Monday, October 17, 2016

Lamisil AT 1% Cream





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Lamisil AT ® 1% Cream


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Terbinafine hydrochloride 1% w/w



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Cream



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



The treatment of tinea pedis (athlete's foot) and tinea cruris (dhobie itch/jock itch) caused by Trichophyton (e.g. T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, T. verrucosum, T. violaceum) and Epidermophyton floccosum.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults



Lamisil AT 1% Cream is applied once daily.



The affected area should be cleaned and dried thoroughly before application of Lamisil AT 1% Cream. The cream should be applied to the affected skin and surrounding area in a thin layer and rubbed in lightly. In the case of intertriginous infections (interdigital, intergluteal, inguinal) the application may be covered with a gauze strip, especially at night.



Duration of treatment is one week for tinea pedis and tinea cruris. Relief of clinical symptoms usually occurs within a few days. Irregular use or premature discontinuation of treatment carries the risk of recurrence. If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks, the diagnosis should be verified by a physician.



Children



The experience with topical Lamisil AT 1% Cream in children is still limited and its use in children under 16 years cannot therefore be recommended.



Use in the elderly



There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients require different dosages or experience side-effects different to those of younger patients.



Method of administration



Topical administration.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to terbinafine or any of the excipients contained in the cream.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Lamisil AT 1% cream is for external use only. Contact with the eyes should be avoided. In case of accidental contact with the eyes, rinse the eyes thoroughly with running water.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



There are no known drug interactions with Lamisil AT 1% Cream.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Foetal toxicity and fertility studies in animals suggest no adverse effects.



There is no clinical experience with Lamisil AT 1% Cream in pregnant women. Therefore, unless the potential benefits outweigh any potential risks, Lamisil AT 1% Cream should not be administered during pregnancy.



Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk, and therefore mothers should not receive Lamisil AT 1% Cream whilst breast-feeding. Infants should also not be allowed to come into contact with any treated skin, including the breast.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



None known.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Redness, itching or stinging occasionally occur at the site of application; however, treatment rarely has to be discontinued for this reason. These harmless symptons must be distinguished from allergic reactions such as pruritus, rash, bullous eruptions and hives, which are rare but require discontinuation.



4.9 Overdose



No adverse events in relation to ingestion of Lamisil AT 1% Cream have been reported to the company. However, if accidental ingestion of Lamisil AT 1% Cream occurs, an appropriate method of gastric emptying may be used if considered appropriate.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Terbinafine is an allylamine that has a broad spectrum of antifungal activity. At low concentrations Terbinafine is fungicidal against dermatophytes, moulds and certain dimorphic fungi.



Terbinafine interferes specifically with fungal sterol biosynthesis at an early step. This leads to a deficiency in ergosterol and to an intracellular accumulation of squalene, resulting in fungal cell death. Terbinafine acts by inhibition of squalene epoxidase in the fungal cell membrane.



The enzyme squalene epoxidase is not linked to the cytochrome P-450 system. Terbinafine does not influence the metabolism of hormones or other drugs.



Terbinafine provides long-lasting protection. More than 90% of patients with interdigital tinea pedis (athlete's foot) treated with Terbinafine 1 % cream for one week show no mycological evidence of relapse or re-infection by three months after start of treatment. No such data on tinea cruris are available.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Less than 5% of the dose is absorbed after topical application to humans: systemic exposure is therefore very slight.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



There are no preclinical data of relevance to the prescriber which are additional to that already included in other sections of the SPC.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Sodium hydroxide



benzyl alcohol



sorbitan stearate



cetyl palmitate



cetyl alcohol



stearyl alcohol



polysorbate 60



isopropyl myristate



purified water.



6.2 Incompatibilities



None known.



6.3 Shelf Life



Aluminium tube: 5 years



Polypropylene dispenser: 3 years



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



None.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Aluminium tube with membrane, with an interior coating of phenol-epoxy based lacquer, closed with a polypropylene cap, containing 7 g, 7.5 g, 10 g, or 15 g Lamisil AT 1% Cream.



Polypropylene dispenser tube with polypropylene screw-cap closure containing 7 g, 7.5 g, 10 g, or 15 g LAMISIL AT.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Not applicable.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Novartis Consumer Health UK Ltd, trading as Novartis Consumer Health



Wimblehurst Road



Horsham



West Sussex, RH12 5AB



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00030/0144



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



Date of first authorisation: 18 August 2000



Date of last renewal: 10 February 2009.



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



27 April 2009.



Legal Category GSL




Losec Capsules 10mg, 20mg,40mg






Losec Capsules 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg


omeprazole



Please read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.


  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

  • If any of the side effects get serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.



In this leaflet:


  • 1. What Losec Capsules are and what they are used for

  • 2. Before you take Losec Capsules

  • 3. How to take Losec Capsules

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Losec Capsules

  • 6. Further information




What Losec Capsules are and what they are used for


Losec Capsules contain a medicine called omeprazole. This belongs to a group of medicines called ‘proton pump inhibitors’. They work by reducing the amount of acid that your stomach produces.



Losec Capsules are used to treat the following conditions:


  • ‘Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease’ (GORD).

  • Acid indigestion which can cause stomach pain or discomfort (dyspepsia).

  • Ulcers that are infected with bacteria called ‘Helicobacter pylori’. If you have this condition, your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and allow the ulcer to heal.

  • Ulcers in the stomach or upper part of the gut (intestine). If you have had an ulcer in the past and need to keep taking a medicine called an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug), Losec Capsules can stop ulcers from forming or heal one that is already there.

  • Too much acid in the stomach caused by a growth in the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome).

  • Prevention of damage to the lungs caused by breathing in fluids from the stomach. This can happen during an operation.



Further information about ulcers and GORD


If you have ulcers or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), this section contains information about your condition.



What is an ulcer?


An ulcer is a break or hole in the lining of the stomach or the gut.



What causes an ulcer?


  • Usually, there is a balance between the protection of the stomach or gut lining and the attack from stomach acid. Ulcers form when there is too much acid or not enough protection.

  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may occasionally cause ulcers. If you have had an ulcer in the past, but need to keep taking an NSAID, your doctor may prescribe Losec Capsules to protect your stomach or gut.

  • A bacteria called ‘Helicobacter pylori’ (H. pylori) can also cause ulcers. H. pylori lives in the protective lining of the gut. It is not known why some people are infected with it and others are not. If you have an ulcer that is infected with H. pylori, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and allow the ulcer to heal.


What is gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)?


This is where acid from the stomach escapes into the food pipe (oesophagus). The food pipe does not have a protective lining. When acid gets into the food pipe, it can cause pain, inflammation and heartburn.



What should you do if you do not feel relief from your symptoms?


Talk to your doctor who will be able to review you and your treatment.



How can I help myself?


If you have gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, an ulcer or acid indigestion, as well as taking Losec Capsules, the following may help:


  • Do not eat just before going to bed. Also, try raising the head of your bed by 20 cm.

  • Lose weight if needed and do not wear tight clothing.

  • Stop smoking.

  • Eat less fat and more protein.

  • Do not have caffeine, alcohol, tomatoes or hot spicy food - these can make your symptoms worse.




Before you take Losec Capsules



Do not take Losec Capsules if:


  • You are allergic (hypersensitive) to omeprazole or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in Section 6: Further information).

  • You are taking a medicine called atazanavir (used to treat HIV).

Do not take Losec Capsules if any of the above apply to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Losec Capsules.




Take special care with Losec Capsules


Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking Losec Capsules if:


  • You have any liver problems. This is because your doctor may reduce your dose.



Taking other medicines


Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, or have recently taken, any other medicines. This includes medicines that you buy without a prescription. This is because Losec Capsules can affect the way some medicines work and some medicines can have an effect on Losec Capsules.


Do not take Losec Capsules if you are taking the following medicine:


  • Atazanavir (used to treat HIV).

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of the following medicines:


  • Ketoconazole, itraconazole or voriconazole (used to treat infections caused by a fungus).

  • Diazepam (used to treat anxiety, relax muscles or in epilepsy).

  • Phenytoin (used in epilepsy). If you are taking phenytoin, your doctor will need to monitor you when you start or stop taking Losec Capsules.

  • Medicines that are used to thin your blood, such as warfarin or other vitamin K blockers. Your doctor may need to monitor you when you start or stop taking Losec Capsules.

  • Digoxin (used for heart problems).

  • Tacrolimus (used in organ transplants).



Pregnancy and breast-feeding


Before taking Losec Capsules, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breast-feeding. Your doctor will decide whether you can take Losec Capsules during this time.




Driving and using machines


Losec Capsules are not likely to affect you being able to drive or use any tools or machines.




Important information about some of the ingredients of Losec Capsules


Losec Capsules contain lactose, which is a type of sugar. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.





How to take Losec Capsules


Always take Losec Capsules exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.



Taking this medicine


  • You can take your capsules at any time of the day.

  • You can take your capsules with food or on an empty stomach.

  • Swallow your capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not chew or crush the capsules. This is because the capsules contain coated pellets which stop the medicine from being broken down by the acid in your stomach. It is important not to damage the pellets.



What to do if you have trouble swallowing the capsules


If you or your child have trouble swallowing the capsules, you can do one of the following:


  • Open your capsules and swallow the contents with half a glass of water.

  • Or you can mix the contents into 2 teaspoons of still (non-fizzy) water.

    • Gently stir this mixture into a small amount of acidic fruit juice (such as apple, orange or pineapple) or into apple sauce or yogurt.
    • Then drink the mixture straight away or within 30 minutes. Always stir the mixture just before drinking it.
    • To make sure that you have drunk all of the medicine, rinse the glass very well with half a glass of water and drink it. The solid pieces contain the medicine
    • do not chew or crush them.

  • Or you or your child can suck the capsules. Then drink half a glass of water.



How much to take


  • Your doctor will tell you how many capsules to take and how long to take them for. This will depend on your condition, how old you are and how well your liver works.

  • The usual doses are given below.


To treat heartburn caused by gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD):


Adults:


  • The usual dose is 20 mg once a day for 4 weeks. Your doctor may then tell you to continue taking the capsules or increase the dose. This will depend on how you respond to treatment.

  • To stop your symptoms returning, your doctor may tell you to continue taking 20 mg or reduce the dose to 10 mg.

Children (1 year and older):


  • The dose depends on the child’s age and weight.

  • The usual dose is 10 mg or 20 mg once a day for 2 to 8 weeks.

  • If your child has trouble swallowing, see the section on ‘What to do if you have trouble swallowing the capsules’ above.


To relieve acid indigestion which causes stomach pain or discomfort (dyspepsia):


Adults:


  • The usual dose is 10 mg or 20 mg once a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

  • If you get no improvement in your symptoms, go back to your doctor.


To treat ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection:


Adults:


  • The usual dose is 40 mg once a day or 20 mg twice a day for 1 or 2 weeks.

  • Your doctor will also tell you to take one or more of the following antibiotics: amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole (or tinidazole).

  • Follow the directions for taking your medicine very carefully and if you are unsure about anything, ask your doctor.

Children (4 years and older):


  • The dose depends on the child’s weight.

  • The usual dose is 10 mg or 20 mg twice a day for 1 week.

  • Your child will also be given the following antibiotics to take at the same time as Losec Capsules: amoxicillin and clarithromycin.


To treat ulcers in the stomach or upper part of the gut (intestine):


Adults:


  • The usual dose is 20 mg once a day for 4 to 8 weeks.

  • The dose may be increased depending on how you respond to treatment.

  • To stop an ulcer in your upper intestine from coming back, the usual dose is 10 mg once a day unless your symptoms return. If your symptoms return, your doctor may increase the dose.


To prevent and treat ulcers caused by NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs):


Adults:


  • If you have had trouble with an ulcer in the past but need to keep taking an NSAID, the dose is 20 mg once a day.


To treat too much acid in the stomach caused by a growth in the pancreas (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome):


Adults:


  • The usual starting dose is 60 mg once a day.

  • If the dose is more than 80 mg a day, take half the dose in the morning and half at night.


Before a hospital operation when you are going to be given a general anaesthetic:


Adults:


  • The usual dose is 40 mg the evening before the operation, then another 40 mg 2 to 6 hours before the operation.



If you take more Losec Capsules than you should


If you take more Losec Capsules than prescribed by your doctor, talk to your doctor or pharmacist straight away.




If you forget to take Losec Capsules


  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

  • Do not take a double dose (two doses at the same time) to make up for a forgotten dose.




Possible side effects


Like all medicines, Losec Capsules can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The side effects are usually mild and go away when you stop taking this medicine.



If you notice any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Losec Capsules and tell a doctor or contact the casualty department at your nearest hospital straight away:


  • Swelling of the lips, tongue and throat, fever or wheezing (severe allergic reaction).

  • Reddening of the skin with blisters or peeling. There may also be severe blisters and bleeding in the lips, eyes, mouth, nose and genitals. This could be ‘Stevens-Johnson syndrome’ or ‘toxic epidermal necrolysis’.

These effects are rare, affecting less than 1 in 1,000 people.




Other side effects include:



Common (affects less than 1 in 10 people)


  • Headache.

  • Effects on your stomach or gut: stomach pain, constipation, diarrhoea, wind (flatulence).

  • Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting).


Uncommon (affects less than 1 in 100 people)


  • Disturbed sleep (insomnia).

  • Dizziness.

  • Tingling feelings such as ‘pins and needles’.

  • Feeling sleepy.

  • Spinning feeling (vertigo).

  • Feeling light-headed or faint.

  • Skin rash, lumpy rash (hives), itchy skin and dermatitis.

  • Changes in blood tests that show how well your liver is working.

  • Generally feeling unwell.


Rare (affects less than 1 in 1,000 people)


  • Dry or sore mouth.

  • An infection called ‘thrush’ which can affect the mouth or gullet and is caused by a fungus.

  • Taste changes.

  • Feeling anxious, confused or depressed.

  • Aggression.

  • Seeing, feeling or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations).

  • Skin rash on exposure to sunshine.

  • Blurred vision.

  • Hair loss (alopecia).

  • Painful swollen joints.

  • Aching muscles or muscle weakness.

  • Increased sweating.

  • Kidney problems.

  • Liver problems, including jaundice which can cause yellow skin, dark urine, and tiredness.

  • Severe liver problems leading to liver failure and inflammation of the brain.

  • Enlarged breasts in men.

  • Being unable to get an erection (impotence).

  • Low levels of sodium in the blood. This may cause weakness, being sick (vomiting) and cramps.

  • Blood problems such as reduced numbers of white cells or platelets. This can cause weakness, bruising or make infections more likely.


Do not be concerned by this list of possible side effects. You may not get any of them. If any of the side effects get serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.




How to store Losec Capsules


  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

  • Do not store above 30°C.

  • Keep the capsules in the original container.

  • Do not take your capsules after the expiry date shown on the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

  • Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines that are no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.



Further information



What Losec Capsules contain


The active substance is omeprazole. Losec Capsules come in three strengths containing 10 mg, 20 mg or 40 mg of omeprazole.


The other ingredients are mannitol, hyprolose, cellulose microcrystalline, anhydrous lactose, sodium lauril sulphate, disodium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, hypromellose, methacrylic acid copolymer, macrogol, colours E171 and E172, gelatin and magnesium stearate.




What Losec Capsules look like and contents of the pack


  • Losec Capsules 10 mg are pink.

  • Losec Capsules 20 mg are pink/reddish-brown.

  • Losec Capsules 40 mg are reddish-brown.

  • Your medicine will come in a blister pack in cartons containing 7 or 28 capsules.



Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer


The Marketing Authorisations for Losec Capsules 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg are held by



AstraZeneca UK Ltd

600 Capability Green

Luton

LU1 3LU

United Kingdom


Losec Capsules 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg are manufactured by



AstraZeneca AB

S-151 85

Södertälje

Sweden


or



AstraZeneca UK Ltd

Silk Road Business Park

Macclesfield

Cheshire

SK10 2NA

United Kingdom




To listen to or request a copy of this leaflet in Braille, large print or audio please call, free of charge:


0800 198 5000 (UK only)


Please be ready to give the following information:




Product name: Reference number


Losec Capsules 10 mg: 17901/0132

Losec Capsules 20 mg: 17901/0133

Losec Capsules 40 mg: 17901/0134



This is a service provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People.


Leaflet prepared: February 2009


© AstraZeneca 2009


Losec is a trade mark of the AstraZeneca group of companies.


GI 07 0112c






Loprazolam 1mg Tablets






LOPRAZOLAM 1MG TABLETS



Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine


  • Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.

  • If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

  • This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are the same as yours.

  • If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Your doctor may have given you this medicine before from another company. It may have looked slightly different. However, either brand will have the same effect.



In this leaflet:


  • 1. What loprazolam is and what it is used for

  • 2. Before you take loprazolam

  • 3. How to take loprazolam

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store loprazolam

  • 6. Further information




What Loprazolam Is And What It Is Used For


The name of your medicine is Loprazolam 1mg Tablets (called loprazolam throughout this leaflet). Loprazolam contains a medicine called loprazolam mesylate.


This belongs to a group of medicines called hypnotics.


It works by acting on your brain to help you sleep.


Loprazolam is used to treat sleep problems such as:


  • Difficulty falling asleep

  • Waking often during the night

Loprazolam is used for short term sleep problems.


Loprazolam is not meant to be used every day for long periods of time. Ask your doctor for advice if you are unsure.




Before You Take Loprazolam



Do not take this medicine and tell your doctor if:


  • You are allergic (hypersensitive) to loprazolam mesylate or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in Section 6 below)
    Signs of an allergic reaction include: a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue

  • You are allergic (hypersensitive) to other benzodiazepines such as nitrazepam or temazepam

  • You have a problem that causes severe muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis)

  • Your lungs do not work properly

  • You have heart problems

  • You suffer from depression, anxiety or mental problems including phobias and obsessive disorders

  • You have ever been addicted to alcohol

  • You have a problem where you stop breathing for short periods at night (sleep apnoea)

Do not take this medicine if any of the above applies to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking loprazolam.




Take special care and check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking loprazolam if:


  • You have any liver problems

  • You have any kidney problems

  • You have a history of drug abuse

  • You have been told by your doctor that you have had or are likely to have a stroke

  • You have been told by a doctor that you have a personality disorder

  • You have recently taken loprazolam or other similar medicines for more than four weeks

  • You do not feel you will ever be able to stop taking loprazolam or other medicines used to treat sleep problems

If you are not sure if any of the above applies to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking loprazolam.




Taking other medicines


Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines. This includes medicines you buy without a prescription, including herbal medicines. This is because loprazolam can affect the way some other medicines work. Also some medicines can affect the way loprazolam works.



Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:


  • Medicines to treat stomach problems such as cisapride

  • Medicines which relax muscles (neuromuscular depressants). These are often used during operations or in Intensive Care Units.

  • Medicines for mental problems (antipsychotics)

  • Medicines for depression

  • Medicines for epilepsy (anticonvulsants)

  • Medicines used in surgery (anaesthetics)

  • Medicines to calm or reduce anxiety or for sleep problems (hypnotics)

  • Medicines for hay fever, rashes or other allergies that can make you sleepy (sedative antihistamines) such as chlorphenamine or promethazine

  • Some medicines for moderate to severe pain (narcotic analgesics) such as codeine, methadone, morphine, oxycodone, pethidine or tramadol



Taking loprazolam with food and drink


  • Do not drink alcohol while you are taking loprazolam.

  • Alcohol can increase the effects of loprazolam and make you sleep very deeply so that you do not breathe properly or have difficulty waking.



Pregnancy and breast-feeding


  • Talk to your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant.

  • Do not take loprazolam if you are in the last 3 months of pregnancy or during labour because it may be harmful to your baby. However, in some cases your doctor may feel it is absolutely necessary for you to take this medicine during this time. Taking it during this time means your baby may be born with breathing difficulties, limp or weak muscles, a low body temperature (hypothermia) and may have withdrawal symptoms.

  • Do not take loprazolam if you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed. This is because small amounts may pass into mother’s milk.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.




Driving and using machines


This medicine may cause drowsiness, lack of concentration, muscle weakness and memory loss. If this happens do not drive or use any tools or machines.




Important information about some of the ingredients of loprazolam



Lactose: This is a type of sugar. If you have been told by your doctor that you cannot tolerate some sugars, talk to your doctor before having this medicine.





How To Take Loprazolam


Always take loprazolam exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.



Taking this medicine


  • Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water

  • Take just before bedtime

  • You should not normally take loprazolam for more than 4 weeks.



Adults


The usual dose is one tablet (1mg) just before bedtime. This dose may be increased by your doctor to one and a half tablets or 2 tablets (2mg).




Elderly or frail people


The starting dose is half a 1mg tablet just before bedtime. This dose may be increased by your doctor to one whole tablet.




Children


Do not give this medicine to children.




If you take more loprazolam than you should


If you take more loprazolam than you should, tell a doctor or go to a hospital casualty department straight away. Take the medicine pack with you. This is so the doctor knows what you have taken.




If you forget to take loprazolam


Loprazolam must only be taken at bedtime. If you forget to take your tablet at bedtime, then you should not take it at any other time, otherwise you may feel drowsy, dizzy and confused during the day.


Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.




If you stop taking loprazolam


Keep taking loprazolam until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop taking loprazolam suddenly, but tell your doctor if you want to stop. Your doctor will need to lower your dose and stop your tablets over a period of time.


If you stop taking loprazolam suddenly, your sleep problems may come back and you may get a ‘withdrawal effect’. If this happens you may get some of the effects listed below.


See a doctor straight away if you get any of the following effects:


  • Feeling anxious, irritable, confused or restless

  • Changes in your behaviour

  • Depression (low mood)

  • Sleep problems

  • Headaches




Possible Side Effects


Like all medicines, loprazolam can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.



Stop taking loprazolam and see a doctor or go to a hospital straight away if:


  • You get swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing. You could also notice an itchy, lumpy rash (hives) or nettle rash (urticaria).
    This may mean you are having an allergic reaction to loprazolam tablets



Tell your doctor straightaway if you have any of the following side effects:


  • Poor memory since taking loprazolam (amnesia)

  • Thoughts of harming or killing yourself, depression (low mood)

  • Limp or weak muscles

  • Behavioural changes. This might include angry outbursts or feeling very excited

  • Liver problems that may cause the eyes or skin to go yellow (jaundice)



Tell your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects get serious or lasts longer than a few days:


  • Skin rash

  • Difficulty passing water (urine)

  • Feeling unsteady or clumsy

  • Feeling sick (nausea), stomach problems

  • If you have recently suffered a bereavement you may find it more difficult to cope

  • Feeling dizzy, sleepy or confused

  • Headache

  • Problems with your eyesight such as blurred vision

  • Changes in your sex drive

  • Feeling dizzy, light headed or faint. These effects are due to low blood pressure

  • You get infections or bruise more easily than usual. This could be because of a blood problem (such as agranulocytosis, neutropenia or thrombocytopenia)



Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the side effects gets serious or lasts longer than a few days, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet




How To Store Loprazolam


  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children

  • Do not store above 25°C

  • Do not use loprazolam after the expiry date which is stated on the carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

  • Store in the original package and protect from light.

  • Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.



Further Information



What loprazolam 1mg Tablets contain


Each tablet contains 1mg of loprazolam mesylate as the active substance.


The other ingredients are lactose, povidone, colloidal silicon dioxide, maize starch, microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate.




What loprazolam looks like and contents of the pack


Loprazolam tablets are pale yellow, biconvex tablets, with a score line on one side and either Dormonoct 1 or L1 on the other. They are supplied in cartons of 28 tablets.




Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer



Marketing Authorisation Holder



Winthrop Pharmaceuticals

PO Box 611

GU1 4YS

UK



Manufacturer



Patheon UK Limited

Swindon

Wiltshire

SN3 5BZ





This leaflet was last revised in: January 2009


‘Winthrop’ is a registered trademark © 2009 Winthrop Pharmaceuticals.





Lodine SR





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Lodine SR Tablets 600mg.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Etodolac 600mg.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Lodine SR Tablets are for oral administration. Each tablet is capsular, oval shaped light grey film coated, impressed on one side with Lodine SR600 and contains etodolac 600mg in a sustained release formulation.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Lodine (etodolac) is indicated for acute or long-term use in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



For oral administration.



To be taken preferably with or after food



Undesirable effects may be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.4)



Adults: Lodine SR Tablets 600mg



One tablet daily, swallowed whole with a tumblerful of water. If a lower dose is sufficient, conventional Lodine capsules or tablets may be used.



The safety of doses in excess of 600mg per day has not been established.



No occurrence of tolerance or tachyphylaxis has been reported.



Elderly: No change in initial dosage is generally required in the elderly (see precautions).



The elderly are at increased risk of the serious consequences of adverse reactions. If an NSAID is considered necessary, the lowest effective dose should be used and for the shortest possible duration. The patient should be monitored regularly for GI bleeding during NSAID therapy.



Children: Not recommended.



4.3 Contraindications



Lodine should not be used in patients who have previously shown hypersensitivity to etodolac or to any of the excipients.



Lodine should not be used in patients with severe heart failure.



Lodine should not be used in patients with active or history of recurrent peptic ulceration or a history of peptic ulcer disease (with two or more distinct episodes of proven ulceration or bleeding).



NSAIDs are contraindicated in patients who have previously shown hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. asthma, rhinitis angioedema or urticaria) during therapy with ibuprofen, aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.



Severe heart failure, hepatic failure and renal failure (see section 4.4)



During the last trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.6)



History of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, related to previous NSAIDs therapy.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Undesirable effects may be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.2, and GI and cardiovascular risks below).



The use of Lodine with concomitant NSAIDs including cyclooxygenase-2-selective inhibitors should be avoided (see section 4.5)



Elderly:



The elderly have an increased frequency of adverse reactions to NSAIDs especially gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation which may be fatal (see section 4.2)



Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular effects:



Appropriate monitoring and advice are required for patients with a history of hypertension and/or mild to moderate congestive heart failure as fluid retention and oedema have been reported in association with NSAID therapy.



Clinical trial and epidemiological data suggest that use of some NSAIDs (particularly at high doses and in long term treatment) may be associated with a small increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke). There are insufficient data to exclude such a risk for Lodine.



Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, congestive heart failure, established ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and/or cerebrovascular disease should only be treated with Lodine after careful consideration. Similar consideration should be made before initiating longer-term treatment of patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease (e.g. hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, smoking).



Respiratory disorders:



Caution is required if Lodine is administered to patients suffering from, or with a previous history of, bronchial asthma since NSAIDs have been reported to precipitate bronchospasm in such patients.



Cardiovascular, Renal and Hepatic Impairment:



In patients with renal, cardiac or hepatic impairment especially those taking diuretics and the elderly, renal function should be monitored in these patients (see also section 4.3). Caution is required since the use of NSAIDs may result in a dose dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation and precipitate renal failure. The dose should be kept as low as possible. However, impairment of renal or hepatic functions due to other causes may alter drug metabolism; patients receiving concomitant long term therapy, especially the elderly, should be observed for potential side effects and their drug doses adjusted as needed, or the drug discontinued.



Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration and perforation:



Serious gastrointestinal adverse effects such as bleeding, ulceration and perforation, which can be fatal, has been reported and can occur at any time with or without warning symptoms in patients treated with NSAIDs or a previous history of serious GI events. If any sign of gastrointestinal bleeding occurs, Lodine should be stopped immediately.



Platelets:



Although non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do not have the same direct effects on platelets as does aspirin, all drugs which inhibit the biosynthesis of prostaglandins may interfere, to some extent, with platelet function. Patients receiving Lodine who may be adversely affected by such actions should be carefully observed.



Patients on long-term treatment with Lodine should be regularly reviewed as a precautionary measure e.g. for changes in, renal function, haematological parameters, or hepatic function.



The risk of GI bleeding, ulceration or perforation is higher with increasing NSAID doses, in patients with a history of ulcer, particularly if complicated with haemorrhage or perforation (see section 4.3), and in the elderly. These patients should commence treatment on the lowest dose available . Combination therapy with protective agents (e.g. misoprostol or proton pump inhibitors) should be considered for these patients, and also for patients requiring concomitant low dose aspirin, or other drugs likely to increase gastrointestinal risk (see below and section 4.5)



Patients with a history of GI toxicity, particularly when elderly, should report any unusual abdominal symptoms (especially GI bleeding) particularly in the initial stages of treatment.



Caution should be advised in patients receiving concomitant medications which could increase the risk of ulceration or bleeding, such as oral corticosteroids, anticoagulants such as warfarin, selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors or anti-platelet agents such as aspirin (see section 4.5).



When GI bleeding or ulceration occurs in patients receiving Etodolac, the treatment should be withdrawn.



NSAIDs should be given with care to patients with a history of gastrointestinal disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) as these conditions may be exacerbated (see section 4.8)



SLE and mixed connective tissue disease:



In patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) and mixed connective tissue disorders there may be an increased risk of aseptic meningitis (see section 4.8).



Dermalogical:



Serious skin reactions, some of them fatal, including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have been reported very rarely in association with the use of NSAIDs (see section 4.8). Patients appear to be at highest risk for these reactions early in the course of therapy: the onset of the reaction occurring in the majority of cases within the first month of treatment. Lodine should be discontinued at the first appearance of the skin rash, mucosal lesions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity.



Impaired female fertility:



The use of Lodine may impair female fertility and is not recommended in woman attempting to conceive. In women who have difficulties conceiving or who are undergoing investigation of Infertility, withdrawal of Lodine should be considered.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Since Lodine is extensively protein-bound, it may be necessary to modify the dosage of other highly protein-bound drugs.



Other analgesics including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitor: Avoid concomitant use of two or more NSAIDs (including aspirin) as this may increase the risk of adverse effects (see section 4.4)



Anti-hypertensives: Reduced anti-hypertensive effect



Diuretics: Reduced diuretic effect. Diuretics can increase the risk of nephrotoxicity of NSAIDs.



Cardiac glycosides: NSAIDs may exacerbate cardiac failure, reduce GFR and increase plasma glycoside levels.



Lithium: Decreased elimination of lithium



Methotrexate: Decreased elimination of methotrexate



Ciclosporin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity



Anti-coagulants: NSAIDs may enhance the effects of anti-coagulants, such as warfarin (see section 4.4)



Anti-platelet agents:and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (see section 4.4)



Tacrolimus: Possible increased risk of nephrotoxicity when NSAIDs are given with tacrolimus.



Zidovudine: Increased risk of haematological toxicity when NSAIDs are given with zidovudine. There is a evidence of an increased risk of haemarthroses and haemtoma in HIV(+) haemophiliacs receiving concurrent treatment with zidovudine and ibuprofen.



Bilirubin tests can give a false positive result due to the presence of phenolic metabolites of Lodine in the urine.



Mifepristone: NSAIDs should not be used for 8-12 days after mifepristone administration as NSAIDs can reduce the effect of mifepristone.



Corticosteroids: increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding (see section 4.4)



Quinolone antibiotics: animal data indicate that NSAIDs can increase the risk of convulsions associated with quinolone antibiotics. Patients taking NSAIDs and quinolones may have an increased risk of developing convulsions.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy:



Drugs which inhibit prostaglandin biosynthesis may cause dystocia and delayed parturition as evidenced by studies in pregnant animals.



Congenital abnormalities have been reported in association with NSAID administration in man; however, these are low in frequency and do not appear to follow any discernible pattern. In view of the known effects of NSAIDs on the foetal cardiovascular system, some inhibitors of prostaglandin biosynthesis have been shown to interfere with the risk of closure of the ductus arteriosus, use in the last trimester of pregnancy is contraindicated. The onset of labour may be delayed and the duration increased with an increased bleeding tendency in both mother and child (see section 4.3). NSAIDs should not be used during the first two trimesters of pregnancy or labour unless the potential benefit to the patient outweighs the potential risk to the foetus.



Lactation:



In limited studies so far available, NSAIDs can appear in breast milk in very low concentrations. NSAIDs should, if possible, be avoided when breastfeeding.



See section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use, regarding female fertility.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Lodine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue or abnormal vision. Patients need to be aware of how they react to this medicine before driving or operating machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Oedema, hypertension and cardiac failure, have been reported in association with NSAID treatment. Clinical trial and epidemiological data suggest that use of some NSAIDs (particularly at high doses and in long term treatment) may be associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke) (see section 4.4).



Gastrointestinal: Reported side effects include nausea, epigastric pain, diarrhoea, indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, ulcerative stomatitis, dyspepsia, haematemesis, melaena, rectal bleeding, exacerbation of colitis, vasculitis, headaches, dizziness, abnormal vision, pyrexia, drowsiness, tinnitus, rash, pruritus, fatigue, depression, insomnia, confusion, paraesthesia, tremor, weakness/malaise, dyspnoea, palpitations, bilirubinuria, hepatic function abnormalities and jaundice, urinary frequency, dysuria, angioedema, anaphylactoid reaction, photosensitivity, urticaria and Stevens-Johnson syndrome and Crohn's disease (See section 4.4) have been reported following administration. Less frequently, gastritis has been observed. Pancreatitis has been reported very rarely.



Hypersensitivity: Hypersensitivity reactions have been reported following treatment with NSAIDs. These may consists of (a) non-specific allergic reactions and anaphylaxis (b) respiratory tract reactivity comprising asthma, aggravated asthma, bronchospasm or dyspnoea, or (c) assorted skin disorders, including rashes of various types, pruritus, urticaria, purpura, angioedema and more rarely exfoliative and bullous dermatoses (including epidermal necrolysis and erythema multiforme).



Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular:



Oedema, hypertension and cardiac failure have been reported in association with NSAID treatment



Clinical trial and epidemiological data suggest that use of some NSAIDs (particularly at high doses and in long term treatment) may be associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombotic events (for example myocardial infarction or stroke) (see section 4.4).



Renal: Nephrotoxicity in various forms, including interstitial nephritis, nephrotic syndrome and renal failure.



Hepatic: abnormal liver function, hepatitis and jaundice



Neurological and special senses: Visual disturbances, optic neuritis, headaches, paraethesia, reports of aseptic meningitis (especially in patients with existing auto-immune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematous, mixed connective tissue disease), with symptoms such as stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomitiong, fever or disorientation (See section 4.4), depression, confusion, hallucinations, tinnitus, vertigo, dizziness, malaise, fatigue and drowsiness.



Haematological: Thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia and haemolytic anaemia.



Dermatological: Bullous reactions including Stevens Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (very rare). Photosensitivity.



4.9 Overdose



(a) Symptoms



Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointaestinal bleeding, rarely diarrhoea, disorientation, excitation, coma, drowsiness, dizziness, tinnitus, fainting, occasionally convulsions. In cases of significant poisoning acute renal failure and liver damage are possible.



(b) Therapeutic measure



Patients should be treated symptomatically as required.



Within one hour of ingestion of a potentially toxic amount, activated charcoal should be considered. Alternatively, in adults, gastric lavage should be considered within one hour of indigestion of a potentially life-threatening overdose.



Good urine output should be ensured.



Renal and liver function should be closely montored.



Patients should be observed for at least four hours after ingestion of potentially toxic amounts.



Frequent or prolonged convulsions should be treated with intravenous diazepam.



Other measures may be indicated by the patient's clinical condition.



The standard practices of gastric lavage, activated charcoal administration and general supportive therapy should be undertaken.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and COX-2 selectivity: All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been shown to inhibit the formation of prostaglandins. It is this action which is responsible both for their therapeutic effects and some of their side-effects. The inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis observed with etodolac differs from that of other NSAIDs. In an animal model at an established anti-inflammatory dose, cytoprotective PGE concentration in the gastric mucosa have been shown to be reduced to a lesser degree and for a shorter period than other NSAIDs. This finding is consistent with subsequent in-vitro studies which have found etodolac to be selective for induced cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2, associated with inflammation) over COX-1 (cytoprotective).



Furthermore, studies in human cell models have confirmed that etodolac is selective for the inhibition of COX-2.



The clinical benefit of preferential COX-2 inhibition over COX-1 has yet to be proven.



Anti-inflammatory effects: Experiments have shown etodolac to have marked anti-inflammatory activity, being more potent than several clinically established NSAIDs.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



In man, etodolac is well absorbed following oral administration.



Etodolac is highly bound to serum proteins.



The elimination half-life averages seven hours in man. The primary route of excretion is in the urine, mostly in the form of metabolites.



In subjects receiving daily doses of Lodine SR 400mg or 600mg to steady state levels over a three day period, the peak plasma concentrations were 7.5µg/ml at 7.9 hours and 11.9µg/ml at 7.8 hours.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Nothing of note to the prescriber.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose USP



Dibasic Sodium Phosphate USP



Ethylcellulose USNF



Lactose Ph Eur



Magnesium Stearate Ph Eur



Hydroxypropyl Cellulose



Macrogol 400



Macrogol 6000



Colourings - Titanium Dioxide (E171), Iron Oxide (E172)



6.2 Incompatibilities



None.



6.3 Shelf Life



Lodine SR Tablets may be stored for up to 3 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store at room temperature, below 25oC.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Vinyl Aclar or PVdC/PVC/Aluminium foil blister packs of 2, 28 or 30 tablets.



HDPE bottle with child resistant closures of 28 or 30 tablets.



Polypropylene securitainers with polyethylene caps of 28 or 30 tablets.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



None.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Almirall, S.A.



Ronda General Mitre 151



08022 Barcelona



Spain



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16973/0021



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



1 September 2000



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



26 March 2010




Lustral





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



LUSTRAL™ 50mg film coated tablets



LUSTRAL™ 100mg film coated tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains Sertraline hydrochloride equivalent to 50 mg or 100 mg sertraline.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Film-coated tablet



50mg white, capsular shaped, film-coated scored tablets coded 'ZLT-50' on one side and 'PFIZER' on the other. The score line is only to facilitate breaking for ease of swallowing and not to divide into equal doses.



100mg white, capsular shaped, film-coated tablets coded 'ZLT-100' on one side and 'PFIZER' on the other.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Sertraline is indicated for the treatment of:



Major depressive episodes. Prevention of recurrence of major depressive episodes.



Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia.



Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults and paediatric patients aged 6-17 years.



Social anxiety disorder.



Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Sertraline should be administered once daily, either in the morning or evening.



Sertraline tablet can be administered with or without food.



Initial treatment



Depression and OCD



Sertraline treatment should be started at a dose of 50 mg/day.



Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Social Anxiety Disorder



Therapy should be initiated at 25 mg/day. After one week, the dose should be increased to 50 mg once daily. This dosage regimen has been shown to reduce the frequency of early treatment emergent side effects characteristic of panic disorder.



Titration



Depression, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder and PTSD



Patients not responding to a 50 mg dose may benefit from dose increases. Dose changes should be made in steps of 50 mg at intervals of at least one week, up to a maximum of 200 mg/day. Changes in dose should not be made more frequently than once per week given the 24-hour elimination half life of sertraline.



The onset of therapeutic effect may be seen within 7 days. However, longer periods are usually necessary to demonstrate therapeutic response, especially in OCD.



Maintenance



Dosage during long-term therapy should be kept at the lowest effective level, with subsequent adjustment depending on therapeutic response.



Depression



Longer-term treatment may also be appropriate for prevention of recurrence of major depressive episodes (MDE). In most of the cases, the recommended dose in prevention of recurrence of MDE is the same as the one used during current episode. Patients with depression should be treated for a sufficient period of time of at least 6 months to ensure they are free from symptoms.



Panic disorder and OCD



Continued treatment in panic disorder and OCD should be evaluated regularly, as relapse prevention has not been shown for these disorders.



Paediatric patients



Children and adolescents with obsessive compulsive disorder



Age 13-17 years: Initially 50 mg once daily.



Age 6-12 years: Initially 25 mg once daily. The dosage may be increased to 50 mg once daily after one week.



Subsequent doses may be increased in case of less than desired response in 50 mg increments over a period of some weeks, as needed. The maximum dosage is 200 mg daily. However, the generally lower body weights of children compared to those of adults should be taken into consideration when increasing the dose from 50 mg. Dose changes should not occur at intervals of less than one week.



Efficacy is not shown in paediatric major depressive disorder.



No data is available for children under 6 years of age (see also section 4.4).



Use in elderly



Elderly should be dosed carefully, as elderly may be more at risk for hyponatraemia (see section 4.4).



Use in hepatic insufficiency



The use of sertraline in patients with hepatic disease should be approached with caution. A lower or less frequent dose should be used in patients with hepatic impairment (see section 4.4). Sertraline should not be used in cases of severe hepatic impairment as no clinical data are available (see section 4.4).



Use in renal insufficiency



No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal insufficiency (see section 4.4).



Withdrawal symptoms seen on discontinuation of sertraline



Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided. When stopping treatment with sertraline the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions (see sections 4.4 and 4.8). If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients.



Concomitant treatment with irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated due to the risk of serotonin syndrome with symptoms such as agitation, tremor and hyperthermia. Sertraline must not be initiated for at least 14 days after discontinuation of treatment with an irreversible MAOI. Sertraline must be discontinued for at least 7 days before starting treatment with an irreversible MAOI (see section 4.5).



Concomitant intake of pimozide is contraindicated (see section 4.5).



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Serotonin Syndrome (SS) or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)



The development of potentially life-threatening syndromes like serotonin syndrome (SS) or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported with SSRIs, including treatment with sertraline. The risk of SS or NMS with SSRIs is increased with concomitant use of serotonergic drugs (including triptans), with drugs which impair metabolism of serotonin (including MAOIs), antipsychotics and other dopamine antagonists. Patients should be monitored for the emergence of signs and symptoms of SS or NMS syndrome (see section 4.3 – Contraindications).



Switching from Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), antidepressants or antiobsessional drugs



There is limited controlled experience regarding the optimal timing of switching from SSRIs, antidepressants or anti-obsessional drugs to sertraline. Care and prudent medical judgment should be exercised when switching, particularly from long-acting agents such as fluoxetine.



Other serotonergic drugs e.g. tryptophan, fenfluramine and 5-HT agonists



Co-administration of sertraline with other drugs which enhance the effects of serotonergic neurotransmission such as tryptophan or fenfluramine or 5-HT agonists, or the herbal medicine, St John's Wort (hypericum perforatum), should be undertaken with caution and avoided whenever possible due to the potential for a pharmacodynamic interaction.



Activation of hypomania or mania



Manic/hypomanic symptoms have been reported to emerge in a small proportion of patients treated with marketed antidepressant and anti-obsessional drugs, including sertraline. Therefore sertraline should be used with caution in patients with a history of mania/hypomania. Close surveillance by the physician is required. Sertraline should be discontinued in any patient entering a manic phase.



Schizophrenia



Psychotic symptoms might become aggravated in schizophrenic patients.



Seizures



Seizures may occur with sertraline therapy: sertraline should be avoided in patients with unstable epilepsy and patients with controlled epilepsy should be carefully monitored. Sertraline should be discontinued in any patient who develops seizures.



Suicide/suicidal thoughts/suicide attempts or clinical worsening



Depression is associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, self harm and suicide (suicide-related events). This risk persists until significant remission occurs. As improvement may not occur during the first few weeks or more of treatment, patients should be closely monitored until such improvement occurs. It is general clinical experience that the risk of suicide may increase in the early stages of recovery.



Other psychiatric conditions, for which sertraline is prescribed, can also be associated with an increased risk of suicide-related events. In addition, these conditions may be co-morbid with major depressive disorder. The same precautions observed when treating patients with major depressive disorder should therefore be observed when treating patients with other psychiatric disorders.



Patients with a history of suicide-related events, or those exhibiting a significant degree of suicidal ideation prior to commencement of treatment are known to be at greater risk of suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, and should receive careful monitoring during treatment. A meta-analysis of placebo-controlled clinical trials of antidepressant drugs in adult patients with psychiatric disorders showed an increased risk of suicidal behaviour with antidepressants compared to placebo in patients less than 25 years old.



Close supervision of patients and in particular those at high risk should accompany drug therapy especially in early treatment and following dose changes. Patients (and caregivers of patients) should be alerted about the need to monitor for any clinical worsening, suicidal behaviour or thoughts and unusual changes in behaviour and to seek medical advice immediately if these symptoms present.



Use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age



Sertraline should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years, except for patients with obsessive compulsive disorder aged 6-17 years old. Suicide-related behaviours (suicide attempt and suicidal thoughts), and hostility (predominantly aggression, oppositional behaviour and anger) were more frequently observed in clinical trials among children and adolescents treated with antidepressants compared to those treated with placebo. If, based on clinical need, a decision to treat is nevertheless taken; the patient should be carefully monitored for appearance of suicidal symptoms. In addition, long-term safety data in children and adolescents concerning growth, maturation and cognitive and behavioural development are lacking. Physicians must monitor paediatric patients on long term treatment for abnormalities in these body systems.



Abnormal bleeding/Haemorrhage



There have been reports of cutaneous bleeding abnormalities such as ecchymoses and purpura and other hemorrhagic events such as gastrointestinal or gynaecological bleeding, with SSRIs. Caution is advised in patients taking SSRIs, particularly in concomitant use with drugs known to affect platelet function (e.g. anticoagulants, atypical antipsychotics and phenothiazines, most tricyclic antidepressants, acetylsalicylic acid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)) as well as in patients with a history of bleeding disorders (see section 4.5).



Hyponatraemia



Hyponatraemia may occur as a result of treatment with SSRIs or SNRIs including sertraline. In many cases, hyponatraemia appears to be the result of a syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). Cases of serum sodium levels lower than 110 mmol/l have been reported.



Elderly patients may be at greater risk of developing hyponatraemia with SSRIs and SNRIs. Also patients taking diuretics or who are otherwise volume-depleted may be at greater risk (see Use in elderly). Discontinuation of sertraline should be considered in patients with symptomatic hyponatraemia and appropriate medical intervention should be instituted. Signs and symptoms of hyponatraemia include headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness and unsteadiness which may lead to falls. Signs and symptoms associated with more severe and/or acute cases have included hallucination, syncope, seizure, coma, respiratory arrest, and death.



Withdrawal symptoms seen on discontinuation of sertraline treatment



Withdrawal symptoms when treatment is discontinued are common, particularly if discontinuation is abrupt (see section 4.8). In clinical trials, among patients treated with sertraline, the incidence of reported withdrawal reactions was 23% in those discontinuing sertraline compared to 12% in those who continued to receive sertraline treatment.



The risk of withdrawal symptoms may be dependent on several factors including the duration and dose of therapy and the rate of dose reduction. Dizziness, sensory disturbances (including paraesthesia), sleep disturbances (including insomnia and intense dreams), agitation or anxiety, nausea and/or vomiting, tremor and headache are the most commonly reported reactions. Generally these symptoms are mild to moderate; however, in some patients they may be severe in intensity. They usually occur within the first few days of discontinuing treatment, but there have been very rare reports of such symptoms in patients who have inadvertently missed a dose. Generally these symptoms are self-limiting and usually resolve within 2 weeks, though in some individuals they may be prolonged (2-3 months or more). It is therefore advised that sertraline should be gradually tapered when discontinuing treatment over a period of several weeks or months, according to the patient's needs (see section 4.2).



Akathisia/psychomotor restlessness



The use of sertraline has been associated with the development of akathisia, characterised by a subjectively unpleasant or distressing restlessness and need to move often accompanied by an inability to sit or stand still. This is most likely to occur within the first few weeks of treatment. In patients who develop these symptoms, increasing the dose may be detrimental.



Hepatic impairment



Sertraline is extensively metabolised by the liver. A multiple dose pharmacokinetic study in subjects with mild, stable cirrhosis demonstrated a prolonged elimination half life and approximately three-fold greater AUC and Cmax in comparison to normal subjects. There were no significant differences in plasma protein binding observed between the two groups. The use of sertraline in patients with hepatic disease must be approached with caution. If sertraline is administered to patients with hepatic impairment, a lower or less frequent dose should be considered. Sertraline should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment (see section 4.2).



Renal impairment



Sertraline is extensively metabolised, and excretion of unchanged drug in urine is a minor route of elimination. In studies of patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-60 ml/min) or moderate to severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 10-29 ml/min), multiple-dose pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC0-24 or Cmax) were not significantly different compared with controls. Sertraline dosing does not have to be adjusted based on the degree of renal impairment.



Use in elderly



Over 700 elderly patients (>65 years) have participated in clinical studies. The pattern and incidence of adverse reactions in the elderly was similar to that in younger patients.



SSRIs or SNRIs including sertraline have however been associated with cases of clinically significant hyponatraemia in elderly patients, who may be at greater risk for this adverse event (see Hyponatraemia in section 4.4).



Diabetes



In patients with diabetes, treatment with an SSRI may alter glycaemic control, possibly due to improvement of depressive symptoms. Glycaemic control should be carefully monitored in patients receiving sertraline and the dosage of insulin and/or concomitant oral hypoglycaemic medicinal products may be needed to be adjusted.



Electroconvulsive therapy



There are no clinical studies establishing the risks or benefits of the combined use of ECT and sertraline.



Grapefruit juice



The administration of sertraline with grapefruit juice is not recommended (see section 4.5).



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Contraindicated



Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors



Irreversible MAOIs (e.g. selegiline)



Sertraline must not be used in combination with irreversible MAOIs such as selegiline. Sertraline must not be initiated for at least 14 days after discontinuation of treatment with an irreversible MAOI. Sertraline must be discontinued for at least 7 days before starting treatment with an irreversible MAOI (see section 4.3).



Reversible, selective MAO-A inhibitor (moclobemide)



Due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, the combination of sertraline with a reversible and selective MAOI, such as moclobemide, should not be given. Following treatment with a reversible MAO-inhibitor, a shorter withdrawal period than 14 days may be used before initiation of sertraline treatment. It is recommended that sertraline should be discontinued for at least 7 days before starting treatment with a reversible MAOI (see section 4.3).



Reversible, non-selective MAOI (linezolid)



The antibiotic linezolid is a weak reversible and non-selective MAOI and should not be given to patients treated with sertraline (see section 4.3).



Severe adverse reactions have been reported in patients who have recently been discontinued from an MAOI and started on sertraline, or have recently had sertraline therapy discontinued prior to initiation of an MAOI. These reactions have included tremor, myoclonus, diaphoresis, nausea, vomiting, flushing, dizziness, and hyperthermia with features resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome, seizures, and death.



Pimozide



Increased pimozide levels of approximately 35% have been demonstrated in a study of a single low dose pimozide (2 mg). These increased levels were not associated with any changes in EKG. While the mechanism of this interaction is unknown, due to the narrow therapeutic index of pimozide, concomitant administration of sertraline and pimozide is contraindicated (see section 4.3).



Co-administration with sertraline is not recommended



CNS depressants and alcohol



The co-administration of sertraline 200 mg daily did not potentiate the effects of alcohol, carbamazepine, haloperidol, or phenytoin on cognitive and psychomotor performance in healthy subjects; however, the concomitant use of sertraline and alcohol is not recommended.



Other serotonergic drugs



See section 4.4.



Special Precautions



Lithium



In a placebo-controlled trial in normal volunteers, the co-administration of sertraline with lithium did not significantly alter lithium pharmacokinetics, but did result in an increase in tremor relative to placebo, indicating a possible pharmacodynamic interaction. When co-administering sertraline with lithium, patients should be appropriately monitored.



Phenytoin



A placebo-controlled trial in normal volunteers suggests that chronic administration of sertraline 200 mg/day does not produce clinically important inhibition of phenytoin metabolism. Nonetheless, as some case reports have emerged of high phenytoin exposure in patients using sertraline, it is recommended that plasma phenytoin concentrations be monitored following initiation of sertraline therapy, with appropriate adjustments to the phenytoin dose. In addition, co-administration of phenytoin may cause a reduction of sertraline plasma levels.



Triptans



There have been rare post-marketing reports describing patients with weakness, hyperreflexia, incoordination, confusion, anxiety and agitation following the use of sertraline and sumatriptan. Symptoms of serotonergic syndrome may also occur with other products of the same class (triptans). If concomitant treatment with sertraline and triptans is clinically warranted, appropriate observation of the patient is advised (see section 4.4).



Warfarin



Co-administration of sertraline 200 mg daily with warfarin resulted in a small but statistically significant increase in prothrombin time, which may in some rare cases unbalance the INR value.



Accordingly, prothrombin time should be carefully monitored when sertraline therapy is initiated or stopped.



Other drug interactions, digoxin, atenolol, cimetidine



Co-administration with cimetidine caused a substantial decrease in sertraline clearance. The clinical significance of these changes is unknown. Sertraline had no effect on the beta-adrenergic blocking ability of atenolol. No interaction of sertraline 200 mg daily was observed with digoxin.



Drugs affecting platelet function



The risk of bleeding may be increased when medicines acting on platelet function (e.g. NSAIDs, acetylsalicylic acid and ticlopidine) or other medicines that might increase bleeding risk are concomitantly administered with SSRIs, including sertraline (see section 4.4).



Drugs Metabolized by Cytochrome P450



Sertraline may act as a mild-moderate inhibitor of CYP 2D6. Chronic dosing with sertraline 50 mg daily showed moderate elevation (mean 23%-37%) of steady-state desipramine plasma levels (a marker of CYP 2D6 isozyme activity). Clinical relevant interactions may occur with other CYP 2D6 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index like class 1C antiarrhythmics such as propafenone and flecainide, TCAs and typical antipsychotics, especially at higher sertraline dose levels.



Sertraline does not act as an inhibitor of CYP 3A4, CYP 2C9, CYP 2C19, and CYP 1A2 to a clinically significant degree. This has been confirmed by in-vivo interaction studies with CYP3A4 substrates (endogenous cortisol, carbamazepine, terfenadine, alprazolam), CYP2C19 substrate diazepam, and CYP2C9 substrates tolbutamide, glibenclamide and phenytoin. In vitro studies indicate that sertraline has little or no potential to inhibit CYP 1A2.



Intake of three glasses of grapefruit juice daily increased the sertraline plasma levels by approximately 100% in a cross-over study in eight Japanese healthy subjects. Interaction with other CYP3A4 inhibitors has not been established. Therefore, the intake of grapefruit juice should be avoided during treatment with sertraline (see section 4.4).



Sertraline plasma levels are enhanced by about 50% in poor metabolizers of CYP2C19 compared to rapid metabolizers (see section 5.2). Interaction with strong inhibitors of CYP2C19 cannot be excluded.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



There are no well controlled studies in pregnant women. However, a substantial amount of data did not reveal evidence of induction of congenital malformations by sertraline. Animal studies showed evidence for effects on reproduction probably due to maternal toxicity caused by the pharmacodynamic action of the compound and/or direct pharmacodynamic action of the compound on the foetus (see 5.3).



Use of sertraline during pregnancy has been reported to cause symptoms, compatible with withdrawal reactions, in some neonates, whose mothers had been on sertraline. This phenomenon has also been observed with other SSRI antidepressants. Sertraline is not recommended in pregnancy, unless the clinical condition of the woman is such that the benefit of the treatment is expected to outweigh the potential risk.



Neonates should be observed if maternal use of sertraline continues into the later stages of pregnancy, particularly the third trimester. The following symptoms may occur in the neonate after maternal sertraline use in later stages of pregnancy: respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnoea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycaemia, hypertonia, hypotonia, hyperreflexia, tremor, jitteriness, irritability, lethargy, constant crying, somnolence and difficulty in sleeping. These symptoms could be due to either serotonergic effects or withdrawal symptoms. In a majority of instances the complications begin immediately or soon (<24 hours) after delivery.



Epidemiological data have suggested that the use of SSRIs in pregnancy, particular in late pregnancy, may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension in the newborn (PPHN). The observed risk was approximately 5 cases per 1000 pregnancies. In the general population 1 to 2 cases of PPHN per 1000 pregnancies occur.



Lactation



Published data concerning sertraline levels in breast milk show that small quantities of sertraline and its metabolite N-desmethylsertraline are excreted in milk. Generally negligible to undetectable levels were found in infant serum, with one exception of an infant with serum levels about 50% of the maternal level (but without a noticeable health effect in this infant). To date, no adverse effects on the health of infants nursed by mothers using sertraline have been reported, but a risk cannot be excluded. Use in nursing mothers is not recommended unless, in the judgment of the physician, the benefit outweighs the risk.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Clinical pharmacology studies have shown that sertraline has no effect on psychomotor performance. However, as psychotropic drugs may impair the mental or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving a car or operating machinery, the patient should be cautioned accordingly.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Nausea is the most common undesirable effect. In the treatment of social anxiety disorder, sexual dysfunction (ejaculation failure) in men occurred in 14% for sertraline vs 0% in placebo. These undesirable effects are dose dependent and are often transient in nature with continued treatment.



The undesirable effects profile commonly observed in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in patients with OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and social anxiety disorder was similar to that observed in clinical trials in patients with depression.



Table 1 displays adverse reactions observed from postmarketing experience (frequency not known) and placebo-controlled clinical trials (comprising a total of 2542 patients on sertraline and 2145 on placebo) in depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and social anxiety disorder.



Some adverse drug reactions listed in Table 1 may decrease in intensity and frequency with continued treatment and do not generally lead to cessation of therapy.



Table 1: Adverse Reactions



Frequency of adverse reactions observed from placebo-controlled clinical trials in depression, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD and social anxiety disorder. Pooled analysis and postmarketing experience (frequency not known).


















































































































































































































































































Very Common



(




Common



(




Uncommon



(




Rare



(




Very. rare



(<1/10000)




Frequency not Known




Infections and Infestations


     

 


Pharyngitis




Upper Respiratory Tract Infection, Rhinitis




Diverticulitis, Gastroenteritis, Otitis Media



 

 


Neoplasms benign, malignant (including cysts and polyps)


     

 

 

 


Neoplasm†



 

 


Blood and lymphatic system disorders


     

 

 

 


Lymphadenopathy



 


Leucopenia, Thrombocytopenia




Immune system disorders


     

 

 

 

 

 


Anaphylactoid Reaction, Allergic Reaction, Allergy




Endocrine disorders


     

 

 

 

 

 


Hyperprolactinaemia, Hypothyroidism and syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion




Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders


     

 


Anorexia, Increased Appetite*



 


Hypercholesterolaemia, Hypoglycaemia



 


Hyponatremia




Psychiatric Disorders


     


Insomnia (19%)




Depression*, Depersonalisation, Nightmare, Anxiety*, Agitation*, Nervousness, Libido Decreased*, Bruxism




Hallucination*, Euphoric Mood*, Apathy, Thinking Abnormal




Conversion Disorder, Drug Dependence, Psychotic disorder*, Aggression*, Paranoia, Suicidal Ideation/behaviour***, Sleep Walking, Premature Ejaculation



 


Paroniria,




Nervous System Disorders


     


Dizziness (11%), Somnolence (13%), Headache (21%)*




Paraesthesia*, Tremor, Hypertonia, Dysgeusia, Disturbance in Attention,




Convulsion*, Muscle Contractions Involuntary*, Coordination Abnormal, Hyperkinesia, Amnesia, Hypoaesthesia*, Speech Disorder, Dizziness Postural, Migraine*




Coma*, Choreoathetosis, Dyskinesia, Hyperaesthesia, Sensory Disturbance



 


Movement Disorders (including extrapyramidal symptoms such as hyperkinesia, hypertonia, teeth grinding or gait abnormalities), Syncope.



Also reported were signs and symptoms associated with Serotonin Syndrome or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: In some cases associated with concomitant use of serotonergic drugs that included agitation, confusion, diaphoresis, diarrhoea, fever, hypertension, rigidity and tachycardia.



Akathesia and psychomotor restlessness (see section 4.4).




Eye Disorders


     

 


Visual Disturbance



 


Glaucoma, Lacrimal Disorder, Scotoma, Diplopia, Photophobia, Hyphaema, Mydriasis*



 


Vision Abnormal




Ear and Labyrinth Disorders


     

 


Tinnitus*




Ear Pain



 

 

 


Cardiac Disorders


     

 


Palpitations*




Tachycardia




Myocardial Infarction, Bradycardia, Cardiac Disorder



 

 


Vascular Disorders


     

 


Hot flush*




Hypertension*, Flushing




Peripheral Ischaemia



 


Abnormal Bleeding (such as epistaxis, gastrointestinal bleeding or haematuria)




Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders


     

 


Yawning*




Bronchospasm*, Dyspnoea, Epistaxis




Laryngospasm, Hyperventilation, Hypoventilation, Stridor, Dysphonia, Hiccups



 

 


Gastrointestinal Disorders


     


Diarrhoea (18%), Nausea (24%), Dry Mouth (14%)




Abdominal Pain* Vomiting*, Constipation* Dyspepsia, Flatulence




Oesophagitis, Dysphagia, Haemorrhoids, Salivary Hypersecretion, Tongue Disorder, Eructation




Melaena, Haematochezia, Stomatitis, Tongue ulceration, Tooth Disorder, Glossitis, Mouth Ulceration



 


Pancreatitis




Hepatobiliary Disorders


     

 

 

 


Hepatic Function Abnormal



 


Serious liver events (including hepatitis, jaundice and liver failure)




Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders


     

 


Rash*, Hyperhidrosis




Periorbital Oedema*, Purpura*, Alopecia*, Cold Sweat, Dry skin, Urticaria*




Dermatitis, Dermatitis Bullous, Rash Follicular, Hair Texture Abnormal, Skin Odour Abnormal



 


Rare reports of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR): e.g. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and epidermal necrolysis, Angioedema, Face Oedema, Photosensitivity, Skin Reaction, Pruritus




Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders


     

 


Myalgia




Osteoarthritis, Muscular Weakness, Back Pain, Muscle Twitching




Bone Disorder



 


Arthralgia, Muscle Cramps




Renal and Urinary Disorders


     

 

 


Nocturia, Urinary Retention*, Polyuria, Pollakiuria, Micturition disorder




Oliguria, Urinary Incontinence*, Urinary Hesitation



 

 


Reproductive System and Breast Disorders**


     


Ejaculation Failure (14%)




Sexual Dysfunction, Erectile Dysfunction




Vaginal Haemorrhage, Female Sexual Dysfunction




Menorrhagia, Atrophic Vulvovaginitis, Balanoposthitis, Genital Discharge, Priapism*, Galactorrhoea*



 


Gynaecomastia, Menstrual Irregularities




General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions


     


Fatigue (10%)*




Chest Pain*




Malaise*, Chills, Pyrexia*, Asthenia*, Thirst




Hernia, Injection Site Fibrosis, Drug Tolerance Decreased, Gait Disturbance, Unevaluable Event



 


Oedema Peripheral




Investigations


     

 

 


Weight Decreased*, Weight Increased*




Alanine Aminotransferase Increased*, Aspartate Aminotransferase Increased*, Semen Abnormal



 


Abnormal Clinical Laboratory Results, Altered Platelet Function, Increased Serum Cholesterol




Injury and poisoning


     

 

 

 


Injury