Sunday, 20 May 2012

chloroquine


Generic Name: chloroquine (KLOR oh kwin)

Brand names: Aralen Phosphate, Aralen Hydrochloride


What is chloroquine?

Chloroquine is an antimalarial drug. The exact way that chloroquine works is unknown.


Chloroquine is used to treat and to prevent malaria. Chloroquine is also used to treat infections caused by amoebae.


Chloroquine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


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


Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Chloroquine may cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing. Report any vision or hearing changes to your doctor.

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


Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have



  • had a previous allergic reaction to chloroquine;




  • glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency;




  • psoriasis;




  • porphyria; or



  • liver disease.

You may not be able to take chloroquine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your therapy if you have any of the conditions listed above.


It is not known whether chloroquine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take chloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known how chloroquine will affect a nursing infant. Do not take chloroquine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take chloroquine?


Take chloroquine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.


Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take chloroquine with food to lessen stomach upset.

It is important to take chloroquine regularly to get the most benefit.


Store chloroquine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

See also: Chloroquine dosage (in more detail)

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 missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a chloroquine overdose include headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, visual changes, seizures, difficulty breathing, and unconsciousness.


What should I avoid while taking chloroquine?


Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. Chloroquine may cause visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing. Report any vision or hearing changes to your doctor.

Chloroquine side effects


Stop taking chloroquine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (flushing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; vision problems; rash; itching; or fever).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chloroquine and talk to your doctor if you experience



  • visual disturbances such as blurred vision, misty vision, and difficulty focusing;




  • hearing loss or ringing in the ears;




  • diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain or upset, vomiting, or loss of appetite;




  • muscle weakness; or




  • a rash.



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


Chloroquine Dosing Information


Usual Adult Dose for Malaria Prophylaxis:

500 mg chloroquine phosphate (300 mg base) orally on the same day each week starting 2 weeks prior to exposure

If unable to start 2 weeks before exposure, an initial loading dose of 1 g chloroquine phosphate (600 mg base) may be taken orally in 2 divided doses, 6 hours apart.

Suppressive therapy should continue for 8 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

Usual Adult Dose for Malaria:

Chloroquine-sensitive uncomplicated malaria (Plasmodium species or species not identified):
60 kg or more: 1 g chloroquine phosphate (600 mg base) orally at once, followed by 500 mg chloroquine phosphate (300 mg base) orally at 6, 24, and 48 hours; represents a total dose of 2.5 g chloroquine phosphate (1.5 g base) in 3 days

Less than 60 kg: 16.7 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (10 mg base/kg) orally at once, followed by 8.3 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (5 mg base/kg) orally at 6, 24, and 48 hours; represents a total dose of 41.7 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (25 mg base/kg) in 3 days

For the treatment of uncomplicated malaria due to chloroquine-sensitive P vivax or P ovale, concomitant treatment with primaquine phosphate is recommended.

Usual Adult Dose for Amebiasis:

Extraintestinal Amebiasis: 1 g chloroquine phosphate (600 mg base) orally once a day for 2 days, followed by 500 mg chloroquine phosphate (300 mg base) orally once a day for at least 2 to 3 weeks

Treatment is usually combined with an effective intestinal amebicide.

Usual Adult Dose for Sarcoidosis:

Study (n=43)
Intrathoracic and cutaneous: 250 mg twice a day for 4 to 17 months; a treatment course should be limited to 6 months to minimize risk of ocular damage

Study (n=23)
Pulmonary: 750 mg per day for 6 months, then tapered every 2 months to 250 mg per day

Study (n=37)
Nervous system (neurosarcoidosis): 250 mg twice a day for 6 to 18 months

Usual Pediatric Dose for Malaria Prophylaxis:

Pediatric dose should not exceed the adult dose regardless of weight.

8.3 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (5 mg base/kg) orally on the same day each week starting 2 weeks prior to exposure

If unable to start 2 weeks before exposure, an initial loading dose of 16.7 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (10 mg base/kg) may be taken orally in 2 divided doses, 6 hours apart.

Suppressive therapy should continue for 8 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Malaria:

Chloroquine-sensitive uncomplicated malaria (Plasmodium species or species not identified):
60 kg or more: 1 g chloroquine phosphate (600 mg base) orally at once, followed by 500 mg chloroquine phosphate (300 mg base) orally at 6, 24, and 48 hours; represents a total dose of 2.5 g chloroquine phosphate (1.5 g base) in 3 days

Less than 60 kg: 16.7 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (10 mg base/kg) orally at once, followed by 8.3 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (5 mg base/kg) orally at 6, 24, and 48 hours; represents a total dose of 41.7 mg chloroquine phosphate/kg (25 mg base/kg) in 3 days

For the treatment of uncomplicated malaria due to chloroquine-sensitive P vivax or P ovale, concomitant treatment with primaquine phosphate is recommended.


What other drugs will affect chloroquine?


Cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB) may increase the effects of chloroquine, which could lead to toxicity. Do not take cimetidine without first talking to your doctor.


Kaolin and magnesium trisilicate may decrease the effects of chloroquine. These ingredients can be found in products such as Kaopectate Advanced Formula, Parepectolin, K-Pek, K-C, Kaodene Non-Narcotic, Kao-Spen, Gaviscon, and others.


Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chloroquine. Do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, without first talking to your doctor.



More chloroquine resources


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


  • chloroquine Oral, Intramuscular Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Chloroquine Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Chloroquine MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Chloroquine Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Aralen Phosphate Monograph (AHFS DI)



Compare chloroquine with other medications


  • Amebiasis
  • Malaria
  • Malaria Prevention
  • Sarcoidosis


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about chloroquine.

See also: chloroquine side effects (in more detail)


Saturday, 19 May 2012

Prilosec





Dosage Form: capsule, delayed release; granule, delayed release
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

Indications and Usage for Prilosec



Duodenal Ulcer (adults)


Prilosec is indicated for short-term treatment of active duodenal ulcer in adults. Most patients heal within four weeks. Some patients may require an additional four weeks of therapy.


Prilosec in combination with clarithromycin and amoxicillin, is indicated for treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or up to 1-year history) to eradicate H. pylori in adults.


Prilosec in combination with clarithromycin is indicated for treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease to eradicate H. pylori in adults.


Eradication of H. pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence [see Clinical Studies (14.1) and Dosage and Administration (2) ].


Among patients who fail therapy, Prilosec with clarithromycin is more likely to be associated with the development of clarithromycin resistance as compared with triple therapy. In patients who fail therapy, susceptibility testing should be done. If resistance to clarithromycin is demonstrated or susceptibility testing is not possible, alternative antimicrobial therapy should be instituted. [See Microbiology section (12.4)], and the clarithromycin package insert, Microbiology section.



Gastric Ulcer (adults)


Prilosec is indicated for short-term treatment (4-8 weeks) of active benign gastric ulcer in adults. [See Clinical Studies (14.2) ]



Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) (adults and pediatric patients)


Symptomatic GERD


Prilosec is indicated for the treatment of heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD in pediatric patients and adults.


Erosive Esophagitis


Prilosec is indicated for the short-term treatment (4-8 weeks) of erosive esophagitis that has been diagnosed by endoscopy in pediatric patients and adults. [See Clinical Studies (14.4) ]


The efficacy of Prilosec used for longer than 8 weeks in these patients has not been established. If a patient does not respond to 8 weeks of treatment, an additional 4 weeks of treatment may be given. If there is recurrence of erosive esophagitis or GERD symptoms (eg, heartburn), additional 4-8 week courses of omeprazole may be considered.



Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis (adults and pediatric patients)


Prilosec is indicated to maintain healing of erosive esophagitis in pediatric patients and adults.


Controlled studies do not extend beyond 12 months. [See Clinical Studies (14.4) ]



Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions (adults)


Prilosec is indicated for the long-term treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, multiple endocrine adenomas and systemic mastocytosis) in adults.



Prilosec Dosage and Administration


Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules should be taken before eating. In the clinical trials, antacids were used concomitantly with Prilosec.


Patients should be informed that the Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsule should be swallowed whole.


For patients unable to swallow an intact capsule, alternative administration options are available [See Dosage and Administration (2.8)].



Short-Term Treatment of Active Duodenal Ulcer


The recommended adult oral dose of Prilosec is 20 mg once daily. Most patients heal within four weeks. Some patients may require an additional four weeks of therapy.



H. pylori Eradication for the Reduction of the Risk of Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence


Triple Therapy (Prilosec/clarithromycin/amoxicillin) — The recommended adult oral regimen is Prilosec 20 mg plus clarithromycin 500 mg plus amoxicillin 1000 mg each given twice daily for 10 days. In patients with an ulcer present at the time of initiation of therapy, an additional 18 days of Prilosec 20 mg once daily is recommended for ulcer healing and symptom relief.


Dual Therapy (Prilosec/clarithromycin) — The recommended adult oral regimen is Prilosec 40 mg once daily plus clarithromycin 500 mg three times daily for 14 days. In patients with an ulcer present at the time of initiation of therapy, an additional 14 days of Prilosec 20 mg once daily is recommended for ulcer healing and symptom relief.



Gastric Ulcer


The recommended adult oral dose is 40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks.



Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)


The recommended adult oral dose for the treatment of patients with symptomatic GERD and no esophageal lesions is 20 mg daily for up to 4 weeks. The recommended adult oral dose for the treatment of patients with erosive esophagitis and accompanying symptoms due to GERD is 20 mg daily for 4 to 8 weeks.



Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis


The recommended adult oral dose is 20 mg daily. [See Clinical Studies (14.4) ]



Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions


The dosage of Prilosec in patients with pathological hypersecretory conditions varies with the individual patient. The recommended adult oral starting dose is 60 mg once daily. Doses should be adjusted to individual patient needs and should continue for as long as clinically indicated. Doses up to 120 mg three times daily have been administered. Daily dosages of greater than 80 mg should be administered in divided doses. Some patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome have been treated continuously with Prilosec for more than 5 years.



Pediatric Patients


For the treatment of GERD and maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis, the recommended daily dose for pediatric patients 1 to 16 years of age is as follows:










Patient WeightOmeprazole Daily Dose

5 < 10 kg



5 mg



10 < 20 kg



10 mg



≥ 20 kg



20 mg


On a per kg basis, the doses of omeprazole required to heal erosive esophagitis in pediatric patients are greater than those for adults.


Alternative administrative options can be used for pediatric patients unable to swallow an intact capsule [See Dosage and Administration (2.8) ].



Alternative Administration Options


Prilosec is available as a delayed-release capsule or as a delayed-release oral suspension.


For patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules, the contents of a Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsule can be added to applesauce. One tablespoon of applesauce should be added to an empty bowl and the capsule should be opened. All of the pellets inside the capsule should be carefully emptied on the applesauce. The pellets should be mixed with the applesauce and then swallowed immediately with a glass of cool water to ensure complete swallowing of the pellets. The applesauce used should not be hot and should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. The pellets should not be chewed or crushed. The pellets/applesauce mixture should not be stored for future use.


Prilosec For Delayed-Release Oral Suspension should be administered as follows:



  • Empty the contents of a 2.5 mg packet into a container containing 5 mL of water.




  • Empty the contents of a 10 mg packet into a container containing 15 mL of water.




  • Stir




  • Leave 2 to 3 minutes to thicken.




  • Stir and drink within 30 minutes.




  • If any material remains after drinking, add more water, stir and drink immediately.



For patients with a nasogastric or gastric tube in place:



  • Add 5 mL of water to a catheter tipped syringe and then add the contents of a 2.5 mg packet (or 15 mL of water for the 10 mg packet). It is important to only use a catheter tipped syringe when administering Prilosec through a nasogastric tube or gastric tube.




  • Immediately shake the syringe and leave 2 to 3 minutes to thicken.




  • Shake the syringe and inject through the nasogastric or gastric tube, French size 6 or larger, into the stomach within 30 minutes.




  • Refill the syringe with an equal amount of water.




  • Shake and flush any remaining contents from the nasogastric or gastric tube into the stomach.




Use with clopidogrel


Avoid concomitant use of clopidogrel and omeprazole. Co-administration of clopidogrel with 80 mg omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that is an inhibitor of CYP2C19, reduces the pharmacological activity of clopidogrel if given concomitantly or if given 12 hours apart [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Drug Interactions (7.3)].



Dosage Forms and Strengths


Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules, 10 mg, are opaque, hard gelatin, apricot and amethyst colored capsules, coded 606 on cap and Prilosec 10 on the body.


Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules, 20 mg, are opaque, hard gelatin, amethyst colored capsules, coded 742 on cap and Prilosec 20 on the body.


Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules, 40 mg, are opaque, hard gelatin, apricot and amethyst colored capsules, coded 743 on cap and Prilosec 40 on the body.


Prilosec For Delayed-Release Oral Suspension, 2.5 mg or 10 mg, is supplied as a unit dose packet containing a fine yellow powder, consisting of white to brownish omeprazole granules and pale yellow inactive granules.



Contraindications


Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to substituted benzimidazoles or to any component of the formulation. Hypersensitivity reactions may include anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, angioedema, bronchospasm, interstitial nephritis, and urticaria [See Adverse Reactions (6)].



Warnings and Precautions



Concomitant Gastric Malignancy


Symptomatic response to therapy with omeprazole does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy.



Atrophic Gastritis


Atrophic gastritis has been noted occasionally in gastric corpus biopsies from patients treated long-term with omeprazole.



Bone Fracture


 Several published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine. The risk of fracture was increased in patients who received high-dose, defined as multiple daily doses, and long-term PPI therapy (a year or longer). Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Patients at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures should be managed according to established treatment guidelines. [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Adverse Reactions (6.3)]



Diminished Anti-platelet Activity of clopidogrel due to Impaired CYP2C19 Function by Omeprazole


 Clopidogrel is a prodrug. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by clopidogrel is entirely due to an active metabolite. The metabolism of clopidogrel to its active metabolite can be impaired by use with concomitant medications, such as omeprazole, that interfere with CYP2C19 activity. Avoid concomitant use of clopidogrel and omeprazole. Co-administration of clopidogrel with 80 mg omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that is an inhibitor of CYP2C19, reduces the pharmacological activity of clopidogrel if given concomitantly or if given 12 hours apart [see Drug Interactions (7)].



Combination Use of Prilosec with Amoxicillin


Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity (anaphylactic) reactions have been reported in patients on penicillin therapy. These reactions are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of penicillin hypersensitivity and/or a history of sensitivity to multiple allergens. Before initiating therapy with amoxicillin, careful inquiry should be made concerning previous hypersensitivity reactions to penicillins, cephalosporins or other allergens. If an allergic reaction occurs, amoxicillin should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted. Serious anaphylactic reactions require immediate emergency treatment with epinephrine. Oxygen, intravenous steroids and airway management, including intubation, should also be administered as indicated.


Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with nearly all antibacterial agents and may range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to consider this diagnosis in patients who present with diarrhea subsequent to the administration of antibacterial agents.


Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon and may permit overgrowth of clostridia. Studies indicate that a toxin produced by Clostridium difficile is a primary cause of “antibiotic-associated colitis.”


After the diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis has been established, therapeutic measures should be initiated. Mild cases of pseudomembranous colitis usually respond to discontinuation of the drug alone. In moderate to severe cases, consideration should be given to management with fluids and electrolytes, protein supplementation, and treatment with an antibacterial drug clinically effective against Clostridium difficile colitis.



Combination Use of Prilosec with Clarithromycin


Clarithromycin should not be used in pregnant women except in clinical circumstances where no alternative therapy is appropriate. If pregnancy occurs while taking clarithromycin, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. (See Warnings in prescribing information for clarithromycin.)


Co-administration of omeprazole and clarithromycin has resulted in increases in plasma levels of omeprazole, clarithromycin, and 14-hydroxy-clarithromycin. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12) ]


Concomitant administration of clarithromycin with cisapride or pimozide, is contraindicated.



Hypomagnesemia


 Hypomagnesemia, symptomatic and asymptomatic, has been reported rarely in patients treated with PPIs for at least three months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious adverse events include tetany, arrhythmias, and seizures. In most patients, treatment of hypomagnesemia required magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI.


 For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with medications such as digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia (e.g., diuretics), health care professionals may consider monitoring magnesium levels prior to initiation of PPI treatment and periodically. [See Adverse Reactions (6.3)]



Concomitant use of Prilosec with St John’s Wort or rifampin


 Drugs which induce CYP2C19 or CYP3A4 (such as St John’s Wort or rifampin) can substantially decrease omeprazole concentrations. [See Drug Interactions (7.3)] Avoid concomitant use of Prilosec with St John’s Wort or rifampin.



Interactions with Investigations for Neuroendocrine Tumors


 Serum chromogranin A (CgA) levels increase secondary to drug-induced decreases in gastric acidity. The increased CgA level may cause false positive results in diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. Providers should temporarily stop omeprazole treatment before assessing CgA levels and consider repeating the test if initial CgA levels are high. If serial tests are performed (e.g. for monitoring), the same commercial laboratory should be used for testing, as reference ranges between tests may vary.



Concomitant use of NEXIUM with Methotrexate


 Literature suggests that concomitant use of PPIs with methotrexate (primarily at high dose; see methotrexate prescribing information) may elevate and prolong serum levels of methotrexate and/or its metabolite, possibly leading to methotrexate toxicities. In high-dose methotrexate administration a temporary withdrawal of the PPI may be considered in some patients. [see Drug Interactions (7.6)]



Adverse Reactions



Clinical Trials Experience with Prilosec Monotherapy


Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.


The safety data described below reflects exposure to Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules in 3096 patients from worldwide clinical trials (465 patients from US studies and 2,631 patients from international studies). Indications clinically studied in US trials included duodenal ulcer, resistant ulcer, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The international clinical trials were double blind and open-label in design. The most common adverse reactions reported (i.e., with an incidence rate ≥ 2%) from Prilosec-treated patients enrolled in these studies included headache (6.9%), abdominal pain (5.2%), nausea (4.0%), diarrhea (3.7%), vomiting (3.2%), and flatulence (2.7%).


Additional adverse reactions that were reported with an incidence ≥1% included acid regurgitation (1.9%), upper respiratory infection (1.9%), constipation (1.5%), dizziness (1.5%), rash (1.5%), asthenia (1.3%), back pain (1.1%), and cough (1.1%).


The clinical trial safety profile in patients greater than 65 years of age was similar to that in patients 65 years of age or less.


The clinical trial safety profile in pediatric patients who received Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules was similar to that in adult patients. Unique to the pediatric population, however, adverse reactions of the respiratory system were most frequently reported in both the 1 to <2 and 2 to 16 year age groups (75.0% and 18.5%, respectively). Similarly, fever was frequently reported in the 1 to 2 year age group (33.0%), and accidental injuries were reported frequently in the 2 to 16 year age group (3.8%). [See Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ]



Clinical Trials Experience with Prilosec in Combination Therapy for H. pylori Eradication


In clinical trials using either dual therapy with Prilosec and clarithromycin, or triple therapy with Prilosec, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin, no adverse reactions unique to these drug combinations were observed. Adverse reactions observed were limited to those previously reported with omeprazole, clarithromycin, or amoxicillin alone.


Dual Therapy (Prilosec/clarithromycin)


Adverse reactions observed in controlled clinical trials using combination therapy with Prilosec and clarithromycin (n = 346) that differed from those previously described for Prilosec alone were taste perversion (15%), tongue discoloration (2%), rhinitis (2%), pharyngitis (1%) and flu-syndrome (1%). (For more information on clarithromycin, refer to the clarithromycin prescribing information, Adverse Reactions section).


Triple Therapy (Prilosec/clarithromycin/amoxicillin)


The most frequent adverse reactions observed in clinical trials using combination therapy with Prilosec, clarithromycin, and amoxicillin (n = 274) were diarrhea (14%), taste perversion (10%), and headache (7%). None of these occurred at a higher frequency than that reported by patients taking antimicrobial agents alone. (For more information on clarithromycin or amoxicillin, refer to the respective prescribing information, Adverse Reactions sections).



Post-marketing Experience


The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Prilosec Delayed-Release Capsules. Because these reactions are voluntarily reported from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their actual frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.


Body As a Whole: Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis, anaphylactic shock, angioedema, bronchospasm, interstitial nephritis, urticaria, (see also Skin below); fever; pain; fatigue; malaise;


Cardiovascular: Chest pain or angina, tachycardia, bradycardia, palpitations, elevated blood pressure, peripheral edema


Endocrine: Gynecomastia


Gastrointestinal: Pancreatitis (some fatal), anorexia, irritable colon, fecal discoloration, esophageal candidiasis, mucosal atrophy of the tongue, stomatitis, abdominal swelling, dry mouth, microscopic colitis. During treatment with omeprazole, gastric fundic gland polyps have been noted rarely. These polyps are benign and appear to be reversible when treatment is discontinued. Gastroduodenal carcinoids have been reported in patients with ZE syndrome on long-term treatment with Prilosec. This finding is believed to be a manifestation of the underlying condition, which is known to be associated with such tumors.


Hepatic: Liver disease including hepatic failure (some fatal), liver necrosis (some fatal), hepatic encephalopathy hepatocellular disease, cholestatic disease, mixed hepatitis, jaundice, and elevations of liver function tests [ALT, AST, GGT, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin]


Metabolism and Nutritional disorders: Hypoglycemia, hypomagnesemia, hyponatremia, weight gain


Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, myalgia, muscle cramps, joint pain, leg pain, bone fracture


Nervous System/Psychiatric: Psychiatric and sleep disturbances including depression, agitation, aggression, hallucinations, confusion, insomnia, nervousness, apathy, somnolence, anxiety, and dream abnormalities; tremors, paresthesia; vertigo


Respiratory: Epistaxis, pharyngeal pain


Skin: Severe generalized skin reactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis (some fatal), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and erythema multiforme; photosensitivity; urticaria; rash; skin inflammation; pruritus; petechiae; purpura; alopecia; dry skin; hyperhidrosis


Special Senses: Tinnitus, taste perversion


Ocular: Optic atrophy, anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, optic neuritis, dry eye syndrome, ocular irritation, blurred vision, double vision


Urogenital: Interstitial nephritis, hematuria, proteinuria, elevated serum creatinine, microscopic pyuria, urinary tract infection, glycosuria, urinary frequency, testicular pain


Hematologic: Agranulocytosis (some fatal), hemolytic anemia, pancytopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, leucocytosis



Drug Interactions



Interference with Antiretroviral Therapy


Concomitant use of atazanavir and nelfinavir with proton pump inhibitors is not recommended. Co-administration of atazanavir with proton pump inhibitors is expected to substantially decrease atazanavir plasma concentrations and may result in a loss of therapeutic effect and the development of drug resistance. Co-administration of saquinavir with proton pump inhibitors is expected to increase saquinavir concentrations, which may increase toxicity and require dose reduction.


Omeprazole has been reported to interact with some antiretroviral drugs. The clinical importance and the mechanisms behind these interactions are not always known. Increased gastric pH during omeprazole treatment may change the absorption of the antiretroviral drug. Other possible interaction mechanisms are via CYP 2C19.


Reduced concentrations of atazanavir and nelfinavir


For some antiretroviral drugs, such as atazanavir and nelfinavir, decreased serum levels have been reported when given together with omeprazole. Following multiple doses of nelfinavir (1250 mg, twice daily) and omeprazole (40 mg daily), AUC was decreased by 36% and 92%, Cmax by 37% and 89% and Cmin by 39% and 75% respectively for nelfinavir and M8. Following multiple doses of atazanavir (400 mg, daily) and omeprazole (40 mg, daily, 2 hr before atazanavir), AUC was decreased by 94%, Cmax by 96%, and Cmin by 95%. Concomitant administration with omeprazole and drugs such as atazanavir and nelfinavir is therefore not recommended.


Increased concentrations of saquinavir


For other antiretroviral drugs, such as saquinavir, elevated serum levels have been reported, with an increase in AUC by 82%, in Cmax by 75%, and in Cmin by 106%, following multiple dosing of saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg) twice daily for 15 days with omeprazole 40 mg daily co-administered days 11 to 15. Therefore, clinical and laboratory monitoring for saquinavir toxicity is recommended during concurrent use with Prilosec. Dose reduction of saquinavir should be considered from the safety perspective for individual patients.


There are also some antiretroviral drugs of which unchanged serum levels have been reported when given with omeprazole.



Drugs for Which Gastric pH Can Affect Bioavailability


Because of its profound and long lasting inhibition of gastric acid secretion, it is theoretically possible that omeprazole may interfere with absorption of drugs where gastric pH is an important determinant of their bioavailability. Like with other drugs that decrease the intragastric acidity, the absorption of drugs such as ketoconazole, ampicillin esters, iron salts and erlotinib can decrease, while the absorption of drugs such as digoxin can increase during treatment with omeprazole. Concomitant treatment with omeprazole (20 mg daily) and digoxin in healthy subjects increased the bioavailability of digoxin by 10% (30% in two subjects). Therefore, patients may need to be monitored when digoxin is taken concomitantly with omeprazole. In the clinical trials, antacids were used concomitantly with the administration of Prilosec.



Effects on Hepatic Metabolism/Cytochrome P-450 Pathways


Omeprazole can prolong the elimination of diazepam, warfarin and phenytoin, drugs that are metabolized by oxidation in the liver. There have been reports of increased INR and prothrombin time in patients receiving proton pump inhibitors, including omeprazole, and warfarin concomitantly. Increases in INR and prothrombin time may lead to abnormal bleeding and even death. Patients treated with proton pump inhibitors and warfarin may need to be monitored for increases in INR and prothrombin time.


Although in normal subjects no interaction with theophylline or propranolol was found, there have been clinical reports of interaction with other drugs metabolized via the cytochrome P450 system (e.g., cyclosporine, disulfiram, benzodiazepines). Patients should be monitored to determine if it is necessary to adjust the dosage of these drugs when taken concomitantly with Prilosec.


Concomitant administration of omeprazole and voriconazole (a combined inhibitor of CYP2C19 and CYP3A4) resulted in more than doubling of the omeprazole exposure. Dose adjustment of omeprazole is not normally required. However, in patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, who may require higher doses up to 240 mg/day, dose adjustment may be considered. When voriconazole (400 mg Q12h x 1 day, then 200 mg x 6 days) was given with omeprazole (40 mg once daily x 7 days) to healthy subjects, it significantly increased the steady-state Cmax and AUC0-24 of omeprazole, an average of 2 times (90% CI: 1.8, 2.6) and 4 times (90% CI: 3.3, 4.4) respectively as compared to when omeprazole was given without voriconazole.


Omeprazole acts as an inhibitor of CYP 2C19. Omeprazole, given in doses of 40 mg daily for one week to 20 healthy subjects in cross-over study, increased Cmax and AUC of cilostazol by 18% and 26% respectively. Cmax and AUC of one of its active metabolites, 3,4- dihydro-cilostazol, which has 4-7 times the activity of cilostazol, were increased by 29% and 69% respectively. Co-administration of cilostazol with omeprazole is expected to increase concentrations of cilostazol and its above mentioned active metabolite. Therefore a dose reduction of cilostazol from 100 mg twice daily to 50 mg twice daily should be considered.


Drugs known to induce CYP2C19 or CYP3A4 (such as rifampin) may lead to decreased omeprazole serum levels. In a cross-over study in 12 healthy male subjects, St John’s wort (300 mg three times daily for 14 days), an inducer of CYP3A4, decreased the systemic exposure of omeprazole in CYP2C19 poor metabolisers (Cmax and AUC decreased by 37.5% and 37.9%, respectively) and extensive metabolisers (Cmax and AUC decreased by 49.6% and 43.9%, respectively). Avoid concomitant use of St. John’s Wort or rifampin with omeprazole.


clopidogrel


Omeprazole is an inhibitor of CYP2C19 enzyme. Clopidogrel is metabolized to its active metabolite in part by CYP2C19. Concomitant use of omeprazole 80 mg results in reduced plasma concentrations of the active metabolite of clopidogrel and a reduction in platelet inhibition [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].


In a crossover clinical study, 72 healthy subjects were administered clopidogrel (300 mg loading dose followed by 75 mg per day) alone and with omeprazole (80 mg at the same time as clopidogrel) for 5 days. The exposure to the active metabolite of clopidogrel was decreased by 46% (Day 1) and 42% (Day 5) when clopidogrel and omeprazole were administered together. The active metabolite of clopidogrel selectively and irreversibly inhibits the binding of adenosine diphosphate (ADP) to its platelet P2Y12 receptor, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation. The mean inhibition of platelet aggregation at 5 mcM ADP was diminished by 39% (Day 1) and 21% (Day 5) when clopidogrel and omeprazole were administered together.


In another study, 72 healthy subjects were given the same doses of clopidogrel and 80 mg omeprazole but the drugs were administered 12 hours apart; the results were similar, indicating that administering clopidogrel and omeprazole at different times does not prevent their interaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].


There are no adequate combination studies of a lower dose of omeprazole or a higher dose of clopidogrel in comparison with the approved dose of clopidogrel.



Tacrolimus


Concomitant administration of omeprazole and tacrolimus may increase the serum levels of tacrolimus.



Interactions With Investigations of Neuroendocrine Tumors


Drug-induced decrease in gastric acidity results in enterochromaffin-like cell hyperplasia and increased Chromogranin A levels which may interfere with investigations for neuroendocrine tumors. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12)].



Methotrexate


Case reports, published population pharmacokinetic studies, and retrospective analyses suggest that concomitant administration of PPIs and methotrexate (primarily at high dose; see methotrexate prescribing information) may elevate and prolong serum levels of methotrexate and/or its metabolite hydroxymethotrexate. However, no formal drug interaction studies of methotrexate with PPIs have been conducted [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].



USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS



Pregnancy


Pregnancy Category C


Reproductive studies in rats and rabbits with omeprazole and multiple cohort studies in pregnant women with omeprazole use during the first trimester do not show an increased risk of congenital anomalies or adverse pregnancy outcomes. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies on the use of omeprazole in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. The vast majority of reported experience with omeprazole during human pregnancy is first trimester exposure and the duration of use is rarely specified, e.g., intermittent vs. chronic. An expert review of published data on experiences with omeprazole use during pregnancy by TERIS – the Teratogen Information System – concluded that therapeutic doses during pregnancy are unlikely to pose a substantial teratogenic risk (the quantity and quality of data were assessed as fair).


Three epidemiological studies compared the frequency of congenital abnormalities among infants born to women who used omeprazole during pregnancy with the frequency of abnormalities among infants of women exposed to H2–receptor antagonists or other controls. A population-based prospective cohort epidemiological study from the Swedish Medical Birth Registry, covering approximately 99% of pregnancies, reported on 955 infants (824 exposed during the first trimester with 39 of these exposed beyond first trimester, and 131 exposed after the first trimester) whose mothers used omeprazole during pregnancy. In utero exposure to omeprazole was not associated with increased risk of any malformation (odds ratio 0.82, 95% CI 0.50–1.34), low birth weight or low Apgar score. The number of infants born with ventricular septal defects and the number of stillborn infants was slightly higher in the omeprazole-exposed infants than the expected number in the normal population. The author concluded that both effects may be random.


A retrospective cohort study reported on 689 pregnant women exposed to either H2–blockers or omeprazole in the first trimester (134 exposed to omeprazole). The overall malformation rate was 4.4% (95% CI 3.6–5.3) and the malformation rate for first trimester exposure to omeprazole was 3.6% (95% CI 1.5–8.1). The relative risk of malformations associated with first trimester exposure to omeprazole compared with non-exposed women was 0.9 (95% CI 0.3–2.2). The study could effectively rule out a relative risk greater than 2.5 for all malformations. Rates of preterm delivery or growth retardation did not differ between the groups.


A controlled prospective observational study followed 113 women exposed to omeprazole during pregnancy (89% first trimester exposures). The reported rates of major congenital malformations was 4% for the omeprazole group, 2% for controls exposed to non-teratogens, and 2.8% in disease-paired controls (background incidence of major malformations 1–5%). Rates of spontaneous and elective abortions, preterm deliveries, gestational age at delivery, and mean birth weight did not differ between the groups. The sample size in this study has 80% power to detect a 5–fold increase in the rate of major malformation.


Several studies have reported no apparent adverse short-term effects on the infant when single dose oral or intravenous omeprazole was administered to over 200 pregnant women as premedication for cesarean section under general anesthesia.


Reproductive studies conducted with omeprazole on rats at oral doses up to 56 times the human dose and in rabbits at doses up to 56 times the human dose did not show any evidence of teratogenicity. In pregnant rabbits, omeprazole at doses about 5.5 to 56 times the human dose produced dose-related increases in embryo-lethality, fetal resorptions, and pregnancy loss. In rats treated with omeprazole at doses about 5.6 to 56 times the human dose, dose-related embryo/fetal toxicity and postnatal developmental toxicity occurred in offspring. [See Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology (13.2)].



Nursing Mothers


Omeprazole concentrations have been measured in breast milk of a woman following oral administration of 20 mg. The peak concentration of omeprazole in breast milk was less than 7% of the peak serum concentration. This concentration would correspond to 0.004 mg of omeprazole in 200 mL of milk. Because omeprazole is excreted in human milk, because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from omeprazole, and because of the potential for tumorigenicity shown for omeprazole in rat carcinogenicity studies, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.



Pediatric Use


Use of Prilosec in pediatric and adolescent patients 1 to 16 years of age for the treatment of GERD is supported by a) extrapolation of results, already included in the currently approved labeling, from adequate and well-controlled studies that supported the approval of Prilosec for adults, and b) safety and pharmacokinetic studies performed in pediatric and adolescent patients. [See Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Pediatric for pharmacokinetic information (12.3) and Dosage and Administration (2), Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Clinical Studies, (14.6)]. The safety and effectiveness of Prilosec for the treatment of GERD in patients < 1 year of age have not been established. The safety and effectiveness of Prilosec for other pediatric uses have not been established.



Geriatric Use


Omeprazole was administered to over 2000 elderly individuals (≥ 65 years of age) in clinical trials in the U.S. and Europe. There were no differences in safety and effectiveness between the elderly and younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger subjects, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.


Pharmacokinetic studies have shown the elimination rate was somewhat decreased in the elderly and bioavailability was increased. The plasma clearance of omeprazole was 250 mL/min (about half that of young volunteers) and its plasma half-life averaged one hour, about twice that of young healthy volunteers. However, no dosage adjustment is necessary in the elderly. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]



Hepatic Impairment


Consider dose reduction, particularly for maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]



Renal Impairment


No dosage reduction is necessary. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]



Asian Population


Consider dose reduction, particularly for maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]



Overdosage


Reports have been received of overdosage with omeprazole in humans. Doses ranged up to 2400 mg (120 times the usual recommended clinical dose). Manifestations were variable, but included confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, tachycardia, nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, flushing, headache, dry mouth, and other adverse reactions similar to those seen in normal clinical experience. [See Adverse Reactions (6)] Symptoms were transient, and no serious clinical outcome has been reported when Prilosec was taken alone. No specific antidote for omeprazole overdosage is known. Omeprazole is extensively protein bound and is, therefore, not readily dialyzable. In the event of overdosage, treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.


As with the management of any overdose, the possibility of multiple drug ingestion should be considered. For current information on treatment of any drug overdose, contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.


Single oral doses of omeprazole at 1350, 1339, and 1200 mg/kg were lethal to mice, rats, and dogs, respectively. Animals given these doses showed sedation, ptosis, tremors, convulsions, and decreased activity, body temperature, and respiratory rate and increased depth of respiration.



Prilosec Description


The active ingredient in Prilosec (omeprazole) Delayed-Release Capsules is a substituted benzimidazole, 5-methoxy-2-[[(4-methoxy-3, 5-dimethyl-2-pyridinyl) methyl] sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole, a compound that inhibits gastric acid secretion. Its empirical formula is C17H19N3O3S, with a molecular weight of 345.42. The structural formula is:



Omeprazole is a white to off-white crystalline powder that melts with decomposition at about 155°C. It is a weak base, freely soluble in ethanol and methanol, and slightly soluble in acetone and isopropanol and very slightly soluble in water. The stability of omeprazole is a function of pH; it is rapidly degraded in acid media, but has acceptable stability under alkaline conditions.


The active ingredient in Prilosec (omeprazole magnesium) for Delayed Release Oral Suspension, is 5-Methoxy-2-[[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-2-pyridinyl)methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole, magnesium salt (2:1)


Omeprazole magnesium is a white to off white powder with a melting point with degradation at 200°C. The salt is slightly soluble (0.25 mg/mL) in water at 25°C, and it is soluble in methanol. The half-life is highly pH dependent.


The empirical formula for omeprazole magnesium is (C17H18N3O3S)2 Mg, the molecular weight is 713.12 and the structural formula is:



Prilosec is supplied as delayed-release capsules for oral administration. Each delayed-release capsule contains either 10 mg, 20 mg or 40 mg of omeprazole in the form of enteric-coated granules with the following inactive ingredients: cellulose, disodium hydrogen phosphate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, lactose, mannitol, sodium lauryl sulfate and other ingredients. The capsule shells have the following inactive ingredients: gelatin-NF, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Red #40, D&C Red #28, titanium dioxide, synthetic black iron oxide, isopropanol, butyl alcohol, FD&C Blue #2, D&C Red #7 Calcium Lake, and, in addition, the 10 mg and 40 mg capsule shells also contain D&C Yellow #10.


Each packet of Prilosec For Delayed-Release Oral Suspension contains either 2.8 mg or 11.2 mg of omeprazole magnesium (equivalent to 2.5 mg or 10 mg of omeprazole), in the form of enteric-coated granules with the following inactive ingredients: glyceryl monostearate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acid copolymer C, polysorbate, sugar spheres, talc, and triethyl citrate, and also inactive granules. The inactive granules are composed of the following ingredients: citric acid, crospovidone, dextrose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, iron oxide and xantham gum. The omeprazole granules and inactive granules are constituted with water to form a suspension and are given by oral, nasogastric or direct gastric administration.



Prilosec - Clinical Pharmacology



Mechanism of Action


Omeprazole belongs to a class of antisecretory compounds, the substituted benzimidazoles, that suppress gastric acid secretion by specific inhibition of the H+/K+ ATPase enzyme system at the secretory surface of the gastric parietal cell. Because this enzyme system is regarded as the acid (proton) pump within the gastric mucosa, omeprazole has been characterized as a gastric acid-pump inhibitor, in that it blocks the final step of acid production. This effect is dose-related and leads to inhibition of both basal and stimulated acid secretion irrespective of the stimulus. Animal studies indicate that after rapid disappearance from plasma, omeprazole can be found within the gastric mucosa for a day or more.



Pharmacodynamics


Antisecretory Activity


After oral administration, the onset of the antisecretory effect of omeprazole occurs within one hour, with the maximum effect occurring within two hours. Inhibition of secretion is about 50% of maximum at 24 hours and the duration of inhibition lasts up to 72 hours. The antisecretory effect thus lasts far longer than would be expected from the very short (less than one hour) plasma half-life, apparently due to prolonged binding to the parietal H+/K+ ATPase enzyme. When the drug is discontinued, secretory activity returns gradually, over 3 to 5 days. The inhibitory effect of omeprazole on acid secretion increases with repeated once-daily dosing, reaching a plateau after four days.


Results from numerous studies of the antisecretory effect of multiple doses of 20 mg and 40 mg of omeprazole in normal volunteers and patients are shown below. The “max” value represents determinations at a time of maximum effect (2-6 hours after dosing), while “min” values are those 24 hours after the last dose of omeprazole.


Table 1



























Range of Mean Values from Multiple Studies of the Mean Antisecretory Effects of Omeprazole After Multiple Daily Dosing
Omeprazole 20 mgOmeprazole 40 mg
ParameterMaxMinMaxMin

*

Single Studies


% Decrease in Basal Acid Output



78*



58–80



94*



80–93



% Decrease in Peak Acid Output



79*



50–59



88*



62–68



% Decrease in 24–hr. Intragastric Acidity



80–97



92–94


Single daily oral doses of omeprazole ranging from a dose of 10 mg to 40 mg have produced 100% inhibition of 24-hour intragastric acidity in some patients.


Serum Gastrin Effects


In studies involving more than 200 patients, serum gastrin levels increased during the first 1 to 2 weeks of once-daily administration of therapeutic doses of omeprazole in parallel with inhibition of acid secretion. No further increase in serum gastrin occurred with continued treatment. In comparison with histamine H2-receptor antagonists, the median increases produced by 20 mg doses of omeprazole were higher (1.3 to 3.6 fold vs. 1.1 to 1.8 fold increase). Gastrin values returned to pretreatment levels, usually within 1 to 2 weeks after discontinuation of therapy.


Friday, 18 May 2012

Parlodel 5mg Capsules





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



PARLODEL 5mg Capsules


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Active substance: Ergotaman-3`, 6`, 18-trione, 2-bromo-12`-hydroxy-2`-(1-methylethyl-5`-(2-methylpropyl)-, (5`alpha)-mono-methanesulphonate.



Each capsule contains 5.735mg of bromocriptine mesilate (equivalent to 5mg bromocriptine base).



For a full list of excipients see section 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Light blue and white opaque hard gelatine capsules imprinted with '5 MG' on the capsule body.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Inhibition of lactation for medical reasons



The inhibition or suppression of puerperal lactation where medically indicated such as after intrapartum loss or neonatal death.



PARLODEL is not recommended for the routine suppression of lactation or for the relief of symptoms of post-partum pain and engorgement which can be adequately treated with simple analgesics and breast support.



Hyperprolactinaemia



The treatment of hyperprolactinaemia in men and women with hypogonadism and/or galactorrhoea.



Menstrual cycle disorders and female infertility



Amenorrhoea and oligomenorrhoea, with or without galactorrhoea.



Drug-induced hyperprolactinaemic disorders.



Polycystic ovary syndrome.



Some infertile women with oligomenorrhoea or amenorrhoea and galactorrhoea may be unduly sensitive to prolactin. PARLODEL has been used successfully in the treatment of a number of infertile women with galactorrhoea who do not have demonstrable hyperprolactinaemia.



Prolactinomas



To reduce tumour size, particularly in those at risk of optic nerve compression.



Acromegaly



PARLODEL has been used in a number of specialised units, as an adjunct to surgery and/or radiotherapy to reduce circulating growth hormone in the management of acromegalic patients.



Parkinson's Disease



In the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson's Disease, PARLODEL has been used both alone and in combination with Levodopa in the management of previously untreated patients and those disabled by 'on-off' phenomena. PARLODEL has been used with occasional benefit in patients who do not respond to or are unable to tolerate Levodopa and those whose response to Levodopa is declining.



Premenstrual symptoms and benign breast disease (see section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



PARLODEL should always be taken with food.



A number of disparate conditions are amenable to treatment with PARLODEL and for this reason the recommended dosage regimens are variable.



In most indications, irrespective of the final dose, the optimum response with the minimum of side effects is best achieved by gradual introduction of PARLODEL. The following scheme is suggested: Initially, 1mg to 1.25mg at bed time, increasing after 2 to 3 days to 2mg to 2.5mg at bed time. Dosage may then be increased by 1mg to 2.5mg at 2 to 3 day intervals, until a dosage of 2.5mg twice daily is achieved. Further dosage increments, if necessary, should be added in a similar manner.



Prevention of Lactation



2.5mg on the day of delivery, followed by 2.5mg twice daily for 14 days. Treatment should be instituted within a few hours of parturition, once vital signs have been stabilised. Gradual introduction of PARLODEL is not necessary in this indication.



Suppression of Lactation for Medical Reasons



2.5mg on first day, increasing after 2 to 3 days to 2.5mg twice daily for 14 days. Gradual introduction of PARLODEL is not necessary in this indication.



Hypogonadism/Galactorrhea syndromes/Infertility



Introduce PARLODEL gradually according to the suggested scheme. Most patients with hyperprolactinaemia have responded to 7.5mg daily, in divided doses, but doses of up to 30mg daily have been used. In infertile patients without demonstrably elevated serum prolactin levels, the usual dose is 2,5mg twice daily.



Prolactinomas



Introduce PARLODEL gradually according to the suggested scheme. Dosage may then be increased by 2.5mg daily at 2 to 3 day intervals as follows: 2.5mg eight-hourly, 2.5mg six hourly, 5mg six-hourly. Daily doses should not exceed 30 mg.



Acromegaly



Introduce PARLODEL gradually, according to the suggested scheme. Dosage may then be increased by 2.5mg daily at 2 to 3 day intervals as follows 2.5mg eight-hourly, 2.5mg six-hourly, 5mg six-hourly, 5mg six-hourly.



Parkinson's Disease



Introduce PARLODEL gradually, as follows: Week 1: 1mg to 1.25mg at bed time. Week 2: 2mg to 2.5mg at bed time. Week 3: 2.5mg twice daily. Week 4: 2.5mg three times daily. Thereafter take three times a day increasing by 2.5mg every 3 to 14 days, depending on the patient's response. Continue until the optimum dose is reached. This will usually be between 10mg and 30mg daily. Daily doses should not exceed 30 mg. In patients already receiving Levodopa the dosage of this drug may gradually be decreased while the dosage daily of PARLODEL is increased until the optimum balance is determined.



Use in Children



Administration of PARLODEL is not appropriate for children less than 15 years old.



Use in Elderly



There is no clinical evidence that PARLODEL poses a special risk to the elderly.



Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment



In patients with impaired hepatic function, the speed of elimination may be retarded and plasma levels may increase, requiring dose adjustment.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to bromocriptine or to any of the excipients of PARLODEL (see Section 2 Qualitative and Quantitative composition and Section 6.1 List of excipients) or to other ergot alkaloids.



Uncontrolled hypertension, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (including eclampsia, pre-eclampsia or pregnancy-induced hypertension), hypertension post partum and in the puerperium.



PARLODEL is contraindicated for use in the suppression of lactation or other non-life threatening indications in patients with a history of coronary artery disease or other severe cardiovascular conditions, or symptoms / history of severe psychiatric disorders.



Patients with severe cardiovascular disorders or psychiatric disorders taking PARLODEL for the indication of macro-adenomas should only take it if the perceived benefits outweigh the potential risks (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions).



For long-term treatment: Evidence of cardiac valvulopathy as determined by pre-treatment echocardiography.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



PARLODEL is contraindicated for use in the suppression of lactation or other non-life threatening indications in patients with severe coronary artery disease, or symptoms and/or a history of serious mental disorders (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).



Other



There is insufficient evidence of efficacy of Parlodel in the treatment of premenstrual symptoms and benign breast disease. The use of Parlodel in patients with these conditions is therefore not recommended.



In rare cases, serious adverse events, including hypertension, myocardial infarction, seizures, stroke or psychiatric disorders have been reported in postpartum women treated with PARLODEL for inhibition of lactation. In some patients the development of seizures or stroke was preceded by severe headache and/or transient visual disturbances (see Section 4.8 Undesirable Effects).



Patients with severe cardiovascular disorders or psychiatric disorders taking PARLODEL for the indication of macro-adenomas should only take it if the perceived benefits outweigh the potential risks (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).



Blood pressure should be carefully monitored, especially during the first days of therapy. Particular caution is required in patients who are on concomitant therapy with, or have recently been treated with drugs that can alter blood pressure. Concomitant use of bromocriptine with vasoconstrictors such as sympathomimetics or ergot alkaloids including ergometrine or methylergometrine during the puerperium is not recommended.



If hypertension, unremitting headache, or any signs of CNS toxicity develop, treatment should be discontinued immediately.



Hyperprolactinaemia may be idiopathic, drug-induced, or due to hypothalamic or pituitary disease. The possibility that hyperprolactinaemic patients may have a pituitary tumour should be recognised and complete investigation at specialized units to identify such patients is advisable. PARLODEL will effectively lower prolactin levels in patients with pituitary tumours but does not obviate the necessity for radiotherapy or surgical intervention where appropriate in acromegaly.



Since patients with macro-adenomas of the pituitary might have accompanying hypopituitarism due to compression or destruction of pituitary tissue, one should make a complete evaluation of pituitary functions and institute appropriate substitution therapy prior to administration of PARLODEL. In patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency, substitution with corticosteroids is essential.



The evolution of tumour size in patients with pituitary macro-adenomas should be carefully monitored and if evidence of tumour expansion develops, surgical procedures must be considered.



If in adenoma patients, pregnancy occurs after the administration of PARLODEL, careful observation is mandatory. Prolactin-secreting adenomas may expand during pregnancy. In these patients, treatment with PARLODEL often results in tumour shrinkage and rapid improvement of the visual fields defects. In severe cases, compression of the optic or other cranial nerves may necessitate emergency pituitary surgery.



Visual field impairment is a known complication of macro-prolactinoma. Effective treatment with Parlodel leads to a reduction in hyperprolactinaemia and often to resolution of the visual impairment. In some patients, however, a secondary deterioration of visual fields may subsequently develop despite normalised prolactin levels and tumour shrinkage, which may result from traction on the optic chiasm which is pulled down into the now partially empty sella. In these cases the visual field defect may improve on reduction of bromocriptine dosage while there is some elevation of prolactin and some tumour re-expansion. Monitoring of visual fields in patients with macro-prolactinoma is therefore recommended for an early recognition of secondary field loss due to chiasmal herniation and adaptation of drug dosage.



In some patients with prolactin-secreting adenomas treated with Parlodel, cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea has been observed. The data available suggest that this may result from shrinkage of invasive tumours.



Bromocriptine has been associated with somnolence and episodes of sudden sleep onset, particularly in patients with Parkinson's disease. Sudden onset of sleep during daily activities, in some cases without awareness or warning signs, has been reported very rarely. Patients must be informed of this and advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines during treatment with bromocriptine. Patients who have experienced somnolence and/or an episode of sudden sleep onset must refrain from driving or operating machines (see Section 4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines). Furthermore, a reduction of dosage or termination of therapy may be considered.



When women of child-bearing age are treated with PARLODEL for conditions not associated with hyperprolactinaemia the lowest effective dose should be used. This is in order to avoid suppression of prolactin to below normal levels, with consequent impairment of luteal function.



Gynaecological assessment, preferably including cervical and endometrial cytology, is recommended for women receiving PARLODEL for extensive periods. Six monthly assessment is suggested for post-menopausal women and annual assessment for women with regular menstruation.



A few cases of gastrointestinal bleeding and gastric ulcer have been reported. If this occurs, PARLODEL should be withdrawn. Patients with a history of evidence of peptic ulceration should be closely monitored when receiving the treatment.



Since, especially during the first few days of treatment, hypotensive reactions may occasionally occur and result in reduced alertness, particular care should be exercised when driving a vehicle or operating machinery.



Among patients on Parlodel, particularly on long-term and high-dose treatment, pleural and pericardial effusions, as well as pleural and pulmonary fibrosis and constrictive pericarditis have occasionally been reported. Patients with unexplained pleuropulmonary disorders should be examined thoroughly and discontinuation of Parlodel therapy should be contemplated.



In a few patients on Parlodel, particularly on long-term and high-dose treatment, retroperitoneal fibrosis has been reported. To ensure recognition of retroperitoneal fibrosis at an early reversible stage it is recommended that its manifestations (e.g. back pain, oedema of the lower limbs, impaired kidney function) should be watched in this category of patients. Parlodel medication should be withdrawn if fibrotic changes in the retroperitoneum are diagnosed or suspected.



Attention should be paid to the signs and symptoms of







Appropriate investigations such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate, chest X-ray and serum creatinine measurements should be performed if necessary to support a diagnosis of a fibrotic disorder. It is also appropriate to perform baseline investigations of erythrocyte sedimentation rate or other inflammatory markers, lung function/chest X-ray and renal function prior to initiation of therapy.



These disorders can have an insidious onset and patients should be regularly and carefully monitored while taking PARLODEL for manifestations of progressive fibrotic disorders. PARLODEL should be withdrawn if fibrotic or serosal inflammatory changes are diagnosed or suspected.



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



Pathological gambling, increased libido and hypersexuality have been reported in patients treated with dopamine agonists for Parkinson's disease, including PARLODEL.



Elderly



Clinical studies for PARLODEL did not include sufficient numbers of subjects ages 65 and above to determine whether the elderly respond differently from younger subjects. However, other reported clinical experiences, including post-marketing reporting of adverse events have identified no differenced in response or tolerability between elderly and younger patients.



Even though no variation in efficacy or adverse reaction profile in elderly patients taking Parlodel has been observed, greater sensitivity in some elderly individuals cannot be categorically ruled out. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, starting at the lower end of the dose range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy in this population.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Tolerance to PARLODEL may be reduced by alcohol.



Caution is required in patients who are on concomitant therapy with, or have recently been treated with drugs that can alter blood pressure.



Although there is no conclusive evidence of an interaction between PARLODEL and other ergot alkaloids concomitant use of bromocriptine with these medications during the puerperium is not recommended (See also Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions)



The concomitant use of erythromycin and other macrolide antibiotics may increase bromocriptine plasma levels.



Bromocriptine is both a substrate and an inhibitor of CYP3A4 (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties). Caution should therefore be used when co-administering drugs which are strong inhibitors and/or substrates of this enzyme (azole antimycotics, HIV protease inhibitors). The concomitant treatment of acromegalic patients with bromocriptine and octreotide led to increased plasma levels of bromocriptine.



Dopamine antagonists such as antipsychotics (phenothiazines, butyrophenones and thioxanthenes) may reduce the prolactin-lowering and antiparkinsonian effects of bromocriptine. Metoclopramide and domperidone may reduce the prolactin-lowering effect.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



If pregnancy occurs it is generally advisable to withdraw PARLODEL after the first missed menstrual period.



Rapid expansion of pituitary tumours sometimes occurs during pregnancy and this may also occur in patients who have been able to conceive as a result of PARLODEL therapy. As a precautionary measure, patients should be monitored to detect signs of pituitary enlargement so that PARLODEL may be reintroduced if necessary. Based on the outcome of more than 2,000 pregnancies, the use of PARLODEL to restore fertility has not been associated with an increased risk of abortion, premature delivery, multiple pregnancy or malformation in infants. Because this accumulated evidence suggests a lack of teratogenic or embryopathic effects in humans, maintenance of PARLODEL treatment during pregnancy may be considered where there is a large tumour or evidence of expansion.



Lactation



Since PARLODEL inhibits lactation, it should not be administered to mothers who elect to breast-feed.



Women of child-bearing potential



Fertility may be restored by treatment with Parlodel. Women of childbearing age who do not wish to conceive should therefore be advised to practice a reliable method of contraception.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Hypotensive reactions may be disturbing in some patients during the first few days of treatment and particular care should be exercised when driving vehicles or operating machinery.



Patients being treated with bromocriptine and presenting with somnolence and/or sudden sleep episodes must be advised not to drive or engage in activities where impaired alertness may put themselves or others at risk of serious injury or death (eg. Operating machines) until such recurrent episodes and somnolence have resolved (see also Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions).



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The occurrence of side-effects can be minimised by gradual introduction of the dose or a dose reduction followed by a more gradual titration. If necessary, initial nausea and/or vomiting may be reduced by taking PARLODEL during a meal and by the intake of a peripheral dopamine antagonist, such as domperidone, for a few days, at least one hour prior to the administration of PARLODEL.



Adverse reactions are ranked under heading of frequency, the most frequent first, using the following convention: very common (



Nervous System Disorders



Common: Headache, drowsiness



Uncommon: Dizziness, dyskinesia



Rare: Somnolence, paresthesia



Very Rare: Excess daytime somnolence and sudden sleep onset



Psychiatric Disorders



Uncommon: Confusion, psychomotor agitation, hallucinations



Rare: Psychotic disorders, insomnia



Gastrointestinal Disorders



Common: Nausea, constipation



Uncommon: Vomiting, dry mouth



Rare: Diarrhoea, abdominal pain, retroperitoneal fibrosis, gastrointestinal ulcer, gastrointestinal haemorrhage



Vascular Disorders



Uncommon: Hypotension including orthostatic hypotension (which may in very rare instances lead to collapse)



Very Rare: Reversible pallor of fingers and toes induced by cold (especially in patients who have a history of Raynaud's phenomenon)



Cardiac Disorders



Rare: Tachycardia, bradycardia, arrhythmia



Very rare: Cardiac valvulopathy (including regurgitation) and related disorders (pericarditis and pericardial effusion).



Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders



Common: Nasal congestion



Rare: Pleural effusion, pleural and pulmonary fibrosis, pleuritis, dyspneoa



Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders



Uncommon: Leg cramps



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders



Uncommon: Allergic skin reactions, hair loss



General disorders and administration site conditions



Uncommon: Fatigue



Rare: Peripheral oedema



Very Rarely: A syndrome resembling Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome has been reported on withdrawal of PARLODEL.



Eye Disorders



Rare: Visual disturbances, vision blurred



Ear and Labyrinth Disorders



Rare: Tinnitus



Post-partum women



In extremely rare cases (in postpartum women treated with PARLODEL for the prevention of lactation) serious adverse events including hypertension, myocardial infarction, seizures, stroke or mental disorders have been reported, although the causal relationship is uncertain. In some patients the occurrence of seizures or stroke was preceded by severe headache and/or transient visual disturbances (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use).



Class effects



Patients treated with dopamine agonists for treatment with Parkinson's disease, including PARLODEL, especially at high doses, have been reported as exhibiting signs of pathological gambling, increased libido and hypersexuality, generally reversible upon reduction of the dose or treatment discontinuation.



4.9 Overdose



Signs and symptoms



Overdosage with PARLODEL is likely to result in vomiting and other symptoms which could be due to over stimulation of dopaminergic receptors and might include nausea, dizziness, hypotension, postural hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness, somnolence, lethargy, confusion and hallucinations. General supportive measures should be undertaken to remove any unabsorbed material and maintain blood pressure if necessary.



Overdose management



In the case of overdose, administration of activated charcoal is recommended and in the case of very recent oral intake, gastric lavage may be considered.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group:



Dopamine agonist (ATC code N04B C01)



Prolactin inhibitor (ATC code G02C B01)



PARLODEL, active ingredient bromocriptine, is an inhibitor of prolactin secretion and a stimulator of dopamine receptors. The areas of application of PARLODEL are divided into endocrinological and neurological indications. The pharmacological particulars will be discussed under each indication.



Endocrinological indications



PARLODEL inhibits the secretion of the anterior pituitary hormone prolactin without affecting normal levels of other pituitary hormones. However, PARLODEL is capable of reducing elevated levels of growth hormone (GH) in patients with acromegaly. These effects are due to stimulation of dopamine receptors.



In the puerperium prolactin is necessary for the initiation and maintenance of puerperal lactation. At other times increased prolactin secretion gives rise to pathological lactation (galactorrhoea) and/or disorders of ovulation and menstruation.



As a specific inhibitor of prolactin secretion, PARLODEL can be used to prevent or suppress physiological lactation as well as to treat prolactin-induced pathological states. In amenorrhoea and/or anovulation (with or without galactorrhoea), PARLODEL can be used to restore menstrual cycles and ovulation.



The customary measures taken during lactation suppression, such as the restriction of fluid intake are not necessary with PARLODEL. In addition, PARLODEL does not impair the puerperal involution of the uterus and does not increase the risk of thromboembolism.



PARLODEL has been shown to arrest the growth or to reduce the size of prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas (prolactinomas).



In acromegalic patients - apart from lowering the plasma levels of growth hormone and prolactin - PARLODEL has a beneficial effect on clinical symptoms and on glucose tolerance.



PARLODEL improves the clinical symptoms of the polycystic ovary syndrome by restoring a normal pattern of LH secretion.



Neurological Indications



Because of its dopaminergic activity, PARLODEL, in doses usually higher than those for endocrinological indications, is effective in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease, which is characterised by a specific nigrostriatal dopamine deficiency. The stimulation of dopamine receptors by PARLODEL can in this condition restore the neurochemical balance within the striatum.



Clinically, PARLODEL improves tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and other Parkinsonian symptoms at all stages of the disease. Usually the therapeutic effect lasts over years (so far, good results have been reported in patients treated up to eight years). PARLODEL can be given either alone or - at early as well as advanced stages - combined with other anti-Parkinsonian drugs. Combination with Levodopa treatment results in enhanced anti-Parkinsonian effects, often making possible a reduction of the Levodopa dose. PARLODEL offers particular benefit to patients on Levodopa treatment exhibiting a deteriorating therapeutic response or complications such as abnormal involuntary movements (choreoatoid dykinesia and/or painful dystonia), end-of-dose failure, and 'on-off' phenomenon.



PARLODEL improves the depressive symptomatology often observed in parkinsonian patients. This is due to its inherent antidepressant properties as substantiated by controlled studies in non-Parkinsonian patients with endogenous or psychogenic depression.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Following oral administration, PARLODEL (bromocriptine) is rapidly and well absorbed. Peak plasma levels are reached within 1-3 hours. An oral dose of 5mg of bromocriptine results in a Cmax of 0.465ng/ml. The prolactin-lowering effect occurs 1-2 hours after ingestion, reaches its maximum within about 5 hours and lasts for 8-12 hours.



PARLODEL is extensively metabolised. In plasma the elimination half life is 3-4 hours for the parent drug and 50 hours for the inactive metabolites. The parent drug and its metabolites are also completely excreted via the liver with only 6% being eliminated via the kidney. PARLODEL is 96% bound to plasma proteins.



There is no evidence that the pharmacokinetic properties and tolerability of PARLODEL are directly affected by advanced age. However, in patients with impaired hepatic function, the speed of elimination may be retarded and plasma levels may increase, requiring dose adjustment.



Biotransformation



Bromocriptine undergoes extensive first-pass biotransformation in the liver, reflected by complex metabolite profiles and by almost complete absence of parent drug in urine and faeces. It shows a high affinity for CYP3A and hydroxylations at the proline ring of the cyclopeptide moiety constitute a main metabolic pathway. Inhibitors and/or potent substrates for CYP3A4 might therefore be expected to inhibit the clearance of bromocriptine and lead to increased levels. Bromocriptine is also a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4 with a calculated IC50 value of 1.69 μM. However, given the low therapeutic concentrations of free bromocriptine in patients, a significant alteration of the metabolism of a second drug whose clearance is mediated by CYP3A4 should not be expected.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Pre-clinical data for PARLODEL (bromocriptine) reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of single and repeat dose toxicity, genotoxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenic potential or toxicity to reproduction.



Endometrial carcinomas were observed in pre-clinical rat studies at high dosages only. They are considered to be due to the species-specific sensitivity of the test animals to the pharmacological activity of bromocriptine.



Other effects in pre-clinical studies were observed only at exposures considered sufficiently in excess of the maximum human exposure indicating little relevance to clinical use.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Capsule Content:



Silica, colloidal anhydrous,



Magnesium stearate,



Maleic acid,



Maize starch,



Lactose monohydrate



Capsule Shell:



Indigo carmine (E132),



Titanium dioxide (E171),



Gelatin



Printing Ink:



Shellac (E904),



Iron Oxide Black (E172).



6.2 Incompatibilities



None.



6.3 Shelf Life










Opaque white PV/PVDC blister strip




:




24 months




Amber glass bottle




:




36 months



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Amber glass bottle:



Store below 30°C. Store in the original package in order to protect from light.



Opaque white PV/PVDC blister strip:



Store below 25°C. Store in the original package in order to protect from light.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Opaque white PV/PVDC blister strip containing 30 PARLODEL 5mg capsules.



Amber glass bottle with a tamper resistant closure containing 100 PARLODEL 5mg capsules.



Not all pack sizes will be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Meda Pharmaceuticals Ltd



249 West George Street



Glasgow



G2 4RB



Trading as: Meda Pharmaceuticals



Skyway House



Parsonage Road



Takeley



Bishop's Stortford



CM22 6PU



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 15142/0052



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



09 October 1981 / 27 October 1997



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



17 October 2011