Drug Information: Gabapentin

(ga' ba pen tin)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Gabapentin is used to help control certain types of seizures in patients who have epilepsy. Gabapentin
is also used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches
that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles). Gabapentin is in a class of medications
called anticonvulsants. Gabapentin treats seizures by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain.
Gabapentin relieves the pain of PHN by changing the way the body senses pain.

How should this medicine be used?

Gabapentin comes as a capsule, a tablet, and an oral solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually
taken with a full glass of water (8 oz, 240 mL) three times a day. Gabapentin may be taken with or
without food. Take this medication at evenly spaced times throughout the day and night; do not let
more than 12 hours pass between doses. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and
ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take gabapentin exactly as
directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

If your doctor tells you to take one-half of a tablet as part of your dose, carefully split the tablet along
the score mark. Use the other half-tablet as part of your next dose. Properly throw away any half-
tablets that you have not used within several days of breaking them.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of gabapentin and gradually increase your dose as
needed to treat your condition. If you are taking gabapentin to treat PHN, tell your doctor if your
symptoms do not improve during your treatment.

Gabapentin may help to control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take gabapentin even if
you feel well. Do not stop taking gabapentin without talking to your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking
gabapentin, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, difficulty falling asleep or
staying asleep, nausea, pain, and sweating. If you are taking gabapentin to treat seizures and you
suddenly stop taking the medication, you may experience seizures more often. Your doctor probably
will decrease your dose gradually over at least a week.

Other uses for this medicine

Gabapentin is also sometimes used to relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling
due to nerve damage in people who have diabetes), and to treat and prevent hot flashes (sudden
strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are being treated for breast cancer or who have
experienced menopause ('change of life', the end of monthly menstrual periods). Talk to your doctor
about the risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking gabapentin,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gabapentin, any other medications, or any
of the inactive ingredients in the type of gabapentin you plan to take. Ask your pharmacist for a
list of the inactive ingredients.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins,
nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to
mention any of the following: hydrocodone (in Hydrocet, in Vicodin, others), morphine (Avinza,
Kadian, MSIR, others), and naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, others). Your doctor may
need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
 if you are taking antacids such as Maalox or Mylanta, take them at least 2 hours before you
take gabapentin.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking gabapentin, call your doctor.
 if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking
gabapentin.
 you should know that this medication may make you drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive a car or
operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

10
  if you are giving gabapentin to your child, you should know that your child's behavior and
mental abilities may change while he or she is taking gabapentin. Your child may have sudden
changes in mood, become hostile or hyperactive, have difficulty concentrating or paying
attention, or be drowsy or clumsy. Have your child avoid activities that could be dangerous,
such as riding a bicycle, until you know how gabapentin affects him or her.
 remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.
 you should know that your mental health may change in unexpected ways, and you may
become suicidal (thinking about harming or killing yourself or planning or trying to do so) while
you are taking gabapentin for the treatment of epilepsy, mental illness, or other conditions. A
small number of adults and children 5 years of age and older who took antiepileptics such as
gabapentin during clinical studies were found to be twice as likely to become suicidal than
people who did not take the medication. This increased risk of suicidal behavior was seen as
early as one week after starting the medication. You, your family, or your caregiver should call
your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: anxiety, agitation,
hostility, mania (frenzied, abnormally excited mood), talking or thinking about wanting to hurt
yourself or end your life, withdrawing from friends and family, new or worsening depression,
preoccupation with death and dying, or giving away prized possessions. Be sure that your
family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the doctor if you
are unable to seek treatment on your own.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gabapentin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:

 drowsiness
 tiredness or weakness
 dizziness
 headache
 shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
 double or blurred vision
 unsteadiness
 anxiety
 memory problems
 strange or unusual thoughts
 unwanted eye movements
 nausea
 vomiting
 heartburn
 diarrhea
 dry mouth
 constipation
 weight gain
 swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
 back or joint pain
 fever
 runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms
 ear pain
 red, itchy eyes (sometimes with swelling or discharge)

Some side effects may be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:

11
  rash
 itching
 swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
 hoarseness
 difficulty swallowing or breathing
 seizures

Gabapentin may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while
taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the
tablets and capsules at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
Store the oral solution in the refrigerator. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer
needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

 double vision
 slurred speech
 drowsiness
 diarrhea

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking
gabapentin.

If you use a dipstick to test your urine for protein, ask your doctor which product you should use while
taking this medication.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand name(s):

 Gabarone®  Neurontin®

Last Revised - 06/01/2008

Last Reviewed - 07/01/1998

Drug Information: Gemfibrozil

(jem fi' broe zil)

12
Why is this medication prescribed?

Gemfibrozil is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of
cholesterol and triglycerides (other fatty substances) in the blood in certain people with very high
triglycerides who are at risk of pancreatic disease (conditions affecting the pancreas, a gland that
produces fluid to break down food and hormones to control blood sugar). Gemfibrozil is also used in
people with a combination of low high-density lipoprotein (HDL; ''good cholesterol'') levels and high
low-density lipoprotein (LDL; ''bad cholesterol'') and triglyceride levels. Gemfibrozil is in a class of lipid-
regulating medications called fibrates. It works be reducing the production of triglycerides in the liver.

Buildup of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis)
decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your
body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to decrease your chances of getting
heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. In addition to taking a cholesterol-
lowering medication, making certain changes in your daily habits can also lower your cholesterol blood
levels. You should eat a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol (see SPECIAL DIETARY),
exercise 30 minutes on most, if not all days, and lose weight if you are overweight.

How should this medicine be used?

Gemfibrozil comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken twice a day, 30 minutes before the
morning and evening meals. Take gemfibrozil at around the same times every day. Follow the
directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part
you do not understand. Take gemfibrozil exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it
more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Gemfibrozil controls high cholesterol and triglycerides but does not cure them. Continue to take
gemfibrozil even if you feel well. Do not stop taking gemfibrozil without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking gemfibrozil,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gemfibrozil or any other medications.
 tell your doctor if you are taking cerivastatin (Baycol, not on market in U.S.). Your doctor will
tell you not to take gemfibrozil while taking cerivastatin.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins,
nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to
mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin);
cholesterol-lowering medications (statins) such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol),
lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), and simvastatin (Zocor); and repaglinide
(Prandin). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you
carefully for side effects.
 tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver, or gallbladder disease. Your doctor may tell you not to
take gemfibrozil.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking gemfibrozil, call your doctor.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Eat a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This kind of diet includes cottage cheese, fat-free milk, fish (not
canned in oil), vegetables, poultry, egg whites, and polyunsaturated oils and margarines (corn,
safflower, canola, and soybean oils). Avoid foods with excess fat in them such as meat (especially liver
and fatty meat), egg yolks, whole milk, cream, butter, shortening, lard, pastries, cakes, cookies, gravy,
peanut butter, chocolate, olives, potato chips, coconut, cheese (other than cottage cheese), coconut
oil, palm oil, and fried foods.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

13
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gemfibrozil may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:

 stomach pain
 heartburn

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:

 muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness

 blurred vision

A medication similar to gemfibrozil has caused cancer, gallbladder disease, and stomach pain leading
to appendectomy. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking this medication.

Gemfibrozil may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while
taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of
your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

 stomach cramps
 diarrhea
 joint and muscle pain
 nausea
 vomiting

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to
check your body's response to gemfibrozil.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand name(s):

14
  Lopid®

Last Revised - 07/01/2007

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

Drug Information: Gentamicin Ophthalmic

15
(jen ta mye' sin)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Gentamicin kills bacteria that cause certain eye infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

How should this medicine be used?

Gentamicin comes as eyedrops and eye ointment. The eyedrops usually are applied every 4-8 hours;
the eye ointment usually is applied two to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription
label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that you do not understand. Use
gentamicin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by
your doctor.

To use the eyedrops, follow these instructions:

 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

 Use a mirror or have someone else put the drops in your eye.
 Remove the protective cap. Make sure that the end of the dropper is not chipped or cracked
and that the eyedrops are clear (not cloudy).
 Avoid touching the dropper tip against your eye or anything else.
 Hold the dropper tip down at all times to prevent drops from flowing back into the bottle and
contaminating the remaining contents.
 Lie down or tilt your head back.
 Holding the bottle between your thumb and index finger, place the dropper tip as near as
possible to your eyelid without touching it.
 Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
 With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket.
 Drop the prescribed number of drops into the pocket made by the lower lid and the eye.
Placing drops on the surface of the eyeball can cause stinging.
 Close your eye and press lightly against the lower lid with your finger for 2-3 minutes to keep
the medication in the eye. Do not blink.
 Replace and tighten the cap right away. Do not wipe or rinse it off.
 Wipe off any excess liquid from your cheek with a clean tissue. Wash your hands again.

To use the eye ointment, follow these instructions:

 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

 Use a mirror or have someone else apply the ointment.
 Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else. The ointment must be
kept clean.
 Tilt your head forward slightly.
 Holding the tube between your thumb and index finger, place the tube as near as possible to
your eyelid without touching it.
 Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
 With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket.
 Place a small amount of ointment into the pocket made by the lower lid and the eye. A 1/2-inch
strip of ointment usually is enough unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
 Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for 1-2 minutes to allow the medication to be
absorbed.
 Replace and tighten the cap right away.
 Wipe off any excess ointment from your eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. Wash your
hands again.

What special precautions should I follow?

16
Before using gentamicin eyedrops or eye ointment,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gentamicin, other antibiotics, or any other
drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are
taking, especially other eye medications, and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while using gentamicin, call your doctor immediately.
 tell your doctor if you wear soft contact lenses. If the brand of gentamicin you are using
contains benzalkonium chloride, wait at least 15 minutes after using the medicine to put in soft
contact lenses.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make
up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gentamicin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:

 eye irritation, burning, or stinging

 swelling of the eye

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of
your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the gentamicin, call your doctor.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand name(s):

 Gentak®  Ocu-Mycin®  Pred-G® S.O.P.®

 Gentasol®  Pred-G® Liquifilm®

Last Revised - 07/01/2004

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

17
Drug Information: Glipizide
(glip' i zide)

IMPORTANT WARNING:

Oral hypoglycemic drugs, including glipizide, have been associated with increased cardiovascular
mortality. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks, benefits, and alternatives of using this drug for
your condition.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Glipizide is used to treat type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally
and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood), particularly in people whose diabetes
cannot be controlled by diet alone. Glipizide lowers blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to secrete
insulin and helping the body use insulin efficiently. The pancreas must be capable of producing insulin
for this medication to work. Glipizide is not used to treat type 1 diabetes (condition in which the body
does not produce insulin and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood).

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

How should this medicine be used?

Glipizide comes in tablets to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day, 30 minutes before
breakfast. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist
to explain any part you do not understand. Take glipizide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less
of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take glipizide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking glipizide without talking to your
doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking glipizide,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to glipizide or any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are
taking, especially antibiotics, anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin),
dexamethasone (Decadron), diuretics ('water pills'), estrogens, isoniazid (INH), MAO inhibitors
[phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate)], medications for high blood pressure or
heart disease, niacin, oral contraceptives, phenytoin (Dilantin), prednisone, probenecid
(Benemid), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney, liver, heart, or thyroid disease or a severe
infection.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking glipizide, call your doctor.
 if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking
glipizide.
 plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing,
sunglasses, and sunscreen. Glipizide may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Be sure to follow all exercise and dietary recommendations made by your doctor or dietitian. It is
important to eat a healthy diet.

Alcohol may cause a decrease in blood sugar. Ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic
beverages while you are taking glipizide.

18
What should I do if I forget a dose?

Before you start taking glipizide, ask your doctor what to do if you forget to take a dose. Write these
directions down so you can refer to them later.

As a general rule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it unless it is almost time for the
next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

This medication may cause changes in your blood sugar. You should know the symptoms of low and
high blood sugar and what to do if you have these symptoms.

You may experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while you are taking this medication. Your doctor
will tell you what you should do if you develop hypoglycemia. He or she may tell you to check your
blood sugar, eat or drink a food or beverage that contains sugar, such as hard candy or fruit juice, or
get medical care. Follow these directions carefully if you have any of the following symptoms of
hypoglycemia:

 shakiness
 dizziness or lightheadedness
 sweating
 nervousness or irritability
 sudden changes in behavior or mood
 headache
 numbness or tingling around the mouth
 weakness
 pale skin
 hunger
 clumsy or jerky movements

If hypoglycemia is not treated, severe symptoms may develop. Be sure that your family, friends, and
other people who spend time with you know that if you have any of the following symptoms, they
should get medical treatment for you immediately.

 confusion
 seizures
 loss of consciousness

Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood
sugar):

 extreme thirst
 frequent urination
 extreme hunger
 weakness
 blurred vision

If high blood sugar is not treated, a serious, life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis
could develop. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the these symptoms:

 dry mouth
 upset stomach and vomiting
 shortness of breath
 breath that smells fruity
 decreased consciousness

19
Glipizide may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:

 skin rash
 itching or redness
 exaggerated sunburn
 yellowing of the skin or eyes
 light-colored stools
 dark urine
 unusual bleeding or bruising
 fever
 sore throat

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of
your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to
check your response to glipizide. Your doctor will also tell you how to check your response to this
medication by measuring your blood or urine sugar levels at home. Follow these instructions carefully.

You should always wear a diabetic identification bracelet to be sure you get proper treatment in an
emergency.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand name(s):

 Glucotrol®

Brand name(s) of combination products:

 Metaglip® (containing Glipizide and Metformin)

Last Revised - 10/01/2007

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

Drug Information: Griseofulvin

20
(gri see oh ful' vin)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Griseofulvin is used to treat skin infections such as jock itch, athlete's foot, and ringworm; and fungal
infections of the scalp, fingernails, and toenails.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

How should this medicine be used?

Griseofulvin comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day or
can be taken two to four times a day. Although your symptoms may get better in a few days, you will
have to take griseofulvin for a long time before the infection is completely gone. It is usually taken for 2
to 4 weeks for skin infections, 4 to 6 weeks for hair and scalp infections, 4 to 8 weeks for foot
infections, 3 to 4 months for fingernail infections, and at least 6 months for toenail infections. Follow
the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part you do not understand. Take griseofulvin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take
it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

Continue to take griseofulvin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking griseofulvin without talking to
your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking griseofulvin,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to griseofulvin, penicillin, or any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are
taking, especially anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin), oral
contraceptives, cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), phenobarbital (Luminal), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease, porphyria, lupus, or a history of
alcohol abuse.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking griseofulvin, call your doctor.
 tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.
 you should plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear
protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Griseofulvin may make your skin sensitive to
sunlight.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Griseofulvin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:

 headache
 upset stomach
 vomiting
 diarrhea or loose stools
 thirst
 fatigue
 dizziness
 faintness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

21
  fever
 sore throat
 skin rash
 mouth soreness or irritation

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep the liquid
away from light. Do not freeze. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk
to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to
check your response to griseofulvin.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the griseofulvin, call
your doctor.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand name(s):

 Fulvicin-U/F®  Grifulvin V®  Gris-PEG®

Last Revised - 04/01/2003

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

DrugInformation: Glimepiride
(glye' me pye ride)

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IMPORTANT WARNING:

Oral hypoglycemic drugs, including glimepiride, have been associated with increased cardiovascular
mortality. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks, benefits, and alternatives of using this drug for
your condition.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Glimepiride is used with diet and exercise to treat type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does
not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood). Glimepiride
stimulates your pancreas to make more insulin and also makes your body more sensitive to insulin.
Glimepiride may be used with or without insulin.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

How should this medicine be used?

Glimepiride comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. The tablet should be
taken with breakfast or the first big meal of the day. Follow the directions on your prescription label
carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take
glimepiride exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by
your doctor.

Continue to take glimepiride even if you feel well. Do not stop taking glimepiride without talking to your
doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking glimepiride,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to glimepiride or any other drugs.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are
taking, especially antibiotics, anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin),
dexamethasone (Decadron), diuretics ('water pills'), estrogens, isoniazid (INH), MAO inhibitors
[phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate)], medications for high blood pressure or
heart disease, niacin, oral contraceptives, phenytoin (Dilantin), prednisone, probenecid
(Benemid), and vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease or ketoacidosis.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you
become pregnant while taking glimepiride, call your doctor immediately.
 if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking
glimepiride.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Be sure to follow all exercise and dietary recommendations made by your doctor or dietitian. It is
important to eat a healthful diet.

Alcohol may cause a decrease in blood sugar. Ask your doctor about the safe use of alcoholic
beverages while you are taking glimepiride.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you will be having a snack soon, take a dose
with the snack. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

This medication may cause changes in your blood sugar. You should know the symptoms of low and
high blood sugar and what to do if you have these symptoms.

23
You may experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while you are taking this medication. Your doctor
will tell you what you should do if you develop hypoglycemia. He or she may tell you to check your
blood sugar, eat or drink a food or beverage that contains sugar, such as hard candy or fruit juice, or
get medical care. Follow these directions carefully if you have any of the following symptoms of
hypoglycemia:

 shakiness
 dizziness or lightheadedness
 sweating
 nervousness or irritability
 sudden changes in behavior or mood
 headache
 numbness or tingling around the mouth
 weakness
 pale skin
 hunger
 clumsy or jerky movements

If hypoglycemia is not treated, severe symptoms may develop. Be sure that your family, friends, and
other people who spend time with you know that if you have any of the following symptoms, they
should get medical treatment for you immediately.

 confusion
 seizures
 loss of consciousness

Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood
sugar):

 extreme thirst
 frequent urination
 extreme hunger
 weakness
 blurred vision

If high blood sugar is not treated, a serious, life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis
could develop. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the these symptoms:

 dry mouth
 upset stomach and vomiting
 shortness of breath
 breath that smells fruity
 decreased consciousness

Glimepiride may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while
taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any
medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of
your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

24
What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to
check your response to glimepiride. Your doctor will also tell you how to check your response to this
medication by measuring your blood or urine sugar levels at home. Follow these instructions carefully.

You should always wear a diabetic identification bracelet to be sure you get proper treatment in an
emergency.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names

 Amaryl®

Last Revised - 05/01/2007

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

Drug Information: Glucagon

(gloo' ka gon)

Why is this medication prescribed?

25
Glucagon is a hormone produced in the pancreas. Glucagon is used to raise very low blood sugar.
Glucagon is also used in diagnostic testing of the stomach and other digestive organs.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.

How should this medicine be used?

Glucagon is usually given by injection beneath the skin, in the muscle, or in the vein. It comes as a
powder and liquid that will need to be mixed just before administering the dose. Instructions for mixing
and giving the injection are in the package. Glucagon should be administered as soon as possible
after discovering that the patient is unconscious from low blood sugar. After the injection, the patient
should be turned onto the side to prevent choking if they vomit. Once the glucagon has been given,
contact your doctor. It is very important that all patients have a household member who knows the
symptoms of low blood sugar and how to administer glucagon.

If you have low blood sugar often, keep a glucagon kit with you at all times. You should be able to
recognize some of the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (i.e., shakiness, dizziness or
lightheadedness, sweating, confusion, nervousness or irritability, sudden changes in behavior or
mood, headache, numbness or tingling around the mouth, weakness, pale skin, sudden hunger,
clumsy or jerky movments). Try to eat or drink a food or beverage with sugar in it, such as hard candy
or fruit juice, before it is necessary to administer glucagon.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain
any part you or your household members do not understand. Use glucagon exactly as directed. Do not
use more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking glucagon,

 tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to glucagon, any other drugs, or beef or pork
products.
 tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are
taking, including vitamins.
 tell your doctor if you have ever had adrenal gland problems, blood vessel disease,
malnutrition, pancreatic tumors, insulinoma, or pheochromocytoma.
 tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Glucagon may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:

 upset stomach
 vomiting
 rash
 itching

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

 difficulty breathing
 loss of consciousness

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at
http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/index.html] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at
room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Once the injection
dose has been mixed, discard any unused portion.

26
In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has
collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about
refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-
counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary
supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a
hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Brand names

 GlucaGen Diagnostic Kit®

Last Revised - 04/01/2005

Last Reviewed - 08/01/2007

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