Here are some of the medications that are
used for ADHD and Mood Disorders...
Scan down list to see medications such as...
Tegretol, Wellbutrin, Tenex, Seroquel, Cogentin, Trazodone, Adderall, Paxil, Dexedrine, Lithium, Prozac, Zyprexa and Mellaril
Tegretol
Tegretol is used in the treatment of seizure disorders, including certain types of epilepsy.
In addition, some doctors use Tegretol to treat emotional disorders such as depression and abnormally aggressive behavior.
Most important fact about this drug
There are potentially dangerous side effects associated with the use of Tegretol. If you experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, ulcers in the mouth, easy bruising, or reddish or purplish spots on the skin, you should notify your doctor immediately. These symptoms could be signs of a blood disorder brought on by the drug.
More common side effects, especially at the start of treatment, may include:
Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, unsteadiness, vomiting
Other side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, abnormal heartbeat and rhythm, abnormal involuntary movements, abnormal sensitivity to sound, aching joints and muscles, agitation, anemia, blood clots, blurred vision, chills, confusion, congestive heart failure, constipation, depression, diarrhea, double vision, dry mouth and throat, fainting and collapse, fatigue, fever, fluid retention, frequent urination, hair loss, hallucinations, headache, hepatitis, hives, impotence, inability to urinate, inflammation of the mouth and tongue, inflamed eyes, involuntary movements of the eyeball, itching, kidney failure, labored breathing, leg cramps, liver disorders, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, low blood pressure, pneumonia, reddened skin, reddish or purplish spots on the skin, reduced urine volume, ringing in the ears, sensitivity to light, skin inflammation and scaling, skin peeling, skin rashes, skin pigmentation changes, speech difficulties, stomach problems, sweating, talkativeness, tingling sensation, worsening of high blood pressure, yellow eyes and skin.
Depakote
Depakote (Divalproex sodium), marketed by Abbot Laboratories, is a prescription medication that has been proven effective in the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression.
Depakote has been marketed in the United States since 1983. Until it was approved for use in treating manic depression on June 1, 1995, it was used exclusively in the treatment of epilepsy. This new use of Depakote for the manic episodes of bipolar disorder is a breakthrough in medicine because it is the first medication approved for the symptoms of mania in 25 years.
What are the side effects of Depakote?
Liver problems, which can be severe, may develop on Depakote, especially in the first six months of treatment. Problems with white blood cell count and blood platelets, which can also be severe, may also develop on this medication. Blood tests to monitor liver function and blood cells are an important part of treatment with Depakote, and they serve to make this treatment acceptably safe. Other common side effects are nausea, drowsiness, and dizziness; but for some patients these conditions lessen or go away over time. Because Depakote may cause drowsiness, patients receiving this medication should not engage in hazardous activities or operate motor vehicles while undergoing treatment until the drowsiness subsides. Some adverse effects on skin and hair may also occur, including rash, hair loss, and itching. Patients taking stronger doses of Depakote may experience more side effects, so it is important to weigh the benefits of a higher dose against the possibility of greater adverse reactions to the drug.
What are the advantages of Depakote?
Depakote is a major advance in the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It is an effective and well-tolerated treatment that offers new hope for patients. There are a number of anti-depressant medications available for treating the depressive episodes of manic depression, but there are only two approved by the FDA for treating mania: lithium and Depakote. The newest of these is Depakote, which has a promising future in the treatment of manic depression.
Risperdal
Risperdal, or risperidone, is the newest medication for treating schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. It helps manage schizophrenia's "positive symptoms" such as visual and auditory hallucinations, delusions, and thought disturbances. Risperdal may also help in treating so-called "negative symptoms" such as social withdrawal, apathy, lack of motivation, and inability to experience pleasure. Side effects are usually relatively minor, and blood monitoring is not necessary. Risperdal is the first new front-line treatment option in twenty years.
How is Risperdal different from other antipsychotic medications?
Conventional antipsychotics such as Haldol, Stelazine, and Prolixin have treated positive symptoms in many patients for several years. However, they do not satisfactorily affect the negative symptoms, and they often cause uncomfortable or intolerable side effects. Risperdal is as effective as the conventional medications in treating positive symptoms. It also offers the advantages of helping to treat some of the negative symptoms somewhat and causing fewer extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) such as restlessness, muscle rigidity, and tremor when taken at the manufacturer's recommended dose of 6 mg per day.
Why is Risperdal called a new
front-line option?
It means that Risperdal could be the first medication prescribed for a person who is newly diagnosed with a psychotic disorder. Some medications, such as clozapine, have side effects that may be inconvenient or difficult to manage. Such medications may be reserved until after other medications have been tried unsuccessfully. Because Risperdal is effective and has relatively few side effects, doctors may consider it one of the first medications to try for patients with schizophrenia. It's important to remember that no medication will work for everyone, and some patients will have greater success with Risperdal than others.
How does Risperdal work?
Risperdal, like other new antipsychotic drugs currently under development, is designed as a serotonin/dopamine antagonist. While its exact mechanism of action is not yet understood, Risperdal seems to block the action of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain. Conventional antipsychotics seem to primarily affect only dopamine.
How quickly does Risperdal relieve symptoms of schizophrenia?
The recommended dose is usually reached within three to four weeks, and improvement of symptoms may be noticed in some patients relatively quickly. Some adjustments may be necessary to reach the optimal dose for each patient. It is normally advisable to give the medication a trial period of at least four to six weeks at the optimal dose (6 mg/day) before evaluating its effectiveness, although experience with clozapine suggests that improvements may take months to fully emerge.
Side effects of Risperdal
When taken at the manufacturer's recommended dose of 6 mg a day (3 mg twice a day), the incidence of many side effects is not significantly greater than for placebo. These side effects include extrapyramidal symptoms (muscle stiffness, tremors, and body shakes). At higher doses, extrapyramidal side effects often increase. Benztropine (Cogentin) can be prescribed to reduce or eliminate stiffness and tremors, but its use beyond three months should be re-evaluated.
More significant possible side effects, affecting some patients but not all, include low blood pressure, dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly; heart palpitations; sleepiness; constipation; weight gain; sexual dysfunction; and fatigue. Some of these problems can be minimized by following recommended guidelines for dosage at the beginning of treatment (gradual increase of dose over a period of several weeks). Patients who already have low blood pressure, who have kidney or liver impairment, are elderly, or in a weakened condition may require close monitoring and even more gradual dose adjustment.
Concerta
Concerta, a new medicine for AD/HD has been on the market for a short time. And even though Concerta is merely a reformulation of an old standard Ritalin many patients already report a transformation in their symptom management.
The reason: a medication release system that delivers a smooth dose over a period of about twelve hours. That means fewer peaks and valleys, minimal rebounding, and the convenience of once-a-day dosing. Kids taking Concerta dont have to report to the nurses office every day, and AD/HD adults have the relief of one less task to remember.
The release system works like this: The pills outside surface of Ritalin is absorbed immediately. Then, inside the capsule are two small containers that release more Ritalin over the next twelve hours. The bottom part of the capsule is filled with a material that expands when it absorbs water. As this material expands, it slowly pushes the Ritalin out of the two containers and into your system.
How well does it work?
According to my patients, extremely well. Some report that Concerta lasts the full twelve hours, while others say its effective for only eight. But all agree that it works as well as short-acting Ritalin, and that its effect is more even and smooth.
Possible disadvantages:
Dosage Control: You cant cut the pill (or chew it) because that will destroy the release mechanism.
Appetite Supression: You cant control the dosing to account for mealtimes; patients are not likely to feel hungry until the entire dose wears off.
Evening Use: You cant take a second, 12-hour dose late in the day without it possibly affecting your sleep so kids who need Ritalin to concentrate on homework, or adults who need it to function in the evening, may need to take a short acting Ritalin tablet after the first dose wears off. Determining the right Concerta dosage for you will take some experimenting. The literature suggests that if you take 5 mg. of Ritalin three times a day, the equivalent dose of Concerta is 18 mg. (10 mg. Ritalin 3 times/day = 36 mg. Concerta and 15 mg. Ritalin 3 times/day = 54 mg.
Concerta).
In sum, based on my patients experiences, consider giving Concerta a try but be sure to discuss the pros and cons thoroughly with your familys prescribing physician. The decision may rest individual factors such as medications you may be taking, nutritional and health status, and other personal issues.
Ritalin
Methylphenidate is a medication prescribed for individuals (usually children) who have an abnormally high level of activity or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 3 to 5 percent of the general population has the disorder, which is characterized by agitated behavior and an inability to focus on tasks. Methylphenidate also is occasionally prescribed for treating narcolepsy.
Health Effects
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It has effects similar to, but more potent than, caffeine and less potent than amphetamines. It has a notably calming effect on hyperactive children and a "focusing" effect on those with ADHD.
Recent research at Brookhaven National Laboratory may begin to explain how methylphenidate helps people with ADHD. The researchers used positron emission tomography (PET - a noninvasive brain scan) to confirm that administering normal therapeutic doses of methylphenidate to healthy, adult men increased their dopamine levels. The researchers speculate that methylphenidate amplifies the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter, thereby improving attention and focus in individuals who have dopamine signals that are weak, such as individuals with ADHD.
When taken as prescribed, methylphenidate is a valuable medicine. Research shows that people with ADHD do not become addicted to stimulant medications when taken in the form prescribed and at treatment dosages.2 Another study found that ADHD boys treated with stimulants such as methylphenidate are significantly less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol when they are older than are non-treated ADHD boys.3
Because of its stimulant properties, however, in recent years there have been reports of abuse of methylphenidate by people for whom it is not a medication. Some individuals abuse it for its stimulant effects: appetite suppression, wakefulness, increased focus/attentiveness, and euphoria. When abused, the tablets are either taken orally or crushed and snorted. Some abusers dissolve the tablets in water and inject the mixture - complications can arise from this because insoluble fillers in the tablets can block small blood vessels.
Wellbutrin
Bupropion Amfebutamone,
Bupropion ( Wellbutrin ) has a stimulant type of effect and is used primarily for the treatment of major depression. Bupropion ( Wellbutrin ) can also be used to treat ADHD, Bipolar depression, treat chronic fatigue syndrome, in reducing cocaine craving, to help kick smoking, and to reduce lower back pain.
Bupropion ( Wellbutrin ) was released for use in the United States of America in 1989. About 28% of persons taking this drug will loss five or more pounds and about 0.04% will experience seizures.
CLASS: Monocyclic Aminoketone.
Generic name: Bupropion Hydrochloride.
Type: Antidepressant.
Strengths:
Tables:
75 mg, 100 mg.
Approximately four in every thousand will have seizures.
Higher doses increase risk of seizures.
Prolonged usage: Check kidney / liver function. Check blood levels of serum bupropion.
Problems with:
Liver Function: Lower dosage, as needed with careful monitoring.
Kidney Function: Must lower dosage, as needed.
Warnings Important:
Do not take this drug if you are taking any type of monoamine oxidase inhibitor ( MAO ) or have taken one within the past two weeks.
Do not take this drug if you have any type of seizure disorder.Do not take this drug if you have a history of anorexia or bulimia.
The habit-forming potential is none.
Inform your Doctor:
If you have had a negative reactions to this drug in the past.
If you have epilepsy.
If you have heart, liver, or kidney disease.
If you have a history of alcoholism or drug abuse.
If you are taking any other prescription or non-prescription drugs.
Including any anti-psychotic or anti-depressant type drug:
Clozaril, Dilantan, Haldol, Larodopa, Lithium, Loxapine,
Maprotiline, Molindone, Phenobarbital, Phenothiazines,
Prozac, Tagamet, Thioxanthenes, Trazodone, or Tegretol.
If you will be under anesthesia or have any surgery in the next few months.
If you will be undergoing any medical tests.
Bupropion ( Symptoms or Effects )
Common: Agitation, change in appetite, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, increased perspiration, insomnia, nausea, or vomiting.
Rare: Acne, blurred vision, chest pain, chills, coordination problems, confusion, decrease in white blood cell count, fainting, fever, gum irritation, hair color changes, hair loss, hallucinations, hives, indigestion, itching, liver toxicity, loss of movement, nightmares, racing heartbeat / palpitations, seizure, skin rash, sexual problems, suicidal thoughts, tinnitus ( ringing in the ears ), excessive thirst, toothaches, tremors, urinary problems, or weight gain / loss.
See physician always: Acne, blurred vision, chest pain, chills, coordination problems, confusion, decrease in white blood cell count, fever, gum irritation, hair color changes, hair loss, hallucinations, hives, indigestion, itching, liver toxicity, loss of movement, racing heartbeat / palpitations, seizure, skin rash, sexual problems, suicidal thoughts, tinnitus ( ringing in the ears ), excessive thirst, toothaches, tremors, urinary problems, vomiting, or weight gain / loss.
See physician if severe: Agitation, change in appetite, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, increased perspiration, insomnia, nightmares, or nausea.
Tenex
Guanfacine (Oral)
DESCRIPTION
Treats high blood pressure.
Also used in Mood Disorders
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.Tablets:
Take this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered. Even if you feel fine your blood pressure can still be high.
May be taken with or without food.
If you are taking guanfacine once a day, take the dose at bedtime to avoid being drowsy during the day
.
What is the most important information I should know about guanfacine?
Do not stop taking guanfacine suddenly. Stopping suddenly could cause severely high blood pressure, nervousness, and anxiety.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Guanfacine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position and take guanfacine at bedtime if possible. Guanfacine will make you drowsy and may cause some dizziness.
Do not use alcohol, antihistamines, prescription pain relievers, sleeping pills, and other drugs that may cause drowsiness or dizziness except under the supervision of your doctor.
What is guanfacine?
Guanfacine lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. This allows your blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax (widen) and your heart to beat more slowly and easily.
Guanfacine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).
Guanfacine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
the medication guide.
What are the possible side effects of guanfacine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking guanfacine and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· a very slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute); or
· unusually high or low blood pressure (fainting, a severe headache, flushing of your face).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take guanfacine and talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:
· unusual fatigue, dizziness, or tiredness;
· headache;
· constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
· insomnia; or
· dry mouth (sucking on ice chips or sugarless hard candy may relieve this side effect).
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur.
What other drugs will affect guanfacine?
Guanfacine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
Seroquel
Quetiapine (Oral)
DESCRIPTION
Treats symptoms of schizophrenia and other mental disorders.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE
Tablets:
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. Your doctor may start you on a small dose of the medicine and slowly increase your dose.
You may take the tablets with food or on an empty stomach.
What is the most important information I should know about quetiapine?
Call your doctor immediately if you experience uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Quetiapine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Avoid alcohol or use it cautiously if your doctor approves. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
quetiapine.
Avoid becoming overheated during quetiapine therapy. It is easy to become dangerously dehydrated while you are taking
quetiapine. Use caution in hot weather and during exercise.
What is quetiapine?
Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.
Quetiapine is used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions, including hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.
Quetiapine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
the medication guide.
What other drugs will affect quetiapine?
Before taking quetiapine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· carbamazepine (Tegretol);
· phenytoin (Dilantin);
· phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);
· rifampin (Rifadin);
· ketoconazole (Nizoral);
· itraconazole (Sporanox);
· fluconazole (Diflucan);
· erythromycin (Ery-Tab, E-Mycin, E.E.S., others); or
· a steroid such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), dexamethasone
(Decadron), methylprednisolone (Medrol), prednisolone (Prelone, Pediapred, others), or cortisone
(Cortef, others).
The medicines listed above can increase or decrease the effects of
quetiapine. A change in your quetiapine dosage may be necessary if you are taking any of these medicines.
Quetiapine may increase the effects of medicines that are used to control high blood pressure. This interaction could lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms. Tell your doctor if you are taking a medication to control your blood pressure or to treat a heart condition.
Quetiapine may also increase the effects of drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and many others.
Cogentin
Benztropine (Oral)
DESCRIPTION
Treats symptoms of Parkinson's disease or side effects of other drugs.
WHEN YOU SHOULD NOT USE THIS MEDICINE
This medicine should not be taken by children under the age of three.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICINE
Tablets:
Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
Benztropine may be taken with or without food.
What is the most important information I should know about
benztropine?
Immediately report to your doctor any stomach discomfort, stomach upset, fever, or feelings of extreme heat. This could indicate the development of a serious condition.
Do not stop taking benztropine suddenly. This could make your condition much worse.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Benztropine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
benztropine.
What is benztropine?
Benztropine reduces the effects of certain chemicals that occur naturally in your body and that may become unbalanced as a result of disease (such as Parkinson's disease), drug therapy, or other causes.
Benztropine is used to treat the stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control of Parkinson's disease. It is also used to treat and prevent these same muscular conditions when they are caused by drugs such as chlorpromazine
(Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), and others.
Benztropine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take benztropine?
You cannot take benztropine if you
· have ever had an allergic reaction to it
· have narrow-angle glaucoma,
· have an obstruction in your bowel or a complication of bowel disease known as
megacolon; or
· have myasthenia gravis.
Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions that you have, especially
· an enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating,
· epilepsy or another seizure disorder,
· heart disease or an irregular heartbeat;
· depression or any other psychiatric illness, or
· kidney or liver disease.
You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
What should you avoid while taking benztropine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Benztropine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
benztropine.
Avoid becoming overheated. Benztropine may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise. Try to keep as cool as possible and watch for signs of heat stroke such as decreased sweating, nausea, and dizziness.
What are the possible side effects of
benztropine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking benztropine and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· an irregular or fast heartbeat;
· a fever; or
· decreased sweat production in hot weather with a feeling of extreme heat.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take benztropine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· nausea, vomiting, or constipation;
· dry mouth or blurred vision; or
· difficulty urinating.
Rarely, you may also experience any of the following side effects, which may require medical attention:
· confusion or hallucinations;
· irritability; or
· numbness in your hands or feet.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur.
What other drugs will affect benztropine?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking
· a tricyclic antidepressant (used to treat depression, pain, or obsessive-compulsive disorder) such as amitriptyline
(Elavil, Endep), doxepin (Sinequan), or clomipramine (Anafranil);
· another commonly used tricyclic antidepressant, such as desipramine
(Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), or protriptyline (Vivactil);
· a phenothiazine (used to treat mania, schizophrenia, other psychiatric conditions, and nausea and vomiting) such as chlorpromazine
(Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), thioridazine
(Mellaril), promazine (Sparine), trifluoperazine (Stelazine), and others;
· an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), chlorpheniramine
(Chlor-Trimeton, others), triprolidine (Actifed, others), brompheniramine (Dimetapp, others), clemastine
(Tavist), and others (antihistamines are often found in prescription and over-the-counter cold, allergy, and sleep medicines);
· amantadine (Symmetrel);
· digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps); or
· haloperidol (Haldol).
Trazodone
Brand: Desyrel, Desyrel Dividose
What is the most important information
you should know about trazodone?
Stop taking trazodone and call your doctor immediately if you experience prolonged, painful, or inappropriate erections. This could lead to a serious condition requiring surgery.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Trazodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
trazodone.
Do not stop taking this medication without the approval of your doctor.
What is trazodone?
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.
Trazodone is used to relieve symptoms of depression such as feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or guilt; loss of interest in daily activities; changes in appetite; tiredness; sleeping too much; insomnia; and thoughts of death or suicide.
Trazodone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should you avoid
while taking trazodone?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Trazodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
trazodone.
What are the possible side
effects of trazodone?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking trazodone and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· prolonged, painful, or inappropriate erections; or
· an irregular heartbeat or chest pains.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take trazodone and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dizziness or drowsiness;
· headache;
· insomnia or vivid dreams;
· dry mouth, upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting;
· diarrhea or constipation;
· tremors (shaking); or
· blurred vision.
What other drugs will affect trazodone?
Before taking trazodone, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
· digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps);
· phenytoin (Dilantin);
· a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine
(Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate); or
· warfarin (Coumadin).
You may require special monitoring during your therapy if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Adderall
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine
What is the most important information
you should know about amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.
Do not crush, chew, or open any "once-daily" amphetamine-dextroamphetamine tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole.
What is amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine is a stimulant and an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain) by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in your body. This increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite, among other effects.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD).
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should you avoid while taking
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.
Do not take amphetamine-dextroamphetamine late in the day. A dose taken too late in the day can cause insomnia.
What are the possible side effects of
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· an irregular heartbeat or very high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or
· hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or confusion.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· restlessness or tremor,
· anxiety or nervousness
· headache or dizziness,
· insomnia,
· dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth,
· diarrhea or constipation, or
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine?
You cannot take amphetamine-dextroamphetamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor
(MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine
(Nardil) in the last 14 days.
Changes in insulin and other diabetes drug therapies may be necessary during treatment with
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine.
Amphetamine-dextroamphetamine may reduce the effects of guanethidine (Ismelin). This could lead to an increase in blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking
guanethidine.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline
(Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine
(Tofranil), clomipramine (Anafranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), or desipramine (Norpramin). These drugs may decrease the effects of
amphetamine-dextroamphetamine.
Paxil
paroxetine
What is the most important information
you should know about paroxetine?
Do not stop taking paroxetine without first talking to your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or more for you to start feeling better and you may experience unpleasant side effects if you stop taking paroxetine suddenly.
What is paroxetine?
Paroxetine is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Paroxetine affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic or anxiety, or obsessive or compulsive symptoms.
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder (social phobia).
Paroxetine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should you avoid
while taking paroxetine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Paroxetine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness or dizziness while you are taking
paroxetine.
What are the possible side
effects of paroxetine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking paroxetine and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· an irregular heartbeat or pulse;
· low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);
· high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision);
· unusual bleeding or bruising; or
· fever or chills.
Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take paroxetine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· headache;
· tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
· nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;
· sleepiness or insomnia; or
What other drugs will affect paroxetine?
Do not take paroxetine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor
(MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine
(Parnate) during the last 2 weeks. Serious, and sometimes fatal, reactions have occurred when these medicines have been used together. Also, do not take paroxetine if you are taking thioridazine
(Mellaril). Dangerous, even fatal irregular heartbeats may occur if these medicines are taken together. You must wait 5 weeks after stopping paroxetine before taking thioridazine
(Mellaril).
Before taking paroxetine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· a benzodiazepine including diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate
(Tranxene), temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), and others;
· a tricyclic antidepressant including amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine
(Tofranil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and others;
· a phenothiazine including chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine
(Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), prochlorperazine (Compazine), and others;
· sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), or zolmitriptan
(Zomig);
· carbamazepine (Tegretol) or phenytoin (Dilantin);
· lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith, others);
· theophylline (Theobid, Theolair, Theochron, Elixophyllin, and others);
· warfarin (Coumadin);
· digoxin (Lanoxin); or
· cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB).
You may not be able to take paroxetine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Dexedrine
dextroamphetamine
Brand: Dexedrine, Dextrostat
What is the most important information
you should know about dextroamphetamine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dextroamphetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.
Dextroamphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.
Do not crush, chew, or open any "once-daily" dextroamphetamine tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole.
What is dextroamphetamine?
Dextroamphetamine is a stimulant and an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain) by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in your body. This causes increased heart rate and blood pressure and a decreased appetite, among other effects.
Dextroamphetamine is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD).
Dextroamphetamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What are the possible side effects of dextroamphetamine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking dextroamphetamine and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· an irregular heartbeat or very high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or
· hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or confusion.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take dextroamphetamine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· restlessness or tremor,
· nervousness or anxiety,
· headache or dizziness,
· insomnia,
· dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth,
· diarrhea or constipation, or
Dextroamphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.
What other drugs will affect dextroamphetamine?
You cannot take dextroamphetamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor
(MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine
(Nardil) in the last 14 days.
Changes in insulin and other diabetes drug therapies may be necessary during treatment with
dextroamphetamine.
Dextroamphetamine may reduce the effects of guanethidine (Ismelin). This could lead to an increase in blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking
guanethidine.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline
(Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine
(Tofranil), clomipramine (Anafranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), or desipramine (Norpramin). These drugs may decrease the effects of
dextroamphetamine.
Lithium
Brand: Eskalith, Eskalith-CR, Lithobid, Lithonate, Lithotabs
What is the most important information
you should know about lithium?
Call your doctor if you experience nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, extreme drowsiness, or weakness. These symptoms may be early signs of lithium toxicity.
Do not crush, chew, or break any extended-release forms of lithium (e.g.,
Lithobid, Eskalith CR). They are specially formulated to release slowly in your body.
Lithium may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
What is lithium?
Lithium is a naturally occurring substance. As a medication, lithium reduces chemicals in your body that cause excitation or mania.
Lithium is used to treat manic episodes of manic-depressive illness.
Lithium helps to prevent and control symptoms of mania such as hyperactivity, rushed speech, poor judgment, reduced need for sleep, aggression, and anger.
Lithium may be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should you avoid while taking lithium?
Lithium may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving or performing other hazardous activities until you know how this medication affects you. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Avoid becoming overheated. Excessive sweating may increase lithium levels in your blood, and you could experience toxic side effects. Diarrhea or vomiting also may increase lithium levels. Call your doctor if you lose a significant amount of body fluid as a result of sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Do not change the amount of salt that you consume in your diet. Consuming more or less salt could change the amount of lithium in your blood.
What are the possible side
effects of lithium?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking lithium and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· blurred vision or eye pain;
· slurred speech;
· extreme drowsiness, weakness, or confusion;
· involuntary movements; or
· ringing in your ears.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take lithium and talk to your doctor if you experience
· fine hand tremor;
· mild increase in thirst or urination;
· nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
· a rash;
· headache or mild dizziness; or
· swollen feet or hands.
What other drugs will affect lithium?
The following medications may increase the effects of lithium, which could lead to increased side effects:
· haloperidol (Haldol);
· nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil,
Nuprin, others), ketoprofen (Orudis, Oruvail, Orudis KT), naproxen (Aleve,
Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), indomethacin (Indocin), oxaprozin (Daypro), nabumetone (Relafen), and others;
· diuretics (water pills) such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ,
Hydrodiuril, others), furosemide (Lasix), triamterene (Dyazide, Dyrenium,
Maxzide), chlorothiazide (Diuril), metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn), indapamide (Lozol), bumetanide
(Bumex), spironolactone (Aldactone), and amiloride (Midamor);
· angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) such as benazepril
(Lotensin), lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil), fosinopril (Monopril), captopril (Capoten), enalapril
(Vasotec), moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), and ramipril (Altace);
· calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem (Cardizem,
Dilacor), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), and verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan);
· fluoxetine (Prozac);
· carbamazepine (Tegretol); and
· metronidazole (Flagyl).
You may require special monitoring or a lower dose of medication if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
The effects of lithium may be decreased by the following medicines:
· theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theo-Bid, Theolair, Elixophyllin,
Slo-Phyllin, others); and
· acetazolamide (Diamox).
Prozac
fluoxetine
Brand: Prozac, Sarafem
What is the most important information
you should know about fluoxetine?
Do not stop taking fluoxetine without first talking to your doctor. It may take 4 weeks or more for you to start feeling better.
What is fluoxetine?
Fluoxetine is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Fluoxetine affects chemicals in your brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression or mood disturbances, eating disorders, or obsessive or compulsive symptoms.
Fluoxetine is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and bulimia (binge eating and purging). Fluoxetine is also used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder
(PMDD) symptoms of which occur in the week or two before a woman's menstrual period and commonly include irritability, mood swings, and tension as well as the physical symptoms of bloating and breast tenderness.
Fluoxetine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should you avoid
while taking fluoxetine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Fluoxetine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness or dizziness while you are taking
fluoxetine.
What are the possible side
effects of fluoxetine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking fluoxetine and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· an irregular heartbeat or pulse;
· low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);
· high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision);
· chills or fever;
· unusual bleeding or bruising;
· a rash or hives.
If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking fluoxetine and talk to your doctor:
· headache, tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
· difficulty concentrating;
· nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;
· weakness;
· increased sweating;
· sleepiness or insomnia.
What other drugs will affect fluoxetine?
Do not take fluoxetine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor
(MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine
(Parnate) during the last 2 weeks. Serious, and sometimes fatal, reactions have occurred when these medicines have been used together. Also, do not take fluoxetine if you are taking thioridazine
(Mellaril). Dangerous, even fatal irregular heartbeats may occur if these medicines are taken together. You must wait 5 weeks after stopping fluoxetine before taking thioridazine
(Mellaril).
Before taking fluoxetine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
· a benzodiazepine including diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate
(Tranxene), temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), and others;
· a tricyclic antidepressant including amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine
(Tofranil), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and others;
· a phenothiazine including chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine
(Prolixin), mesoridazine (Serentil), perphenazine (Trilafon), prochlorperazine (Compazine), and others;
· lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith, others) or haloperidol (Haldol);
· sumatriptan (Imitrex), naratriptan (Amerge), rizatriptan (Maxalt), or zolmitriptan
(Zomig);
· carbamazepine (Tegretol) or phenytoin (Dilantin);
· warfarin (Coumadin); or
· digoxin (Lanoxin).
You may not be able to take fluoxetine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Zyprexa
olanzapine
Brand: Zyprexa, Zyprexa Zydis
What is the most important information
you should know about olanzapine?
Call your doctor immediately if you have uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Olanzapine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
olanzapine.
Avoid becoming overheated during olanzapine therapy. It is easier to become dangerously dehydrated while you are taking
olanzapine. Use caution in hot weather and during exercise. Drink plenty of fluids.
What is olanzapine?
Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.
Olanzapine is used to treat the symptoms of psychotic conditions, including hallucinations, delusions, and confusion.
Olanzapine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I avoid
while taking olanzapine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Olanzapine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking
olanzapine.
Avoid becoming overheated during olanzapine therapy. It is easier to become dangerously dehydrated while you are taking
olanzapine. Use caution in hot weather and during exercise. Drink plenty of fluids.
What are the possible side
effects of olanzapine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking olanzapine and seek emergency medical attention:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
· uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take olanzapine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dizziness or drowsiness,
· agitation,
· an increased heart rate,
· constipation,
· dry mouth, or
· weight gain.
What other drugs will affect olanzapine?
Carbamazepine (Tegretol) can decrease the effects of olanzapine. A change in your olanzapine dosage may be necessary.
Olanzapine may increase the effects of medicines that are used to control high blood pressure. This could lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms. Tell your doctor if you are taking a medication to control your blood pressure or to treat another heart condition.
Olanzapine may also increase the effects of drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (medicines that treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and any other drug that makes you feel sleepy or relaxed. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.
Mellaril
thioridazine (oral)
Brand: Mellaril, Mellaril-S
What is the most important information you should know about thioridazine?
Do not take thioridazine if you have any of the following conditions or a history of these conditions: heart disease; an irregular heartbeat or a history of irregular heartbeats; a history of prolonged QT intervals; a family history of congenital long QT syndrome; or other heartbeat disturbances. These conditions may increase the risk of irregular heartbeats, heart attack, and death while taking
thioridazine.
Do not take thioridazine with any of the following drugs: psychiatric medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine
(Paxil, Paxil CR), and fluvoxamine (Luvox); or blood pressure medications such as pindolol
(Visken) or propranolol (Inderal, Inderal LA, others). Taken with any of these drugs, thioridazine may cause irregular heartbeats that could lead to death. This is not a complete list of drugs that may interact with thioridazine and cause heart problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Thioridazine may interact with other drugs that cause drowsiness, including alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if thioridazine is taken with alcohol or any of these medications. Talk to your doctor before taking thioridazine in combination with alcohol or any other medicines.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Thioridazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.
Call your doctor immediately if you have uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs; fever; muscle rigidity; sweating; irregular pulse; or fast or irregular heartbeats.
What is thioridazine?
Thioridazine is in a class of drugs called phenothiazines. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.
Thioridazine is used to treat psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. Thioridazine is generally reserved for people who do not respond to other drugs or who cannot take other drugs due to side effects.
Thioridazine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
the medication guide.
What are the possible side
effects of thioridazine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking thioridazine and seek emergency medical treatment:
· an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
· uncontrollable movements of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, jaw, arms, or legs;
· fever;
· muscle rigidity;
· muscle spasms of the face or neck;
· sweating;
· irregular pulse;
· fast or irregular heartbeats.
· severe restlessness or tremor;
· severe drowsiness;
· blurred vision;
· dizziness or fainting; or
· a rash.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take thioridazine and talk to your doctor if you experience
· dry mouth, stuffy nose;
· constipation;
· mild restlessness, drowsiness, or tremor;
· increased appetite;
· difficult urination or dark urine.
What other drugs will affect thioridazine?
Do not take thioridazine with any of the following drugs: psychiatric medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine
(Paxil, Paxil CR), and fluvoxamine (Luvox); or blood pressure medications such as pindolol
(Visken) or propranolol (Inderal, Inderal LA, others). Taken with any of these drugs, thioridazine may cause irregular heartbeats that could lead to death. This is not a complete list of drugs that may interact with thioridazine and cause heart problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Thioridazine may interact with other drugs that cause drowsiness, including alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if thioridazine is taken with alcohol or any of these medications. Talk to your doctor before taking thioridazine in combination with alcohol or any other medicines.