Zoloft® is a registered trademark of Pfizer Pharmaceuticals
*Anafranil® is a registered trademark of Mallinckrodt Inc.

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Full Celexa prescribing information
Celexa patient information in plain English

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Depression

Extensive Information on Suicide and Suicidal Thoughts

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

back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Citalopram Hydrobromide (Celexa) Medication Guide, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/citalopram-hydrobromide-celexa-medication-guide

Last Updated: April 7, 2017

Wellbutrin XL Medication Guide

Information about the relationship between antipressant use in children and teenagers and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Wellbutrin XL Prescribing Information
Wellbutrin XL Patient Information

WELLBUTRIN XL® (WELL byu-trin) (bupropion hydrochloride extended-release tablets)

About Using Antidepressants in Children and Teenagers

What is the most important information I should know if my child is being prescribed an antidepressant?

Parents or guardians need to think about 4 important things when their child is prescribed an antidepressant:

  1. There is a risk of suicidal thoughts or actions
  2. How to try to prevent suicidal thoughts or actions in your child
  3. You should watch for certain signs if your child is taking an antidepressant
  4. There are benefits and risks when using antidepressants

1. There is a Risk of Suicidal Thoughts or Actions

Children and teenagers sometimes think about suicide, and many report trying to kill themselves.

Antidepressants increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some children and teenagers. But suicidal thoughts and actions can also be caused by depression, a serious medical condition that is commonly treated with antidepressants. Thinking about killing yourself or trying to kill yourself is called suicidality or being suicidal.

A large study combined the results of 24 different studies of children and teenagers with depression or other illnesses. In these studies, patients took either a placebo (sugar pill) or an antidepressant for 1 to 4 months. No one committed suicide in these studies, but some patients became suicidal. On sugar pills, 2 out of every 100 became suicidal. On the antidepressants, 4 out of every 100 patients became suicidal.

For some children and teenagers, the risks of suicidal actions may be especially high. These include patients with

  • Bipolar illness (sometimes called manic-depressive illness)
  • A family history of bipolar illness
  • A personal or family history of attempting suicide

If any of these are present, make sure you tell your healthcare provider before your child takes an antidepressant.

2. How to Try to Prevent Suicidal Thoughts and Actions

 

To try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions in your child, pay close attention to changes in her or his moods or actions, especially if the changes occur suddenly. Other important people in your child's life can help by paying attention as well (e.g., your child, brothers and sisters, teachers, and other important people). The changes to look out for are listed in Section 3, on what to watch for.


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Whenever an antidepressant is started or its dose is changed, pay close attention to your child.

After starting an antidepressant, your child should generally see his or her healthcare provider:

  • Once a week for the first 4 weeks
  • Every 2 weeks for the next 4 weeks
  • After taking the antidepressant for 12 weeks
  • After 12 weeks, follow your healthcare provider's advice about how often to come back
  • More often if problems or questions arise (see Section 3)

You should call your child's healthcare provider between visits if needed.

3. You Should Watch For Certain Signs if Your Child is Taking an Antidepressant

Contact your child's healthcare provider right away if your child exhibits any of the following signs for the first time, or they seem worse, or worry you, your child, or your child's teacher:

  • Thoughts about suicide or dying
  • Attempts to commit suicide
  • New or worse depression
  • New or worse anxiety
  • Feeling very agitated or restless
  • Panic attacks
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • New or worse irritability
  • Acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
  • Acting on dangerous impulses
  • An extreme increase in activity and talking
  • Other unusual changes in behavior or mood

Never let your child stop taking an antidepressant without first talking to his or her healthcare provider. Stopping an antidepressant suddenly can cause other symptoms.

4. There are Benefits and Risks When Using Antidepressants

Antidepressants are used to treat depression and other illnesses. Depression and other illnesses can lead to suicide. In some children and teenagers, treatment with an antidepressant increases suicidal thinking or actions. It is important to discuss all the risks of treating depression and also the risks of not treating it. You and your child should discuss all treatment choices with your healthcare provider, not just the use of antidepressants.

Other side effects can occur with antidepressants (see section below).

Of all antidepressants, only fluoxetine (Prozac®)* has been FDA approved to treat pediatric depression.

For obsessive compulsive disorder in children and teenagers, FDA has approved only fluoxetine (Prozac®)*, sertraline (Zoloft®)*, fluvoxamine, and clomipramine (Anafranil®)*.

Your healthcare provider may suggest other antidepressants based on the past experience of your child or other family members.

Is this all I need to know if my child is being prescribed an antidepressant?

No. This is a warning about the risk of suicidality. Other side effects can occur with antidepressants. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider to explain all the side effects of the particular drug he or she is prescribing. Also ask about drugs to avoid when taking an antidepressant. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist where to find more information.

*The following are registered trademarks of their respective manufacturers: Prozac®/Eli Lilly and Company; Zoloft®/Pfizer Pharmaceuticals; Anafranil®/Mallinckrodt Inc.

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

January 2005

Manufactured by:
Biovail Corporation Mississauga, ON L5N 8M5, Canada
for GlaxoSmithKline Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

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Wellbutrin XL Prescribing Information
Wellbutrin XL Patient Information

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Depression

Extensive information on Suicide and Suicide Thoughts

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Wellbutrin XL Medication Guide, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/wellbutrin-xl-medication-guide

Last Updated: October 23, 2019

Xanax (Alprazolam) Medication Guide

Read about Xanax, Alprazolam - a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorder. Important information, including side effects of Xanax.

alprazolam (al PRAH zoe lam)
Niravam, Xanax, Xanax XR

Xanax patient information (in plain English)

Full Xanax Prescription Information

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

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Xanax will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
  • Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax.
  • Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Xanax XR. Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
  • Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is Xanax?

  • Xanax is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
  • Xanax is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. Xanax is also used to treat panic disorders.
  • Xanax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Xanax?

    • Do not take Xanax if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Xanax may worsen this condition.
    • Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
      • have kidney disease;
      • have liver disease;
      • have a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
      • have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease;
      • are depressed or have suicidal thoughts; or
      • have mania, bipolar disorder, or another psychiatric condition (other than anxiety or panic disorder).

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  • You may not be able to take Xanax, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
  • Xanax is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that Xanax is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  • It is not known whether Xanax passes into breast milk. Do not take Xanax without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
  • If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Xanax. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of the medication.

How should I take Xanax?

  • Take Xanax exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
  • Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Xanax XR. Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
  • Do not take more of the medication than is prescribed for you.
  • Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
  • Store Xanax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
  • Symptoms of an Xanax overdose include sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, a slow heart beat, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking and talking, an appearance of being drunk, and unconsciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Xanax?

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Xanax will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
  • Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax.
  • Xanax may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Xanax?

  • If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Xanax and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
    • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
    • sores in the mouth or throat;
    • yellowing of the skin or eyes;
    • a rash;
    • hallucinations or severe confusion; or
    • changes in vision.
  • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Xanax and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness;
    • depression;
    • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation;
    • difficulty urinating;
    • vivid dreams;
    • headache;
    • dry mouth;
    • decreased sex drive; or
    • changes in behavior.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Xanax?

  • Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during treatment with Xanax without first talking to your doctor.
  • Xanax may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
  • Antacids may decrease the effects of Xanax. Separate doses of an antacid and Xanax by several hours whenever possible.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Xanax. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

 

Your pharmacist has additional information about Xanax for health professionals that you may read.

Full Xanax Prescribing Information
Xanax Patient Information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2005 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01. Revision date: 1/31/05.

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Xanax patient information (in plain English)

Full Xanax Prescription Information

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Anxiety Disorders

back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Xanax (Alprazolam) Medication Guide, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/xanax-alprazolam-medication-guide

Last Updated: April 7, 2017

Paliperidone Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: Invega
Generic Name: Paliperidone

Invega is an atypical antipsychotic medication used in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Usage, dosage, side-effects of Invega.

Invega Prescribing Information (PDF)

Contents:

Warning Box
Description
Pharmacology
Indications and Usage
Contraindications
Warnings
Precautions
Drug Interactions
Adverse Reactions
Overdose
Dosage
Supplied

Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with atypical antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. Analyses of 17 placebo-controlled trials (modal duration of 10 weeks) in these subjects revealed a risk of death in the drug-treated subjects of between 1.6 to 1.7 times that seen in placebo-treated subjects. Over the course of a typical 10-week controlled trial, the rate of death in drug-treated subjects was about 4.5%, compared to a rate of about 2.6% in the placebo group. Although the causes of death were varied, most of the deaths appeared to be either cardiovascular (e.g., heart failure, sudden death) or infectious (e.g., pneumonia) in nature. INVEGA (paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis.

Description

DESCRIPTION Paliperidone, the active ingredient in INVEGA Extended-Release Tablets, is a psychotropic agent belonging to the chemical class of benzisoxazole derivatives. INVEGA contains a racemic mixture of (+)- and (-)- paliperidone.The chemical name is ( ±)-3-[2-[4-(6-fluoro-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl)-1-piperidinyl]ethyl]-6,7,8,9- tetrahydro-9-hydroxy-2-methyl-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one. Its molecular formula is C23 H27 FN4 O 3 and its molecular weight is 426.49.

 

Paliperidone is sparingly soluble in 0.1N HCl and methylene chloride; practically insoluble in water, 0.1N NaOH, and hexane; and slightly soluble in N,N- dimethylformamide.

INVEGA(paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets are available in 3 mg (white), ® 6 mg (beige), and 9 mg (pink) strengths. INVEGAutilizes OROS osmotic drug- elease technology (see Delivery System Components and Performance). I


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Inactive ingredients are carnauba wax, cellulose acetate, hydroxyethyl cellulose, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxides, povidone, sodium chloride, stearic acid, butylated hydroxytoluene, hypromellose, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides.The 3 mg tablets also contain lactose monohydrate and triacetin.

Delivery System Components and Performance INVEGA uses osmotic pressure to deliver paliperidone at a controlled rate. The delivery system, which resembles a capsule-shaped tablet in appearance, consists of an osmotically active trilayer core surrounded by a subcoat and semipermeable membrane. The trilayer core is composed of two drug layers containing the drug and excipients, and a push layer containing osmotically active components. There are two precision laser-drilled orifices on the drug-layer dome of the tablet. Each tablet strength has a different colored water-dispersible overcoat and print markings. In an aqueous environment, such as the gastrointestinal tract, the water-dispersible color overcoat erodes quickly. Water then enters the tablet through the semipermeable membrane that controls the rate at which water enters the tablet core, which, in turn, determines the rate of drug delivery. The hydrophilic polymers of the core hydrate and swell, creating a gel containing paliperidone that is then pushed out through the tablet orifices. The biologically inert components of the tablet remain intact during gastrointestinal transit and are eliminated in the stool as a tablet shell, along with insoluble core components.

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Pharmacology

Pharmacodynamics

Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. The mechanism of action of paliperidone, as with other drugs having efficacy in schizophrenia, is unknown, but it has been proposed that the drug's therapeutic activity in schizophrenia is mediated through a combination of central dopamine Type 2 (D2) and serotonin Type 2(5HT2a ) receptor antagonism and H1 histaminergic receptors, which may explain some of the other effects of the drug. Paliperidone has no affinity for cholinergic muscarinic or ß - and ß -adrenergic receptors. The pharmacological activity of the (+)- and (-)- paliperidone enantiomers is qualitatively and quantitatively similar in vitro.

Pharmocokinetics
Following a single dose, the plasma concentrations of paliperidone gradually rise to reach peak plasma concentration (Cmax ) approximately 24 hours after dosing. The max pharmacokinetics of paliperidone following INVEGA™ administration are dose-proportional within the recommended clinical dose range (3 to 12 mg).The terminal elimination half-life of paliperidone is approximately 23 hours.

Steady-state concentrations of paliperidone are attained within 4-5 days of dosing with INVEGA™ in most subjects.The mean steady-state peak:trough ratio for an INVEGA™ dose of 9 mg was 1.7 with a range of 1.2-3.1.

Following administration of INVEGA™, the (+) and (-) enantiomers of paliperidone interconvert, reaching an AUC (+) to (-) ratio of approximately 1.6 at steady state.

Absorption and Distribution
The absolute oral bioavailability of paliperidone following INVEGA™ administration is 28%.

Administration of a 12 mg paliperidone extended-release tablet to healthy ambulatory subjects with a standard high-fat/high-caloric meal gave mean C and AUC values max of paliperidone that were increased by 60% and 54%, respectively, compared with administration under fasting conditions. Clinical trials establishing the safety and efficacy of INVEGA™ were carried out in subjects without regard to the timing of meals. While INVEGA™ can be taken without regard to food, the presence of food at the time of INVEGA™ administration may increase exposure to paliperidone (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Based on a population analysis, the apparent volume of distribution of paliperidone is 487 L.The plasma protein binding of racemic paliperidone is 74%.

Metabolism and Elimination
Although in vitro studies suggested a role for CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 in the metabolism of paliperidone, in vivo results indicate that these isozymes play a limited role in the overall elimination of paliperidone (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions).

One week following administration of a single oral dose of 1 mg immediate-release 14 C-paliperidone to 5 healthy volunteers, 59% (range 51% - 67%) of the dose was excreted unchanged into urine, 32% (26% - 41%) of the dose was recovered as metabolites, and 6% - 12% of the dose was not recovered. Approximately 80% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in urine and 11% in the feces. Four primary metabolic pathways have been identified in vivo, none of which could be shown to account for more than 10% of the dose: dealkylation, hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, and benzisoxazole scission.

Population pharmacokinetic analyses found no difference in exposure or clearance of paliperidone between extensive metabolizers and poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 substrates.

Special Populations

Hepatic Impairment
In a study in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B), the plasma concentrations of free paliperidone were similar to those of healthy subjects, although total paliperidone exposure decreased because of a decrease in protein binding. Consequently, no dose adjustment is required in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. The effect of severe hepatic impairment is unknown.

Renal Impairment
The dose of INVEGA™ should be reduced in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Dosing in Special Populations). The disposition of a single dose paliperidone 3 mg extended-release tablet was studied in subjects with varying degrees of renal function. Elimination of paliperidone decreased with decreasing estimated creatinine clearance. Total clearance of paliperidone was reduced in subjects with impaired renal function by 32% on average in mild (CrCl = 50 to < 80 mL/min), 64% in moderate (CrCl = 30 to < 50 mL/min), and 71% in severe (CrCl = 10 to < 30 mL/min) renal impairment, corresponding to an average increase in exposure (AUC inf) of 1.5, 2.6, and 4.8 fold, respectively, compared to healthy subjects.The mean terminal elimination half-life of paliperidone was 24, 40, and 51 hours in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively, compared with 23 hours in subjects with normal renal function (CrCl = 80 mL/min).

Elderly
No dosage adjustment is recommended based on age alone. However, dose adjustment may be required because of age-related decreases in creatinine clearance (see Renal Impairment above and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Dosing in Special Populations).

Race
No dosage adjustment is recommended based on race. No differences in pharmacokinetics were observed in a pharmacokinetic study conducted in Japanese and Caucasians.

Gender
No dosage adjustment is recommended based on gender. No differences in pharmacokinetics were observed in a pharmacokinetic study conducted in men and women.

Smoking
No dosage adjustment is recommended based on smoking status. Based on in vitro studies utilizing human liver enzymes, paliperidone is not a substrate for CYP1A2; smoking should, therefore, not have an effect on the pharmacokinetics of paliperidone.

Clinical Trials
The short-term efficacy of INVEGA™ (3 to 15 mg once daily) was established in three placebo-controlled and active-controlled (olanzapine), 6-week, fixed-dose trials in non-elderly adult subjects (mean age of 37) who met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia. Studies were carried out in North America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, and Asia. The doses studied among these three trials included 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 mg/day. Dosing was in the morning without regard to meals.

Efficacy was evaluated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), a validated multi-item inventory composed of five factors to evaluate positive symptoms, negative symptoms, disorganized thoughts, uncontrolled hostility/excitement, and anxiety/depression. Efficacy was also evaluated using the Personal and Social Performance (PSP) scale.The PSP is a validated clinician-rated scale that measures personal and social functioning in the domains of socially useful activities (e.g., work and study), personal and social relationships, self-care, and disturbing and aggressive behaviors.

In all 3 studies (n = 1665), INVEGA™ was superior to placebo on the PANSS at all doses. Mean effects at all doses were fairly similar, although the higher doses in all studies were numerically superior. INVEGA™ was also superior to placebo on the PSP in these trials.

An examination of population subgroups did not reveal any evidence of differential responsiveness on the basis of gender, age (there were few patients over 65), or geographic region.There were insufficient data to explore differential effects based on race.

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Indications and Usage

INVEGA™(paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia.

The efficacy of INVEGA™ in the acute treatment of schizophrenia was established in three 6-week, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose trials in subjects with schizophrenia. The efficacy of paliperidone has not been evaluated in placebo-controlled trials for longer than six weeks. Therefore, the physician who elects to use paliperidone for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.

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Contraindications

INVEGA™ (paliperidone) is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to paliperidone, risperidone, or to any components in the INVEGA™ formulation.

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Warnings

Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with atypical antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death compared to placebo. NVEGA (paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related psychosis (see Boxed Warning).

QT Prolongation
Paliperidone causes a modest increase in the corrected QT (QTc) interval.The use of paliperidone should be avoided in combination with other drugs that are known to prolong QTc including Class 1A (e.g., quinidine, procainamide) or Class III (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic medications, antipsychotic medications (e.g., chlorpromazine, thioridazine), antibiotics (e.g., gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin), or any other class of medications known to prolong the QTc interval. Paliperidone should also be avoided in patients with congenital long QT syndrome and in patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias.

Certain circumstances may increase the risk of the occurrence of torsade de pointes and/or sudden death in association with the use of drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including (1) bradycardia; (2) hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia; (3) concomitant use of other drugs that prolong the QTc interval; and (4) presence of congenital prolongation of the QT interval.

The effects of paliperidone on the QT interval were evaluated in a double-blind, active-controlled (moxifloxacin 400 mg single dose), multicenter QT study in adults with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, and in three placebo- and active- controlled 6-week, fixed-dose efficacy trials in adults with schizophrenia.

In the QT study (n = 141), the 8 mg dose of immediate-release oral paliperidone (n=44) showed a mean placebo-subtracted increase from baseline in QTcLD of 12.3 msec (90% CI: 8.9; 15.6) on day 8 at 1.5 hours post-dose. The mean steady- state peak plasma concentration for this 8 mg dose of paliperidone immediate-release was more than twice the exposure observed with the maximum recommended 12 mg dose of INVEGA™ (C max ss= 113 and 45 ng/mL, respectively, when administered with a standard breakfast).In this same study, a 4 mg dose of the immediate-release oral formulation of paliperidone, for which C max ss= 35 ng/mL, showed an increased placebo-subtracted QTcLD of 6.8 msec (90% CI:3.6;10.1) on day 2 at 1.5 hours post-dose.None of the subjects had a change exceeding 60 msec or a QTcLD exceeding 500 msec at any time during this study.

For the three fixed-dose efficacy studies, electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements taken at various time points showed only one subject in the INVEGA™ 12 mg group had a change exceeding 60 msec at one time-point on Day 6 (increase of 62 msec). No subject receiving INVEGA™ had a QTcLD exceeding 500 msec at any time in any of these three studies.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

A potentially fatal symptom complex sometimes referred to as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported in association with antipsychotic drugs, including paliperidone. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure.

The diagnostic evaluation of patients with this syndrome is complicated. In arriving at a diagnosis, it is important to identify cases in which the clinical presentation includes both serious medical illness (e.g., pneumonia, systemic infection, etc.) and untreated or inadequately treated extrapyramidal signs and symptoms (EPS). Other important considerations in the differential diagnosis include central anticholinergic toxicity, heat stroke, drug fever, and primary central nervous system pathology.

The management of NMS should include: (1) immediate discontinuation of antipsychotic drugs and other drugs not essential to concurrent therapy;(2) intensive symptomatic treatment and medical monitoring; and (3) treatment of any concomitant serious medical problems for which specific treatments are available. There is no general agreement about specific pharmacological treatment regimens for uncomplicated NMS.

If a patient appears to require antipsychotic drug treatment after recovery from NMS, reintroduction of drug therapy should be closely monitored, since recurrences of NMS have been reported.

Tardive Dyskinesia:
A syndrome of potentially irreversible, involuntary, dyskinetic movements may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. Although the prevalence of the syndrome appears to be highest among the elderly, especially elderly women, it is impossible to predict which patients will develop the syndrome. Whether antipsychotic drug products differ in their potential to cause tardive dyskinesia is unknown.

The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia and the likelihood that it will become irreversible appear to increase as the duration of treatment and the total cumulative dose of antipsychotic drugs administered to the patient increase, but the syndrome can develop after relatively brief treatment periods at low doses, although this is uncommon.

There is no known treatment for established tardive dyskinesia, although the syndrome may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is withdrawn. Antipsychotic treatment itself may suppress (or partially suppress) the signs and symptoms of the syndrome and may thus mask the underlying process. The effect of symptomatic suppression on the long-term course of the syndrome is unknown.

Given these considerations, INVEGA™ should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of tardive dyskinesia. Chronic antipsychotic treatment should generally be reserved for patients who suffer from a chronic illness that is known to respond to antipsychotic drugs. In patients who do require chronic treatment, the smallest dose and the shortest duration of treatment producing a satisfactory clinical response should be sought. The need for continued treatment should be reassessed periodically.

If signs and symptoms of tardive dyskinesia appear in a patient treated with INVEGA™, drug discontinuation should be considered. However, some patients may require treatment with INVEGA™ despite the presence of the syndrome.

Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus
Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma or death, has been reported in patients treated with all atypical antipsychotics. These cases were, for the most part, seen in post-marketing clinical use and epidemiologic studies, not in clinical trials, and there have been few reports of hyperglycemia or diabetes in trial subjects treated with INVEGA™ .Assessment of the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of an increased background risk of diabetes mellitus in patients with schizophrenia and the increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus in the general population. Given these confounders, the relationship between atypical antipsychotic use and hyperglycemia-related adverse events is not completely understood. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with the atypical antipsychotics. Because INVEGA™ was not marketed at the time these studies were performed, it is not known if INVEGA™ is associated with this increased risk.

Patients with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus who are started on atypical antipsychotics should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Patients with risk factors for diabetes mellitus (e.g., obesity, family history of diabetes) who are starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of treatment and periodically during treatment. Any patient treated with atypical antipsychotics should be monitored for symptoms of hyperglycemia including polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and weakness. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia during treatment with atypical antipsychotics should undergo fasting blood glucose testing. In some cases, hyperglycemia has resolved when the atypical antipsychotic was discontinued; however, some patients required continuation of anti-diabetic treatment despite discontinuation of the suspect drug.

Gastrointestinal
Because the INVEGA™ tablet is non-deformable and does not appreciably change in shape in the gastrointestinal tract, INVEGA™ should ordinarily not be administered to patients with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal narrowing (pathologic or iatrogenic, for example: esophageal motility disorders, small bowel inflammatory disease, "short gut" syndrome due to adhesions or decreased transit time, past history of peritonitis, cystic fibrosis, chronic intestinal pseudoobstruction, or Meckel's diverticulum). There have been rare reports of obstructive symptoms in patients with known strictures in association with the ingestion of drugs in non-deformable controlled-release formulations. Because of the controlled-release design of the tablet, INVEGA™ should only be used in patients who are able to swallow the tablet whole (see PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients).

A decrease in transit time, e.g., as seen with diarrhea, would be expected to decrease bioavailability and an increase in transit time, e.g., as seen with gastrointestinal neuropathy, diabetic gastroparesis, or other causes, would be expected to increase bioavailability. These changes in bioavailability are more likely when the changes in transit time occur in the upper GI tract.

Cerebrovascular Adverse Events, Including Stroke, in Elderly Patients With Dementia-Related Psychosis

In placebo-controlled trials with risperidone, aripiprazole, and olanzapine in elderly subjects with dementia, there was a higher incidence of cerebrovascular adverse events (cerebrovascular accidents and transient ischemic attacks) including fatalities was not marketed at the time these compared to placebo-treated subjects. INVEGA™ studies were performed. INVEGA™ is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis (see also Boxed WARNING, WARNINGS: Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis).

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Precautions

General

Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope
Paliperidone can induce orthostatic hypotension and syncope in some patients because of its alpha-blocking activity. In pooled results of the three placebo- controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose trials, syncope was reported in 0.8% (7/850) of subjects treated with INVEGA™ (3, 6, 9, 12 mg) compared to 0.3% (1/355) of subjects treated with placebo. INVEGA™ should be used with caution in patients with known cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure, history of myocardial infarction or ischemia, conduction abnormalities), cerebrovascular disease, or conditions that predispose the patient to hypotension (dehydration, hypovolemia, and treatment with antihypertensive medications). Monitoring of orthostatic vital signs should be considered in patients who are vulnerable to hypotension.

Seizures
During premarketing clinical trials (the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies and a study conducted in elderly schizophrenic subjects), seizures occurred in 0.22% of subjects treated with INVEGA™ (3, 6, 9, 12 mg) and 0.25% of subjects treated with placebo. Like other antipsychotic drugs, INVEGA™ should be used cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or other conditions that potentially lower the seizure threshold. Conditions that lower the seizure threshold may be more prevalent in patients 65 years or older.

Hyperprolactinemia
Like other drugs that antagonize dopamine D receptors, paliperidone elevates 2 prolactin levels and the elevation persists during chronic administration. Paliperidone has a prolactin-elevating effect similar to that seen with risperidone, a drug that is associated with higher levels of prolactin than other antipsychotic drugs.

Hyperprolactinemia, regardless of etiology, may suppress hypothalamic GnRH, resulting in reduced pituitary gonadotrophin secretion.This, in turn, may inhibit reproductive function by impairing gonadal steroidogenesis in both female and male patients. Galactorrhea, amenorrhea, gynecomastia, and impotence have been reported in patients receiving prolactin-elevating compounds. Long-standing hyperprolactinemia when associated with hypogonadism may lead to decreased bone density in both female and male subjects.

Tissue culture experiments indicate that approximately one-third of human breast cancers are prolactin dependent in vitro,a factor of potential importance if the prescription of these drugs is considered in a patient with previously detected breast cancer. An increase in the incidence of pituitary gland, mammary gland, and pancreatic islet cell neoplasia (mammary adenocarcinomas, pituitary and pancreatic adenomas) was observed in the risperidone carcinogenicity studies conducted in mice and rats (see PRECAUTIONS: Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility). Neither clinical studies nor epidemiologic studies conducted to date have shown an association between chronic administration of this class of drugs and tumorigenesis in humans, but the available evidence is too limited to be conclusive.

Dysphagia
Esophageal dysmotility and aspiration have been associated with antipsychotic drug use. Aspiration pneumonia is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced Alzheimer's dementia. INVEGA™ and other antipsychotic drugs should be used cautiously in patients at risk for aspiration pneumonia.

Suicide
The possibility of suicide attempt is inherent in psychotic illnesses, and close supervision of high-risk patients should accompany drug therapy. Prescriptions for INVEGA™ should be written for the smallest quantity of tablets consistent with good patient management in order to reduce the risk of overdose.

Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment
Somnolence and sedation were reported in subjects treated with INVEGA™ (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Antipsychotics, including INVEGA™, have the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Patients should be cautioned about performing activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating hazardous machinery or operating a motor vehicle, until they are reasonably certain that paliperidone therapy does not adversely affect them.

Priapism
Drugs with alpha-adrenergic blocking effects have been reported to induce priapism. Although no cases of priapism have been reported in clinical trials with INVEGA™, paliperidone shares this pharmacologic activity and, therefore, may be associated with this risk. Severe priapism may require surgical intervention.

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (TTP)
No cases of TTP were observed during clinical studies with paliperidone. Although cases of TTP have been reported in association with risperidone administration, the relationship to risperidone therapy is unknown.

Body Temperature Regulation
Disruption of the body's ability to reduce core body temperature has been attributed to antipsychotic agents. Appropriate care is advised when prescribing INVEGA™ to patients who will be experiencing conditions which may contribute to an elevation in core body temperature, e.g., exercising strenuously, exposure to extreme heat, receiving concomitant medication with anticholinergic activity, or being subject to dehydration.

Antiemetic Effect
An antiemetic effect was observed in preclinical studies with paliperidone. This effect, if it occurs in humans, may mask the signs and symptoms of overdosage with certain drugs or of conditions such as intestinal obstruction, Reye's syndrome, and brain tumor.

Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness
Clinical experience with INVEGA™ in patients with certain concomitant illnesses is limited (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics: Special Populations: Hepatic Impairment and Renal Impairment).

Patients with Parkinson's Disease or Dementia with Lewy Bodies are reported to have an increased sensitivity to antipsychotic medication. Manifestations of this increased sensitivity include confusion, obtundation, postural instability with frequent falls, extrapyramidal symptoms, and clinical features consistent with the neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

INVEGA has not been evaluated or used to any appreciable extent in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease. Patients with these diagnoses were excluded from premarketing clinical trials. Because of the risk of orthostatic hypotension with INVEGA™, caution should be observed in patients with known cardiovascular disease (see PRECAUTIONS: General: Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope).

Information for Patients

Physicians are advised to discuss the following issues with patients for whom they prescribe INVEGA™.

Orthostatic Hypotension Patients should be advised that there is risk of orthostatic hypotension, particularly at the time of initiating treatment, re-initiating treatment, or increasing the dose.

Interference With Cognitive and Motor Performance

As INVEGA™ has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills, patients should be cautioned about operating hazardous machinery, including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that INVEGA™ therapy does not affect them adversely.

Pregnancy

Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with INVEGA™.

Nursing

Patients should be advised not to breast-feed an infant if they are taking INVEGA™.

Concomitant Medication
Patients should be advised to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, as there is a potential for nteractions.

Alcohol
Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking INVEGA™.

Heat Exposure and Dehydration
Patients should be advised regarding appropriate care in avoiding overheating and dehydration.

Administration

Patients should be informed that INVEGA™ should be swallowed whole with the aid of liquids. Tablets should not be chewed, divided, or crushed. The medication is contained within a nonabsorbable shell designed to release the drug at a controlled ate. The tablet shell, along with insoluble core components, is eliminated from the body; patients should not be concerned if they occasionally notice something that looks like a tablet in their stool.

Laboratory Tests

No specific laboratory tests are recommended.

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Drug Interactions

Potential for INVEGA to Affect Other Drugs

Paliperidone is not expected to cause clinically important pharmacokinetic In vitro interactions with drugs that are metabolized by cytochrome P450 isozymes. studies in human liver microsomes showed that paliperidone does not substantially inhibit the metabolism of drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 isozymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C8/9/10, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5.

Therefore, paliperidone is not expected to inhibit clearance of drugs that are metabolized by these metabolic pathways in a clinically relevant manner. Paliperidone is also not expected to have enzyme inducing properties.

At therapeutic concentrations, paliperidone did not inhibit P-glycoprotein. Paliperidone is therefore not expected to inhibit P-glycoprotein-mediated transport of other drugs in a clinically relevant manner.

Given the primary CNS effects of paliperidone (see ADVERSE REACTIONS), INVEGA™ should be used with caution in combination with other centrally acting drugs and alcohol. Paliperidone may antagonize the effect of levodopa and other dopamine agonists.

Because of its potential for inducing orthostatic hypotension, an additive effect may be observed when INVEGA™ is administered with other therapeutic agents that have this potential (see PRECAUTIONS: General: Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope).

Potential for Other Drugs to Affect INVEGA

Paliperidone is not a substrate of CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19, so that an interaction with inhibitors or inducers of these isozymes is unlikely. While in vitro studies indicate that CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 may be minimally involved in paliperidone metabolism, in vivo studies do not show decreased elimination by these isozymes and they contribute to only a small fraction of total body clearance.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenesis
Carcinogenicity studies of paliperidone have not been performed.

Carcinogenicity studies of risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone in rats, mice, and humans, were conducted in Swiss albino mice and Wistar rats. Risperidone was administered in the diet at daily doses of 0.63, 2.5, and 10 mg/kg for 18 months to mice and for 25 months to rats. A maximum tolerated dose was not achieved in male mice. There were statistically significant increases in pituitary gland adenomas, endocrine pancreas adenomas, and mammary gland adenocarcinomas. The no-effect dose for these tumors was less than or equal to the maximum 2 basis (see risperidone package recommended human dose of risperidone on a mg/m insert). An increase in mammary, pituitary, and endocrine pancreas neoplasms has been found in rodents after chronic administration of other antipsychotic drugs and is considered to be mediated by prolonged dopamine D2 antagonism and hyperprolactinemia. The relevance of these tumor findings in rodents in terms of human risk is unknown (see PRECAUTIONS: General: Hyperprolactinemia).

Mutagenesis
No evidence of genotoxic potential for paliperidone was found in the Ames reverse mutation test, the mouse lymphoma assay, or the in vivo rat micronucleus test.

Impairment of Fertility
In a study of fertility, the percentage of treated female rats that became pregnant was not affected at oral doses of paliperidone of up to 2.5 mg/kg/day. However, pre- and post-implantation loss was increased, and the number of live embryos was slightly decreased, at 2.5 mg/kg, a dose that also caused slight maternal toxicity. These parameters were not affected at a dose of 0.63 mg/kg, which is half of the maximum 2 recommended human dose on a mg/m basis.

The fertility of male rats was not affected at oral doses of paliperidone of up to 2.5 mg/kg/day, although sperm count and sperm viability studies were not conducted with paliperidone. In a subchronic study in Beagle dogs with risperidone, which is extensively converted to paliperidone in dogs and humans, all doses tested (0.31-5.0 mg/kg) resulted in decreases in serum testosterone and in sperm motility and concentration. Serum testosterone and sperm parameters partially recovered, but remained decreased after the last observation (two months after treatment was discontinued).

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C
In studies in rats and rabbits in which paliperidone was given orally during the period of organogenesis, there were no increases in fetal abnormalities up to the highest doses tested (10 mg/kg/day in rats and 5 mg/kg/day in rabbits, which are 8 times the 2 basis). maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m

In rat reproduction studies with risperidone, which is extensively converted t paliperidone in rats and humans, increases in pup deaths were seen at oral dose which are less than the maximum recommended human dose of risperidone on 2 mg/m basis (see risperidone package insert).

Use of first generation antipsychotic drugs during the last trimester of pregnancy ha been associated with extrapyramidal symptoms in the neonate. These symptoms ar usually self-limited. It is not known whether paliperidone, when taken near the end of pregnancy, will lead to similar neonatal signs and symptoms.

There are no adequate and well controlled studies of INVEGA™ in pregnant women. INVEGA™ should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Labor and Delivery
The effect of INVEGA™ on labor and delivery in humans is unknown.

Nursing Mothers
In animal studies with paliperidone and in human studies with risperidone, paliperidone was excreted in the milk. Therefore, women receiving INVEGA™ should not breast-feed infants.

Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of INVEGA™ in patients
< 18 years of age have not been established.

Geriatric Use
The safety, tolerability, and efficacy of INVEGA™ were evaluated in a 6-week placebo-controlled study of 114 elderly subjects with schizophrenia (65 years of age and older, of whom 21 were 75 years of age and older). In this study, subjects received flexible doses of INVEGA™ (3 to 12 mg once daily). In addition, a small number of subjects 65 years of age and older were included in the 6-week placebo- controlled studies in which adult schizophrenic subjects received fixed doses of INVEGA™ (3 to 15 mg once daily, see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Clinical Trials). Overall, of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of INVEGA™ (n = 1796), including those who received INVEGA™ or placebo, 125 (7.0%) were 65 years of age and older and 22 (1.2%) were 75 years of age and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and clearance is decreased in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics: Special Populations: Renal Impairment), who should be given reduced doses. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor renal function (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Dosing in Special Populations).

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Adverse Reactions

The information below is derived from a clinical trial database for INVEGA™ consisting of 2720 patients and/or normal subjects exposed to one or more doses of INVEGA™ for the treatment of schizophrenia.

Of these 2720 patients, 2054 were patients who received INVEGA™ while participating in multiple dose, effectiveness trials. The conditions and duration of treatment with INVEGA™ varied greatly and included (in overlapping categories) open-label and double-blind phases of studies, inpatients and outpatients, fixed-dose and flexible-dose studies, and short-term and longer-term exposure. Adverse events were assessed by collecting adverse events and performing physical examinations, vital signs, weights, laboratory analyses and ECGs.

Adverse events during exposure were obtained by general inquiry and recorded by clinical investigators using their own terminology. Consequently, to provide a meaningful estimate of the proportion of individuals experiencing adverse events, events were grouped in standardized categories using MedDRA terminology.

The stated frequencies of adverse events represent the proportions of individuals who experienced a treatment-emergent adverse event of the type listed. An event was considered treatment emergent if it occurred for the first time or worsened while receiving therapy following baseline evaluation.

Adverse Events Observed in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Trials of Subjects with Schizophrenia

The information presented in these sections were derived from pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies based on subjects with TM schizophrenia who received INVEGA at daily doses within the recommended range of 3 to 12 mg (n = 850).

Adverse Events Occurring at an Incidence of 2% or More Among INVEGA™ -Treated Patients with Schizophrenia and More Frequent on Drug than Placebo

Table 1 enumerates the pooled incidences of treatment-emergent adverse events that were spontaneously reported in the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies, listing those events that occurred in 2% or more of subjects treated with INVEGA™ in any of the dose groups, and for which the incidence in INVEGA™ - treated subjects in any of the dose groups was greater than the incidence in subjects treated with placebo.

Table 1. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events in Short-Term,
Fixed-Dose, Placebo-Controlled Trials in Adult Subjects with Schizophrenia*

  Percentage of Patients Reporting Event INVEGA™
Body System or
Organ Class
Dictionary-derived
Term
Placebo

(N-355)

3 mg
once daily

(N=127)

6 mg
once daily

(N=235)

9 mg
once daily

(N=246)

12 mg
once daily

(N=242)

Total no. subjects
with adverse events
66 72 66 70 76
Cardiac disorders          
Atrioventricular
block first degree
1 2 0 2 1
Bundle branch block 2 3 1 3 <1
Sinus arrhythmia 0 2 1 1 <1
Tachycardia 7 14 12 12 14
Eye disorders          
Vision blurred 1 1 <1 0 2
Gastrointestinal disorders          
Abdominal pain upper 1 1 3 2 2
Dry mouth 1 2 3 1 3
Dyspepsia 4 2 3 2 5
Nausea 5 6 4 4 4
Salivary hypersecretion <1 0 <1 1 4
General disorders          
Asthenia 1 2 <1 2 2
Fatigue 1 2 1 2 2
Pyrexia 1 1 <1 2 2
Investigations          
Blood insulin increased 1 2 1 1 <1
Blood pressure increased 1 2 <1 <1 1
Electrocardiogram 3 3 4 3 5
QT corrected
interval prolonged
         
Electrocardiogram T wave abnormal 1 2 1 2 1
Muscoloskeletal and
connective tissue disorders
         
Back pain 1 1 1 1 2
Pain in extremity 1 0 1 0 2
Nervous system disorders          
Akathisia 4 4 3 8 10
Dizziness 4 6 5 4 5
Dystonia 1 1 1 5 4
Extrapyramidal disorder 2 5 2 7 7
Headache 12 11 12 14 14
Hypertonia 1 2 1 4 3
Parkinsonism 0 0 <1 2 1
Somnolence 7 6 9 10 11
Tremor 3 3 3 4 3
Psychiatric disorders          
Anxiety 8 9 7 6 5
Respiratory, thoracic and
mediastinal disorders
         
Cough 1 3 2 3 2
Vascular disorders          
Orthostatic hypotension 1 2 1 2 4

* Table includes adverse events that were reported in 2% or more of subjects in any of the INVEGA™ dose groups and which occurred at greater incidence than in the placebo group. Data are pooled from three studies; one included once- daily INVEGA™ doses of 3 and 9 mg, the second study included 6, 9, and 12 mg, and the third study included 6 and 12 mg (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Clinical Trials). Events for which the INVEGA™ incidence was equal to or less than placebo are not listed in the table, but included the following: constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, nasopharyngitis, agitation, and insomnia.

Dose-Related Adverse Events in Clinical Trials Based on the pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies, adverse events that occurred with a greater than 2% incidence in the subjects treated with INVEGA™, the incidences of the following adverse events increased with dose: somnolence, orthostatic hypotension, salivary hypersecretion, akathisia, dystonia, extrapyramidal disorder, hypertonia and Parkinsonism. For most of these, the increased incidence was seen primarily at the 12 mg, and in some cases the 9 mg dose.

Common and Drug-Related Adverse Events in Clinical Trials

Adverse events reported in 5% or more of subjects treated with INVEGA™ and at east twice the placebo rate for at least one dose included: akathisia and extrapyramidal disorder.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS) in Clinical Trials

Pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies provided information regarding treatment-emergent EPS. Several methods were used to measure EPS: (1) the Simpson-Angus global score (mean change from baseline) which broadly evaluates Parkinsonism, (2) the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale global clinical rating score (mean change from baseline) which evaluates akathisia, (3) use of anticholinergic medications to treat emergent EPS, and (4) incidence of spontaneous reports of EPS. For the Simpson-Angus Scale, spontaneous EPS reports and use of anticholinergic medications, there was a dose-related increase observed for the 9 mg and 12 mg doses. There was no difference observed between placebo and INVEGA™ 3 mg and 6 mg doses for any of these EPS measures.

  Percentage of Patients INVEGA™
EPS Group Placebo

 

(N=355)

3 mg
once daily

(N-127)

6 mg
once daily

(N=235)

9 mg
once daily

(N=246)

12 mg
once daily

(N=242)

Parkinsonism a 9 11 3 15 14
Akathisia b 6 6 4 7 9
Use of anticholinergic
medications c
10 10 9 22 22

a :For Parkinsonism, percent of patients with Simpson-Angus global score > 0.3 (Global score defined as total sum of items score divided by the number of items)

b :For Akathisia, percent of patients with Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale global score = 2

c :Percent of patients who received anticholinergic medications to treat emergent EPS

  Percentage of Patients INVEGA™
EPS Group Placebo

 

(N=355)

3 mg
once daily

(N-127)

6 mg
once daily

(N=235)

9 mg
once daily

(N=246)

12 mg
once daily

(N=242)

Overall percentage of patients with          
EPS-related AE 11.0 12.6 10.2 25.2 26.0
Dyskinesia 3.4 4.7 2.6 7.7 8.7
Dystonia 1.1 0.8 1.3 5.3 4.5
Hyperkinesia 3.9 3.9 3.0 8.1 9.9
Parkinsonism 2.3 3.1 2.6 7.3 6.2
Tremor 3.4 3.1 2.6 4.5 3.3

Dyskinesia group includes: Dyskinesia, Extrapyramidal disorder, Muscle twitching Tardive dyskinesia

Dystonia group includes: Dystonia, Muscle spasms, Oculogyration, Trismus

Hyperkinesia group includes:Akathisia, Hyperkinesia

Parkinsonism group includes: Bradykinesia, Cogwheel rigidity, Drooling, Hypertonia Hypokinesia, Muscle rigidity, Musculoskeletal stiffness, Parkinsonism

Tremor group includes: Tremor

Adverse Events Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment in Controlled Clinical Studies

Overall, there was no difference in the incidence of discontinuation due to adverse events between INVEGA™ -treated (5%) and placebo-treated (5%) subjects. The types of adverse events that led to discontinuation were similar for the INVEGA™ -and placebo-treated subjects, except for Nervous System Disorders events which were more common among INVEGA™ -treated subjects than placebo-treated subjects (2% and 0%, respectively), and Psychiatric Disorders events which were more common among placebo-treated subjects than INVEGA™ -treated subjects (3% and 1%, respectively).

Demographic Differences in Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials

An examination of population subgroups in the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies did not reveal any evidence of differences in safety on the basis of age, gender or race (see PRECAUTIONS: Geriatric Use).

Laboratory Test Abnormalities in Clinical Trials

In the pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies, between-group comparisons revealed no medically important differences between and placebo in the proportions of subjects experiencing potentially INVEGA™ clinically significant changes in routine hematology, urinalysis, or serum chemistry, including mean changes from baseline in fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol measurements. Similarly, there were no differences between INVEGA™ and placebo in the incidence of discontinuations due to changes in hematology, urinalysis, or serum chemistry. However, INVEGA™ was associated with increases in serum prolactin (see PRECAUTIONS: General: Hyperprolactinemia).

Weight Gain in Clinical Trials

In the pooled data from the three placebo-controlled, 6-week, fixed-dose studies, the = 7% of body weight were similar for proportions of subjects having a weight gain of INVEGA™ 3 mg and 6 mg (7% and 6%, respectively) and placebo (5%), but there was a higher incidence of weight gain for INVEGA™ 9 mg and 12 mg (9% and 9%, respectively).

Other Events Observed During the Premarketing Evaluation of INVEGA™

The following list contains all serious and non-serious treatment-emergent adverse events reported at any time by individuals taking INVEGA™ during any phase of a trial within the premarketing database (n = 2720), except (1) those listed in Table 1 above or elsewhere in labeling, (2) those for which a causal relationship to INVEGA™ use was considered remote, and (3) those occurring in only one subject treated with INVEGA™ and that were not acutely life-threatening.

Events are classified within body system categories using the following definitions: very frequent adverse events are defined as those occurring on one or more occasions in at least 1/10 subjects, frequent adverse events are defined as those occurring on one or more occasions in at least 1/100 subjects, infrequent adverse events are those occurring on one or more occasions in 1/100 to 1/1000 subjects, and rare events are those occurring on one or more occasions in less than 1/1000 subjects.

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: rare: thrombocytopenia

Cardiac Disorders: frequent: palpitations; infrequent: bradycardia

Gastrointestinal Disorders: frequent: abdominal pain; infrequent: swollen tongue infrequent: edema

General Disorders: Immune Disorder: rare: anaphylactic reaction rare: coordination abnormal

Nervous System Disorders: rare: coordination abnormal

Psychiatric Disorders: infrequent: confusional state

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders: frequent: dyspnea; rare: pulmonary embolus

Vascular Disorders: rare: ischemia, venous thrombosis

Adverse Events Reported With Risperidone

Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. Adverse events reported with risperidone can be found in the ADVERSE REACTIONS section of the risperidone package insert.

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Drug Abuse and Alcohol Dependence

Controlled Substance

INVEGA™ (paliperidone) is not a controlled substance.

Physical and Psychological Dependence

Paliperidone has not been systematically studied in animals or humans for its potential for abuse, tolerance, or physical dependence. It is not possible to predict the extent to which a CNS-active drug will be misused, diverted, and/or abused once marketed. Consequently, patients should be evaluated carefully for a history of drug abuse, and such patients should be observed closely for signs of INVEGA™ misuse or abuse (e.g., development of tolerance, increases in dose, drug-seeking behavior).

OVERDOSAGE

Human Experience
While experience with paliperidone overdose is limited, among the few cases of overdose reported in pre-marketing trials, the highest estimated ingestion of was 405 mg. Observed signs and symptoms included extrapyramidal INVEGA™ symptoms and gait unsteadiness. Other potential signs and symptoms include those resulting from an exaggeration of paliperidone's known pharmacological effects, i.e., drowsiness and sedation, tachycardia and hypotension, and QT prolongation. Paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone. Overdose experience reported with risperidone can be found in the OVERDOSAGE section of the risperidone package insert.

Management of Overdosage

There is no specific antidote to paliperidone, therefore, appropriate supportive measures should be instituted and close medical supervision and monitoring should continue until the patient recovers. Consideration should be given to the extended- release nature of the product when assessing treatment needs and recovery. Multiple drug involvement should also be considered.

The possibility of obtundation, seizures, or dystonic reaction of the head and neck following overdose may create a risk of aspiration with induced emesis.

Cardiovascular monitoring should commence immediately, including continuous electrocardiographic monitoring for possible arrhythmias. If antiarrhythmic therapy is administered, disopyramide, procainamide, and quinidine carry a theoretical hazard of additive QT-prolonging effects when administered in patients with an acute overdose of paliperidone. Similarly the alpha-blocking properties of bretylium might be additive to those of paliperidone, resulting in problematic hypotension.

Hypotension and circulatory collapse should be treated with appropriate measures, such as intravenous fluids and/or sympathomimetic agents (epinephrine and dopamine should not be used, since beta stimulation may worsen hypotension in the setting of paliperidone-induced alpha blockade). In cases of severe extrapyramidal symptoms, anticholinergic medication should be administered.

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Dosage and Administration

The recommended dose of INVEGA™ (paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets is 6 mg once daily, administered in the morning. Initial dose titration is not required. Although it has not been systematically established that doses above 6 mg have additional benefit, there was a general trend for greater effects with higher doses. This must be weighed against the dose-related increase in adverse effects. Thus, some patients may benefit from higher doses, up to 12 mg/day, and for some patients, a lower dose of 3 mg/day may be sufficient. Dose increases above 6 mg/day should be made only after clinical reassessment and generally should occur at intervals of more than 5 days. When dose increases are indicated, small increments of 3 mg/day are recommended. The maximum recommended dose is 12 mg/day.

INVEGA™ can be taken with or without food. Clinical trials establishing the safety and efficacy of INVEGA™ were carried out in patients without regard to food intake. INVEGA™ must be swallowed whole with the aid of liquids. Tablets should not be chewed, divided, or crushed. The medication is contained within a nonabsorbable shell designed to release the drug at a controlled rate. The tablet shell, along with insoluble core components, is eliminated from the body; patients should not be concerned if they occasionally notice in their stool something that looks like a tablet.

Concomitant use of INVEGA™ with risperidone has not been studied. Since paliperidone is the major active metabolite of risperidone, consideration should be given to the additive paliperidone exposure if risperidone is coadministered with INVEGA™.

Dosing in Special Populations

Hepatic Impairment
For patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, (Child-Pugh Classification A and B), no dose adjustment is recommended (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics: Special Populations: Hepatic Impairment).

Renal Impairment
Dosing must be individualized according to the patient's renal function status. For patients with mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance = 50 to < 80 mL/min), the maximum recommended dose is 6 mg once daily. For patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10 to < 50 mL/min), the maximum recommended dose of INVEGA™ is 3 mg once daily.

Elderly
Because elderly patients may have diminished renal function, dose adjustments may be required according to their renal function status. In general, recommended dosing for elderly patients with normal renal function is the same as for younger adult patients with normal renal function. For patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10 to < 50 mL/min) the maximum recommended dose of INVEGA™ is 3 mg once daily (see Renal Impairment above).

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How Supplied

INVEGA™ (paliperidone) Extended-Release Tablets are available in the following strengths and packages. All tablets are capsule-shaped.

3 mg tablets are white and imprinted with "PALI 3", and are available in:
bottles of 30 (NDC 50458-550-01),
bottles of 350 (NDC 50458-550-02),
and hospital unit dose packs of 100 (NDC 50458-550-10).

6 mg tablets are beige and imprinted with "PALI 6 ", and are available in:
bottles of 30 (NDC 50458-551-01),
bottles of 350 (NDC 50458-551-02),
and hospital unit dose packs of 100 (NDC 50458-551-10).

9 mg tablets are pink and imprinted with "PALI 9" and are available in:
bottles of 30 (NDC 50458-552-01),
bottles of 350 (NDC 50458-552-02),
and hospital unit dose packs of 100 (NDC 50458-552-10).

Storage

Store up to 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15 - 30°C (59 - 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture.
Keep out of reach of children.

Rx only

10105900 Issued: December 2006 © Janssen, L.P.2006

Manufactured by:
ALZA Corporation, Mountain View, CA 94043

Distributed by: Janssen,L.P., Titusville, NJ 08560

OROS® is a registered trademark of ALZA Corporation

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Invega Prescribing Information (PDF)

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Schizophrenia

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Bipolar Disorder


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Last updated 11/05.

Copyright © 2007 Healthyplace Inc. All rights reserved.

back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Paliperidone Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/paliperidone-invega-full-prescribing-information

Last Updated: October 23, 2019

Zopiclone Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: Imovane
Generic Name: Zopiclone

Zopiclone (Imovane) is a hypnotic agent used to treat insomnia. Uses, dosage, side effects of Imovane.

Contents:

Description
Pharmacology
Indications and Usage
Contraindications
Warnings
Precautions
Drug Interactions
Adverse Reactions
Overdose
Dosage
Supplied

Description

This medicine is a hypnotic agent used to treat sleep disorders.

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Pharmacology

The pharmacological profile of zopiclone is similar to that of the benzodiazepines.

In sleep laboratory studies of 1 to 21-day duration in man, zopiclone reduced sleep latency, increased the duration of sleep and decreased the number of nocturnal awakenings. Zopiclone delayed the onset of REM sleep but did not reduce consistently the total duration of REM periods. The duration of stage 1 sleep was shortened, and the time spent in stage 2 sleep increased. In most studies, stage 3 and 4 sleep tended to be increased, but no change and actual decreases have also been observed. The effect of zopiclone on stage 3 and 4 sleep differs from that of the benzodiazepines which suppress slow wave sleep. The clinical significance of this finding is not known.

Some manifestations of rebound insomnia have been reported both in sleep laboratory and clinical studies following the withdrawal of zopiclone.

At the clinically recommended dose of 7.5 mg, peak plasma concentration of 60 ng/mL is achieved within 90 minutes.

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Indications and Usage

 

The short-term management of insomnia characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings and/or early morning awakening.

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Contraindications

Patients with known hypersensitivity to Zopiclone.

Patients with myasthenia gravis; severe impairment of respiratory function; stroke.

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Warnings

DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than 4 weeks without checking with your doctor.

Dependency and Withdrawl: Exceeding the recommended dose or taking this medicine for longer than prescribed may be habit-forming.

Addiction-prone individuals, such as drug addicts and alcoholics, should be under careful surveillance when receiving zopiclone because of the predisposition of such patients to habituation and dependence.

Suicide: Caution should be exercised if zopiclone is prescribed to depressed patients, including those with latent depression, particularly when suicidal tendencies may be present and protective measures may be required.

Amnesia: Anterograde amnesia of varying severity may occur in rare instances following therapeutic doses of zopiclone. Also prior to falling asleep or during interim periods of wakefulness, memory may be impaired.

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Precautions

Elderly or debilitated patients: In elderly and/or debilitated patients, zopiclone should be initiated at a low dose to reduce the possibility of oversedation, dizziness or impaired coordination. The dose should be increased only if necessary

Usage in Children:: The safety and effectiveness of zopiclone in children below the age of 18 have not been established.

Pregnancy and Withdrawl: The safety of zopiclone in pregnant women has not been established. Therefore, the drug is not recommended during pregnancy. Zopiclone is secreted in human milk, and its concentration may reach 50% of the plasma levels. Therefore, the administration of zopiclone to nursing mothers is not recommended.

Interference with Cognitive or Motor Performance: Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

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Drug Interactions

Patients should be cautioned against the simultaneous ingestion of zopiclone and alcohol or other CNS depressant drugs because of possible additive effects.

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

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Adverse Reactions

Side Effects, that may go away during treatment, include bitter taste in mouth, drowsiness, or decreased coordination.

Other sides effects include: amnesia or memory impairment, euphoria, nightmares, agitation, hostility, decreased libido, coordination abnormality, tremor, muscle spasms, speech disorder, heart palpitations, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, anorexia or increased appetite.

Elderly: Geriatric patients tended to have a higher incidence of palpitations, vomiting, anorexia, sialorrhea, confusion, agitation, anxiety, tremor and sweating than younger patients.

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Overdose

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of overdose may include excessive drowsiness; slow, shallow breathing; sudden onset of sweating; pale skin; blurred vision; and loss of consciousness.

Treatment

If you or someone you know may have used more than the recommended dose of this medicine, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Treatment should be supportive and in response to clinical signs and symptoms. Respiration, pulse and blood pressure should be monitored and supported by general measures when necessary. Immediate gastric lavage should be performed. I.V. fluid should be administered and an adequate airway maintained. It should be kept in mind that multiple agents may have been ingested.

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Dosage

Do not exceed the recommended dose or take this medicine for longer than 4 weeks without checking with your doctor. Exceeding the recommended dose or taking this medicine for longer than prescribed may be habit-forming.

  • Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor.
  • Store this medicine at room temperature, in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.
  • If you miss a dose of this medicine, and you are taking 1 dose daily at bedtime, skip the missed dose. Do NOT take the missed dose in the morning or take 2 doses at once.

Additional Information:: Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Adults: The usual dose is 7.5 mg at bedtime. This dose should not be exceeded. Depending on clinical response and tolerance, the dose may be lowered to 3.75 mg.

Elderly or debilitated patients: An initial dose of 3.75 mg at bedtime is recommended. The dose may be increased to 7.5 mg if the starting dose does not offer adequate therapeutic effect.

Patients with hepatic insufficiency: The recommended dose is 3.75 mg depending on acceptability and efficacy. Up to 7.5 mg may be used with caution in appropriate cases.

Usage in Children:: Zopiclone is not indicated for patients under 18 years of age.

Discontinuation: You may experience trouble sleeping for 1 to 2 nights after you stop taking this medicine. If it continues, contact your doctor.

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How Supplied

Each oval, scored blue tablet, contains: Zopiclone 7.5 mg. Also contains sodium.

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Anxiety Disorders


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Last updated 3/03.

Copyright © 2007 Healthyplace Inc. All rights reserved.

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back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Zopiclone Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/zopiclone-imovane-full-prescribing-information

Last Updated: April 9, 2017

Danger Signs Your Child Has An Eating Problem

Visiting pro-eating disorder websites and rapid weight loss in pre-teens may be danger signs for kids with eating disorders.

STANFORD, Calif-- Parenting a child with an eating disorder - monitoring meals, friends, and activities - can be a full-time job. But two new studies from researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital indicate a need for increased vigilance in two key areas: Internet use among adolescents with the condition, and pre-teen weight loss in seemingly healthy children.

One study, to be published in the December issue of Pediatrics, is the first to confirm that pro-eating disorder Web sites may promote dangerous behaviors in adolescents with eating disorders. The second, which appears in the December issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health, indicates that pre-teens with eating disorders tend to lose weight more quickly than adolescents with the condition and weigh comparatively less at diagnosis. Packard Children's adolescent medicine and eating disorder specialist Rebecka Peebles, MD, and Jenny Wilson, a Stanford medical student, collaborated on both studies.

"If parents wouldn't let their kids go out to dinner or talk on the phone with someone they don't know, they should ask themselves what their child might be up to on the computer," Peebles, a medical school pediatrics instructor, said of the findings in the first study. She pointed out that, unlike adults, teens make few distinctions between "real" friends and people they know only online.

In this study, Peebles and Wilson surveyed families of patients who were diagnosed at Packard Children's with an eating disorder between 1997 and 2004. Seventy-six patients, who were between the ages of 10 and 22 at diagnosis, and 106 parents returned an anonymous survey asking about Internet use - including parental restrictions on it - and health outcomes.

About half of the patients surveyed said they had visited Web sites about eating disorders. Ninety-six percent of teens who visited pro-eating disorder Web sites reported learning new dieting and purging techniques. The researchers also found that pro-eating disorder site visitors tended to have a longer duration of disease, spent less time on schoolwork and spent significantly more time online each week than did those who never visited the sites.

Even those sites ostensibly dedicated to helping people recover from eating disorders (pro-recovery sites) aren't harmless. Nearly 50 percent of patients visiting such sites reported learning about new methods to lose weight or to purge.

"Parents and physicians need to realize that the Internet is essentially an unmonitored media forum," said Peebles. "It's just not possible to completely control the content of an interactive site."

While about 50 percent of parents were aware of the existence of pro-eating disorder sites, only 28 percent had discussed these sites with their child. Fewer still, only about 20 percent, reported placing limits on either the time their child spent online or on the sites they visited.

Parents aren't the only ones who may not recognize trouble brewing. Peebles and Wilson found in their second study that younger eating disorder patients may be at risk for more rapid weight loss than adolescents and frequently have atypical presentations that may make diagnosis more difficult.

"We were very surprised and concerned to find that younger patients lost weight significantly faster than adolescent patients," said Peebles, who pointed out that growth before puberty is critical to future development. "Children should be growing rapidly during pre-adolescence. But these kids had not only stopped gaining, they'd even lost weight."

Adult-specific diagnostic criteria for such eating disorders as anorexia and bulimia muddy the issue, said Peebles, by referring to missed menses and ideal body weight percentages, neither of which are applicable to prepubescent girls who may have already stunted their height by denying themselves needed calories.

"They may not be less than 85 percent of their ideal body weight according to a standard growth chart," she said, "but it's very possible that, without their eating disorder, they would have been significantly taller and heavier." It's also sometimes difficult to tell whether young children display the same kind of disordered body image disturbance as older children with eating disorders, who often proclaim themselves "fat" or "disgusting."

"Young kids may truly not know why they don't want to eat," said Peebles. "They just don't want to be bigger." As a result, more than 60 percent of patients younger than 13 are diagnosed with an "Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified," or EDNOS.

Other surprises of the research include the facts that younger patients were more likely to be male than those older than 13, and that one in five patients younger than 13 had experimented with vomiting as a weight-loss technique.

"Pediatricians and parents shouldn't think of weight loss, or even lack of weight gain in a pre-teen, as a phase," cautioned Peebles. "If a child expresses wanting to lose weight, take it seriously."

Sources:

  • Lucile Packard Children's Hospital press release. Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Ranked as one of the nation's top pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. The hospital is associated with Stanford University School of Medicine.

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Danger Signs Your Child Has An Eating Problem, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/parenting/eating-disorders/danger-signs-your-child-has-eating-problem

Last Updated: August 19, 2019

Precautions to Protect Against Date or Acquaintance Rape

teenage sex

There are actions you can take to reduce the risk of being involved in acquaintance rape. While there are no foolproof methods, the following are some useful suggestions:

  • Communicate your limits clearly. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, tell him or her early and firmly. Say "No" when you mean "No."
  • Be assertive. Others often interpret passive behavior as permission. It's your body and no one has the right to force you to do anything you don't want to do. Don't worry about being "polite" if someone is not respecting your wishes. Being assertive can be difficult and may require training and practice.
  • Be alert. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and ability to make responsible decisions, and you may end up in an undesirable situation. Always have a plan to get yourself home.
  • Trust your intuition. If you sense danger or you're feeling nervous about someone else's behavior, it's best to remove yourself from that situation immediately.

Strategies for Resisting Date or Acquaintance Rape

There are various theories about acquaintance rape resistance strategies. One widely accepted view was developed by Py Bateman of Alternatives to Fear in Seattle, WA. She describes three stages in this kind of rape:

  • Stage 1: Intrusion - At this stage, the potential victim needs to be able to recognize intrusion and effectively communicate that it is unacceptable. Be specific about what the offensive behavior is, clear that it is not welcome, and definite that it must stop. This doesn't rule out courteous behavior. Yet, it is a good idea to avoid apology or humor, as either might undermine the message.

  • Stage 2: Desensitization - In this stage, the first task is to resist desensitization by not "getting used to" sexually coercive behavior. It can be difficult to deal with the negative reactions as we tell abusive men to stop. Consider enlisting the aid of a buddy with whom to discuss such interactions; she can praise your successes and help you deal with any negative reactions.


    continue story below

    The second task is to identify the men who get clear communication, possibly repeatedly, and choose to ignore it. There can be no question now regarding their motives. These are the ones to consider potentially dangerous. Consider whether you want them in your life at all, if you have a choice in the matter. If they are hard to avoid because they are relatives, neighbors, co-workers, etc., make plans to avoid isolation with them.

  • Stage 3: Isolation - To avoid isolation with a potentially dangerous man, look at the ways you interact with him in the course of everyday life. Refuse to accept rides with him, make sure that you do not work late when he does, line up allies who will join you if it looks like he is maneuvering you to isolation.

  • Often sexually aggressive men are harassing a number of women in the same circle. When we do not talk to each other, we are isolated in another way. Sharing information about your experience with such a man can help create allies, which can be very important in the case of an attempted rape, or in a formal sexual harassment complaint at work.

next: Dating An Older Guy

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Precautions to Protect Against Date or Acquaintance Rape, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/sex/psychology-of-sex/precautions-against-date-or-acquaintance-rape

Last Updated: August 20, 2014

Male Erection: Penis Erection Problems

male sexual problems

A male erection appears so easy and natural.

However, a male erection is a rather intricate process that works in coordination with psychological, neurological and cardiovascular systems. The penis becomes erect only after a series of events. First, arousal, the nerves are stimulated. This can happen in a variety of ways either visual, mental or physical. When arousal occurs, the brain coordinates the following series of events:

Nerve impulses transverse the length of the spinal cord to the pudendal nerve and on to the penis. Smooth muscle within the walls of the penile arteries respond by relaxing. Subsequently, the penile arteries dilate allowing up to eight times more blood to flow into the corpora cavernosum, (two parallel cylinders that transverse the length of the penis). The cavernosum become engorged with blood expanding and lengthening the penis. This is when a male erection is achieved. The expanding tissue then exerts a positive pressure compressing the veins that normally empty the blood from the penis, maintaining the blood in the penile tissue. This maintains the male erection. When ejaculation occurs or when arousal is discontinued the penis returns to its non-erect state and the erection is lost.

There are many things that can impact whether you'll get that next erection or not. Here we'll take a look at three of the main sexual problems men face in that area - - impotency, inability to have a climax, and performance anxiety. I should add a fourth, embarrassment over having a sexual problem at all.

How to handle that? If your woman gives you the third degree for your erectile dysfunction, play reverse psychology and ask her, "Why can't you get it up for me?". Now the roles are switched and she'll understand how it feels to have her self-esteem shattered and will regret saying what she did.

There are also a significant number of men who have no interest in sex and on the other end of the spectrum, we have sex addicts.

And before you go off this page, I want to encourage you to go to the table of contents before you leave this area. There are lots of information-packed pages and I wouldn't want you to miss any.


 


next: Impotence Basics

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Male Erection: Penis Erection Problems, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/sex/psychology-of-sex/male-erection-penis-erection-problems

Last Updated: April 9, 2016

Fluphenazine Decanoate Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: Prolixin, Permitil, Modecate
Generic Name: Pluphenazine Decanoate

Prolixin, Fluphenazine Decanoate, is an antipsychotic medication used to treat Schizophrenia. Uses, dosage, side effects.

Fluphenazine Full Prescribing Information

Contents:

Description
Pharmacology
Indications and Usage
Contraindications
Warnings
Precautions
Drug Interactions
Adverse Reactions
Overdose
Dosage
Supplied

Description

Prolixin (Fluphenazine Decanoate) is a phenothiazine, an antipsychotic medication, used to treat emotional disorders such as schizophrenia. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

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Pharmacology

This medicine is usually administered as an injection at your doctor's office or a clinic. The onset of action generally appears between 24 to 72 hours after injection, and the effects of the drug on psychotic symptoms become significant within 48 to 96 hours. Amelioration of symptoms then continues for 1 to 8 weeks with an average duration of 3 to 4 weeks. There is considerable variation in the individual response of patients to this depot fluphenazine and its use for maintenance therapy requires careful supervision.

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Indications and Usage

Fluphenazine Decanoate (Prolixin, Permitil, Modecate) is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia.

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Contraindications

 

Fluphenazine decanoate is not indicated for the management of severely agitated psychotic patients, psychoneurotic patients or geriatric patients with confusion and/or agitation.

Patients who have shown hypersensitivity to other phenothiazines, including fluphenazine, should not be given fluphenazine decanoate.


 


Phenothiazines should not be used in patients receiving large doses of hypnotics, due to the possibility of potentiation.

It is not intended for use in children under 12 years of age.

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Warnings

Severe adverse reactions requiring immediate medical attention may occur and are difficult to predict. Therefore, the evaluation of tolerance and response, and establishment of adequate maintenance therapy, require careful stabilization of each patient under continuous, close medical observation and supervision.

Interference with Cognitive or Motor Performance: Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine.

Do not become overheated in hot weather, during exercise, or other activities since heat stroke may occur while you are using this medicine.

This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun or sunlamps until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.

Pregnancy and Nursing

Safety during pregnancy has not been established. The drug should not be administered to women of childbearing potential, particularly during the first trimester, unless, in the opinion of the physician, the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.

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Precautions

Seizures: Phenothiazines should be used with caution in patients with a history of convulsive disorders since grand mal seizures have been known to occur.

Cardiac: Since hypotension and ECG changes suggestive of myocardial ischemia have been associated with the administration of phenothiazines, fluphenazine decanoate should be used with caution in patients with compensated cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disorders.

Before using this medicine, inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. This includes guanethidine and medicines used to treat depression and bladder or bowel spasms. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including depression, seizure disorders, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

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Drug Interactions

Use with other drugs: The effects of atropine or other drugs with similar action may be potentiated in patients receiving phenothiazines because of added anticholinergic effects. Paralytic ileus, even resulting in death, may occur especially in the elderly. Fluphenazine decanoate should be used cautiously in patients exposed to extreme heat or phosphorus insecticides.

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Adverse Reactions

Side effects that may go away during treatment, include drowsiness, dizziness, nasal congestion, blurred vision, dry mouth, or constipation. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience changes in vision; changes in breasts; changes in menstrual period; sore throat; inability to move eyes; muscle spasms of face, neck, or back; difficulty swallowing; mask-like face; tremors of hands; restlessness; tension in legs; shuffling walk or stiff arms or legs; puffing of cheeks; lip smacking or puckering; twitching or twisting movements; or weakness of arms or legs.

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Overdose

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, muscle spasms, tremors, twitching, deep sleep or loss of consciousness, and seizures.

Of the 354 cases of deliberate or accidental overdose involving fluvoxamine maleate reported, there were 19 deaths. Of the 19 deaths, 2 were in patients taking fluvoxamine maleate alone and the remaining 17 were in patients taking fluvoxamine maleate along with other drugs.

Treatment

If you or someone you know may have used more than the recommended dose of this medicine, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

No further injections should be given until the patient shows signs of relapse and the dosage then should be decreased. An unobstructed airway should be established with maintenance of respiration as required. Severe hypotension calls for the immediate use of an i.v. vasopressor drug, such as levarterenol bitartrate USP. Extrapyramidal symptoms may be treated with antiparkinsonian agents.

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Dosage

  • Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor.
  • Store this medicine at room temperature, in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.
  • If you miss a dose of this medicine and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If you are taking 1 dose at bedtime and do not remember until the next morning, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.
  • When using the solution form: mix your dose in water, juice, soup, or other liquid before taking.

Additional Information:: Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

For oral dosage form (elixir, solution, or tablets):

Adults: At first, 2.5 to 10 milligrams (mg) a day, taken in smaller doses every six to eight hours during the day. Your doctor may increase your dose if needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 20 mg a day.

Children: 0.25 to 0.75 mg one to four times a day.

Elderly: 1 to 2.5 mg a day. Your doctor may increase your dose if needed.

Fluphenazine decanoate is given by injection.

The initial recommended dose is 2.5 mg to 12.5 mg. An initial dose of 12.5 mg is usually well tolerated. However, an initial test dose of 2.5 mg is recommended in patients: over the age of 50 or with disorders that predispose to undue reactions; whose individual or family history suggests a predisposition to extrapyramidal reactions; who have not previously received a long acting depot neuroleptic.

The onset of action generally appears between 24 to 72 hours after injection, and the effects of the drug on psychotic symptoms become significant within 48 to 96 hours.

Maintenance/Continuation Extended Treatment: Patients can usually be controlled with 25 mg or less, every 2 to 3 weeks. Although doses greater than 50 mg are usually not necessary, doses up to 100 mg have been used in some patients. If doses greater than 50 mg are necessary, the next dose and succeeding doses should be increased in increments of 12.5 mg. While the response to a single injection lasts usually 2 to 3 weeks, it may last for 4 weeks or more.

IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

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How Supplied

Each mL of injectable solution contains: Fluphenazine decanoate 25 mg in sesame oil with benzyl alcohol 1.5% as preservative. Vials of 5 mL.

Prolixin Tablets: Available in 1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg.

Concentrate: Each mL of injectable solution contains: Fluphenazine decanoate 100 mg in sesame oil with benzyl alcohol 1.5% as preservative. Ampuls of 1 mL.

Fluphenazine Full Prescribing Information

Detailed Info on Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments of Schizophrenia


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Last updated 3/03.

Copyright © 2007 Healthyplace Inc. All rights reserved.

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back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Fluphenazine Decanoate Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/fluphenazine-decanoate-prolixin-permitil-modecate-full-prescribing-information

Last Updated: January 28, 2019

Reboxetine Full Prescribing Information

Brand Name: Edronax
Generic Name: Roboxetine

Reboxetine (Endronax) is an antidepressant drug used in the treatment of clinical depression, panic disorder and ADHD. Uses, dosage, side-effects of Reboxetine.

Other Brand Names: Norebox, Prolift, Solvex, Davedax, Vestra

Edronax (Roboxetine) Full Prescribing Information

Contents:

Description
Indications
Precautions
Drug Interactions
Adverse Reactions
Overdose
Dosage
How Stored

Description

Reboxetine (Edronax) is used for the treatment of depression.

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Indications

Reboxetine is indicated for the treatment of depressive illness and for maintaining the clinical improvement in patients initially responding to treatment.

The remission of the acute phase of the depressive illness is associated with an improvement in the patient's quality of life in terms of social adaptation.

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Precautions

Since rare cases of seizures have been reported in clinical studies, reboxetine should be given under close supervision to subjects with a history of convulsive disorders and it should be discontinued if the patient develops seizures.

Combined usage of MAO inhibitors and reboxetine should be avoided.

As with all antidepressants, switches to mania - hypomania have occurred. Close supervision of bipolar patients is recommended.

The risk of a suicidal attempt is inherent in depression and may persist until significant remission occurs; close patient supervision during initial drug therapy is recommended.

 

Caution is recommended in patients with current evidence of urinary retention and glaucoma.

Orthostatic hypotension has been observed with greater frequency at doses higher than the maximum recommended. Close supervision is recommended when administering reboxetine with other drugs known to lower blood pressure.


 


Pregnancy and Lactation
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Reboxetine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. While no information on the excretion of reboxetine in maternal milk in humans is available, reboxetine administration is not recommended in women who are breast feeding.

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Drug Interactions

BEFORE USING THIS MEDICINE: INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.

Combined usage of MAO inhibitors and reboxetine should be avoided.

Contraindicated for those with hypersensitivity to reboxetine or any other components of the product.

Close supervision is recommended when administering reboxetine with other drugs known to lower blood pressure.

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Adverse Reactions

Side Effects

Dry mouth, constipation, insomnia, increased sweating, tachycardia, vertigo, urinary hesitance/retention and impotence. Impotence was mainly observed in patients treated with doses greater than 8 mg/day.

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Overdose

In a few cases during clinical trials, doses higher than that recommended were administered to patients (12 to 20 mg/day) for a period ranging from a few days to a few weeks during clinical studies. Treatment-emergent adverse events included postural hypotension, anxiety and hypertension.

Two cases of self-overdosing with up to 52 mg of reboxetine have been reported. No serious adverse events were observed.

Treatment: In the case of overdose, close supervision including monitoring of cardiac function and vital signs is recommended.

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Dosage

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE:

The onset of the clinical effect is generally seen after 14 days from start of treatment.

Use in adults
The recommended therapeutic dose is 4 mg BID (8 mg/day) administered orally. After 3 weeks, the dose can be increased up to 10 mg/day in case of incomplete clinical response.

Use in the elderly (age greater than 65
The recommended therapeutic dose is 2 mg BID (4 mg/day) administered orally. This dose can be increased up to 6 mg/day in case of incomplete clinical response after 3 weeks from starting reboxetine.

Use in Children
There are no data available on the use of reboxetine in children.

Use in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency
The starting dose in patients with renal or moderate to severe hepatic insufficiency should be 2 mg BID which can be increased based on patient tolerance.

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How Stored

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30°C (59 and 86°F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE:: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

Edronax ( Roboxetine ) Full Prescribing Information


The information in this monograph is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects. This information is generalized and is not intended as specific medical advice. If you have questions about the medicines you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Last updated 3/03.

Copyright © 2007 Healthyplace Inc. All rights reserved.

back to top

back to: Psychiatric Medications Pharmacology Homepage

APA Reference
Staff, H. (2009, January 4). Reboxetine Full Prescribing Information, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2024, October 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/psychiatric-medications/reboxetine-edronax-full-prescribing-information

Last Updated: January 28, 2019