Zelnorm
Chemical Name: TEGASEROD
Common uses
This medicine is a selective serotonin receptor agonist used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in women who have constipation as their main symptom. It may also be used in some patients to treat certain forms of chronic constipation or other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before using
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are also taking digoxin. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including current or repeat episodes of diarrhea or stomach pain, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have diarrhea, frequent bouts of diarrhea, severe kidney disease, moderate or severe liver disease, a history of certain stomach disorders (e.g., bowel obstruction, symptomatic gallbladder disease, suspected sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, or abdominal adhesions). Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE COMES WITH A PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Take this medicine on an empty stomach. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not freeze. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. IT MAY TAKE UP TO 4 WEEKS for this medicine to work. If you experience different or suddenly worsening stomach pain compared to your regular IBS symptoms, stop taking this medicine and call your doctor immediately. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE without checking with your doctor. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include headache, stomach pain, joint pain, or diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If diarrhea occurs, it may be only temporary during the first week of treatment. If it occurs, your doctor may recommend that you drink plenty of liquids to avoid becoming dehydrated. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if the diarrhea does not resolve on it own, is severe, or if you feel weak, have severe cramping or dizziness, or experience fainting. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience severe stomach pain or blood in your stools. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe diarrhea and severe headache.
Additional information
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.