Tuesday 31 July 2012

Pyril Tann-12


Generic Name: phenylephrine and pyrilamine (FEN il EFF rin and pir IL a meen)

Brand Names: Aldex D, Deconsal CT Tannate, K-Tan, Pyril Tann-12, Pyrlex PD, Ry-T-12, Ryna-12, Ryna-12S, Rynesa 12S, V-Tann, Viravan-S, Viravan-T


What is this drug?

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


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


The combination of phenylephrine and pyrilamine is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and sinus congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.


Phenylephrine and pyrilamine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about this drug?


Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children. Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body. Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking this drug?


Do not use this medication if you are allergic to phenylephrine or pyrilamine, or to other antihistamines, decongestants, diet pills, stimulants, or ADHD medications. Do not use a cough or cold medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take cough or cold medicine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Before taking phenylephrine and pyrilamine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:



  • heart disease or high blood pressure;




  • diabetes;




  • a thyroid disorder;




  • glaucoma;




  • kidney disease;




  • an enlarged prostate; or




  • problems with urination.



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


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

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


How should I take this drug?


Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Cold medicine is usually taken for only a short time until your symptoms clear up.


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

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.


Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

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


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


Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?


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


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include feeling restless or nervous, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, warmth or tingly feeling, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking this drug?


This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by pyrilamine. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other cold or allergy medications.

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


Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking this medication. Alcohol can add to drowsiness caused by an antihistamine. Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or sleep medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much of one or more types of medicine. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains an antihistamine or decongestant.

This drug side effects


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

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;




  • severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feeling, or nervousness, confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;




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




  • urinating less than usual or not at all; or




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



Less serious side effects may include:



  • nausea, stomach pain, constipation, mild loss of appetite;




  • dry mouth;




  • warmth, tingling, or redness under your skin;




  • blurred vision;




  • dizziness, drowsiness;




  • problems with memory or concentration;




  • restless or excitability (especially in children);




  • sleep problems (insomnia); or




  • skin rash or itching.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect this drug?


Before taking phenylephrine and pyrilamine, tell your doctor if you are also taking:



  • a diuretic (water pill);




  • salicylates such as aspirin, Novasal, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others;




  • an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), clomipramine (Anafranil), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), and others;




  • atropine (Donnatal, and others), benztropine (Cogentin), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), methscopolamine (Pamine), or scopolamine (Transderm-Scop);




  • bronchodilators such as ipratroprium (Atrovent) or tiotropium (Spiriva);




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




  • irritable bowel medications such as dicyclomine (Bentyl), hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Cystospaz, Levsin, and others), or propantheline (Pro-Banthine).



This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with phenylephrine and pyrilamine. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Pyril Tann-12 resources


  • Pyril Tann-12 Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Pyril Tann-12 Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Pyril Tann-12 Drug Interactions
  • Pyril Tann-12 Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Pyril Tann-12 - Add your own review/rating


  • K-Tan MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Poly Hist Forte Controlled-Release Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ryna-12 Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Rynesa 12S Suspension MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Viravan-T Chewable Tablets MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Pyril Tann-12 with other medications


  • Allergies
  • Cold Symptoms
  • Hay Fever
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Sinusitis


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about phenylephrine and pyrilamine.

See also: Pyril Tann-12 side effects (in more detail)


Trezix


Pronunciation: a-seet-a-MIN-oh-fen/KAF-een/dye-hye-droe-KOE-deen
Generic Name: Acetaminophen/Caffeine/Dihydrocodeine
Brand Name: Examples include Trezix and Panlor SS

Trezix contains acetaminophen. Severe and sometimes fatal liver problems, including the need for liver transplant, have been reported with the use of acetaminophen. Most cases of these liver problems occurred in patients taking excessive doses of acetaminophen (more than 4,000 mg per day). Also, patients who developed these liver problems were often using more than 1 medicine that contained acetaminophen. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.





Trezix is used for:

Relieving moderate to moderately severe pain. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Trezix is an analgesic combination. It works in certain areas of the brain and nervous system to decrease pain.


Do NOT use Trezix if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Trezix or any other codeine- or morphine-related medicine (eg, oxycodone)

  • you have severe diarrhea due to taking an antibiotic, severe bowel problems (eg, paralytic ileus), severe asthma, or if you are having an asthma attack

  • you are taking naltrexone, quinidine, or sodium oxybate (GHB)

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



Before using Trezix:


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


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

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

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

  • if you drink more than 3 alcohol-containing drinks per day or have a history of alcohol or substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts or behavior

  • if you have recently had a head injury or if you have a history of brain injury or tumor, increased pressure in the brain, infection of the brain or nervous system, epilepsy, or seizures

  • if you have a history of asthma or other lung or breathing problems, stomach or bowel problems, gallbladder problems (eg, gallstones), or pancreas problems (eg, pancreatitis)

  • if you have Addison disease, heart problems, liver problems (eg, hepatitis), an underactive thyroid, prostate problems, kidney problems, urinary problems, or if you have had recent abdominal surgery

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


  • Naltrexone because the effectiveness of Trezix will be decreased and withdrawal symptoms may occur if you are physically dependent on opioids. You must not take naltrexone until you have stopped taking Trezix for 7 to 10 days and after a naloxone challenge test is negative.

  • Quinidine because the effectiveness of Trezix may be decreased

  • Cimetidine, ethanol, HIV protease inhibitors (eg, ritonavir), isoniazid, medicine for mental or mood disorders (eg, olanzapine, haloperidol), medicine for anxiety (eg, diazepam), other narcotic pain medicine (eg, oxycodone), monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (eg, phenelzine), or sodium oxybate (GHB) because side effects such as excessive drowsiness, disorientation, trouble breathing, or seizures may occur

  • Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) because side effects such as bleeding may be increased by Trezix

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


How to use Trezix:


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


  • Trezix may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation. However, this may decrease its effectiveness.

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

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



Important safety information:


  • Trezix may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Trezix. Using Trezix alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

  • Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness (eg, sedatives, tranquilizers) while taking Trezix. Trezix will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants.

  • Trezix may cause liver damage. If you drink 3 or more alcohol-containing drinks every day, ask your doctor whether you should take Trezix or other pain relievers/fever reducers. Alcohol use combined with Trezix may increase your risk for liver damage.

  • When using for an extended period, Trezix may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if Trezix stops working well.

  • Trezix contains acetaminophen. Do not take additional acetaminophen for pain or fever without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about which medicines contain acetaminophen.

  • Trezix may cause constipation. To prevent constipation, maintain a diet adequate in fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise. If you become constipated while taking Trezix, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. A stool softener or fiber laxative may be required.

  • If nausea occurs, consult your doctor or pharmacist about alternatives for decreasing nausea (eg, taking antihistamines, lying down for 1 to 2 hours with minimal head movement).

  • To minimize dizziness or lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position.

  • Caution is advised when using Trezix in the ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the medicine, especially drowsiness and trouble breathing.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking Trezix, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Trezix during pregnancy. Trezix is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Trezix.

When used for long periods of time or at high doses, Trezix may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Trezix stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed.


Trezix may be habit-forming and lead to DEPENDENCE if used in high doses or for a long period of time. If you are on long-term or high dosage therapy, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms (eg, convulsions, tremor, stomach and muscle cramps, vomiting, sweating) if you suddenly stop taking Trezix. Do not stop therapy abruptly or change dosage without asking your pharmacist or doctor. Discuss overuse with your doctor or pharmacist.



Possible side effects of Trezix:


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



Blurred vision; constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; exaggerated sense of well-being; feeling unwell or unhappy; flushing; lightheadedness; mental/mood changes; nausea; nervousness or anxiety; stomach pain; vision changes; vomiting.



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

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); change in the amount of urine; dark urine; difficulty breathing; slow/irregular breathing; slow/irregular heartbeat; stomach pain; yellowing of the skin or eyes.



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


See also: Trezix side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include cold, clammy skin; extreme drowsiness; fatigue; loss of consciousness; persistent nausea/vomiting; slow heartbeat; slow, shallow, or abnormal breathing; stomach pain; unusual sweating; weakness; yellowing of the skin or eyes.


Proper storage of Trezix:

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


General information:


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

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

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

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

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



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Trezix resources


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


  • Trezix Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Trezix Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)



Compare Trezix with other medications


  • Pain

Monday 30 July 2012

Garamycin Solution


Pronunciation: jen-ta-MYE-sin
Generic Name: Gentamicin
Brand Name: Garamycin

Garamycin Solution has caused kidney problems, nerve damage or permanent hearing loss, even at usual doses. Hearing loss can occur even after the medicine is stopped. If you already have kidney problems or hearing difficulty, tell your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if any of the following occur: ringing in ears, hearing loss, unusual change in amount of urine, dizziness, numbness, skin tingling, muscle twitching, or seizures. Garamycin Solution may be stopped if you develop kidney or hearing problems. Your doctor will monitor your progress to minimize the possibility of these effects occurring and to run certain tests (eg, hearing and/or kidney tests). Do not use Garamycin Solution with other medicines that can cause nerve, kidney, or hearing problems. Other factors that increase the risk of these side effects occurring include advanced age or dehydration.





Garamycin Solution is used for:

Treating serious infections caused by certain bacteria.


Garamycin Solution is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. It works by slowing the growth of, or killing, sensitive bacteria.


Do NOT use Garamycin Solution if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Garamycin Solution or another aminoglycoside antibiotic (eg, tobramycin)

  • you are taking fludarabine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen), or nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg, atracurium)

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



Before using Garamycin Solution:


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


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

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

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

  • if you have myasthenia gravis (a condition in which the muscles become progressively paralyzed) or Parkinson disease

  • if you have dehydration, hearing problems, kidney failure, or you are a child younger than 9 years of age with diarrhea, or a stomach or intestinal infection

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


  • Polypeptide antibiotics (eg, polymyxin B) because breathing may stop and kidney damage may occur

  • Cephalosporins, cyclosporine, fludarabine, loop diuretics (eg, furosemide), methoxyflurane, nitrosoureas (eg, carmustine), NSAIDs (eg, ibuprofen), or vancomycin because the risk of Garamycin Solution's side effects, including kidney damage or hearing loss, may be increased

  • Nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (eg, atracurium) or succinylcholine because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Garamycin Solution

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


How to use Garamycin Solution:


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


  • Garamycin Solution is usually given as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you will be using Garamycin Solution at home, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use Garamycin Solution. Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.

  • Do not use Garamycin Solution if it contains particles, is cloudy or discolored, or if the vial is cracked or damaged.

  • Drinking extra fluids while you are using Garamycin Solution is recommended. Check with your doctor for instructions.

  • Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal.

  • Do not mix Garamycin Solution with cephalosporins (eg, cephalothin) or penicillins (eg, penicillin), as it may inactivate Garamycin Solution. Administer separately.

  • If you miss a dose of Garamycin Solution, use it as soon as possible. Check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse for instructions on scheduling other doses.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Garamycin Solution.



Important safety information:


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

  • Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.

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

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

  • Some of these products contain sulfites. Sulfites may cause an allergic reaction in some patients (eg, asthma patients). If you have ever had an allergic reaction to sulfites, ask your pharmacist if your product has sulfites in it.

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

  • Lab tests, including kidney function, may be performed while you use Garamycin Solution. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Garamycin Solution with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially kidney or hearing problems.

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


Possible side effects of Garamycin Solution:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:



Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); clumsiness; decreased urination; dizziness or lightheadedness; feeling of a whirling motion; hearing loss; itching; muscle weakness; numbness or tingling; ringing or roaring in the ears; seizures; vaginal irritation or discharge.



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


See also: Garamycin side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately.


Proper storage of Garamycin Solution:

Garamycin Solution is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using Garamycin Solution at home, store Garamycin Solution as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider. Keep Garamycin Solution out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


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

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

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

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

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



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Garamycin resources


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


Compare Garamycin with other medications


  • Bacteremia
  • Bacterial Endocarditis Prevention
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  • Bone infection
  • Brucellosis
  • Burns, External
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Endocarditis
  • Endometritis
  • Febrile Neutropenia
  • Intraabdominal Infection
  • Kidney Infections
  • Meningitis
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
  • Peritonitis
  • Plague
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  • Rabbit Fever
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Lucentis 10 mg / ml solution for injection





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product




2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



One ml contains 10 mg ranibizumab. Each vial contains 2.3 mg of ranibizumab in 0.23 ml solution.



Ranibizumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody fragment produced in Escherichia coli cells by recombinant DNA technology.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Solution for injection



Sterile, clear, colourless to pale yellow aqueous solution.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Lucentis is indicated in adults for:



• the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (see section 5.1).



• the treatment of visual impairment due to diabetic macular oedema (DME) (see section 5.1).



• the treatment of visual impairment due to macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion (branch RVO or central RVO) (see section 5.1).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Single-use vial for intravitreal use only.



Lucentis must be administered by a qualified ophthalmologist experienced in intravitreal injections.



Treatment of wet AMD



In wet AMD, the recommended dose for Lucentis is 0.5 mg given monthly as a single intravitreal injection. This corresponds to an injection volume of 0.05 ml.



Treatment is given monthly and continued until maximum visual acuity is achieved i.e. the patient`s visual acuity is stable for three consecutive monthly assessments performed while on ranibizumab treatment.



Thereafter patients should be monitored monthly for visual acuity.



Treatment is resumed when monitoring indicates loss of visual acuity due to wet AMD. Monthly injections should then be administered until stable visual acuity is reached again for three consecutive monthly assessments (implying a minimum of two injections). The interval between two doses should not be shorter than 1 month.



Treatment of visual impairment due to either DME or macular oedema secondary to RVO (see also section 5.1)



The recommended dose for Lucentis is 0.5 mg given as a single intravitreal injection. This corresponds to an injection volume of 0.05 ml.



Treatment is given monthly and continued until maximum visual acuity is achieved i.e the patient's visual acuity is stable for three consecutive monthly assessments performed while on ranibizumab treatment. If there is no improvement in visual acuity over the course of the first three injections, continued treatment is not recommended.



Thereafter patients should be monitored monthly for visual acuity.



Treatment is resumed when monitoring indicates loss of visual acuity due to DME or to macular oedema secondary to RVO. Monthly injections should then be administered until stable visual acuity is reached again for three consecutive monthly assessments (implying a minimum of two injections). The interval between two doses should not be shorter than 1 month.



Lucentis and laser photocoagulation in DME and in macular oedema secondary to BRVO



There is some experience of Lucentis administered concomitantly with laser photocoagulation (see section 5.1). When given on the same day, Lucentis should be administered at least 30 minutes after laser photocoagulation. Lucentis can be administered in patients who have received previous laser photocoagulation.



Method of administration



As with all medicinal products for parenteral use, Lucentis should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.



Before treatment, the patient should be instructed to self-administer antimicrobial drops (four times daily for 3 days before and following each injection).



The injection procedure should be carried out under aseptic conditions, which includes the use of surgical hand disinfection, sterile gloves, a sterile drape and a sterile eyelid speculum (or equivalent) and the availability of sterile paracentesis (if required). The patient's medical history for hypersensitivity reactions should be carefully evaluated prior to performing the intravitreal procedure (see section 4.4). The periocular skin, eyelid and ocular surface should be disinfected and adequate anaesthesia and a broad-spectrum topical microbicide should be administered prior to the injection.



For information on preparation of Lucentis, see section 6.6.



The injection needle should be inserted 3.5-4.0 mm posterior to the limbus into the vitreous cavity, avoiding the horizontal meridian and aiming towards the centre of the globe. The injection volume of 0.05 ml is then delivered; a different scleral site should be used for subsequent injections.



Additional information on special populations



Hepatic impairment



Lucentis has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. However, no special considerations are needed in this population.



Renal impairment



Dose adjustment is not needed in patients with renal impairment (see section 5.2).



Paediatric population



Lucentis is not recommended for use in children and adolescents due to a lack of data on safety and efficacy in these sub-populations.



Elderly



No dose adjustment is required in the elderly. There is limited experience in patients older than 75 years with DME.



Ethnicity



Experience with treatment is limited in groups other than Caucasians.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.



Patients with active or suspected ocular or periocular infections.



Patients with active severe intraocular inflammation.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Treatment with Lucentis is for intravitreal injection only.



Intravitreous injections, including those with Lucentis, have been associated with endophthalmitis, intraocular inflammation, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, retinal tear and iatrogenic traumatic cataract (see section 4.8). Proper aseptic injection techniques must always be used when administering Lucentis. In addition, patients should be monitored during the week following the injection to permit early treatment if an infection occurs. Patients should be instructed to report any symptoms suggestive of endophthalmitis or any of the above mentioned events without delay.



Transient increases in intraocular pressure (IOP) have been seen within 60 minutes of injection of Lucentis. Sustained IOP increases have also been identified (see section 4.8). Both intraocular pressure and the perfusion of the optic nerve head must be monitored and managed appropriately.



The safety and efficacy of Lucentis therapy administered to both eyes concurrently have not been studied. If bilateral treatment is performed at the same time this could lead to an increased systemic exposure, which could increase the risk of systemic adverse events.



As with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity with Lucentis. Since there is a potential for an increased systemic exposure in subjects with DME, an increased risk for developing hypersensitivity in this patient population cannot be excluded. Patients should also be instructed to report if an intraocular inflammation increases in severity, which may be a clinical sign attributable to intraocular antibody formation.



Lucentis should not be administered concurrently with other anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) agents (systemic or ocular).



The dose should be withheld and treatment should not be resumed earlier than the next scheduled treatment in the event of:



• a decrease in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of



• an intraocular pressure of



• a retinal break;



• a subretinal haemorrhage involving the centre of the fovea, or, if the size of the haemorrhage is



• performed or planned intraocular surgery within the previous or next 28 days.



Risk factors associated with the development of a retinal pigment epithelial tear after anti-VEGF therapy for wet AMD, include a large and/or high pigment epithelial retinal detachment. When initiating Lucentis therapy, caution should be used in patients with these risk factors for retinal pigment epithelial tears.



Treatment should be discontinued in subjects with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment or stage 3 or 4 macular holes.



There is only limited experience in the treatment of subjects with DME due to type I diabetes. Lucentis has not been studied in patients who have previously received intravitreal injections, in patients with active systemic infections, proliferative diabetic retinopathy, or in patients with concurrent eye conditions such as retinal detachment or macular hole. There is also no experience of treatment with Lucentis in diabetic patients with an HbA1c over 12% and uncontrolled hypertension.



There are limited data on safety in the treatment of DME and macular oedema due to RVO patients with prior history of stroke or transient ischaemic attacks. Since there is a potential risk of arterial thromboembolic events following intravitreal use of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) inhibitors caution should be exercised when treating such patients (see section 4.8).



There is limited experience with treatment of patients with prior episodes of RVO and of patients with ischaemic branch RVO (BRVO) and central RVO (CRVO). In patients with RVO presenting with clinical signs of irreversible ischaemic visual function loss, treatment is not recommended.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



No formal interaction studies have been performed.



For the adjunctive use of verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) and Lucentis in wet AMD, see section 5.1.



For the adjunctive use of laser photocoagulation and Lucentis in DME and BRVO, see sections 4.2 and 5.1.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Women of childbearing potential/contraception in females



Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment.



Pregnancy



For ranibizumab no clinical data on exposed pregnancies are available. Studies in cynomolgus monkeys do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects with respect to pregnancy or embryonal/foetal development (see section 5.3). The systemic exposure to ranibizumab is low after ocular administration, but due to its mechanism of action, ranibizumab must be regarded as potentially teratogenic and embryo-/foetotoxic. Therefore, ranibizumab should not be used during pregnancy unless the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk to the foetus. For women who wish to become pregnant and have been treated with ranibizumab, it is recommended to wait at least 3 months after the last dose of ranibizumab before conceiving a child.



Breast-feeding



It is unknown whether Lucentis is excreted in human milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended during the use of Lucentis.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



The Lucentis treatment procedure may induce temporary visual disturbances, which may affect the ability to drive or use machines (see section 4.8). Patients who experience these signs must not drive or use machines until these temporary visual disturbances subside.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Wet AMD population



In wet AMD a total of 1,315 patients constituted the safety population in the three phase III studies with 24 months exposure to Lucentis and 440 patients were treated with the recommended dose of 0.5 mg.



Serious adverse events related to the injection procedure included endophthalmitis, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, retinal tear and iatrogenic traumatic cataract (see section 4.4).



Other serious ocular events observed among Lucentis-treated patients included intraocular inflammation and increased intraocular pressure (see section 4.4).



The adverse events listed below occurred at a higher rate (at least 2 percentage points) in patients receiving treatment with Lucentis 0.5 mg than in those receiving control treatment (sham or verteporfin PDT) in the three controlled wet AMD phase III studies FVF2598g (MARINA), FVF2587g (ANCHOR) and FVF3192g (PIER). These were therefore considered potential adverse drug reactions. The safety data described below also include all adverse events (in at least 0.5 percentage points of patients) suspected to be at least potentially related to the injection procedure or medicinal product in the 440 patients of the combined 0.5 mg treatment groups in wet AMD.



DME population



The safety of Lucentis was studied in a one-year sham-controlled trial (RESOLVE) and in a one-year laser-controlled trial (RESTORE) conducted respectively in 102 and 235 ranibizumab-treated patients with visual impairment due to DME (see section 5.1). The event of urinary tract infection, in the common frequency category, met the adverse reaction criteria for the table below; otherwise ocular and non-ocular events in the RESOLVE and RESTORE trials were reported with a frequency and severity similar to those seen in the wet AMD trials.



RVO population



The safety of Lucentis was studied in two 12-month trials (BRAVO and CRUISE) conducted in 264 and 261 ranibizumab-treated patients with visual impairment due to macular oedema secondary to BRVO and CRVO, respectively (see section 5.1). Ocular and non-ocular events in the BRAVO and CRUISE trials were reported with a frequency and severity similar to those seen in the wet AMD trials.



The adverse events are listed by system organ class and frequency using the following convention: very common (










































































Infections and infestations



 


Very common




Nasopharyngitis




Common




Urinary tract infection*




 



 


Blood and lymphatic system disorders


 


Common




Anaemia




 



 


Immune system disorders



 


Common




Hypersensitivity




 



 


Psychiatric disorders



 


Common




Anxiety




 



 


Nervous system disorders




 




Very common




Headache



 

 


Eye disorders



 


Very common




Vitritis, vitreous detachment, retinal haemorrhage, visual disturbance, eye pain, vitreous floaters, conjunctival haemorrhage, eye irritation, foreign body sensation in eyes, lacrimation increased, blepharitis, dry eye, ocular hyperaemia, eye pruritus.




Common




Retinal degeneration, retinal disorder, retinal detachment, retinal tear, detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium, retinal pigment epithelium tear, visual acuity reduced, vitreous haemorrhage, vitreous disorder, uveitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, cataract, cataract subcapsular, posterior capsule opacification, punctuate keratitis, corneal abrasion, anterior chamber flare, vision blurred, injection site haemorrhage, eye haemorrhage, conjunctivitis, conjunctivitis allergic, eye discharge, photopsia, photophobia, ocular discomfort, eyelid oedema, eyelid pain, conjunctival hyperaemia.




Uncommon




Blindness, endophthalmitis, hypopyon, hyphaema, keratopathy, iris adhesion, corneal deposits, corneal oedema, corneal striae, injection site pain, injection site irritation, abnormal sensation in eye, eyelid irritation.



 

 


Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders


 


Common




Cough



 

 


Gastrointestinal disorders



 


Common




Nausea



 


 




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders


 


Common




Allergic reactions (rash, urticaria, pruritus, erythema)



 


 




Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders


 


Very common




Arthralgia



 

 


Investigations



 


Very common




Intraocular pressure increased



* observed only in DME population



Product-class-related adverse reactions: In the wet AMD phase III studies, the overall frequency of non-ocular haemorrhages, an adverse event potentially related to systemic VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) inhibition, was slightly increased in ranibizumab-treated patients. However, there was no consistent pattern among the different haemorrhages. There is a theoretical risk of arterial thromboembolic events following intravitreal use of VEGF inhibitors. A low incidence rate of arterial thromboembolic events was observed in the Lucentis clinical trials in patients with AMD, DME and RVO and there were no major differences between the groups treated with ranibizumab compared to control.



4.9 Overdose



Cases of accidental overdose have been reported from the clinical studies in wet AMD and post-marketing data. Adverse reactions associated with these reported cases were intraocular pressure increased, transient blindness, reduced visual acuity, corneal oedema, corneal pain, and eye pain. If an overdose occurs, intraocular pressure should be monitored and treated, if deemed necessary by the attending physician.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Antineovascularisation agents, ATC code: S01LA04



Ranibizumab is a humanised recombinant monoclonal antibody fragment targeted against human vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). It binds with high affinity to the VEGF-A isoforms (e.g. VEGF110, VEGF121 and VEGF165), thereby preventing binding of VEGF-A to its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2. Binding of VEGF-A to its receptors leads to endothelial cell proliferation and neovascularisation, as well as vascular leakage, all of which are thought to contribute to the progression of the neovascular form of age-related macular degeneration or to visual impairment caused by either diabetic macular oedema or macular oedema secondary to RVO.



Treatment of wet AMD



In wet AMD, the clinical safety and efficacy of Lucentis have been assessed in three randomised, double-masked, sham- or active-controlled studies of 24 months duration in patients with neovascular AMD. A total of 1,323 patients (879 active and 444 control) were enrolled in these studies.



In study FVF2598g (MARINA), 716 patients with minimally classic or occult with no classic choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) received monthly intravitreal injections of Lucentis 0.3 mg (n=238) or 0.5 mg (n=240) or sham (n=238) injections.



In study FVF2587g (ANCHOR), 423 patients with predominantly classic CNV lesions received either: 1) monthly intravitreal injections of Lucentis 0.3 mg and sham PDT (n=140); 2) monthly intravitreal injections of Lucentis 0.5 mg and sham PDT (n=140); or 3) sham intravitreal injections and active verteporfin PDT (n=143). Sham or active verteporfin PDT was given with the initial Lucentis injection and every 3 months thereafter if fluorescein angiography showed persistence or recurrence of vascular leakage.



Key outcome measures are summarised in Tables 1, 2 and Figure 1.



Table 1 Outcomes at Month 12 and Month 24 in study FVF2598g (MARINA)




































Outcome measure




Month




Sham



(n=238)




Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=240)




Loss of <15 letters in visual acuity (%)a



(maintenance of vision, primary endpoint)




Month 12




62%




95%




Month 24




53%




90%


 


Gain of a




Month 12




5%




34%




Month 24




4%




33%


 


Mean change in visual acuity (letters) (SD)a




Month 12




-10.5 (16.6)




+7.2 (14.4)




Month 24




-14.9 (18.7)




+6.6 (16.5)


 


a p<0.01



 

 

 


Table 2 Outcomes at Month 12 and Month 24 in study FVF2587g (ANCHOR)




































Outcome measure




Month




Verteporfin PDT



(n=143)




Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=140)




Loss of <15 letters in visual acuity (%)a



(maintenance of vision, primary endpoint)




Month 12




64%




96%




Month 24




66%




90%


 


Gain of a




Month 12




6%




40%




Month 24




6%




41%


 


Mean change in visual acuity (letters) (SD)a




Month 12




-9.5 (16.4)




+11.3 (14.6)




Month 24




-9.8 (17.6)




+10.7 (16.5)


 


a p<0.01



 

 

 


Figure 1 Mean change in visual acuity from baseline to Month 24 in study FVF2598g (MARINA) and study FVF2587g (ANCHOR)







Results from both trials indicated that continued ranibizumab treatment may also be of benefit in patients who lost



The use of Lucentis beyond 36 months has not been studied.



Study FVF3192g (PIER) was a randomised, double-masked, sham-controlled study designed to assess the safety and efficacy of Lucentis in 184 patients with all forms of neovascular AMD. Patients received Lucentis 0.3 mg (n=60) or 0.5 mg (n=61) intravitreal injections or sham (n=63) injections once a month for 3 consecutive doses, followed by a dose administered once every 3 months. From Month 14 of the study, sham-treated patients were allowed to cross over to receive ranibizumab and from Month 19, more frequent treatments were possible. Patients treated with Lucentis in PIER received a mean of 10 total treatments.



The primary efficacy endpoint was mean change in visual acuity at 12 months compared with baseline. After an initial increase in visual acuity (following monthly dosing), on average, patients' visual acuity declined with quarterly dosing, returning to baseline at Month 12 and this effect was maintained in most ranibizumab-treated patients (82%) at Month 24. Data from a limited number of subjects that crossed over to receive ranibizumab after more than a year of sham-treatment suggested that early initiation of treatment may be associated with a better preservation of visual acuity.



Data from an open label study (PROTECT) in 32 patients followed for 9 months in which the safety of same-day administration of verteporfin PDT and Lucentis 0.5 mg was evaluated showed that the incidence of intraocular inflammation following the initial treatment was 6.3% (2 of 32 patients).



In both the MARINA and ANCHOR studies, the improvement in visual acuity seen with Lucentis 0.5 mg at 12 months was accompanied by patient-reported benefits as measured by the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) scores. The differences between Lucentis 0.5 mg and the two control groups were assessed with p-values ranging from 0.009 to <0.0001.



Treatment of visual impairment due to DME



The efficacy and safety of Lucentis have been assessed in two randomised, double-masked, sham- or active controlled studies of 12 months duration in patients with visual impairment due to diabetic macular oedema. A total of 496 patients (336 active and 160 control) were enrolled in these studies, the majority had type II diabetes, 28 ranibizumab-treated patients had type I diabetes.



In the phase II study D2201 (RESOLVE), 151 patients were treated with ranibizumab (6 mg/ml, n=51, 10 mg/ml, n=51) or sham (n=49) by monthly intravitreal injections until pre-defined treatment stopping criteria were met. The initial ranibizumab dose (0.3 mg or 0.5 mg) could be doubled at any time during the study after the first injection. Laser photocoagulation was allowed as rescue treatment from Month 3 in both treatment arms. The study had two parts: an exploratory part (the first 42 patients analysed at Month 6) and a confirmatory part (the remaining 109 patients analysed at Month 12).



Key outcome measures from the confirmatory part of the study (2/3 of patients) are summarised in Table 3.



Table 3 Outcomes at Month 12 in study D2201 (RESOLVE) (overall study population)






















Outcome measure




Ranibizumab pooled



(n=102)




Sham



(n=49)




Mean average change in BCVA from Month 1 to Month 12 compared to baselinea (letters) (SD) (primary endpoint)




+7.8 (7.72)




-0.1 (9.77)




Mean change in BCVA at Month 12a (letters) (SD)




+10.3 (9.14)




-1.4 (14.16)




Gain of a




60.8




18.4




Gain of




32.4




10.2




p-value




0.0043



 


ap<0.0001



In the phase III study D2301 (RESTORE), 345 patients with visual impairment due to macular oedema were randomised to receive either intravitreal injection of ranibizumab 0.5 mg as monotherapy and sham laser photocoagulation (n=116), combined ranibizumab 0.5 mg and laser photocoagulation (n=118), or sham injection and laser photocoagulation (n=111). Treatment with ranibizumab was started with monthly intravitreal injections and continued until visual acuity was stable for at least three consecutive monthly assessments. The treatment was reinitiated when a reduction in BCVA due to DME progression was observed. Laser photocoagulation was administered at baseline on the same day, at least 30 minutes before injection of ranibizumab, and then as needed based on ETDRS criteria.



Key outcome measures are summarised in Table 4 and Figure 2.



Table 4 Outcomes at Month 12 in study D2301 (RESTORE)
























Outcome measure compared to baseline




Ranibizumab



0.5 mg



n=115




Ranibizumab



0.5 mg + Laser



n=118




Laser



 



n=110




Mean average change in BCVA from Month 1 to Month 12a (±SD)




6.1 (6.4)




5.9 (7.9)




0.8 (8.6)




Gain of a (%)




37.4




43.2




15.5




Gain of




22.6




22.9




8.2




p-value




0.0032




0.0021



 


ap<0.0001



Figure 2 Mean change in visual acuity from baseline over time in study D2301 (RESTORE)





BL=baseline; SE=standard error of mean



* Difference in least square means, p<0.0001/0.0004 based on two-sided stratified Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test



The effect was consistent in most subgroups. However, subjects with a fairly good baseline BCVA (>73 letters) together with macular oedema with central retinal thickness of <300 μm did not appear to benefit from treatment with ranibizumab compared to laser photocoagulation.



The improvement in visual acuity seen with Lucentis 0.5 mg at 12 months was accompanied by patient-reported benefits with regards to most vision-related functions as measured by the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) scores. For other subscales of this questionnaire no treatment differences could be established. The difference between Lucentis 0.5 mg and the control group was assessed with p-values of 0.0137 (ranibizumab mono) and 0.0041 (ranibizumab+laser) for the VFQ-25 composite score.



In both studies, the improvement of vision was accompanied by a continuous decrease in the macular oedema as measured by central retinal thickness (CRT).



Treatment of visual impairment due to macular oedema secondary to RVO



The clinical safety and efficacy of Lucentis in patients with visual impairment due to macular oedema secondary to RVO have been assessed in the randomised, double-masked, controlled studies BRAVO and CRUISE that recruited subjects with BRVO (n=397) and CRVO (n=392), respectively. In both studies, subjects received either 0.3 mg or 0.5 mg intravitreal ranibizumab or sham injections. After 6 months, patients in the sham-control arms were crossed over to 0.5 mg ranibizumab. In BRAVO, laser photocoagulation as rescue was allowed in all arms from Month 3.



Key outcome measures from BRAVO and CRUISE are summarised in Tables 5 and 6 and Figures 3 and 4.



Table 5 Outcomes at Month 6 and 12 (BRAVO)





















 


Sham/Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=132)




Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=131)




Mean change in visual acuity at Month 6a (letters) (SD) (primary endpoint)




7.3 (13.0)




18.3 (13.2)




Mean change in BCVA at Month 12 (letters) (SD)




12.1 (14.4)




18.3 (14.6)




Gain of a (%)




28.8




61.1




Gain of




43.9




60.3




Proportion (%) receiving laser rescue over 12 months




61.4




34.4



ap<0.0001



Figure 3 Mean change from baseline BCVA over time to Month 6 and Month 12 (BRAVO)





BL=baseline; SE=standard error of mean



Table 6 Outcomes at Month 6 and 12 (CRUISE)



















 



 




Sham/Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=130)




Lucentis 0.5 mg



(n=130)




Mean change in visual acuity at Month 6a (letters) (SD) (primary endpoint)




0.8 (16.2)




14.9 (13.2)




Mean change in BCVA at Month 12 (letters) (SD)




7.3 (15.9)




13.9 (14.2)




Gain of a (%)




16.9




47.7




Gain of




33.1




50.8



ap<0.0001



Figure 4 Mean change from baseline BCVA over time to Month 6 and Month 12 (CRUISE)





BL=baseline; SE=standard error of mean



In both studies, the improvement of vision was accompanied by a continuous and significant reduction in the macular oedema as measured by central retinal thickness.



In patients with BRVO (BRAVO and extension study HORIZON): After 2 years, subjects that were treated with sham in the first 6 months and subsequently crossed over to ranibizumab treatment had achieved comparable gains in VA (~15 letters) compared to subjects that were treated wit

Sunday 29 July 2012

Fluvirin (Novartis Vaccines )





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



FLUVIRIN®, suspension for injection in pre-filled syringe. [Influenza Vaccine (Surface Antigen, Inactivated)]


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Influenza virus surface antigens (haemagglutinin and neuraminidase) of the following strains*:



A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) – derived strain used NYMC X-181



15 micrograms HA**



A/Perth/16/2009 (H3N2) – like strain used NYMC X-187 derived from A/Victoria/210/2009



15 micrograms HA**



B/Brisbane/60/2008



15 micrograms HA**



per 0.5 ml dose.



* propagated in fertilised hens' eggs from healthy chicken flocks



** haemagglutinin



This vaccine complies with the WHO recommendation (Northern hemisphere) and EU decision for the 2010/2011 season.



For a full list of excipients see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Suspension for injection in pre-filled syringe.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Prophylaxis of influenza, especially in those who run an increased risk of associated complications.



The use of FLUVIRIN® should be based on official recommendations.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults and children from 4 years: 0.5 ml.



For children, who have not previously been vaccinated, a second dose should be given after an interval of at least 4 weeks.



Immunisation should be carried out by intramuscular or deep subcutaneous injection.



For instructions for preparation, see section 6.6.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substances, to any of the excipients and to residues, e.g. eggs, chicken proteins, such as ovalbumin. The vaccine may contain residues of the following substances, e.g. betapropriolactone, nonoxynol 9, neomycin, polymixin and formaldehyde.



Immunisation shall be postponed in patients with febrile illness or acute infection.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



As with all injectable vaccines, appropriate medical treatment and supervision should always be readily available in case of a rare anaphylactic event following the administration of the vaccine.



FLUVIRIN® should under no circumstances be administered intravascularly.



Antibody response in patients with endogenous or iatrogenic immunosuppression may be insufficient.



Thiomersal (an organomercuric compound) has been used in the manufacturing process of this medicinal product and residues of it are present in the final product. Therefore, sensitisation reactions may occur. The maximum thiomersal content in FLUVIRIN® is 0.002mg (0.0004% w/v).



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



FLUVIRIN® may be given at the same time as other vaccines. Immunisation should be carried out on separate limbs. It should be noted that the adverse reactions may be intensified.



The immunological response may be diminished if the patient is undergoing immunosuppressant treatment.



Following influenza vaccination, false positive results in serology tests using the ELISA method to detect antibodies against HIV1, Hepatitis C and especially HTLV1 have been observed. The Western Blot technique disproves the false-positive ELISA test results. The transient false positive reactions could be due to the IgM response by the vaccine.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



The limited data from vaccinations in pregnant women do not indicate that adverse foetal and maternal outcomes were attributable to the vaccine. The use of this vaccine may be considered from the second trimester of pregnancy. For pregnant women with medical conditions that increase their risk of complications from influenza, administration of the vaccine is recommended, irrespective of their stage of pregnancy.



FLUVIRIN® may be used during lactation.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



The vaccine is unlikely to produce an effect on the ability to drive and use machines.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Adverse reactions observed from clinical trials



The safety of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccines is assessed in open label, uncontrolled clinical trials performed as annual update requirement, including at least 50 adults aged 18 – 60 years of age and at least 50 elderly aged 61 years or older. Safety evaluation is performed during the first 3 days following vaccination.



The following undesirable effects have been observed during clinical trials with the following frequencies:



very common (


































Organ class




Very common






Common






Uncommon






Rare






Very rare



<1/10000




Nervous system disorders



 


Headache*



 

 

 


Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders



 


Sweating*



 

 

 


Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders



 


Myalgia, arthralgia*



 

 

 


General disorders and administration site conditions



 


Fever, malaise, shivering, fatigue. Local reactions: redness, swelling, pain, ecchymosis, induration*



 

 

 


* These reactions usually disappear within 1-2 days without treatment



ADVERSE REACTIONS REPORTED FROM POST-MARKETING SURVEILLANCE



Adverse reactions reported from post marketing surveillance are, next to the reactions which have also been observed during the clinical trials, the following:



Blood and lymphatic system disorders:



Transient thrombocytopenia, transient lymphadenopathy



Immune system disorders:



Allergic reactions, in rare cases leading to shock, angioedema



Nervous system disorders:



Neuralgia, paraesthesia, febril convulsions, neurological disorders, such as encephalomyelitis, neuritis and Guillain Barré syndrome



Vascular disorders:



Vasculitis associated in very rare cases with transient renal involvement



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:



Generalised skin reactions including pruritus, urticaria or non-specific rash



This medicinal product contains thiomersal (an organomercuric compound) as a residue from the manufacturing process and therefore it is possible that sensitisation reactions may occur (see section 4.4.).



4.9 Overdose



Overdosage is unlikely to have any untoward effect.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Influenza vaccine, ATC Code:J07BB02



Seroprotection is generally obtained within 2 to 3 weeks. The duration of postvaccinal immunity to homologous strains or to strains closely related to the vaccine strains varies but is usually 6



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Not applicable



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Not applicable



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Buffer solution:



Potassium dihydrogen phosphate



Disodium hydrogen phosphate



Sodium chloride



Water for injection.



6.2 Incompatibilities



In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products.



6.3 Shelf Life



1 year.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store at +2°C to +8°C (in a refrigerator). Do not freeze. Keep container in the original carton.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



0.5 ml in pre-filled syringe (glass, type I) with stopper (rubber), fitted with a stainless steel needle, pack sizes of 1 and 10 syringes.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



The vaccine should be allowed to reach room temperature before use.



Shake before use.



Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Limited



Gaskill Road



Speke



Liverpool



L24 9GR



UK.



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 18532/0038.



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



Date of first authorisation: 7 June 2006



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



May 2010