Wednesday, October 26, 2016

erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical


e-rith-roe-MYE-sin, BEN-zoe-il per-OX-ide


Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Benzamycin Pak

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Gel/Jelly

Therapeutic Class: Antiacne


Chemical Class: Macrolide


Uses For erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide


Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide combination is used to treat acne. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne and by keeping the skin pores clean (tiny openings on the skin).


erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Before Using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide


In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide combination in children younger than 12 years of age. Safety and efficacy have not been established.


Geriatric


No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide combination in geriatric patients.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.


  • Astemizole

  • Bepridil

  • Cisapride

  • Dihydroergotamine

  • Dronedarone

  • Ergoloid Mesylates

  • Ergonovine

  • Ergotamine

  • Grepafloxacin

  • Levomethadyl

  • Mesoridazine

  • Methylergonovine

  • Methysergide

  • Pimozide

  • Posaconazole

  • Simvastatin

  • Sparfloxacin

  • Terfenadine

  • Thioridazine

  • Ziprasidone

Using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Acecainide

  • Ajmaline

  • Amiodarone

  • Amisulpride

  • Amitriptyline

  • Amoxapine

  • Apomorphine

  • Aprindine

  • Arsenic Trioxide

  • Asenapine

  • Atorvastatin

  • Azimilide

  • Azithromycin

  • Bretylium

  • Cerivastatin

  • Chloral Hydrate

  • Chloroquine

  • Chlorpromazine

  • Ciprofloxacin

  • Citalopram

  • Clarithromycin

  • Clindamycin

  • Clomipramine

  • Colchicine

  • Crizotinib

  • Dasatinib

  • Desipramine

  • Dibenzepin

  • Digoxin

  • Diltiazem

  • Disopyramide

  • Dofetilide

  • Dolasetron

  • Doxepin

  • Droperidol

  • Encainide

  • Enflurane

  • Eplerenone

  • Everolimus

  • Fentanyl

  • Flecainide

  • Fluconazole

  • Fluoxetine

  • Foscarnet

  • Gatifloxacin

  • Gemifloxacin

  • Granisetron

  • Halofantrine

  • Haloperidol

  • Halothane

  • Hydroquinidine

  • Ibutilide

  • Iloperidone

  • Imipramine

  • Isoflurane

  • Isradipine

  • Itraconazole

  • Ketoconazole

  • Lapatinib

  • Levofloxacin

  • Lidoflazine

  • Lopinavir

  • Lorcainide

  • Lovastatin

  • Lumefantrine

  • Mefloquine

  • Moxifloxacin

  • Nilotinib

  • Norfloxacin

  • Nortriptyline

  • Octreotide

  • Ofloxacin

  • Ondansetron

  • Oxycodone

  • Paliperidone

  • Pazopanib

  • Pentamidine

  • Perflutren Lipid Microsphere

  • Pirmenol

  • Pitavastatin

  • Prajmaline

  • Probucol

  • Procainamide

  • Prochlorperazine

  • Promethazine

  • Propafenone

  • Protriptyline

  • Quetiapine

  • Quinidine

  • Quinine

  • Ranolazine

  • Risperidone

  • Saquinavir

  • Sematilide

  • Sertindole

  • Sertraline

  • Sodium Phosphate

  • Sodium Phosphate, Dibasic

  • Sodium Phosphate, Monobasic

  • Solifenacin

  • Sorafenib

  • Sotalol

  • Spiramycin

  • Sulfamethoxazole

  • Sultopride

  • Sunitinib

  • Tadalafil

  • Tedisamil

  • Telavancin

  • Telithromycin

  • Tetrabenazine

  • Theophylline

  • Tolvaptan

  • Toremifene

  • Trazodone

  • Trifluoperazine

  • Trimethoprim

  • Trimipramine

  • Troleandomycin

  • Vandetanib

  • Vasopressin

  • Vemurafenib

  • Verapamil

  • Voriconazole

  • Zolmitriptan

  • Zotepine

Using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Alfentanil

  • Alprazolam

  • Anisindione

  • Bexarotene

  • Budesonide

  • Buspirone

  • Carbamazepine

  • Cilostazol

  • Clozapine

  • Cyclosporine

  • Diazepam

  • Dicumarol

  • Fesoterodine

  • Methylprednisolone

  • Midazolam

  • Phenprocoumon

  • Roflumilast

  • Salmeterol

  • Sildenafil

  • Sirolimus

  • Tacrolimus

  • Tolterodine

  • Triazolam

  • Trimetrexate

  • Valproic Acid

  • Zafirlukast

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Other Medical Problems


The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


  • Diarrhea, severe or

  • Fungal infections—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

Proper Use of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide


It is very important that you use erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide only as directed. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause your skin to become irritated. You may need to use erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide for several weeks or months before your skin starts to look better. Applying extra medicine will not make it work faster.


erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.


To use:


  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide.

  • Before applying erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, wash the affected area(s) with warm water and mild soap. Rinse well and gently pat dry.

  • Apply a small amount of the medicine, using enough to cover the affected area(s) of the skin (e.g., forehead, chin, cheeks, chest, shoulders), and gently rub it in. You should apply the medicine to the whole area usually affected by acne, not just to the pimples themselves.

Benzamycin® Pak is available in one foil pouch that has two separated compartments. If you are using this brand, open the pouch and mix the contents in the palm of your hand thoroughly. Apply the product right away after mixing. Do not mix or apply the medicine near an open flame.


After washing or shaving, it is best to wait 30 minutes before applying the medicine. The alcohol in the mixed medicine may irritate freshly washed or shaved skin.


Avoid washing the acne-affected area(s) too often. This may dry your skin and make your acne worse. Washing with a mild, bland soap 2 or 3 times a day should be enough, unless you have oily skin. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.


Do not use erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide after the expiration date on the label. The medicine may not work properly. Get a fresh supply from your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist if you have any questions about this.


To help keep your acne under control, keep using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide for the full time of treatment. You may have to continue using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide every day for months or even longer in some cases.


Dosing


The dose of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.


The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.


  • For topical dosage form (gel):
    • For acne:
      • Adults, teenagers, and children 12 years of age and older—Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) of the skin two times a day (morning and evening), or as directed by your doctor.

      • Children below 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.



Missed Dose


If you miss a dose of erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.


Storage


Keep out of the reach of children.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.


Keep the Benzamycin® Pak in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.


Store the Benzamycin® topical gel in the refrigerator, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after 3 months.


Precautions While Using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide


It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it.


erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide may cause diarrhea, and in some cases it can be severe. Do not take any medicine to treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor. Diarrhea medicines may make the diarrhea worse or make it last longer. If you have any questions about this or if mild diarrhea continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.


erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. You may need to wear protective clothing, such as a hat.


If you develop severe swelling, shortness of breath, or any allergic reaction to erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, stop using the medicine and check with your doctor right away.


If your acne does not improve within 3 to 4 weeks, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor. However, treatment of acne may take up to 8 to 12 weeks before you see full improvement.


If your doctor has ordered another medicine to be applied to the skin along with erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide, it is best to apply the second medicine at least 1 hour after you apply the first medicine. This may help keep your skin from becoming too irritated. Also, if the medicines are used too close together, they may not work properly.


Mild stinging or burning of the skin may be expected after erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide is applied. These effects may last up to a few minutes or more. If irritation continues, check with your doctor. You may have to use the medicine less often. Follow your doctor's directions.


You may continue to use cosmetics (make-up) while you are using erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide for acne. However, it is best to use only ``oil-free'' cosmetics. Also, it is best not to use cosmetics too heavily or too often. They may make your acne worse. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.


Do not use any other medicines on the treated skin areas without asking your doctor. Avoid using any skin care products that can dry or irritate your skin. These include skin peeling agents.


Do not apply the medicine to your hair or to any colored fabric. erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide may cause bleaching.


erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Side Effects


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


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


Less common or rare
  • Burning, blistering, crusting, itching, severe redness, or swelling of the skin

  • dryness or peeling of the skin

  • eye irritation

  • feeling of warmth, mild stinging, or redness of the skin

  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

  • oiliness or tenderness of the skin

  • painful irritation of the skin

  • redness or other discoloration of the skin

  • redness, swelling, or itching of the eyelid

  • severe sunburn

  • skin rash

  • swelling of the eyes, face, and nose

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.


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

See also: erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical side effects (in more detail)



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


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


More erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical resources


  • Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical Drug Interactions
  • Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical Support Group
  • 3 Reviews for Erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical - Add your own review/rating


Compare erythromycin and benzoyl peroxide Topical with other medications


  • Acne

Effer-K


Generic Name: potassium supplement (Oral route, Parenteral route)


Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Effer-K

  • Glu-K

  • K+Care ET

  • K-Lyte

  • K-Lyte Cl

  • K-Tab

  • Potassimin

  • Tri-K

  • Urocit-K 10

In Canada


  • K-10 Solution

  • Kaochlor 10

  • Kaochlor 20

  • Kaon

  • K-Lor

  • K-Lyte/Ci

  • Potassium Chloride

  • Potassium-Rougier

  • Roychlor

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Tablet, Effervescent

  • Solution

  • Capsule

  • Tablet, Extended Release

  • Powder for Suspension, Extended Release

  • Tablet

  • Powder for Suspension

  • Liquid

  • Elixir

  • Granule

  • Capsule, Extended Release

  • Powder for Solution

Uses For Effer-K


Potassium is needed to maintain good health. Although a balanced diet usually supplies all the potassium a person needs, potassium supplements may be needed by patients who do not have enough potassium in their regular diet or have lost too much potassium because of illness or treatment with certain medicines.


There is no evidence that potassium supplements are useful in the treatment of high blood pressure.


Lack of potassium may cause muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, mood changes, or nausea and vomiting.


Injectable potassium is administered only by or under the supervision of your doctor. Some forms of oral potassium may be available in stores without a prescription. Since too much potassium may cause health problems, you should take potassium supplements only if directed by your doctor.


Importance of Diet


For good health, it is important that you eat a balanced and varied diet. Follow carefully any diet program your health care professional may recommend. For your specific dietary vitamin and/or mineral needs, ask your health care professional for a list of appropriate foods.


The following table includes some potassium-rich foods.






























































Food (amount)Milligrams

of potassium
Milliequivalents

of potassium
Acorn squash, cooked

(1 cup)
89623
Potato with skin, baked

(1 long)
84422
Spinach, cooked

(1 cup)
83821
Lentils, cooked

(1 cup)
73119
Kidney beans, cooked

(1 cup)
71318
Split peas, cooked

(1 cup)
71018
White navy beans, cooked

(1 cup)
66917
Butternut squash, cooked

(1 cup)
58315
Watermelon

(1/16)
56014
Raisins

(½ cup)
55314
Yogurt, low-fat, plain

(1 cup)
53114
Orange juice, frozen

(1 cup)
50313
Brussel sprouts, cooked

(1 cup)
49413
Zucchini, cooked, sliced

(1 cup)
45612
Banana

(medium)
45112
Collards, frozen, cooked

(1 cup)
42711
Cantaloupe

(¼)
41211
Milk, low-fat 1%

(1 cup)
3489
Broccoli, frozen, cooked

(1 cup)
3329

The daily amount of potassium needed is defined in several different ways.


  • For U.S.—

  • Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) are the amount of vitamins and minerals needed to provide for adequate nutrition in most healthy persons. RDAs for a given nutrient may vary depending on a person's age, sex, and physical condition (e.g., pregnancy).

  • Daily Values (DVs) are used on food and dietary supplement labels to indicate the percent of the recommended daily amount of each nutrient that a serving provides. DV replaces the previous designation of United States Recommended Daily Allowances (USRDAs).

  • For Canada—

  • Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs) are used to determine the amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein needed to provide adequate nutrition and lessen the risk of chronic disease.

Because lack of potassium is rare, there is no RDA or RNI for this mineral. However, it is thought that 1600 to 2000 mg (40 to 50 milliequivalents [mEq]) per day for adults is adequate.


Remember:


  • The total amount of potassium that you get every day includes what you get from food and what you may take as a supplement. Read the labels of processed foods. Many foods now have added potassium.

  • Your total intake of potassium should not be greater than the recommended amounts, unless ordered by your doctor. In some cases, too much potassium may cause muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or difficult breathing.

Before Using Effer-K


If you are taking a dietary supplement without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label. For these supplements, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to medicines in this group or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Although there is no specific information comparing use of potassium supplements in children with use in other age groups, they are not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than they do in adults.


Geriatric


Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults. Although there is no specific information comparing use of potassium supplements in the elderly with use in other age groups, they are not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than they do in younger adults.


Older adults may be at a greater risk of developing high blood levels of potassium (hyperkalemia).


Pregnancy


Potassium supplements have not been shown to cause problems in humans.


Breast Feeding


Potassium supplements pass into breast milk. However, this medicine has not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking any of these dietary supplements, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using dietary supplements in this class with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with dietary supplements in this class or change some of the other medicines you take.


  • Amantadine

  • Atropine

  • Belladonna

  • Belladonna Alkaloids

  • Benztropine

  • Biperiden

  • Clidinium

  • Darifenacin

  • Dicyclomine

  • Eplerenone

  • Glycopyrrolate

  • Hyoscyamine

  • Methscopolamine

  • Oxybutynin

  • Procyclidine

  • Scopolamine

  • Solifenacin

  • Tolterodine

  • Trihexyphenidyl

Using dietary supplements in this class with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Alacepril

  • Amiloride

  • Benazepril

  • Canrenoate

  • Captopril

  • Cilazapril

  • Delapril

  • Enalaprilat

  • Enalapril Maleate

  • Fosinopril

  • Imidapril

  • Indomethacin

  • Lisinopril

  • Moexipril

  • Pentopril

  • Perindopril

  • Quinapril

  • Ramipril

  • Spirapril

  • Spironolactone

  • Temocapril

  • Trandolapril

  • Triamterene

  • Zofenopril

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


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


Other Medical Problems


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


  • Addison's disease (underactive adrenal glands) or

  • Dehydration (excessive loss of body water, continuing or severe)

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus or

  • Kidney disease—Potassium supplements may increase the risk of hyperkalemia (high blood levels of potassium), which may worsen or cause heart problems in patients with these conditions.

  • Diarrhea (continuing or severe)—The loss of fluid in combination with potassium supplements may cause kidney problems, which may increase the risk of hyperkalemia (high blood levels of potassium).

  • Heart disease—Potassium supplements may make this condition worse.

  • Intestinal or esophageal blockage—Potassium supplements may damage the intestines.

  • Stomach ulcer—Potassium supplements may make this condition worse.

Proper Use of potassium supplement

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain potassium supplement. It may not be specific to Effer-K. Please read with care.


For patients taking the liquid form of this medicine:


  • This medicine must be diluted in at least one-half glass (4 ounces) of cold water or juice to reduce its possible stomach-irritating or laxative effect.

  • If you are on a salt (sodium)-restricted diet, check with your doctor before using tomato juice to dilute your medicine. Tomato juice has a high salt content.

For patients taking the soluble granule, soluble powder, or soluble tablet form of this medicine:


  • This medicine must be completely dissolved in at least one-half glass (4 ounces) of cold water or juice to reduce its possible stomach-irritating or laxative effect.

  • Allow any "fizzing" to stop before taking the dissolved medicine.

  • If you are on a salt (sodium)-restricted diet, check with your doctor before using tomato juice to dilute your medicine. Tomato juice has a high salt content.

For patients taking the extended-release tablet form of this medicine:


  • Swallow the tablets whole with a full (8-ounce) glass of water. Do not chew or suck on the tablet.

  • Some tablets may be broken or crushed and sprinkled on applesauce or other soft food. However, check with your doctor or pharmacist first, since this should not be done for most tablets.

  • If you have trouble swallowing tablets or if they seem to stick in your throat, check with your doctor. When this medicine is not properly released, it can cause irritation that may lead to ulcers.

For patients taking the extended-release capsule form of this medicine:


  • Do not crush or chew the capsule. Swallow the capsule whole with a full (8-ounce) glass of water.

  • Some capsules may be opened and the contents sprinkled on applesauce or other soft food. However, check with your doctor or pharmacist first, since this should not be done for most capsules.

Take this medicine immediately after meals or with food to lessen possible stomach upset or laxative action.


Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This is especially important if you are also taking both diuretics (water pills) and digitalis medicines for your heart.


Dosing


The dose medicines in this class will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of these medicines. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.


The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.


  • For potassium bicarbonate

  • For oral dosage forms (tablets for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—25 to 50 milliequivalents (mEq) dissolved in one-half to one glass of cold water, taken one or two times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For potassium bicarbonate and potassium chloride

  • For oral dosage form (granules for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 milliequivalents (mEq) dissolved in one-half to one glass of cold water, taken one or two times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For oral dosage form (tablets for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20, 25, or 50 mEq dissolved in one-half to one glass of cold water, taken one or two times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For potassium bicarbonate and potassium citrate

  • For oral dosage form (tablets for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—25 or 50 milliequivalents (mEq) dissolved in one-half to one glass of cold water, taken one or two times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For potassium chloride

  • For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release capsules):
    • To replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—40 to 100 milliequivalents (mEq) a day, divided into two or three smaller doses during the day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.


    • To prevent potassium loss:
      • Adults and teenagers—16 to 24 mEq a day, divided into two or three smaller doses during the day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For long-acting oral dosage forms (liquid for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 mEq mixed into one-half glass of cold water or juice, taken one to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 1 to 3 mEq of potassium per kilogram (kg) (0.45 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be well mixed in water or juice.



  • For oral dosage form (powder for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—15 to 25 mEq dissolved in four to six ounces of cold water, taken two or four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 1 to 3 mEq per kg (0.45 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be mixed into water or juice.



  • For oral dosage form (powder for suspension):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 mEq dissolved in two to six ounces of cold water, taken one to five times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—6.7 to 20 mEq taken three times a day. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For oral dosage form (liquid for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 milliequivalents (mEq) mixed into one-half glass of cold water or juice, taken two to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 to 3 mEq per kilogram (kg) (0.9 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight a day, taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be completely mixed into water or juice.



  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—5 to 10 mEq taken two to four times a day. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose must be determined by your doctor.



  • For potassium gluconate and potassium chloride

  • For oral dosage form (liquid for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 milliequivalents (mEq) diluted in 2 tablespoonfuls or more of cold water or juice, taken two to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 to 3 mEq per kilogram (kg) (0.9 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be well mixed into water or juice.



  • For oral dosage form (powder for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 mEq mixed in 2 tablespoonfuls or more of cold water or juice taken two to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is base on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 to 3 mEq per kg (0.9 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be well mixed into water or juice.



  • For potassium gluconate and potassium citrate

  • For oral dosage form (liquid for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—20 milliequivalents (mEq) mixed into one-half glass of cold water or juice, taken two to four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 to 3 mEq per kg (0.9 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be well mixed into water or juice.



  • For trikates

  • For oral dosage form (liquid for solution):
    • To prevent potassium loss or replace potassium lost by the body:
      • Adults and teenagers—15 milliequivalents (mEq) mixed into one-half glass of cold water or juice, taken three or four times a day. Your doctor may change the dose if needed. However, most people will not take more than 100 mEq a day.

      • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 2 to 3 mEq per kilogram (kg) (0.9 to 1.36 mEq per pound) of body weight taken in smaller doses during the day. The solution should be well mixed into water or juice.



Missed Dose


If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.


Storage


Keep out of the reach of children.


Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.


Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.


Precautions While Using Effer-K


Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits to make sure the medicine is working properly and that possible side effects are avoided. Laboratory tests may be necessary.


Do not use salt substitutes, eat low-sodium foods, especially some breads and canned foods, or drink low-sodium milk unless you are told to do so by your doctor, since these products may contain potassium. It is important to read the labels carefully on all low-sodium food products.


Check with your doctor before starting any physical exercise program, especially if you are out of condition and are taking any other medicine. Exercise and certain medicines may increase the amount of potassium in the blood.


Check with your doctor at once if you notice blackish stools or other signs of stomach or intestinal bleeding. This medicine may cause such a condition to become worse, especially when taken in tablet form.


Effer-K Side Effects


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


Stop taking this medicine and check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:


Less common
  • Confusion

  • irregular or slow heartbeat

  • numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips

  • shortness of breath or difficult breathing

  • unexplained anxiety

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • weakness or heaviness of legs

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:


Rare
  • Abdominal or stomach pain, cramping, or soreness (continuing)

  • chest or throat pain, especially when swallowing

  • stools with signs of blood (red or black color)

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


More common
  • Diarrhea

  • nausea

  • stomach pain, discomfort, or gas (mild)

  • vomiting

Sometimes you may see what appears to be a whole tablet in the stool after taking certain extended-release potassium chloride tablets. This is to be expected. Your body has absorbed the potassium from the tablet and the shell is then expelled.


Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.


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



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


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

Ethionamide


Class: Antituberculosis Agents
VA Class: AM500
CAS Number: 536-33-4
Brands: Trecator

Introduction

Antituberculosis agent; synthetic isonicotinic acid derivative.127


Uses for Ethionamide


Tuberculosis


Treatment of active (clinical) tuberculosis (TB) in conjunction with other antituberculosis agents.106 107 127


Second-line agent used in treatment of drug-resistant TB caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis known or presumed to be susceptible to ethionamide when isoniazid and/or rifampin cannot be used because of resistance and/or intolerance.106 107


For initial treatment of active TB caused by drug-susceptible M. tuberculosis, recommended multiple-drug regimens consist of an initial intensive phase (2 months) and a continuation phase (4 or 7 months).106 Although the usual duration of treatment for drug-susceptible pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB (except disseminated infections and TB meningitis) is 6–9 months,106 107 ATS, CDC, and IDSA state that completion of treatment is determined more accurately by the total number of doses and should not be based solely on the duration of therapy.106 A longer duration of treatment (e.g., 12–24 months) usually is necessary for infections caused by drug-resistant M. tuberculosis.106 107


Patients with treatment failure or drug-resistant M. tuberculosis, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB (resistant to both isoniazid and rifampin) or extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB (resistant to both isoniazid and rifampin and also resistant to a fluoroquinolone and at least one parenteral second-line antimycobacterial such as capreomycin, kanamycin, or amikacin), should be referred to or managed in consultation with experts in the treatment of TB as identified by local or state health departments or CDC.106 127


Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC) Infections


Has been used as an alternative agent in multiple-drug regimens used for treatment of M. avium complex (MAC) infections.113 Evidence of clinical efficacy not available;113 not included in current ATS, CDC, NIH, or IDSA recommendations for treatment of MAC infections, including macrolide-resistant MAC.113 e f


Treatment of MAC infections is complicated and should be directed by clinicians familiar with mycobacterial diseases; consultation with a specialist is particularly important when the patient cannot tolerate first-line drugs or when the infection has not responded to prior therapy or is caused by macrolide-resistant MAC.113


Leprosy


Has been used for treatment of multibacillary leprosy in conjunction with other antimycobacterials.104 105


Previously recommended as an alternative agent for use in multiple-drug regimens in leprosy patients who would not accept or could not tolerate clofazimine,104 105 but WHO no longer recommends use of ethionamide for leprosy because severe hepatotoxicity has been reported.116 123


Ethionamide Dosage and Administration


Administration


Oral Administration


Administer orally.127


May be administered without regard to meals,127 but should be given at the time of day that the patient finds most suitable to avoid or minimize GI intolerance, which usually is at mealtimes.127


Administered as a single daily dose (usually at bedtime or with the main meal).106 127 a If GI effects occur, give in divided doses with meals.106 127 a


Since severity of adverse GI effects may diminish as treatment proceeds, patients should be encouraged to persevere with ethionamide treatment if GI effects occur.127


Concomitant use of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is recommended to prevent or relieve neurotoxic effects.127


Dosage


Should not be used alone for treatment of TB; must be given in conjunction with other antituberculosis agents.106 107 127


Data not available to date to support use of ethionamide in intermittent (e.g., 1–3 times weekly) multiple-drug TB regimens.106


Pediatric Patients


Tuberculosis

Treatment of Active (Clinical) Tuberculosis

Oral

Children <15 years of age or weighing ≤40 kg: 15–20 mg/kg daily (up to 1 g daily) given in 2 or 3 divided doses recommended by ATS, CDC, IDSA, and AAP.106 107 Manufacturer states that optimum dosage has not been established, but that dosages of 10–20 mg/kg daily given in 2 or 3 divided doses or 15 mg/kg daily as a single dose have been recommended.127


Adolescents ≥15 years of age: 15–20 mg/kg daily (up to 1 g daily) recommended by ATS, CDC, and IDSA.106 Usual dosage is 500–750 mg daily as a single dose or in 2 divided doses.106


Adults


Tuberculosis

Treatment of Active (Clinical) Tuberculosis

Oral

15–20 mg/kg daily (up to 1 g daily) recommended by ATS, CDC, and IDSA.106 Usual dosage is 500–750 mg daily as a single dose or 2 divided doses.106


Manufacturer states that it may be beneficial to initiate therapy using a dosage of 250 mg daily and then gradually titrate to optimal dosage (up to 1 g daily) as tolerated by the patient.127 A regimen consisting of ethionamide 250 mg daily for 1–2 days, followed by 250 mg twice daily for 1–2 days with a subsequent increase to 1 g daily in 3 or 4 divided doses, has been used.127 The minimum effective dosage has not been identified; use highest tolerated dosage (usually 0.5–1 g daily).127


Prescribing Limits


Pediatric Patients


Tuberculosis

Treatment of Active (Clinical) Tuberculosis

Oral

Maximum 1 g daily.106 107


Adults


Tuberculosis

Treatment of Active (Clinical) Tuberculosis

Oral

Maximum 1 g daily.106 127


Special Populations


Renal Impairment


Some experts suggest a dosage of 250–500 mg daily for treatment of TB in patients with Clcr <30 mL/minute or undergoing hemodialysis.106


Cautions for Ethionamide


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to ethionamide or any ingredient in the formulation.127




  • Severe hepatic impairment.127



Warnings/Precautions


General Precautions


Hepatic Effects

Hepatitis (with or without jaundice) reported.127 Transient increases in serum bilirubin, AST, and ALT have occurred.127


Determine serum AST and ALT concentrations at baseline and at monthly intervals.106 127 If AST or ALT concentrations become elevated, temporarily discontinue ethionamide and concomitant antituberculosis drugs until laboratory abnormalities resolve.127 Reintroduce ethionamide and concomitant antituberculosis drugs sequentially to determine which drug(s) are responsible for hepatotoxicity.127


Diabetes Mellitus

Measure blood glucose at baseline and periodically during therapy.127


Use caution in diabetic patients;127 must be particularly alert for episodes of hypoglycemia.127


Nervous System and Ophthalmic Effects

Psychotic disturbances (including mental depression), drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, headache, and postural hypotension reported.127


Peripheral neuritis, diplopia, optic neuritis, blurred vision, and a pellagra-like syndrome reported rarely.127


Perform ophthalmic evaluations (including ophthalmoscopy) at baseline and periodically during therapy.127


Manufacturer recommends concomitant use of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) to prevent or relieve neurotoxic effects.127


Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism (with or without goiter) reported.127


Monitor thyroid function.127


Some experts recommend determining thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations at baseline and at monthly intervals.106


Precautions Related to Treatment of Tuberculosis

Should not be used alone for treatment of TB; must be given in conjunction with other antituberculosis agents.106 107 127


Clinical specimens for microscopic examination and mycobacterial cultures and in vitro susceptibility testing should be obtained prior to initiation of antituberculosis therapy and periodically during treatment to monitor therapeutic response.106 127 The antituberculosis regimen should be modified as needed.106 Patients with positive cultures after 4 months of treatment should be considered to have failed treatment (usually as the result of noncompliance or drug-resistant TB).106


If ethionamide is added as a new drug to a regimen in patients experiencing treatment failure who have proven or suspected drug-resistant TB, at least 2 (preferably 3) new drugs known or expected to be active against the resistant strain should be added at the same time.106


Compliance with the full course of antituberculosis therapy and all drugs included in the multiple-drug regimen is critical.106 Missed doses increase the risk of treatment failure and increase the risk that M. tuberculosis will develop resistance to the antituberculosis regimen.106


To ensure compliance, ATS, CDC, IDSA, and AAP recommend that directly observed (supervised) therapy (DOT) be used for treatment of active (clinical) TB whenever possible, especially when intermittent regimens are used, when the patient is immunocompromised or infected with HIV, or when drug-resistant M. tuberculosis is involved.106 107


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category C.127


ATS, CDC, and IDSA state that ethionamide should not be used in pregnant women.106


Lactation

Not known whether ethionamide is distributed into milk.127 Use with caution and only when benefits outweigh risks; carefully observe breast-fed infants for adverse effects.127


Pediatric Use

Limited data are available.127


Manufacturer states the drug should not be used in children <12 years of age except when TB is known to be resistant to first-line therapy and systemic dissemination of the disease or other life-threatening complications of TB are judged to be imminent.127


Hepatic Impairment

Use caution in patients with hepatic disease;106 contraindicated in those with severe hepatic impairment.127


Renal Impairment

Dosage reduction advised.106 (See Renal Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Common Adverse Effects


Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, metallic taste, stomatitis, anorexia, weight loss.127


Interactions for Ethionamide


Specific Drugs















Drug



Interaction



Comments



Alcohol



Psychotic reaction reported127



Avoid excessive alcohol ingestion127



Cycloserine



Possible increased risk of adverse effects; seizures reported127



Use concomitantly with caution127



Isoniazid



Increased isoniazid concentrations127



Use concomitantly with caution127


Ethionamide Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Essentially completely absorbed following oral administration; does not undergo any appreciable first-pass metabolism.127 Peak plasma concentrations attained within about 1 hour.127


Peak plasma concentrations are higher and attained more quickly with ethionamide film-coated tablets (Trecator) than with the previously available sugar-coated tablets (Trecator-SC); AUC is similar for both preparations.128


Distribution


Extent


Studies using sugar-coated tablets (Trecator-SC; no longer commercially available in the US) indicate ethionamide is rapidly and widely distributed into body tissues and fluids and concentrations in plasma and various organs are approximately equal.127 Although studies have not been performed to date with ethionamide film-coated tablets (Trecator), distribution of the drug is expected to be the same as that reported with the sugar-coated tablets.127


CSF concentrations may be equal to concurrent plasma concentrations.106


Crosses placenta.106


Not known whether ethionamide is distributed into milk.127


Plasma Protein Binding


30%.127


Elimination


Metabolism


Metabolized to active and inactive metabolites in the liver.127


Elimination Route


Less than 1% of an oral dose is excreted in urine127 as active drug and metabolites;a the remainder is excreted in urine as inactive metabolites.a


Only low concentrations removed by hemodialysis.106 129


Half-life


1.9–3 hours.127 129 a


Stability


Storage


Oral


Tablets

20–25°C in a tight container.127


Actions and SpectrumActions



  • Bactericidal or bacteriostatic in action.127 b d




  • Appears to inhibit peptide synthesis in susceptible organisms.127 Like isoniazid, ethionamide inhibits mycolic acid synthesis in susceptible organisms.d May form covalent adducts with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD).d




  • A highly specific agent; active only against Mycobacterium.a Active against M. tuberculosis,a b d M. bovis,a M. kansasii,113 a and M. malmoense.113 Some strains of M. avium complex (MAC) may be susceptible,a b c but high concentrations may be required.c Also active against M. leprae.a d




  • Natural and acquired resistance to ethionamide demonstrated in vitro and in vivo in strains of M. tuberculosis.a




  • Cross-resistance may occur between ethionamide and isoniazid or thiosemicarbazones such as thiacetazone (drugs not commercially available in the US).127 No evidence of cross-resistance between ethionamide and aminosalicylic acid, cycloserine, or streptomycin.127



Advice to Patients



  • Advise patients that poor compliance with antituberculosis regimens can result in treatment failure and development of drug-resistant TB, which can be life-threatening and lead to other serious health risks.106 127




  • Importance of completing full course of therapy; importance of not missing any doses.127




  • Importance of informing clinicians of any change in visual acuity (with or without eye pain).127




  • Importance of avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.127




  • Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, as well as any concomitant illnesses.127




  • Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.127




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.127 (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.













Ethionamide

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Oral



Tablets, film-coated



250 mg



Trecator (with povidone)



Wyeth



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions February 2008. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.


† Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.




References



100. Drucker D, Eggo MC, Salit IE et al. Ethionamide-induced goitrous hypothyroidism. Ann Intern Med. 1984; 100:837-9. [IDIS 186246] [PubMed 6721300]



101. Gupta DK. Acceptability of thioamides. I. Ethionamide. J Postgrad Med. 1977; 23:175-80. [PubMed 615264]



102. Moulding T, Fraser R. Hypothyroidism related to ethionamide. Am Rev Respir Dis. 1970; 101:90-4. [PubMed 5410078]



103. Schless JM, Allison RF, Inglis RM et al. The use of ethionamide in combined drug regimens in the re-treatment of isoniazid resistant pulmonary tuberculosis. Am Rev Respir Dis. 1965; 91:728-37. [PubMed 14280946]



104. Report of a WHO Study Group. Chemotherapy of leprosy for control programmes. Technical Report Series No. 675. Geneva: World Health Organization; 1982:3-33.



105. Jacobson RR. Treatment. In: Hastings RC, ed. Leprosy. New York: Churchill Livingstone; 1985:193-222.



106. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment of tuberculosis, American Thoracic Society, CDC, and Infectious Diseases Society of America. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2003; 52(RR-11):1-77.



107. American Academy of Pediatrics. 2006 Red Book: Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases. 27th ed. Elk Grove Village, IL: American Academy of Pediatrics; 2006.



110. Donald PR, Seifart HI. Cerebrospinal fluid concentrations of ethionamide in children with tuberculous meningitis. J Pediatr. 1989; 115:483-6. [IDIS 259454] [PubMed 2769511]



113. Griffith DE, Aksamit T, Brown-Elliott BA et al. An official ATS/IDSA statement: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of nontuberculous mycobacterial diseases. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2007; 175:367-416. [PubMed 17277290]



114. Reviewers’ comments (personal observations) on the Antituberculosis Agents General Statement 8:16.04.



115. Wyeth. Trecator-SC (ethionamide) sugar-coated tablets prescribing information. Philadelphia, PA; 2002 Mar 14.



116. WHO Expert Committee on Leprosy. Seventh Report. WHO Technical Report Series No. 874. Geneva: World Health Organization; 1998:1-43.



117. Whitty CJ, Lockwood DN. Leprosy—new perspectives on an old disease. J Infect. 1999; 38:2-5. [IDIS 424615] [PubMed 10090496]



118. Jacobson RR, Krahenbuhl JL. Leprosy. Lancet. 1999; 353:655-60. [IDIS 421539] [PubMed 10030346]



119. MacDougall AC, Ulrich MI. Mycobacterial Disease: Leprosy. In: Fitzpatrick TB, Eisen AZ, Wolff K et al, eds. Dermatology in General Medicine, 4th ed. New York, NY: McGraw -Hill Inc; 1993:2395-2410.



120. Panda S. Let’s learn some clinical facts on leprosy - before it is eradicated. Bull on Drug Health Information (India). 1998; 5:5-12.



121. Anon. Choice of antibacterial drugs. Med Lett Treat Guid. 2004; 2:18-26.



122. Anon. Essential drugs. WHO Model Formulary. Antibacterials. Antileprosy Drugs. WHO Drug Information. 1997; 11:253.



123. WHO Study Group on Chemotherapy of Leprosy. Seventh Report. WHO Technical Report Series No. 847. Geneva: World Health Organization; 1994:1-24.



124. WHO. Action Programme for the elimination of leprosy (LEP). From WHO Website () 1999 Sept 23.



125. WHO. Reports on individual drugs. Simplified treatment for leprosy. WHO Drug Information. 1997; 11:131.



126. Single-lesion multicentre trial group. Efficacy of single-dose multidrug therapy for the treatment of single-lesion paucibacillary leprosy. Indian J Leprosy. 1997; 69:121-9.



127. Wyeth. Trecator (ethionamide) tablets prescribing information. Philadelphia, PA; 2006 Sept.



128. Tucker HR. Dear healthcare provider letter regarding reformulation of Trecator-SC (ethionamide sugar-coated tablets). Philadelphia, PA: Wyeth Pharmaceuticals; 2005 Mar 10.



129. Malone RS, Fish DN, Spiegel DM et al. The effect of hemodialysis on cycloserine, ethionamide, para-aminosalicylate, and clofazimine. Chest. 1999; 116:984-90. [IDIS 437367] [PubMed 10531163]



a. AHFS Drug Information 2007. McEvoy GK, ed. Ethionamide. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2007:552-4.



b. Heifets LB, Lindholm-Levy JP, Flory M. Comparison of bacteristatic and bactericidal activity of isoniazid and ethionamide against Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Am Rev Respir Dis. 1991; 143:268-70. [PubMed 1899326]



c. Rastogi N, Bauriaud RM, Bourgoin A et al. French multicenter study involving eight test sites for radiometric determination of activities of 10 antimicrobial agents against Mycobacterium avium complex. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 1995; 39:638-44. [PubMed 7793865]



d. Wang F, Langley R, Gulten G et al. Mechanism of thioamide drug action against tuberculosis and leprosy. J Exp Med. 2007; 204:73-8. [PubMed 17227913]



e. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treating opportunistic infections among HIV-infected adults and adolescents: recommendations from CDC, the National Institutes of Health, and the HIV Medicine Association/Infectious Diseases Society of America. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2004; 53(RR-15):1-112.



f. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treating opportunistic infections among HIV-exposed and infected children: recommendations from CDC, the National Institutes of Health, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2004; 53(RR-14):1-92.



More Ethionamide resources


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


  • Ethionamide Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ethionamide MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • ethionamide Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • ethionamide Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Trecator Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Ethionamide with other medications


  • Tuberculosis, Active

Effer-K


Pronunciation: poe-TAS-ee-um bye-KAR-bo-nate/SIT-rik AS-id
Generic Name: Potassium Bicarbonate/Citric Acid
Brand Name: Effer-K


Effer-K is used for:

Preventing or treating low blood potassium levels in certain patients. It also may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Effer-K is a potassium supplement. It replaces potassium in the blood.


Do NOT use Effer-K if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Effer-K

  • you have high potassium or nitrogen levels in the blood

  • you have decreased urine output

  • you are taking an aldosterone blocker (eg, eplerenone), an aluminum salt (eg, aluminum hydroxide), or a potassium-sparing diuretic (eg, spironolactone)

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Effer-K:


Some medical conditions may interact with Effer-K. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have heart problems (eg, irregular heartbeat, heart block), kidney problems, difficulty swallowing, stomach or bowel blockage, peptic ulcer, or uncontrolled diabetes

  • if you have diarrhea, dehydration, severe burns or other tissue damage, adrenal gland problems, or certain hereditary problems (eg, familial periodic paralysis, myotonia congenita)

  • if you are on a sodium-restricted diet

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Effer-K. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (eg, enalapril), aldosterone blockers (eg, eplerenone), or potassium-sparing diuretics (eg, spironolactone) because the risk of severe high blood potassium with irregular heartbeat or heart attack may be increased

  • Aluminum salts (eg, aluminum hydroxide) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Effer-K

  • Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), cyclosporine, digoxin, heparin, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen) because blood potassium levels may be increased

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Effer-K may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Effer-K:


Use Effer-K as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Do not remove the tablet from the foil pouch until you are ready to take Effer-K.

  • Do NOT chew or swallow the tablet. To prepare Effer-K, dissolve the tablet in 3 oz/90 mL of cold liquid. Flavored tablets may be dissolved in cold water or ice water. Unflavored tablets may be dissolved in cold juice. Allow the tablet to dissolve completely.

  • To take Effer-K, sip the prepared mixture over 5 to 10 minutes along with or just after a meal or snack. Rinse the container with an additional small amount of water of juice and drink the contents to be sure the entire dose is taken.

  • If you miss a dose of Effer-K, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Effer-K.



Important safety information:


  • Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it.

  • Check with your doctor before you make any changes to your diet or exercise program.

  • Lab tests, including blood potassium and other electrolyte levels, kidney function, and electrocardiogram (ECG), may be performed while you use Effer-K. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Effer-K should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Effer-K while you are pregnant. It is not known if Effer-K is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Effer-K, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Effer-K:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Diarrhea; loose stools; nausea; upset stomach; vomiting.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; confusion; irregular heartbeat; severe or persistent stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; tingling of the hands or feet; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; weakness.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Effer-K side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include confusion; fainting; irregular heartbeat; seizures; sluggishness; weakness.


Proper storage of Effer-K:

Store Effer-K at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Effer-K out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Effer-K, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Effer-K is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Effer-K. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Effer-K resources


  • Effer-K Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Effer-K Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Effer-K Drug Interactions
  • Effer-K Support Group
  • 0 Reviews · Be the first to review/rate this drug


  • Effer-K Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


Esomeprazole Sodium



Class: Proton-pump Inhibitors
Note: This monograph also contains information on Esomeprazole Magnesium
VA Class: GA900
Chemical Name: 5-Methoxy-2-[(S)[(4-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-2-pyridinyl)methyl]sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole magnesium salt trihydrate
Molecular Formula: C34H36MgN6O6S2•3H2OC17H18N3O3S•Na
CAS Number: 217087-09-7
Brands: Nexium


Special Alerts:


[Posted 03/02/2011] ISSUE: FDA notified healthcare professionals and the public that prescription proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs may cause low serum magnesium levels (hypomagnesemia) if taken for prolonged periods of time (in most cases, longer than one year). Low serum magnesium levels can result in serious adverse events including muscle spasm (tetany), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), and convulsions (seizures); however, patients do not always have these symptoms. Treatment of hypomagnesemia generally requires magnesium supplements. In approximately one-quarter of the cases reviewed, magnesium supplementation alone did not improve low serum magnesium levels and the PPI had to be discontinued.


BACKGROUND: PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and are used to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach and small intestine ulcers, and inflammation of the esophagus.


RECOMMENDATION: Healthcare professionals should consider obtaining serum magnesium levels prior to initiation of prescription PPI treatment in patients expected to be on these drugs for long periods of time, as well as patients who take PPIs with medications such as digoxin, diuretics or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia. For patients taking digoxin, a heart medicine, this is especially important because low magnesium can increase the likelihood of serious side effects. Healthcare professionals should consider obtaining magnesium levels periodically in these patients. For additional information, refer to the Data Summary section of the FDA Drug Safety Communication. For more information visit the FDA website at: and .


[Posted 05/25/2010] FDA notified healthcare professionals and patients of revisions to the prescription and over-the-counter [OTC] labels for proton pump inhibitors, which work by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach, to include new safety information about a possible increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine with the use of these medications.


The new safety information is based on FDA's review of several epidemiological studies that found those at greatest risk for these fractures received high doses of proton pump inhibitors or used them for one year or more. The majority of the studies evaluated individuals 50 years of age or older and the increased risk of fracture primarily was observed in this age group. While the greatest increased risk for fractures in these studies involved people who had been taking prescription proton pump inhibitors for at least one year or who had been taking high doses of the prescription medications (not available over-the-counter), as a precaution, the “Drug Facts” label on the OTC proton pump inhibitors (indicated for 14 days of continuous use) also is being revised to include information about this risk. FDA recommends healthcare professionals, when prescribing proton pump inhibitors, should consider whether a lower dose or shorter duration of therapy would adequately treat the patient's condition.


The safety communication includes a data summary with a table and references which support the epidemiological studies reviewed for this communication. For more information visit the FDA website at: and .



Introduction

Acid- or proton-pump inhibitor; gastric antisecretory agent.1 3 5 19 34 S-isomer of omeprazole.1 5 9 34


Uses for Esomeprazole Sodium


Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)


Short-term treatment of symptomatic GERD (e.g., heartburn) in patients without erosive esophagitis.1


Short-term treatment of erosive esophagitis (diagnostically confirmed) in patients with GERD.1


Maintain healing, symptom resolution, and decrease recurrence of erosive esophagitis.1


IV as short-term (≤10 days) alternative to oral therapy in patients with a history of erosive esophagitis who are unable to continue taking the drug orally.34


Duodenal Ulcer


Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active duodenal ulcer or history of duodenal ulcer in the past 5 years).1 Used in conjunction with amoxicillin and clarithromycin (triple therapy).1


NSAIA-associated Ulcers


Reduction in the occurrence of gastric ulcers associated with chronic NSAIA therapy in patients at risk (i.e., ≥60 years of age and/or history of gastric ulcer).1 33 Effect on occurrence of duodenal ulcers not established.1 33


Crohn's Disease-associated Ulcers


Some evidence for use of proton-pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) for gastric acid suppressive therapy as an adjunct in the management of upper GI Crohn's disease, including esophageal, gastroduodenal, and jejunoileal disease.22 23 24 25 26 27 28


Esomeprazole Sodium Dosage and Administration


Administration


Oral Administration


Administer orally at least 1 hour before a meal.1


Antacids may be used concomitantly as needed for pain relief.1


Capsules

Swallow capsules intact; do not chew or crush.1


Alternatively, open capsule and mix contents with 1 tablespoon applesauce; swallow immediately without chewing.1 Applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to swallow without chewing.1


NG Tube

Open capsule, empty intact granules into 60-mL syringe, and mix with 50 mL of water.1 Replace plunger and shake well for 15 seconds.1 Hold syringe with tip upright and check tip for remaining granules.1 Administer immediately through NG tube; flush with additional water.1 Do not administer if pellets have dissolved or disintegrated.1


IV Administration


For solution compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Administer by slow direct IV injection or by IV infusion.34


Flush the IV line with 0.9% sodium chloride, lactated Ringer's, or 5% dextrose injection before and after administration.34


Do not administer with any other drugs or diluents because of potential incompatibilities.34


Reconstitution

For direct IV injection, reconstitute vial containing 20 or 40 mg of esomeprazole with 5 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride injection.34


For IV infusion, reconstitute vial containing 20 or 40 mg of esomeprazole with 5 mL of 5% dextrose, 0.9% sodium chloride, or lactated Ringer's injection.34 Dilute reconstituted solution prior to infusion.34


Dilution

For IV infusion, dilute the reconstituted solution to a final volume of 50 mL with a compatible IV solution (see Compatibility under Stability).34


Rate of Administration

Administer reconstituted solution by slow (over ≥3 minutes) direct IV injection.34


Administer diluted solution by IV infusion over 10–30 minutes.34


Dosage


Available as esomeprazole magnesium and esomeprazole sodium; dosage expressed in terms of esomeprazole.1 34


Pediatric Patients


GERD

Oral

Adolescents 12–17 years of age: 20 or 40 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks.1


Adults


GERD

GERD Without Erosive Esophagitis

Oral

20 mg once daily for 4 weeks; may give an additional 4 weeks of therapy.1 Chronic proton-pump inhibitor therapy may be appropriate.21


Treatment of Erosive Esophagitis

Oral

20 or 40 mg once daily for 4–8 weeks;1 may give an additional 4–8 weeks of therapy.1


IV

20 or 40 mg once daily for up to 10 days.34 Discontinue IV administration as soon as patient can resume oral esomeprazole therapy.34


Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis

Oral

20 mg once daily; not studied >6 months.1


Duodenal Ulcer

Helicobacter pylori Infection and Duodenal Ulcer

Oral

Triple therapy: 40 mg once daily for 10 days in conjunction with amoxicillin and clarithromycin.1


NSAIA-associated Ulcers

Prevention of Gastric Ulcers

Oral

20 or 40 mg once daily; not studied >6 months.1


Special Populations


Hepatic Impairment


Oral or IV dosage should not exceed 20 mg once daily in patients with severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment.1 34 No dosage adjustment required for mild or moderate (Child-Pugh class A or B, respectively) hepatic impairment.1 34


Cautions for Esomeprazole Sodium


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to esomeprazole, any ingredient in the formulation, or other substituted benzimidazoles (e.g., lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole).1 34



Warnings/Precautions


General Precautions


GI Effects

Response to esomeprazole does not preclude presence of occult gastric neoplasm.1 34 Atrophic gastritis reported occasionally with long-term omeprazole use.1 34


Respiratory Effects

Administration of proton-pump inhibitors has been associated with an increased risk for developing certain infections (e.g., community-acquired pneumonia).29 30


Hip Fracture

Several observational studies suggest that use of proton-pump inhibitors, particularly in high dosages (i.e., multiple daily doses) and/or for prolonged periods of time (i.e., ≥1 year), may be associated with increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine.35 300 301 302 303 304 305 309 Magnitude of risk is unclear;35 300 301 302 303 304 305 310 causality not established.305 FDA is continuing to evaluate this safety concern.305


Use the lowest effective dosage and shortest duration of therapy appropriate for the patient's clinical condition.35 301 303 305 307 309


Individuals at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures should receive an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D; assess and manage these patients' bone health according to current standards of care.35 303 305 307 309


Cardiovascular Effects

Preliminary safety data from 2 long-term clinical trials comparing esomeprazole or omeprazole with antireflux surgery in patients with severe GERD raised concerns about a potential increased risk of cardiac events (e.g., MI, heart failure, sudden death) in patients receiving these drugs.36 37 38 After reviewing data from these and other studies, FDA has concluded that long-term use of these drugs is not likely to be associated with an increased risk of such cardiac events.36 37 38 FDA recommends that clinicians continue to prescribe and patients continue to use these drugs in the manner described in the manufacturers' labelings.36 37 38


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category B.1 34


Lactation

Not known whether esomeprazole is distributed into milk, but omeprazole is distributed into milk.1 34 Discontinue nursing or the drug.1 34


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy of oral esomeprazole for short-term treatment of GERD in adolescents 12–17 years of age is supported by controlled clinical trials in adults and safety and pharmacokinetic studies in adolescents.1 Adverse effects and pharmacokinetics similar in adolescents and adults.1


Safety and efficacy of oral esomeprazole for short-term treatment of GERD in children <12 years of age or for other uses in pediatric patients not established.1


Safety and efficacy of IV esomeprazole in pediatric patients not established.34


Geriatric Use

No substantial differences in safety and efficacy relative to younger adults, but increased sensitivity cannot be ruled out.1 34


Hepatic Impairment

Use with caution.1 20 (See Hepatic Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)


Common Adverse Effects


Headache, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, constipation, dry mouth.1 19 34


Interactions for Esomeprazole Sodium


Extensively metabolized by CYP isoenzymes, principally CYP2C19; also to lesser extent by CYP3A4.1 19 34 May inhibit CYP2C19; unlikely to inhibit CYP3A4, 1A2, 2A6, 2C9, 2D6, or 2E1.1 34


Drugs Metabolized by Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes


Potential to inhibit metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.1 34 Interaction unlikely with drugs metabolized by other CYP isoenzymes.1 34


Specific Drugs










































Drug



Interaction



Comments



Amoxicillin



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 34



Atazanavir



Possible altered oral absorption of atazanavir, resulting in decreased plasma atazanavir concentrations; possible loss of virologic response1 31



Manufacturer of esomeprazole states that concomitant administration with atazanavir is not recommended1


Antiretroviral treatment-naive patients: If a proton-pump inhibitor is used concomitantly with atazanavir, administer ritonavir-boosted atazanavir (atazanavir 300 mg and ritonavir 100 mg once daily with food); administer the proton-pump inhibitor approximately 12 hours before ritonavir-boosted atazanavir31 32


For treatment-naive patients, dosage of proton-pump inhibitor should not exceed omeprazole 20 mg daily (or equivalent)31 32


Antiretroviral treatment-experienced patients: Concomitant use of proton-pump inhibitors with atazanavir not recommended31 32



Clarithromycin



Increased plasma concentrations of esomeprazole and 14-hydroxyclarithromycin 1



Not considered clinically important1 34 316



Clopidogrel



Certain CYP2C19 inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) reduce exposure to clopidogrel's active metabolite and decrease platelet inhibitory effects; potentially may reduce clopidogrel's clinical efficacy.44 224 225 228 232 233 236 311


Extent to which other proton-pump inhibitors (which may differ in CYP2C19-inhibitory potency) may interfere with clopidogrel's effects is unknown40 41 42 46 224 232



Assess risks and benefits of concomitant proton-pump inhibitor and clopidogrel use in individual patients312 313 314 315 316


American College of Cardiology Foundation/American College of Gastroenterology/American Heart Association (ACCF/ACG/AHA) states that GI bleeding risk reduction with concomitant proton-pump inhibitor in patients with risk factors for GI bleeding (e.g., advanced age; concomitant use of warfarin, corticosteroids, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIAs); H. pylori infection) may outweigh potential reduction in cardiovascular efficacy of antiplatelet treatment associated with a drug–drug interaction.311 In patients without such risk factors, ACCF/ACG/AHA states that risk/benefit balance may favor use of antiplatelet therapy without a proton-pump inhibitor.311



Diazepam



Decreased diazepam metabolism and increased plasma concentrations1 34



Not considered clinically important1 34



Gastric pH-dependent drugs (e.g., digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole)



Esomeprazole may decrease drug absorption1 34



NSAIAs (naproxen, rofecoxib)



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 34



Oral contraceptives



No change in esomeprazole pharmacokinetics1 34



Phenytoin



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 34



Quinidine



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 34



Sucralfate



Possible delayed proton-pump inhibitor absorption and decreased bioavailability c



Administer proton-pump inhibitor at least 30 minutes before sucralfatec



Warfarin



Potential for decreased warfarin metabolism and changes in prothrombin measures1 34



Monitor PT and INR1 34


Esomeprazole Sodium Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Bioavailability is 64% after a single 40-mg oral dose.1 Bioavailability is 90% after repeated oral doses of 40 mg once daily.1


Food


AUC decreased by 43–53% when a 40-mg oral dose was administered with food.1


Special Populations


Following oral dosage of 40 mg once daily in patients with severe (Child-Pugh class C) hepatic impairment, steady-state AUCs were 2–3 times greater than those in patients with normal hepatic function.1 34


Distribution


Extent


Not known whether esomeprazole is distributed into milk, but omeprazole is distributed into milk.1 34 Not known whether esomeprazole crosses the placenta.1 34


Prolonged binding to gastric parietal proton pump enzyme.1 6


Plasma Protein Binding


97%.1 34


Elimination


Metabolism


Metabolized to inactive metabolites in the liver by CYP isoenzymes, principally by CYP2C19, and to lesser extent by CYP3A4.1 34


Elimination Route


Excreted principally in urine (80% as inactive metabolites, <1% as active drug); remainder in feces as inactive metabolites.1 34


Half-life


Adults, oral administration: 1–1.5 hours.1 Slower elimination than R-omeprazole or racemic omeprazole (0.5–1 hour).1 5 6


Adults, IV administration: 1.1–1.4 hours; prolonged with increasing dose.34


Adolescents 12–17 years of age, oral administration: 0.8–1.2 hours.1


Special Populations


In patients with poor CYP2C19 metabolizer phenotype, steady-state AUCs were 2 times greater than those in patients with extensive (or rapid) metabolizer phenotype.1 34


Stability


Storage


Oral


Capsules

25°C (may be exposed to 15–30°C) in tightly-closed containers.1


Parenteral


Powder for IV Injection or Infusion

Powder: 25°C (may be exposed to 15–30°C).34 Protect from light.34


Reconstituted solution: Room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 12 hours.34


Admixture: Room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 6 hours (in 50 mL of 5% dextrose injection) or 12 hours (in 50 mL of lactated Ringer's or 0.9% sodium chloride injection).34


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Oral


Capsules

Use extemporaneous mixture of capsule contents (enteric-coated pellets) and applesauce immediately; do not store for future use.1 Applesauce should not be hot.1


Parenteral


Solution Compatibility34






Compatible



Dextrose 5% in water



Ringer's injection, lactated



Sodium chloride 0.9%


Actions



  • Inhibits basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion.1 2 7 8 9




  • Concentrates in acid conditions of parietal cell secretory canaliculi; forms active sulfenamide metabolite that irreversibly binds to and inactivates hydrogen-potassium ATPase (proton- or acid pump), blocking final step in secretion of hydrochloric acid.1 2 4 7 8 9 10 34 Acid secretion is inhibited until additional hydrogen-potassium ATPase is synthesized, resulting in prolonged duration of action.2 4 7 8 9 10




  • More esomeprazole reaches and blocks proton pump than does R-omeprazole; therefore, provides greater intragastric pH control than racemic omeprazole.1 5




  • Suppresses H. pylori in patients with duodenal ulcer and/or reflux esophagitis who are infected with the organism.2 Combined therapy with esomeprazole and appropriate anti-infectives (i.e., amoxicillin, clarithromycin) can effectively eradicate H. pylori gastric infection.1 2



Advice to Patients



  • Importance of swallowing capsule intact, without crushing or chewing.1




  • Importance of taking 1 hour before a meal.1




  • If mixed with applesauce for administration, importance of mixing capsule contents with applesauce soft enough to swallow without chewing.1 Importance of not using hot applesauce.1 Importance of immediately swallowing mixture without crushing or chewing;1 do not store for later use.1




  • Importance of advising patients that use of multiple daily doses of the drug for an extended period of time may increase the risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine.305 309




  • Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs.1 Antacids may be used concomitantly as needed for pain relief.1




  • Importance of women informing their clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.1 34




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information. (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.


















Esomeprazole Magnesium

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Oral



Capsules, delayed-release (containing enteric-coated pellets)



20 mg (of esomeprazole)



Nexium



AstraZeneca



40 mg (of esomeprazole)



Nexium



AstraZeneca


















Esomeprazole Sodium

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Parenteral



For injection, for IV use



20 mg (of esomeprazole)



Nexium I.V.



AstraZeneca



40 mg (of esomeprazole)



Nexium I.V.



AstraZeneca


Comparative Pricing


This pricing information is subject to change at the sole discretion of DS Pharmacy. This pricing information was updated 09/2011. Actual costs to patients will vary depending on the use of specific retail or mail-order locations and health insurance copays.


NexIUM 20MG Delayed-release Capsules (ASTRAZENECA LP): 30/$200.99 or 90/$547.96


NexIUM 40MG Delayed-release Capsules (ASTRAZENECA LP): 30/$182.99 or 90/$524.97



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions March 24, 2011. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.


† Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.




References



1. AstraZeneca. Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) delayed-release capsules prescribing information. Wilmington, DE; 2006 Apr.



2. McTavish D, Buckley MM, Heel RC. Omeprazole. An updated review of its pharmacology and therapeutic use in acid-related disorders. Drugs. 1991; 42:138-70. [PubMed 1718683]



3. Richardson P, Hawkey CJ, Stack WA. Proton pump inhibitors. Pharmacology and rationale for use in gastrointestinal disorders. Drugs. 1998; 56:307-35. [PubMed 9777309]



4. Lindberg P, Brändström A, Björn W et al. Omeprazole: The first proton pump inhibitor. Med Res Rev. 1990; 10:1-54.



5. Thitiphuree S, Talley NJ. Esomeprazole, a new proton pump inhibitor: Pharmacological characteristics and clinical efficacy. Int J Clin Pract. 2000; 54:537-41. [IDIS 456578] [PubMed 11198734]



6. Astra Merck. Prilosec (omeprazole) delayed-release capsules prescribing information. Wayne, PA; 1998 Jun.



7. Massoomi F, Savage J, Destache CJ. Omeprazole: a comprehensive review. Pharmacotherapy. 1993; 13:46- 59. [IDIS 311791] [PubMed 8437967]



8. Howden CW. Clinical pharmacology of omeprazole. Clin Pharmacokinet. 1991; 20:38-49. [PubMed 2029801]



9. Shamburek RD, Schubert ML. Pharmacology of gastric acid inhibition. Balilliere's Clin Gastroenterol. 1993; 7:23-54.



10. Maton PN. Omeprazole. N Engl J Med. 1991; 324:965-75. [IDIS 279274] [PubMed 2002819]



11. Sontag SJ, Hirschowitz BI, Holt S et al. Two doses of omeprazole versus placebo in symptomatic erosive esophagitis: the U.S. multicenter study. Gastroenterology. 1992; 102:109-118. [IDIS 289938] [PubMed 1727744]



12. Eisai Inc. and Janssen Pharmaceutica Inc. AcipHex (rabeprazole sodium) delayed-release tablets prescribing information. Teaneck and Titusville, NJ; 1999 Aug.



13. Prakash A, Faulds D. Rabeprazole. Drugs. 1998; 55:261-7. [PubMed 9506245]



14. Dekkers CP, Beker JA, Thjodleifsson B et al for the European Rabeprazole Study Group. Double-blind comparison (correction of double-blind, placebo-controlled comparison) of rabeprazole 20 mg vs. omeprazole 20 mg in the treatment of erosive or ulcerative gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 1999; 13:49-57. [PubMed 9892879]



15. National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Group. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (hiatal hernia and heartburn). NIH Publication No. 94-882; 1994 Sep.



16. Cloud ML, Enas N, Humphries TJ et al for the Rabeprazole Study Group. Rabeprazole in treatment of acid peptic diseases: results of three placebo-controlled dose-response clinical trials in duodenal ulcer, gastric ulcer, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Dig Dis Sci. 1998; 43:993-1000. [IDIS 406275] [PubMed 9590413]



17. Graul A, Castaner R, Castaner J. Esomeprazole magnesium. Drugs Future. 1999; 24:1178-83.



18. Kahrilas PJ, Falk GW, Johnson DA et al for the Esomeprazole Study Investigators. Esomeprazole improves healing and symptom resolution as compared with omeprazole in reflux oesophagitis patients: A randomized controlled trial. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2000; 14:1249-58. [PubMed 11012468]



19. Spencer CM, Faulds D. Esomeprazole. Drugs. 2000; 60:321-9. [PubMed 10983736]



20. AstraZeneca, Frazer, PA: Personal communication.



21. DeVault KR, Castell DO, Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. Updated guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Am J Gastroenterol. 1999; 94:1434-42. [IDIS 429620] [PubMed 10364004]



22. Hanauer SB, Sandborn W, and the Practice Parameters Committee of the American College of Gastroenterology. Management of Crohn's disease in adults: Practice Guidelines. Am J Gastroenterol. 2001; 96:635-43. [IDIS 461432] [PubMed 11280528]



23. Valori RM, Cockel R. Omeprazole for duodenal ulceration in Crohn's disease. Br Med J. 1990; 300:438-9.



24. Bianchi G, Ardizzone S, Petrillo M et al. Omeprazole for peptic ulcer in Crohn's disease. Am J Gastroenterol. 1991; 86: 245-6. [PubMed 1992643]



25. Przemioslo RT, Mee AS. Omeprazole in possible esophageal Crohn's disease. Dig Dis Sci. 1994; 39:1594-5. [IDIS 333053] [PubMed 8026276]



26. Dickinson JB. Is omeprazole helpful in inflammatory bowel disease? J Clin Gastroenterol. 1994; 18:317-9.



27. Abrahao LJ Jr., Abrahao LJ, Vargas C et al. [Gastoduodenal Crohn's disease—report of 4 cases and review of the literature]. (Portuguese; with English abstract.) Arq Gastroenterol. 2001; 38:57-62.



28. Freston JW. Review article: role of proton pump inhibitors in non-H. pylori-related ulcers. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 20001; 15(Suppl 2):2-5.



29. Laheij RJF, Sturkenboom MCJM, Hassing RJ et al. Risk of community-acquired pneumonia and use of gastric acid-suppressive drugs. JAMA. 2004;292:1955-60.



30. Gregor JC. Acid suppression and pneumonia.; a clinical indication for rational prescibing. JAMA. 2004;292:2012-3. Editorial.



31. Bristol-Myers Squibb. Reyataz (atazanavir sulfate) capsules prescribing information. Princeton, NJ; 2009 Apr.



32. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Panel on Antiretroviral Guidelines for Adults and Adolescents. Guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents in HIV-1-infected adults and adolescents (Nov 3, 2008). From the US Department of Health and Human Services HIV/AIDS Information Services (AIDSinfo) website.



33. Scheiman JM, Yeomans ND, Talley NJ et al. Prevention of ulcers by esomeprazole in at-risk patients using non-selective NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors. Am J Gastroenterol. 2006; 101:701-10. [PubMed 16494585]



34. AstraZeneca. Nexium I.V. (esomeprazole sodium) for injection prescribing information. Wilmington, DE; 2005 Aug.



35. Yang Y-X, Lewis JD, Epstein S et al. Long-term proton pump inhibitor therapy and risk of hip fracture. JAMA. 2006; 296:2947-53. [PubMed 17190895]



36. Food and Drug Administration. FDA statement: FDA's safety reviews of Prilosec and Nexium find no evidence of increased rates of cardiac events. 2007 Dec 10. From the FDA website. Accessed 2007 Dec 21.



37. Food and Drug Administration. Update of safety review: follow-up to the August 9, 2007, communication about the ongoing safety review of omeprazole and esomeprazole. 2007 Dec 10. From the FDA website. Accessed 2007 Dec 21.



38. Food and Drug Administration. Early communication about an ongoing safety review: omeprazole (Prilosec) and esomeprazole (Nexium). 2007 Aug 9. From the FDA website. Accessed 2007 Dec 21.



39. Metz DC, Sostek MB, Ruszniewski P et al. Effects of esomeprazole on acid output in patients with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or idiopathic gastric acid hypersecretion. Am J Gastroenterol. 2007; 102:2648-54. [PubMed 17764495]



40. Gilard M, Arnaud B, Cornily JC et al. Influence of omeprazole on the antiplatelet action of clopidogrel associated with aspirin. JACC. 2008; 51:256-60, doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2007.06.064. Accessed 2008 Dec 8. Available from website. [PubMed 18206732]



41. Pezalla E, Day D, Pulliadath I. Initial assessment of clinical impact of a drug interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors. JACC. 2008; 52:1038-9. Letter. [PubMed 18786491]



42. MEDCO. New study: A common class of GI medications reduce protection against heart attack in patients taking widely prescribed cardiovascular drug. Franklin Lakes, NJ; 2008 Nov 11. Press release from website.



43. Gilard M, Cornily JC, Boschat J. Initial assessment of clinical impact of a drug interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors. JACC. 2008; 52:1039. Reply.



44. . PPI interactions with clopidogrel revisited. Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009; 51:13-4.



45. Juurlink DN, Gomes T, Ko DT et al. A population-based study of the drug interaction between proton pump inhibitors and clopidogrel. CMAJ. 2009; 180:713-8. [PubMed 19176635]



46. Food and Drug Administration. Information on clopidogrel bisulfate (marketed as Plavix). Rockville, MD; 2010 Oct 27. From FDA website.



224. Sanofi-Aventis/Bristol-Myers Squibb. Plavix, (clopidogrel bisulfate) tablets prescribing information. New York, NY; 2010 Mar.



225. Food and Drug Administration. Early communication about an ongoing safety review of clopidogrel bisulfate (marketed as Plavix). Rockville, MD; 2009 Jan 26. From FDA website.



226. Siller-Matula JM, Spiel AO, Lang IM et al. Effects of pantoprazole and esomeprazole on platelet inhibition by clopidogrel. Am Heart J. 2009; 157:148.e1-5.



227. Gilard M, Arnaud B, Le Gal G et al. Influence of omeprazole on the antiplatelet action of clopidogrel associated to aspirin. J Thromb Haemost. 2006; 4:2508-9. [PubMed 16898956]



228. Anon. PPI interactions with clopidogrel. Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2009; 51:2-3.



229. Aubert RE, Epstein RS, Teagarden JR et al. Proton pump inhibitors effect on clopidogrel effectiveness: The clopidogrel Medco outcomes study. Circulation. 2008; 118:S_815, Abstract 3998.



230. Lau WC, Gurbel PA. The drug-drug interaction between proton pump inhibitors and clopidogrel. CMAJ. 2009; 180:699-700. [PubMed 19332744]



232. Food and Drug Administration. Information for heathcare professionals: Update to the labeling of clopidogrel bisulfate (marketed as Plavix) to alert heathcare professionals about a drug interaction with omeprazole (marketed as Prilosec and Prilosec OTC). Rockville, MD; 2009 Nov 17. From FDA website.



233. Food and Drug Administration. Follow-up to the January 26, 2009 Early Communication about an ongoing safety review of clopidogrel bisulfate (marketed as Plavix) and omeprazole (marketed as Prilosec and Prilosec OTC). Rockville, MD; 2009 Nov 17. From FDA website.



235. Ho PM, Maddox TM, Wang L et al. Risk of adverse outcomes associated with concomitant use of clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors following acute coronary syndrome. JAMA. 2009; 301:937-44.



236. Norgard NB, Mathews KD, Wall GC. Drug-drug interaction between clopidogrel and the proton pump inhibitors. Ann Pharmacother. 2009; 43:1266-74. [PubMed 19470853]



237. Last EJ, Sheehan AH. Review of recent evidence: potential interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2009; 66:2117-22. [PubMed 19923312]



238. Stanek EJ, Aubert RE, Flockhart DA et al. A national study of the effect of individual proton pump inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes in patients treated with clopidogrel following coronary stenting: the Clopidogrel Medco Outcomes Study. Available from website. Accessed 2009 Dec 15.



240. Stockl KM, Le L, Zakharyan A et al. Risk of rehospitalization for patients using clopidogrel with a proton pump inhibitor. Arch Intern Med. 2010; 170:704-10. [PubMed 20421557]



243. Juurlink DN. Proton pump inhibitors and clopidogrel: putting the interaction in perspective. Circulation. 2009; 120:2310-2. [PubMed 19933929]



248. Khalique SC, Cheng-Lai A. Drug interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors. Cardiol Rev. 2009 Jul-Aug; 17:198-200. [PubMed 19525682]



250. Rude MK, Chey WD. Proton-pump inhibitors, clopidogrel, and cardiovascular adverse events: fact, fiction, or something in between?. Gastroenterology. 2009; 137:1168-71. [PubMed 19635603]



300. Vestergaard P, Rejnmark L, Mosekilde L. Proton pump inhibitors, histamine H2 receptor antagonists, and other antacid medications and the risk of fracture. Calcif Tissue Int. 2006; 79:76-83. [PubMed 16927047]



301. Corley DA, Kubo A, Zhao W et al. Proton pump inhibitors and histamine-2 receptor antagonists are associated with hip fractures among at-risk patients. Gastroenterology. 2010; 139:93-101. [PubMed 17190895]



302. Yu EW, Blackwell T, Ensrud KE et al. Acid-suppressive medications and risk of bone loss and fracture in older adults. Calcif Tissue Int. 2008; 83:251-9. [PubMed 19931262]



303. Gray SL, LaCroix AZ, Larson J et al. Proton pump inhibitor use, hip fracture, and change in bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: results from the Women's Health Initiative. Arch Intern Med. 2010; 170:765-71. [PubMed 20458083]



304. Targownik LE, Lix LM, Metge CJ et al. Use of proton pump inhibitors and risk of osteoporosis-related fractures. CMAJ. 2008; 179:319-26. [PubMed 18695179]



305. Food and Drug Administration. Possible increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine with the use of proton pump inhibitors. May 25, 2010. From FDA web site.