Thursday, 30 August 2012

Radian B Muscle Rub





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Radian B Muscle Rub or Askit Muscle Rub or Radian Massage Cream or Radian B Sport Muscle Rub.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition
















Menthol




2.54% w/w




Camphor




1.41% w/w




Methyl Salicylate




0.42% w/w




Camphor Oil, White




0.32%w/w




Oleoresin Capsicum 500,000 Water soluble (equivalent to 0.000125% capsaicin)




0.005% w/w




Camphor and Camphor Oil, White are collectively declared as: Camphor BP




1.43% w/w



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Cream



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the symptomatic relief of muscular and rheumatic aches and pains, including; muscular stiffness, bruising, sprains, fibrositis.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



For external use application.



Adult and children over 6



Apply to the affected parts and slowly massage well into the skin. For muscular strains and stiffness it is best used after a hot bath.



Elderly



The adult dose is appropriate



Children



Not recommended for children under 6.



4.3 Contraindications



Not to be used on children under 6 years old.



Do not apply to skin abrasions.



Do not apply to irritated skin



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Keep away from eyes and sensitive areas. If symptoms persist consult a doctor.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



There have been reports that topical salicylates may potentiate the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



There is no, or inadequate evidence of safety in human pregnancy. Use in pregnancy only when there is no safer alternative. Use in lactation is acceptable.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Use sparingly on tender skin and do not cover immediately after application. If an adverse reaction occurs discontinue use immediately. Known side effects of menthol - contact dermatitis or eczema, hypersensitivity reactions characterised by urticaria, flushing and headache.



4.9 Overdose



When used externally as directed, overdose is unlikely.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Radian Massage Cream is a smooth, off-white cream which incorporates menthol, camphor, methyl salicylate, capsicine and white camphor oil as active ingredients and glycerol as emollient.



Menthol relieves itching, dilates the vessels causing a sensation of coldness followed by an analgesic effect. Camphor acts as a rubefacient and mild analgesic and is employed as a counter-irritant. Methyl salicylate has the actions of the salicylates. It is readily absorbed through the skin and has counter-irritant properties. Capsicine has counter-irritant properties and white camphor oil is a rubefacient and mild counter-irritant.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



None available



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Not applicable



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Argobase S.1



(contains: Lanolin, Lanolin alcohol, Cetostearyl alcohol, Liquid paraffin)



Emulsifying Wax



White Petroleum Jelly



2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol



Imidurea



Industrial Mehtylated Spirit 95



Purified Water



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



36 months



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 25°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Lacquered aluminium tube and plastic cap. White plastic screw-cap jar. Pack sizes: 15, 25, 40, 70, 100, 650gm.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special precautions necessary.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Thornton & Ross Limited



Linthwaite



Huddersfield



West Yorkshire



HD7 5QH



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00240/0360



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



30th April 2002



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



December 2003




Monday, 27 August 2012

Arestin Microspheres


Pronunciation: MIN-oh-SYE-kleen
Generic Name: Minocycline
Brand Name: Arestin


Arestin Microspheres are used for:

Preventing or treating certain gum problems that may occur after certain dental procedures to treat inflammatory gum disease (periodontitis). It may also be used as part of a gum care maintenance program in some patients who have periodontitis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Arestin Microspheres are a tetracycline antibiotic. It works by slowing the growth of certain bacteria and allowing the body's immune system to kill them.


Do NOT use Arestin Microspheres if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Arestin Microspheres or to other tetracyclines (eg, doxycycline)

  • you are taking acitretin, isotretinoin, a live oral typhoid vaccine, methoxyflurane, or a penicillin

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



Before using Arestin Microspheres:


Some medical conditions may interact with Arestin Microspheres. 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 a history of oral fungal infections

  • if you have a weakened immune system, an autoimmune disorder (eg, lupus), diabetes, or HIV, or if you are receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatment

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


  • Aluminum salts (eg, carbonate) or urinary alkalinizers (eg, sodium bicarbonate) because they may decrease Arestin Microspheres's effectiveness

  • Acitretin, anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), digoxin, ergot alkaloids and derivatives (eg, ergotamine), insulin, isotretinoin, methotrexate, methoxyflurane, or theophyllines because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Arestin Microspheres

  • Live oral typhoid vaccine, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), or penicillins because their effectiveness may be decreased by Arestin Microspheres

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Arestin Microspheres 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 Arestin Microspheres:


Use Arestin Microspheres as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Arestin Microspheres are usually given at your dentist's office or clinic.

  • If you miss a dose of Arestin Microspheres, contact your doctor right away. You may need to reschedule your appointment.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Arestin Microspheres.



Important safety information:


  • Long-term or repeated use of Arestin Microspheres may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.

  • Arestin Microspheres may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Arestin Microspheres. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.

  • Arestin Microspheres only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold).

  • Proper dental care is important while you are taking Arestin Microspheres. Do not brush your teeth or touch the treated area for at least 12 hours after treatment, or as directed by your dentist. Do not use other dental cleaning devices for 10 days after treatment with Arestin Microspheres, or as directed by your dentist.

  • Avoid chewing hard, crunchy, or sticky food (eg, carrots, taffy, gum) for at least 1 week after treatment.

  • Arestin Microspheres may cause mild irritation or increased sensitivity of your gums during the first week after treatment. Tell your doctor right away if pain, swelling, or other problems occur.

  • If severe diarrhea or stomach pain or cramping develop during treatment or within several months after treatment with Arestin Microspheres, check with your doctor or pharmacist right away. Do not treat it with nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Arestin Microspheres before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Be sure to use Arestin Microspheres for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.

  • Hormonal birth control (eg, birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using Arestin Microspheres. To prevent pregnancy, use an extra form of birth control (eg, condoms).

  • Use Arestin Microspheres with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 10 years old who have diarrhea or an infection of the stomach or bowel.

  • Arestin Microspheres should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 8 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed. Using Arestin Microspheres in CHILDREN younger than 8 years old or in women during the last half of pregnancy may cause permanent changes in the tooth coloring and tooth enamel problems in the child.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Arestin Microspheres has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Arestin Microspheres while you are pregnant. Arestin Microspheres are found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Arestin Microspheres.


Possible side effects of Arestin Microspheres:


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:



Flu-like symptoms; headache; stomach upset.



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); bleeding or discharge from the gums; fever; joint pain; muscle pain or weakness; painful sores in the mouth; red, swollen, or blistered skin; severe diarrhea; severe or persistent headache; stomach pain or cramps; unusual tiredness or 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.



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.


Proper storage of Arestin Microspheres:

Store Arestin Microspheres between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Arestin Microspheres out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

  • Arestin Microspheres are 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 Arestin Microspheres. 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.

Friday, 24 August 2012

Codituss DM


Generic Name: dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine (dex troe meh THOR fan, feh nill EH frin, pie RIH la meen)

Brand Names: Codal-DM Syrup, Codimal DM, Codituss DM, Poly Hist DM


What is Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?

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


Phenylephrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).


Pyrilamine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.


The combination of dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine is used to treat sneezing, cough, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.


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


Dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?


Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains an antihistamine, decongestant, or cough suppressant. Dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of this medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?


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

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, or pyrilamine, or if you have:


  • kidney disease;

  • liver disease;


  • diabetes;




  • glaucoma;




  • heart disease or high blood pressure;




  • a thyroid disorder;




  • a stomach ulcer or a stomach obstruction;




  • emphysema or chronic bronchitis; or




  • an enlarged prostate or urination problems.



If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.


FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

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


How should I take Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label or as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.


Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

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


Take this medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

This medication can cause you to have unusual results with allergy skin tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are taking an antihistamine.


Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

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


Store the medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


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


What happens if I overdose?


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

Symptoms of an overdose may include feeling restless or nervous, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, warmth or tingly feeling, or seizure (convulsions). confusion, blurred vision, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and seizure (convulsions).


What should I avoid while taking Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?


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

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine.


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


Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Antihistamines, decongestants, and cough suppressants are contained in many medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains an antihistamine, decongestant, or cough suppressant.

Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine) side effects


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

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;




  • confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;




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




  • increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure);




  • confusion, hallucinations;




  • slow, shallow breathing;




  • urinating less than usual or not at all;




  • easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms; or




  • nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).



Keep taking the medication and talk to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:



  • blurred vision;




  • dry mouth;




  • nausea, stomach pain, constipation;




  • mild loss of appetite, stomach upset;




  • warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin;




  • feeling excited or restless;




  • sleep problems (insomnia);




  • restless or excitability (especially in children);




  • skin rash or itching;




  • dizziness, drowsiness;




  • problems with memory or concentration; or




  • ringing in your ears.



Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect Codituss DM (dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine)?


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



  • an antidepressant;




  • a diuretic (water pill);




  • medication to treat irritable bowel syndrome;




  • celecoxib (Celebrex);




  • cinacalcet (Sensipar);




  • darifenacin (Enablex);




  • imatinib (Gleevec);




  • quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex);




  • ranolazine (Ranexa)




  • ritonavir (Norvir);




  • sibutramine (Meridia);




  • terbinafine (Lamisil);




  • medicines to treat high blood pressure;




  • aspirin or salicylates (such as Disalcid, Doan's Pills, Dolobid, Salflex, Tricosal, and others);




  • bladder or urinary medications such as oxybutynin (Ditropan, Oxytrol) or tolterodine (Detrol); or




  • a beta-blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), carteolol (Cartrol), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), nadolol (Corgard), propranolol (Inderal), sotalol (Betapace), timolol (Blocadren), and others.



There may be other drugs that can affect dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Codituss DM resources


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


  • Codituss DM Syrup MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Dextromethorphan/Phenylephrine/Pyrilamine Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Reme Hist DM Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Triplex DM Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Codituss DM with other medications


  • Cold Symptoms
  • Hay Fever
  • Sinusitis


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist has information about dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, and pyrilamine written for health professionals that you may read.

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


Thursday, 23 August 2012

Eldopaque Forte


Generic Name: hydroquinone topical (HYE droe KWIN one)

Brand Names: Aclaro, Aclaro PD, Alera, Alphaquin HP, Alustra, Claripel, Eldopaque, Eldopaque Forte, Eldoquin, Eldoquin Forte, EpiQuin Micro, Esoterica, Esoterica with Sunscreen, Glyquin, Glyquin-XM, Hydroquinone and Sunscreen, Lustra, Lustra-AF, Lustra-Ultra, Melpaque HP, Melquin HP, Melquin-3, Nuquin HP, Solaquin, Solaquin Forte


What is Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?

Hydroquinone decreases the formation of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment in skin that gives it a brown color.


Hydroquinone topical is used to lighten areas of darkened skin such as freckles, age spots, chloasma, and melasma.


Hydroquinone topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?


Before using hydroquinone topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver or kidney disease.


Do not use hydroquinone topical on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated, or on an open wound. It could make these conditions worse. Wait until these conditions have healed before applying hydroquinone topical. Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water.

Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.


Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Hydroquinone topical can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?


Do not use hydroquinone topical on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated, or on an open wound. It could make these conditions worse. Wait until these conditions have healed before applying hydroquinone topical.

Before using hydroquinone topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:



  • liver disease; or




  • kidney disease.



If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication.


This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether hydroquinone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?


Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.


Hydroquinone topical is for external use only. Wash your hands before and after applying this medication, unless you are treating a skin area on your hand.

Apply the medication to clean, dry skin. Apply just enough medication to cover the affected area. Avoid applying to the unaffected surrounding skin. Rub in the medication gently and completely.


Avoid getting this medication on your lips or inside your nose or mouth. Hydroquinone may cause numbness of these areas. If the medication does get on any of these areas, rinse with water.


It is important to use hydroquinone topical regularly to get the most benefit.


Store hydroquinone topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


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

An overdose of topically applied hydroquinone is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.


What should I avoid while using Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?


Avoid getting this medication in your mouth or eyes. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water. Do not use hydroquinone topical on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, irritated, or broken skin.

Your skin may be more sensitive to weather extremes such as cold and wind. Protect your skin with clothing and use a moisturizing cream or lotion as needed.


Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps, shampoos, or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.


Using hydroquinone topical together with benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or other peroxide products may cause a temporary staining of your skin. This staining can usually be removed with soap and water. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Hydroquinone topical can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using hydroquinone topical and call your doctor if you have severe burning, stinging, or other irritation of your skin after apply the medication.

Less serious side effects may include mild burning, stinging, itching, redness, or irritation of treated skin.


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


What other drugs will affect Eldopaque Forte (hydroquinone topical)?


It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied hydroquinone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Eldopaque Forte resources


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


  • Alustra MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Epiquin Micro Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Esoterica Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Solaquin Forte Cream MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Eldopaque Forte with other medications


  • Dermatological Disorders


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about hydroquinone topical.

See also: Eldopaque Forte side effects (in more detail)


Wednesday, 15 August 2012

Methotrexate 2.5 mg / ml Injection (Hospira UK Ltd)





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Methotrexate 2.5 mg/ml Injection


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each ml of solution contains 2.5 mg methotrexate (sodium salt formed in situ)



Each vial of 2 ml of solution contains 5 mg methotrexate (sodium salt formed in situ)



For excipients, see 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for Injection



Vials containing a clear yellow solution



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Methotrexate is indicated in the treatment of neoplastic disease, such as trophoblastic neoplasms and leukaemia, and the symptomatic treatment of severe recalcitrant disabling psoriasis which is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy.



Methotrexate Injection may be given by the intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial, intrathecal routes.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults and children



Antineoplastic Chemotherapy



Methotrexate is active orally and parenterally. Methotrexate Injection may be given by the intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial or intrathecal routes. Dosage is related to the patient's body weight or surface area. Methotrexate has been used with beneficial effect in a wide variety of neoplastic diseases, alone and in combination with other cytotoxic agents.



Note: Methotrexate Injection 1 g/10 ml and 5 g/50 ml are hypertonic and thus it is not recommended for intrathecal use. In addition, the 500 mg/20 ml and 1 g/40 ml presentations are not suitable for intrathecal use.



Choriocarcinoma and Similar Trophoblastic Diseases



Methotrexate is administered orally or intramuscularly in doses of 15-30 mg daily for a 5 day course. Such courses may be repeated 3-5 times as required, with rest periods of one or more weeks interposed between courses until any manifesting toxic symptoms subside.



The effectiveness of therapy can be evaluated by 24 hours quantitative analysis of urinary chorionic gonadotrophin hormone (HCG). Combination therapy with other cytotoxic drugs, has also been reported as useful.



Hydatidiform mole may precede or be followed by choriocarcinoma, and methotrexate has been used in similar doses for the treatment of hydatidiform mole and chorioadenoma destruens.



Breast Carcinoma



Prolonged cyclic combination with cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and fluorouracil has given good results when used as adjuvant treatment to radical mastectomy in primary breast cancer with positive axillary lymph nodes. Methotrexate dosage was 40 mg/m2 intravenously on the first and eighth days.



Leukaemia



Acute granulocytic leukaemia is rare in children but common in adults and this form of leukaemia responds poorly to chemotherapy.



Methotrexate is not generally a drug of choice for induction of remission of lymphoblastic leukaemia. Oral methotrexate dosage 3.3 mg/m2 daily, and prednisolone 40-60 mg/m2 daily for 4-6 weeks has been used. After a remission is attained, methotrexate in a maintenance dosage of 20-30 mg/m2 orally or by intramuscular injection has been administered twice weekly. Twice weekly doses appear to be more effective than daily drug administration. Alternatively, 2.5 mg/kg has been administered intravenously every 14 days.



Meningeal Leukaemia



Some patients with leukaemia are subject to leukaemic invasions of the central nervous system and the CSF should be examined in all leukaemia patients.



Passage of methotrexate from blood to the cerebrospinal fluid is minimal and for adequate therapy the drug should be administered intrathecally. Methotrexate may be given in a prophylactic regimen in all cases of lymphocytic leukaemia. The dose of intrathecal Methotrexate is constant regardless of age or body surface area in patients over the age of 3 years of age, the maximum intrathecal dose should be 12 mg in such patients. Patients under the age of 3 years should be treated in accordance with combination chemotherapy protocols. The administration is at weekly intervals and is usually repeated until the cell count of cerebrospinal fluid returns to normal. At this point one additional dose is advised. Large doses may cause convulsions and untoward side effects may occur as with any intrathecal injection, and are commonly neurological in character.



Lymphomas



In Burkitt's Tumour, stages 1-2, methotrexate has prolonged remissions in some cases. Recommended dosage is 10-25 mg per day orally for 4 to 8 days. In stage 3, methotrexate is commonly given concomitantly with other antitumour agents. Treatment in all stages usually consists of several courses of the drug interposed with 7 to 10 day rest periods, and in stage 3 they respond to combined drug therapy with methotrexate given in doses of 0.625 mg to 2.5 mg/kg daily. Hodgkin's disease responds poorly to methotrexate and to most types of chemotherapy.



Mycosis Fungoides



Therapy with methotrexate appears to produce clinical remissions in one half of the cases treated. Recommended dosage is usually 2.5 to 10 mg daily by mouth for weeks or months and dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's response and haematological monitoring. Methotrexate has also been given intramuscularly in doses of 50 mg once weekly or 25 mg twice weekly.



Psoriasis Chemotherapy



Cases of severe uncontrolled psoriasis, unresponsive to conventional therapy, have responded to weekly single, oral, intramuscular or intravenous doses of 10-25 mg per week, and adjusted according to the patient's response. An initial test dose one week prior to initiation of therapy is recommended to detect any idiosyncrasy. A suggested dose range is 5-10 mg.



An alternative dosage schedule consists of 2.5 to 5 mg of methotrexate administered orally at 12 hour intervals for 3 doses each week or at 8-hour intervals for 4 doses each week; weekly dosages should not exceed 30 mg.



A daily oral dosage schedule of 2 to 5 mg administered orally for 5 days followed by a rest period of at least 2 days may also be used. The daily dose should not exceed 6.25 mg.



The patient should be fully informed of the risks involved and the clinician should pay particular attention to the appearance of liver toxicity by carrying out liver function tests before starting methotrexate treatment, and repeating these at 2 to 4 month intervals during therapy. The aim of therapy should be to reduce the dose to the lowest possible level with the longest possible rest period. The use of methotrexate may permit the return to conventional topical therapy which should be encouraged.



4.3 Contraindications



Significantly impaired renal function.



Significantly impaired hepatic function



Pre-existing blood dyscrasias, such as significant marrow hypoplasia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia or anaemia.



Methotrexate is contraindicated in pregnancy.



Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions from methotrexate in breast fed infants, breast feeding is contraindicated in women taking methotrexate.



Patients with a known allergic hypersensitivity to methotrexate should not receive methotrexate.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



WARNINGS



Methotrexate must be used only by physicians experienced in antimetabolite chemotherapy.



Because of the possibility of fatal or severe toxic reactions, the patient should be fully informed by the physician of the risks involved and be under his constant supervision.



Acute or chronic interstitial pneumonitis, often associated with blood eosinophilia, may occur and deaths have been reported. Symptoms typically include dyspnoea, cough (especially a dry non-productive cough) and fever for which patients should be monitored at each follow-up visit. Patients should be informed of the risk of pneumonitis and advised to contact their doctor immediately should they develop persistent cough or dyspnoea.



Methotrexate should be withdrawn from patients with pulmonary symptoms and a thorough investigation should be made to exclude infection. If methotrexate induced lung disease is suspected treatment with corticosteroids should be initiated and treatment with methotrexate should not be restarted.



Deaths have been reported with the use of methotrexate in the treatment of psoriasis.



In the treatment of psoriasis, methotrexate should be restricted to severe recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis which is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established by biopsy and/or after dermatological consultation.



1. Full blood counts should be closely monitored before, during and after treatment. If a clinically significant drop in white-cell or platelet count develops, methotrexate should be withdrawn immediately. Patients should be advised to report all symptoms or signs suggestive of infection.



2. Methotrexate may be hepatotoxic, particularly at high dosage or with prolonged therapy. Liver atrophy, necrosis, cirrhosis, fatty changes, and periportal fibrosis have been reported. Since changes may occur without previous signs of gastrointestinal or haematological toxicity, it is imperative that hepatic function be determined prior to initiation of treatment and monitored regularly throughout therapy. If substantial hepatic function abnormalities develop, methotrexate dosing should be suspended for at least 2 weeks. Special caution is indicated in the presence of pre-existing liver damage or impaired hepatic function. Concomitant use of other drugs with hepatotoxic potential (including alcohol) should be avoided.



3. Methotrexate has been shown to be teratogenic; it has caused foetal death and/or congenital anomalies. Therefore it is not recommended in women of childbearing potential unless there is appropriate medical evidence that the benefits can be expected to outweigh the considered risks. Pregnant psoriatic patients should not receive methotrexate.



4. Renal function should be closely monitored before, during and after treatment. Caution should be exercised if significant renal impairment is disclosed. Reduce dose of methotrexate in patients with renal impairment. High doses may cause the precipitation of methotrexate or its metabolites in the renal tubules. A high fluid throughput and alkalinisation of the urine to pH 6.5 – 7.0, by oral or intravenous administration of sodium bicarbonate (5 x 625 mg tablets every three hours) or acetazolamide (500 mg orally four times a day) is recommended as a preventative measure. Methotrexate is excreted primarily by the kidneys. Its use in the presence of impaired renal function may result in accumulation of toxic amounts or even additional renal damage.



5. Diarrhoea and ulcerative stomatitis are frequent toxic effects and require interruption of therapy, otherwise haemorrhagic enteritis and death from intestinal perforation may occur.



6. Methotrexate affects gametogenesis during the period of its administration and may result in decreased fertility which is thought to be reversible on discontinuation of therapy. Conception should be avoided during the period of methotrexate administration and for at least 6 months thereafter. Patients and their partners should be advised to this effect.



7. Methotrexate has some immunosuppressive activity and immunological responses to concurrent vaccination may be decreased. The immunosuppressive effect of methotrexate should be taken into account when immune responses of patients are important or essential.



8. Pleural effusions and ascites should be drained prior to initiation of methotrexate therapy.



9. Deaths have been reported with the use of methotrexate. Serious adverse reactions including deaths have been reported with concomitant administration of methotrexate (usually in high doses) along with some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).



10. Concomitant administration of folate antagonists such as trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole has been reported to cause an acute megaloblastic pancytopenia in rare instances.



11. Systemic toxicity may occur following intrathecal administration. Blood counts should be monitored closely.



12. A chest X-ray is recommended prior to initiation of methotrexate therapy.



13. If acute methotrexate toxicity occurs, patients may require folinic acid.



PRECAUTIONS



Methotrexate has a high potential toxicity, usually dose related, and should be used only by physicians experienced in antimetabolite chemotherapy, in patients under their constant supervision. The physician should be familiar with the various characteristics of the drug and its established clinical usage.



Before beginning methotrexate therapy or reinstituting methotrexate after a rest period, assessment of renal function, liver function and blood elements should be made by history, physical examination and laboratory tests.



It should be noted that intrathecal doses are transported into the cardiovascular system and may give rise to systemic toxicity. Systemic toxicity of methotrexate may also be enhanced in patients with renal dysfunction, ascites, or other effusions due to prolongation of serum half-life.



Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, and impairment of fertility: Animal carcinogenicity studies have demonstrated methotrexate to be free of carcinogenic potential. Although methotrexate has been reported to cause chromosomal damage to animal somatic cells and bone marrow cells in humans, these effects are transient and reversible. In patients treated with methotrexate, evidence is insufficient to permit conclusive evaluation of any increased risk of neoplasia.



Methotrexate has been reported to cause impairment of fertility, oligospermia, menstrual dysfunction and amenorrhoea in humans, during and for a short period after cessation of therapy. In addition, methotrexate causes, embryotoxicity, abortion and foetal defects in humans. Therefore the possible risks of effects on reproduction should be discussed with patients of childbearing potential (see 'Warnings').



Patients undergoing therapy should be subject to appropriate supervision so that signs or symptoms of possible toxic effects or adverse reactions may be detected and evaluated with minimal delay. Pretreatment and periodic haematological studies are essential to the use of methotrexate in chemotherapy because of its common effect of haematopoietic suppression. This may occur abruptly and on apparent safe dosage, and any profound drop in blood cell count indicates immediate stopping of the drug and appropriate therapy. In patients with malignant disease who have pre-existing bone marrow aplasia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia or anaemia, methotrexate should be used with caution, if at all.



In general, the following laboratory tests are recommended as part of essential clinical evaluation and appropriate monitoring of patients chosen for or receiving methotrexate therapy: complete haemogram; haematocrit; urinalysis; renal function tests; liver function tests and chest X-ray.



The purpose is to determine any existing organ dysfunction or system impairment. The tests should be performed prior to therapy, at appropriate periods during therapy and after termination of therapy.



Liver biopsy may be considered after cumulative doses>1.5 g have been given, if hepatic impairment is suspected.



Methotrexate is bound in part to serum albumin after absorption, and toxicity may be increased because of displacement by certain drugs such as salicylates, sulphonamides, phenytoin, and some antibacterials such as tetracycline, chloramphenicol and para-aminobenzoic acid. These drugs, especially salicylates and sulphonamides, whether antibacterial, hypoglycaemic or diuretic, should not be given concurrently until the significance of these findings is established.



Vitamin preparations containing folic acid or its derivatives may alter response to methotrexate.



Methotrexate should be used with extreme caution in the presence of infection, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, debility, and in extreme youth and old age. If profound leukopenia occurs during therapy, bacterial infection may occur or become a threat. Cessation of the drug and appropriate antibiotic therapy is usually indicated. In severe bone marrow depression, blood or platelet transfusions may be necessary.



Since it is reported that methotrexate may have an immunosuppressive action, this factor must be taken into consideration in evaluating the use of the drug where immune responses in a patient may be important or essential.



In all instances where the use of methotrexate is considered for chemotherapy, the physician must evaluate the need and usefulness of the drug against the risks of toxic effects or adverse reactions. Most such adverse reactions are reversible if detected early. When such effects or reactions do occur, the drug should be reduced in dosage or discontinued and appropriate corrective measures should be taken according to the clinical judgement of the physician. Reinstitution of methotrexate therapy should be carried out with caution, with adequate consideration of further need for the drug and alertness as to the possible recurrence of toxicity.



Methotrexate given concomitantly with radiotherapy may increase the risk of soft tissue necrosis and osteonecrosis.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Methotrexate is extensively protein bound and may be displaced by certain drugs such as salicylates, hypoglycaemics, diuretics, sulphonamides, diphenylhydantoins, tetracyclines, chloramphenicol and p-aminobenzoic acid, and the acidic anti-inflammatory agents, so causing a potential for increased toxicity when used concurrently.



Concomitant use of other drugs with nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic potential (including alcohol) should be avoided.



Vitamin preparations containing folic acid or its derivatives may decrease the effectiveness of methotrexate.



Caution should be used when NSAIDs and salicylates are administered concomitantly with methotrexate. These drugs have been reported to reduce the tubular secretion of methotrexate and thereby may enhance its toxicity. Concomitant use of NSAIDs and salicylates has been associated with fatal methotrexate toxicity.



However, patients using constant dosage regimens of NSAIDs have received concurrent doses of methotrexate without problems observed.



Renal tubular transport is also diminished by probenecid and penicillins; use of these with methotrexate should be carefully monitored.



Severe bone marrow depression has been reported following the concurrent use of methotrexate and co-trimoxazole or trimethoprim. Concurrent use should probably be avoided.



Methotrexate-induced stomatitis and other toxic effects may be increased by the use of nitrous oxide.



An increased risk of hepatitis has been reported following the use of methotrexate and the acitretin metabolite, etretinate. Consequently, the concomitant use of methotrexate and acitretin should be avoided.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Abortion, foetal death, and/or congenital anomalies have occurred in pregnant women receiving methotrexate, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. Methotrexate is contraindicated in the management of psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis in pregnant women. Women of childbearing potential should not receive methotrexate until pregnancy is excluded. For the management of psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, methotrexate therapy in women should be started immediately following a menstrual period and appropriate measures should be taken in men or women to avoid conception during and for at least 6 months following cessation of methotrexate therapy.



Both men and women receiving methotrexate should be informed of the potential risk of adverse effects on reproduction. Women of childbearing potential should be fully informed of the potential hazard to the foetus should they become pregnant during methotrexate therapy. In cancer chemotherapy, methotrexate should not be used in pregnant women or women of childbearing potential who might become pregnant unless the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible risks to the foetus.



Defective oogenesis or spermatogenesis, transient oligospermia, menstrual dysfunction, and infertility have been reported in patients receiving methotrexate.



Methotrexate is distributed into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions to methotrexate in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the woman.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The most common adverse reactions include ulcerative stomatitis, leukopenia, nausea and abdominal distress. Although very rare, anaphylactic reactions to methotrexate have occurred. Others reported are malaise, undue fatigue, chills and fever, dizziness and decreased resistance to infection. In general, the incidence and severity of side effects are considered to be dose-related. Adverse reactions as reported for the various systems are as follows:



Skin: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, epidermal necrolysis, erythematous rashes, pruritus, urticaria, photosensitivity, pigmentary changes, alopecia, ecchymosis, telangiectasia, acne, furunculosis. Lesions of psoriasis may be aggravated by concomitant exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Skin ulceration in psoriatic patients and rarely painful erosion of psoriatic plaques have been reported. The recall phenomenon has been reported in both radiation and solar damaged skin.



Blood: Bone marrow depression, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia, hypogammaglobulinaemia, haemorrhage from various sites, septicaemia.



Alimentary System: Gingivitis, pharyngitis, stomatitis, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhoea, haematemesis, melaena, gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding, enteritis, hepatic toxicity resulting in active liver atrophy, necrosis, fatty metamorphosis, periportal fibrosis, or hepatic cirrhosis. In rare cases the effect of methotrexate on the intestinal mucosa has led to malabsorption or toxic megacolon.



Hepatic: Hepatic toxicity resulting in significant elevations of liver enzymes, acute liver atrophy, necrosis, fatty metamorphosis, periportal fibrosis or cirrhosis or death may occur, usually following chronic administration.



Urogenital System: Renal failure, azotaemia, cystitis, haematuria, defective oogenesis or spermatogenesis, transient oligospermia, menstrual dysfunction, infertility, abortion, foetal defects, severe nephropathy. Vaginitis, vaginal ulcers, cystitis, haematuria and nephropathy have also been reported.



Pulmonary System: Acute or chronic interstitial pneumonitis, often associated with blood eosinophilia, may occur and deaths have been reported (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and special precautions for use). Acute pulmonary oedema has also been reported after oral and intrathecal use. Pulmonary fibrosis is rare. A syndrome consisting of pleuritic pain and pleural thickening has been reported following high doses.



Central Nervous System: Headaches, drowsiness, blurred vision, aphasia, hemiparesis and convulsions have occurred possibly related to haemorrhage or to complications from intraarterial catheterization. Convulsion, paresis, Guillain-Barre syndrome and increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure have followed intrathecal administration.



Other reactions related to, or attributed to the use of methotrexate such as pneumonitis, metabolic changes, precipitation of diabetes, osteoporotic effects, abnormal changes in tissue cells and even sudden death have been reported.



There have been reports of leukoencephalopathy following intravenous methotrexate in high doses, or low doses following cranial-spinal radiation.



Adverse reactions following intrathecal methotrexate are generally classified into three groups, acute, subacute, and chronic. The acute form is a chemical arachnoiditis manifested by headache, back or shoulder pain, nuchal rigidity, and fever. The subacute form may include paresis, usually transient, paraplegia, nerve palsies, and cerebellar dysfunction. The chronic form is a leukoencephalopathy manifested by irritability, confusion, ataxia, spasticity, occasionally convulsions, dementia, somnolence, coma, and rarely, death. There is evidence that the combined use of cranial radiation and intrathecal methotrexate increases the incidence of leukoencephalopathy.



Additional reactions related to or attributed to the use of methotrexate such as osteoporosis, abnormal (usually 'megaloblastic') red cell morphology, precipitation of diabetes, other metabolic changes, and sudden death have been reported.



4.9 Overdose



Calcium folinate (calcium leucovorin) is a potent agent for neutralizing the immediate toxic effects of methotrexate on the haematopoietic system. Where large doses or overdoses are given, calcium folinate may be administered by intravenous infusion in doses up to 75 mg within 12 hours, followed by 12 mg intramuscularly every 6 hours for 4 doses. Where average doses of methotrexate appear to have an adverse effect 6-12 mg of calcium folinate may be given intramuscularly every 6 hours for 4 doses. In general, where overdosage is suspected, the dose of calcium folinate should be equal to or higher than, the offending dose of methotrexate and should be administered as soon as possible; preferably within the first hour and certainly within 4 hours after which it may not be effective.



Other supporting therapy such as blood transfusion and renal dialysis may be required. Effective clearance of methotrexate has been reported with acute, intermittent haemodialysis using a high flux dialyser.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Methotrexate is an antimetabolite which acts principally by competitively inhibiting the enzyme, dihydrofolate reductase. In the process of DNA synthesis and cellular replication, folic acid must be reduced to tetrahydrofolic acid by this enzyme, and inhibition by methotrexate interferes with tissue cell reproduction. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells are generally more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate. It also inhibits antibody synthesis.



Methotrexate also has immunosuppressive activity, in part possibly as a result of inhibition of lymphocyte multiplication. The mechanism(s) of action in the management of rheumatoid arthritis of the drug is not known, although suggested mechanisms have included immunosuppressive and/or anti-inflammatory effect.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



In doses of 0.1 mg (of methotrexate) per kg, methotrexate is completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; larger oral doses may be incompletely absorbed. Peak serum concentrations are achieved within 0.5 - 2 hours following intravenous, intramuscular or intraarterial administration. Serum concentrations following oral administration of methotrexate may be slightly lower than those following intravenous injection.



Methotrexate is actively transported across cell membranes. The drug is widely distributed into body tissues with highest concentrations in the kidneys, gall bladder, spleen, liver and skin. Methotrexate is retained for several weeks in the kidneys and for months in the liver. Sustained serum concentrations and tissue accumulation may result from repeated daily doses. Methotrexate crosses the placental barrier and is distributed into breast milk. Approximately 50% of the drug in the blood is bound to serum proteins.



In one study, methotrexate had a serum half-life of 2-4 hours following intramuscular administration. Following oral doses of 0.06 mg/kg or more, the drug had a serum half-life of 2-4 hours, but the serum half-life was reported to be increased to 8-10 hours when oral doses of 0.037 mg/kg were given.



Methotrexate does not appear to be appreciably metabolised. The drug is excreted primarily by the kidneys via glomerular filtration and active transport. Small amounts are excreted in the faeces, probably via the bile. Methotrexate has a biphasic excretion pattern. If methotrexate excretion is impaired accumulation will occur more rapidly in patients with impaired renal function. In addition, simultaneous administration of other weak organic acids such as salicylates may suppress methotrexate clearance.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide and Water for Injections



6.2 Incompatibilities



Immediate precipitation or turbidity results when combined with certain concentrations of droperidol, heparin sodium, metoclopramide hydrochloride, ranitidine hydrochloride in syringe.



6.3 Shelf Life



As packaged for sale – 2 years



After dilution – Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated in dextrose 5% and sodium chloride 0.9% infusion solutions for 30 days at 4°C in PVC containers when protected from light.



From a microbiological point of view the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions prior to use are the responsibility of the user and would normally not be longer than 24 hours at 2-8°C, unless dilution has taken place in controlled and validated aseptic conditions.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



As packaged for sale – Do not store above 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep container in the outer carton.



After dilution – see 6.3.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



5 mg/2 ml - Conventional or Onco-Tain® Type I glass vial with rubber stopper, aluminium seal and plastic 'flip-off' top. Packs containing 5 vials.



Not all presentations and pack sizes listed above may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Single use only. Discard any unused contents.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Hospira UK Limited



Queensway



Royal Leamington Spa



Warwickshire



CV31 3RW



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 04515/0013



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



21st March 2003



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



January 2008




Wednesday, 8 August 2012

Estrogen-Progestin Combinations


Class: Contraceptives
VA Class: GU400
CAS Number: 57-63-6
Brands: Alesse, Apri, Aviane, Brevicon, Cryselle, Cyclessa, Demulen, Desogen, Enpresse, Estrostep, Femcon, Kariva, Lessina, Levlen, Levlite, Levora, Lo/Ovral, Loestrin, LoSeasonique, Low-Ogestrel, Lybrel, Microgestin, Mircette, Modicon, MonoNessa, Necon, Nelova, Nordette, Norinyl, Nortrel, NuvaRing, Ogestrel, Ortho Evra, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Ortho-Cept, Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho-Novum, Ovcon, Ovral, Portia, Seasonale, Seasonique, Sprintec, Tri-Levlen, Tri-Norinyl, Triphasil, Tri-Spintec, Trivora, Yasmin, Yaz, Zovia


Special Alerts:


ISSUE: FDA is aware of two newly published studies that evaluated the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in women who use birth control pills that contain drospirenone. The two recently published studies looked at whether there is a higher risk of blood clots in women taking birth control pills containing the progestin drospirenone when compared to similar women taking birth control pills containing a different progestin called levonorgestrel. These two new studies reported that there is a greater risk of VTE associated with birth control pills that contain drospirenone. This risk is reported to be up to 2 to 3 times greater than the risk of VTE associated with using levonorgestrel-containing pills. Other studies have not reported an increase in risk. The FDA is currently evaluating the conflicting results from these studies and will look at all currently available information to fully assess the risks and benefits of drospirenone-containing birth control pills. FDA will continue to communicate any new safety information to the public as it becomes available. Read the drug safety communication for more information on these studies.


BACKGROUND: Drospirenone is a type of female sex hormone called a progestin. Most birth control pills contain two types of hormones--estrogen and progestin. Birth control pills work by preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries (ovulation) and changing the cervical mucus and the lining of the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Brand names of drospirenone-containing products include Yaz (generics Gianvi and Loryna), Yasmin (generics Ocella, Syeda, and Zarah), Beyaz, and Safyral.


RECOMMENDATION: If your birth control pill contains drospirenone, do not stop taking it without first talking to your healthcare professional. Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you develop any symptoms of blood clots, including persistent leg pain, severe chest pain, or sudden shortness of breath. If you smoke and are over 35 years of age, you should not take combination oral contraceptives because they increase the risk that you could experience serious cardiovascular events, including blood clots. For more information visit the FDA website at: and .





  • Cigarette smoking during oral contraceptive use increases the risk of serious adverse cardiovascular effects.a This risk increases with age and with heavy smoking (≥15 cigarettes daily) and is markedly greater in women >35 years of age.a Women who use oral contraceptives should be strongly advised not to smoke.a




Introduction

Contraceptive combinations containing estrogenic and progestinic steroids.a


Uses for Estrogen-Progestin Combinations


Pending revision, the material in this section should be considered in light of more recently available information in the MedWatch notification at the beginning of this monograph.


Contraception


Prevention of conception in women.a


Postcoital Contraception


Prevention of conception after unprotected intercourse (including known or suspected contraceptive failure) as an emergency contraceptive (“morning-after” pills).254 255 257 258 259 261 262 264 265 345 346 347 348 349 Postcoital (emergency) contraceptive regimens are not as effective as most other forms of long-term contraception and should not be used as routine forms of contraception.345 346


An emergency contraceptive regimen employing a progestin alone (levonorgestrel) appears to be more effective and better tolerated than a common estrogen-progestin emergency contraceptive (“Yuzpe”) regimen when the regimens are initiated within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and therefore, generally is preferred when readily available.345 346 347 348


Acne Vulgaris


Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Estrostep: Treatment of moderate acne vulgaris in females ≥15 years of age who have no known contraindications to oral contraceptive therapy, desire contraception, have achieved menarche, and are unresponsive to topical anti-acne medication.299 321 Estrostep should be used for the treatment of acne vulgaris only in women who desire oral contraception and plan to take the drug for at least 6 months.299


Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder


Yaz: Management of premenstrual dysphoric disorder in women who desire oral contraception.333 338 341


Estrogen-Progestin Combinations Dosage and Administration


Administration


Administered orally, intravaginally, or percutaneously by topical application of a transdermal system to the skin.a


Oral Administration


Contraception

Take as near as possible to the same time each day (i.e., at regular 24-hour intervals) to ensure maximum contraceptive efficacy.a


Take with or after the evening meal or at bedtime to minimize nausea.a


Vomiting or diarrhea may decrease absorption of oral contraceptives and potentially result in treatment failures; in such instances, use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condoms, foam, sponge) until the next clinician contact.295 296 298 299 301


Chewable tablets may be swallowed whole or chewed and consumed with 240 mL of liquid.337


Available in a mnemonic dispensing package designed to aid the user in complying with the prescribed dosage schedule.a


Postcoital Contraception

Administer first contraceptive dose as soon as possible but preferably within 72 hours following unprotected sex; repeat dose 12 hours later.254 255 257 258 260 261 262 264 265 345 346 347 Schedule first dose as conveniently as possible so that the likelihood of missing the second dose 12 hours later is minimized (e.g., if the first dose were taken at 3 p.m., the second dose would need to be taken at 3 a.m., which might pose a problem of compliance for heavy sleepers).265 275 282 284


Most data support administration of the first dose up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse if necessary, but efficacy decreases as initiation of contraception becomes more remote from unprotected intercourse.345 346 347 Efficacy not established if administered >120 hours after unprotected intercourse.345 346


Consider use of an antiemetic 1 hour before the first dose.254 255 257 258 259 260 261 262 264 265 282 284 285 286 345 The high dosage in the combination regimens may cause severe nausea and vomiting.254 255 257 258 260 261 262 264 265 285 Food not effective in reducing adverse GI effects (i.e., nausea).345 346


Consider repeating a dose if breakthrough vomiting occurs within 2 hours after administration.345


Vaginal Administration


The vaginal contraceptive ring (NuvaRing) is inserted into the vagina by the patient; the exact position of the ring inside the vagina is not critical for its proper functioning.309


If the ring is accidentally expelled, rinse with cool or lukewarm water and reinsert it or, if necessary, insert a new ring as soon as possible; in either case, the administration schedule employed should be continued.309


If the contraceptive ring is removed from the vagina for longer than 3 hours, use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condoms, spermicides) until the ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


Topical Administration


Apply transdermal system to a clean and dry area of intact skin on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm, or upper torso by firmly pressing the system with the adhesive side touching the skin.308 Press system firmly in place with the palm of the hand for about 10 seconds; ensure good contact, especially around the edges.308 Do not apply to sites that are oily, damaged, or irritated.308 Do not apply transdermal system to the breasts or to areas where tight clothing may cause the system to be rubbed off.308


If the system inadvertently gets detached and is removed for less than one day, reapply the system or, if necessary, apply a new system (if the system is no longer sticky); in either case, the application schedule employed should be continued.308


If the system is removed for longer than 1 day or for an unknown duration, apply a new system immediately and start a new 4-week cycle; use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condoms, spermicides, diaphragm) for the first week of the new cycle.308


Dosage


The smallest dosage of estrogen and progestin compatible with a low failure rate and the individual needs of the woman should be used.a


In establishing an oral contraceptive dosage cycle, the menstrual cycle is usually considered to be 28 days. The first day of bleeding is counted as the first day of the cycle.a


Estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives are usually classified according to their formulation:



  • those monophasic preparations containing 50 mcg of estrogen,




  • those monophasic preparations containing <50 mcg of estrogen (usually 20–35 mcg),




  • those containing <50 mcg of estrogen with 2 sequences of progestin doses (biphasic),




  • those containing <50 mcg of estrogen with 3 sequences of progestin doses (triphasic), and




  • those containing 3 sequences of estrogen (e.g., 20, 30, 35 mcg) with a fixed dose of progestin (estrophasic).



Oral contraceptives usually are described in terms of their estrogen content, although the progestin content of the formulations also varies.a The estrogenic and progestinic dominance of oral contraceptives depends mainly on the amount of estrogen and the amount and specific progestin contained in the formulation.a The estrogenic or progestinic dominance of an oral contraceptive may contribute to hormone-related adverse effects and may be useful in selecting an alternate formulation when unacceptable adverse effects occur with a given formulation.a


Biphasic oral contraceptives contain 2 sequentially administered, fixed combinations of hormones per dosage cycle.a The first sequence consists of tablets containing a fixed combination of low-dose estrogen and low-dose progestin, and the second sequence consists of tablets containing a fixed combination of low-dose estrogen and higher-dose progestin.a Biphasic oral contraceptives are not the same as previously available “sequential” oral contraceptives, which consisted of an estrogen alone for the first sequence.a


Triphasic oral contraceptives contain graduated sequences of progestin or estrogen per dosage cycle.294 299 With most commercially available triphasic oral contraceptives, each dosage cycle consists of 3 sequentially administered fixed combinations of the hormones in which the ratio of progestin to estrogen progressively increases with each sequence.a The first sequence consists of tablets containing a fixed combination of low-dose estrogen and low-dose progestin, the second sequence consists of tablets containing a fixed combination of low-dose or low but slightly higher-dose estrogen and higher-dose progestin, and the third sequence consists of tablets containing low-dose estrogen and either an even higher-dose progestin or low-dose progestin.a


Estrophasic oral contraceptives are triphasic preparations in which the estrogen component progressively increases with each sequence.294 299


Fixed-combination, conventional-cycle oral contraceptives are available as 21- or 28-day dosage preparations.a Some 28-day preparations contain 21 hormonally active tablets and 7 inert or ferrous fumarate-containing tablets.a Other 28-day preparations contain 24 hormonally active tablets and 4 inert or ferrous fumarate-containing tablets.332 333


One monophasic, fixed-combination, extended-cycle oral contraceptive (e.g., Seasonale) is available as a 91-day dosage preparation containing 84 hormonally active tablets and 7 inert tablets.322 Other extended-cycle oral contraceptive preparations (e.g., LoSeasonique, Seasonique) are available as 91-day preparations with 84 hormonally active tablets containing estrogen/progestin and 7 tablets containing low-dose estrogen.331 354


One fixed-combination, continuous-regimen (noncyclic) oral contraceptive (i.e., Lybrel) is available as a 28-day dosage preparation containing 28 hormonally active tablets.339


The transdermal system (Ortho Evra) is applied topically in a cyclic regimen using a 28-day cycle.308


The vaginal contraceptive ring (NuvaRing) is intended to be used for 1 cycle, which consists of a 3-week period of continuous use of the ring followed by a 1-week ring-free period.309


Adults


Contraception

Oral (21- or 28-day conventional-cycle preparations)

Start on the first Sunday after or on which menstrual bleeding begins or on the first day of the menstrual cycle.a


If the first dose is on the first Sunday on or after menstrual bleeding starts, use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condoms, foam, sponge) for 7 days following initiation of oral contraceptive therapy.236 298 295 296 298 299 301 332 333 337 If the first dose is on the first day of the menstrual cycle, a back-up method of contraception is not necessary.236 298 295 296 298 299 301


With 21-day conventional-cycle preparations, take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet once daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by 7 days without tablets.a Begin repeat dosage cycles on the eighth day after the last hormonally active tablet (i.e., on the same day of the week as the initial cycle).a


With 28-day conventional-cycle preparations containing 21 hormonally active tablets, take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet once daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by inert tablets or ferrous fumarate tablets for 7 days.a Begin repeat dosage cycles on the eighth day after the last hormonally active tablet (i.e., on the same day of the week as the initial cycle).a


With 28-day conventional-cycle preparations containing 24 hormonally active tablets, take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet once daily for 24 consecutive days, followed by inert tablets or ferrous fumarate tablets for 4 days.332 333 Begin repeat dosage cycles on the fifth day after the last hormonally active tablet (i.e., on the same day of the week as the initial cycle).332 333


When 1 estrogen/progestin tablet of a conventional-cycle oral contraceptive is missed, take the missed tablet as soon as it is remembered, followed by resumption of the regular schedule.a Additional contraceptive methods are not necessary if only 1 tablet is missed.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337


When 2 estrogen/progestin tablets are missed during the first 1 or 2 weeks of the cycle, take the 2 missed tablets as soon as they are remembered, take 2 tablets the next day, then resume the regular schedule.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337 If 2 consecutive estrogen/progestin tablets are missed during the third or fourth week of a dosage cycle that was initiated on the first day of the menstrual cycle, discard the remainder of the tablets in the pack for that cycle and start a new dosage cycle the same day.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337 If 2 consecutive estrogen/progestin tablets are missed during the third or fourth week of a dosage cycle that was initiated on the first Sunday on or after menstruation started, continue to take 1 tablet daily until Sunday, then discard the remainder of the tablets for that cycle and start a new dosage cycle that same day.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337 When 2 or more estrogen/progestin tablets are missed on consecutive days, a back-up method of contraception should be used for each sexual encounter until a hormonally active tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.321 332 333 337


If 3 or more consecutive estrogen/progestin tablets are missed during a dosage cycle that was initiated on the first day of the menstrual cycle, discard the remainder of the tablets in that cycle and start a new dosage cycle the same day.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337 If 3 or more consecutive estrogen/progestin tablets are missed during a dosage cycle that was initiated on the first Sunday on or after menstruation started, take 1 tablet daily until Sunday, then discard the remainder of the tablets for that cycle and start a new dosage cycle that same day.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337 A back-up method of contraception should be used for each sexual encounter until a hormonally active tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.321 332 333 337


During week 4 of a 28-day dosage cycle, any inactive or ferrous fumarate tablets that are missed should be discarded; continue to take the remaining tablets until the cycle is finished.295 296 298 299 301 332 333 337 A back-up contraceptive method is not required during the fourth week as a result of missed inactive or ferrous fumarate tablets.295 296 298 299 301 332 333 337


With 28-day contraceptive cycles, a new cycle of tablets should be started the day after taking the last tablet of the previous 28-day dosage cycle (i.e., no days without tablets).295 296 298 299 301 332 333 337


If unsure of what drug regimen to take as a result of missed tablets, use a back-up method of contraception for each sexual encounter and take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet daily until the next clinician contact.295 296 298 299 301 321 332 333 337


Oral (91-day extended-cycle preparations)

Start on the first Sunday after or on which bleeding begins.322 331 354 Use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condom, spermicide) for 7 days following initiation of therapy.322 331 354


Take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet daily for 84 days, followed by inert tablets or tablets containing 10 mcg of estrogen for 7 days.322 331 354 Repeat dosage cycles begin on the same day of the week (Sunday) as the initial cycle.322 331 354 If a repeat cycle is started later than the scheduled day, use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.322 331 354


When 1 estrogen/progestin tablet is missed, take the missed tablet as soon as it is remembered, followed by resumption of the regular schedule.322 331 354 Additional contraceptive measures are not necessary if only one tablet is missed.322 331 354


When 2 estrogen/progestin tablets are missed, take the 2 missed tablets as soon as they are remembered, 2 tablets the next day, then resume the regular cycle.322 331 354 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.322 331 354


When 3 or more consecutive estrogen/progestin tablets are missed, continue to take 1 tablet daily; the missed tablets should be discarded.322 331 354 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.322 331 354


If unsure of what drug regimen to take as a result of missed tablets, use a back-up method of contraception for each sexual encounter, and take 1 tablet daily until the next clinician contact.322 331 354


Discard inert tablets or estrogen-containing tablets that are missed; continue to take the remaining tablets until the cycle is finished.322 331 354 If inert tablets or estrogen-containing tablets are missed, a back-up contraceptive method is not required.322 331 354


Oral (continuous-regimen [noncyclic] preparation)

Women who did not use hormonal contraception in the preceding month: Start on the first day of the menstrual cycle.339 If the first dose is on the first day of the menstrual cycle, a back-up method of contraception is not necessary.339


Women switching from cyclic estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives: Start on the first day of withdrawal bleeding, within 7 days of the last hormonally active tablet.339 A back-up method of contraception is not needed.339


Women switching from progestin-only oral contraceptives: Start on the day after the last progestin tablet.339 Use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condom, spermicide) until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


Women switching from a progestin-only implant: Start on the day that the implant is removed.339 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


Women switching from a progestin-only contraceptive injection: Start on the day that the next contraceptive injection would have been due.339 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


Take 1 estrogen/progestin tablet each day and continue daily without interruption.339


When 1 tablet is missed, take the missed tablet as soon as it is remembered, then resume the regular schedule (2 tablets may be taken on the same day).339 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


When 2 tablets are missed and the missed doses are remembered on the day of the second missed dose, take the 2 missed tablets as soon as remembered, then resume the regular schedule.339 When the 2 tablets are missed and the missed doses are remembered on the day after the second missed dose, take the 2 missed tablets as soon as remembered, take 2 tablets the next day, then resume the regular schedule.339 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


When 3 or more tablets are missed, contact clinician and continue to take 1 tablet daily until clinician contact.339 Use a back-up method of contraception until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


If unsure of what drug regimen to take as a result of missed tablets, use a back-up method of contraception for each sexual encounter.339


Nonlactating postpartum women may start the fixed-combination, continuous-regimen oral contraceptive no earlier than 28 days after delivery; a back-up method of contraception is needed until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


Women may start the continuous regimen immediately after a complete first-trimester abortion; a back-up method of contraception is not needed.339


Women may start the continuous regimen no earlier than 28 days after a second-trimester abortion; a back-up method of contraception is needed until an estrogen/progestin tablet has been taken for 7 consecutive days.339


Vaginal

To initiate therapy in women who did not use hormonal contraception in the preceding month, insert the vaginal contraceptive ring (NuvaRing) on or before day 5 of the cycle.309 During the first cycle, use a back-up method of contraception (e.g., condom, spermicide) until the vaginal ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


After 3 weeks, remove the vaginal ring on the same day of the week as it was inserted and at about the same time of day.309 For contraceptive effectiveness, insert a new vaginal ring 1 week after the previous vaginal ring is removed even if menstrual bleeding is not finished.309


Women switching from estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives: Insert the vaginal ring within 7 days of the last hormonally active tablet and no later than the day that a new oral contraceptive cycle would have been started; a back-up method of contraception is not needed.309


Women switching from progestin-only oral contraceptives: Insert the vaginal ring on any day of the month (without skipping any day between receiving the last progestin oral contraceptive and the initial administration of the vaginal ring).309 Use a back-up method of contraception until the vaginal ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


Women switching from a progestin-only contraceptive injection: Insert the vaginal ring on the same day as the next contraceptive injection would have been due.309 Use a back-up method of contraception until the vaginal ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


Women who are switching from a progestin-only implant or a progestin-containing intrauterine device: Insert the vaginal ring on the same day as the implant or intrauterine device is removed.309 Use a back-up method of contraception until the vaginal ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


If a woman forgets to insert a new vaginal ring at the start of any cycle, insert the ring as soon as remembered; use a back-up method of contraception until the ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309 If the vaginal ring is left in place for up to 1 extra week (up to 4 weeks total), remove the ring and insert a new ring after a 1-week drug-free interval.309 If the ring is left in place for longer than 4 weeks, rule out pregnancy and use a back-up method of contraception until a new ring has been used continuously for 7 days.309


Women may start using the vaginal contraceptive ring in the first 5 days following a complete first-trimester abortion; a back-up method of contraception is not needed in these women.309 If the contraceptive ring is not used within the first 5 days, follow the general instructions for women who did not use hormonal contraception in the preceding month.309


If a nonlactating woman chooses to initiate contraception postpartum with the contraceptive vaginal ring before menstruation has started, consider the possibility that ovulation and conception may have occurred prior to initiation of contraceptive therapy; use a back-up method of contraception for the first 7 days.309


Topical

To initiate therapy, start on the first day of the menstrual cycle or on the first Sunday after menstrual bleeding has started.308 Use a back-up method of contraception (condom, spermicide, diaphragm) for the first 7 days if therapy is started after day 1 of the menstrual cycle.308 A back-up method of contraception is not needed if the first system is applied on the first day of the menstrual cycle.308


One transdermal system (containing ethinyl estradiol 0.75 mg and norelgestromin 6 mg) is applied once weekly (same day each week) for 3 weeks, followed by a 1-week drug-free interval (drug-free interval should not exceed 7 days); the regimen is then repeated.309


Women switching from estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives: Apply the transdermal system on the first day of withdrawal bleeding.308 If there is no withdrawal bleeding within 5 days of the last hormonally active tablet, rule out pregnancy.309 If therapy with the transdermal system is initiated after the first day of bleeding, use a back-up method of contraception for 7 days.308 If more than 7 days elapse after receiving the last hormonally active tablet, consider the possibility of ovulation and conception.309


When a woman has not adhered to the prescribed transdermal contraceptive regimen by not applying the estrogen and progestin-containing system at the initiation of any cycle (i.e., day 1/first week), apply the system as soon as it is remembered and start a new dosage cycle the same day; use a back-up method of contraception for the first 7 days of the new cycle.308


If, in the middle of the cycle (i.e., on day 8/week 2 or day 15/week 3), the transdermal system has not been changed for 1–2 days (<48 hours), apply a new system as soon as it is remembered and continue the application schedule employed; back-up contraception is not needed.308 If, in the middle of the cycle the transdermal system has not been changed for more than 2 days (≥48 hours), start a new dosage cycle; use a back-up method of contraception for the first 7 days of the new cycle.308


When the transdermal system is not removed at the end of the application schedule (i.e., on day 22/week 4), remove the system as soon as it is remembered and continue the application schedule employed (i.e., apply system on day 28); back-up contraception is not needed.308


Women may start using the transdermal contraceptive system immediately after a first-trimester abortion; a back-up method of contraception is not needed.308 If the contraceptive preparation is not used within 5 days of a first-trimester abortion, follow instructions as if initiating transdermal contraception for the first time.308


Postcoital Contraception

Oral

“Yuzpe” regimen: Take 100 mcg of ethinyl estradiol and 1 mg of norgestrel within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, repeating the dose 12 hours later.254 255 257 258 259 261 262 264 265 275 282 284 345


Other regimens: Take 100–120 mcg of ethinyl estradiol and 1.2 mg of norgestrel or 0.5–0.6 mg of levonorgestrel within 72 hours after intercourse, repeating the dose 12 hours later.264 265 275 282 284 345


If necessary, the first dose can be administered up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse, but efficacy decreases the longer initiation of contraception is delayed.345 346 347


Repeated postcoital (emergency) contraception use indicates need for counseling about other contraceptive options.345 350 Safety of recurrent use not established but risk appears low, even within same menstrual cycle.345 350 Consider possibility that risk of adverse effects may be increased with frequently repeated postcoital contraception.350


* Dose is administered initially and then repeated 12 hours later































Dosage of Estrogen-progestin Combinations for Postcoital Contraception

Estrogen-progestin Combination Formulation [Brand Name]



Number and Color of Tablets per Dose*



Ethinyl estradiol (50 mcg) with norgestrel (0.5 mg) [Ovral]



2 white tablets (any of 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (50 mcg) with norgestrel (0.5 mg) [Ovral-28]



2 white tablets (any of first 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with norgestrel (0.3 mg) [Lo-Ovral]



4 white tablets (any of 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with norgestrel (0.3 mg) [Lo-Ovral-28]



4 white tablets (any of first 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) [Nordette]



4 light-orange tablets (any of 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) [Nordette-28]



4 light-orange tablets (any of first 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) [Levlen 21]



4 light-orange tablets (any of 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.15 mg) [Levlen 28]



4 light-orange tablets (any of first 21 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.125 mg) [Tri-Levlen 21]



4 yellow tablets (any of last 10 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.125 mg) [Tri-Levlen 28]



4 yellow tablets (any of tablets 12–21)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.125 mg) [Tri-Phasil 21]



4 yellow tablets (any of last 10 tablets)



Ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.125 mg) [Tri-Levlen 28]



4 yellow tablets (any of tablets 12–21)



Ethinyl estradiol (20 mcg) with levonorgestrel (0.1 mg) [Lessina 28]



5 pink tablets (any of first 21 tablets)


Acne Vulgaris

Oral

Ortho Tri-Cyclen or Estrostep is used in the same dosage and administration (i.e., timing of initiation of therapy) as used in contraception.a


Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Oral

Yaz is used in the same dosage and administration (i.e., timing of initiation of therapy) as used in contraception.333 (See Oral [21- or 28-day conventional-cycle preparations] under Dosage and Administration.)


Cautions for Estrogen-Progestin Combinations


Contraindications



  • Hypersensitivity to the drug or any ingredient in the formulation.a




  • Known or suspected pregnancy.a




  • Undiagnosed abnormal genital bleeding.a




  • Diplopia or any ocular lesion arising from ophthalmic vascular disease.a




  • Classical migraine.a




  • Active liver disease or history of cholestatic jaundice with pregnancy or with prior use of oral contraceptives.a




  • Breast-feeding.a




  • Thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders.a




  • Cerebrovascular disease or CAD (including MI).a




  • Severe hypertension.a




  • Diabetes with vascular involvement.a




  • Known or suspected carcinoma of the breast.a




  • Known or suspected estrogen-dependent neoplasia (e.g., carcinoma of the endometrium).a




  • Benign or malignant liver tumor that developed during oral contraceptive or other estrogen use.a




  • Oral contraceptives containing the progestin drospirenone are contraindicated in women with renal or hepatic impairment and in those with adrenal insufficiency.302 333




  • Most experts state that there currently is no real contraindication to postcoital (emergency) contraception with the recommended regimens and that the benefits generally outweigh any theoretical or proven risk.345 346 350



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Pending revision, the material in this section should be considered in light of more recently available information in the MedWatch notification at the beginning of this monograph.


Increased risk of several serious conditions, including thromboembolism, stroke, MI, liver tumor, gallbladder disease, visual disturbances, fetal abnormalities, and hypertension.a However, risk of serious morbidity or mortality is very small in healthy women without underlying risk factors.a


Ethinyl Estradiol/Norelgestromin Transdermal System

Overall exposure to ethinyl estradiol and norelgestromin is higher in women receiving Ortho Evra than in women receiving an oral contraceptive preparation containing ethinyl estradiol 35 mcg and norgestimate 0.25 mg.308 (See Absorption under Pharmacokinetics.)