Xanax

alprazolam (al PRAY zoe lam)

Brand Names: Niravam, Xanax, Xanax XR,

What is the most important information I should know about Xanax?

Do not use this medication if you are
allergic to Xanax or to other benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide
(Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or
oxazepam (Serax). This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do
not use Xanax if you are pregnant.

Before taking Xanax, tell your doctor if you have any
breathing problems, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a history of
depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Xanax. This medication can increase the
effects of alcohol.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy. They can add to
sleepiness caused by Xanax.

Xanax may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Xanax should never be shared with another person, especially
someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines
(ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Xanax affects chemicals in the brain that may become
unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Xanax is used to treat
anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.

Xanax may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Xanax?

Do not use this medication if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;

• if you are also taking itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral);
  or

• if you are allergic to Xanax or to other benzodiazepines, such as
  chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium),
  lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

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

• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary
  disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;

• glaucoma;

• kidney or
  liver disease (especially alcoholic liver disease);

• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
Xanax, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category D. Xanax can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do
not use Xanax without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your
doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective
form of birth control while you are using this medication. Xanax can pass
into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without
telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. The sedative effects of
Xanax may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly
patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental
injury while you are taking Xanax. Do not give this medication to anyone under
18 years old.

How should I take Xanax?

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.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get
the best results from this medication.

Xanax may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Xanax should never be shared with another person, especially
someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not crush, chew, or break an
extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release
medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug
to be released at one time.

Measure the liquid form of alprazolam with a special dose-measuring
spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring
device, ask your pharmacist for one.

To take alprazolam orally disintegrating tablets (Niravam):

• Using dry hands, remove a tablet from the bottle and place the
  tablet on your tongue. It will begin to dissolve right away.

• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth
  without chewing.

• Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. If desired, you may
  drink liquid after the tablet has completely dissolved.

Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in
treating your panic or anxiety symptoms.

Your symptoms may return when you stop using Xanax after using it
over a long period of time. You may also have seizures or withdrawal symptoms
when you stop using Xanax. Withdrawal symptoms may include
blurred vision, trouble concentrating, loss of appetite, diarrhea, muscle
twitching, numbness or tingling, or increased sensations.

Do not stop using Xanax suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You
may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor
will need to check your progress on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled
visits to your doctor.

Store Xanax at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Remove
any cotton from the bottle of disintegrating tablets, and keep the bottle
tightly closed.

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of
this medicine. Benzodiazepines are drugs of abuse and you should be aware if any
person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a
prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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. An overdose of Xanax can be fatal.

Symptoms of an Xanax overdose may include extreme drowsiness,
confusion, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling
light-headed, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Xanax?

Do not drink alcohol while taking Xanax. This medication can increase the
effects of alcohol. Xanax 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.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold
medicine,
pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or
anxiety). They can increase some of the side effects of Xanax.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Xanax and lead to
potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your
doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your
diet without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Xanax?

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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious
side effects:

• unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of
  danger;

• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

• hyperactivity, agitation, hostility;

• hallucinations;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• seizure (convulsions);

• urinating less than usual or not at all;

• muscle twitching, tremor; or

• jaundice (yellowing of the
  skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• drowsiness, dizziness;

• amnesia or forgetfulness, trouble concentrating;

• feeling irritable;
• sleep problems (insomnia);

• muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination;

• slurred speech;
• blurred vision;
• appetite or weight changes;

• nausea, vomiting, constipation;

• dry or watery mouth, increased sweating; or

• loss of interest in sex.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to
your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Xanax?

Before taking Xanax, tell your doctor if you are using any of the
following drugs:

• birth control pills;
• cimetidine (Tagamet);

• diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem);

• isoniazid (Nydrazid, Rifamate);

• propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet);

• seizure medication;

• antibiotics such as fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox)
  or ketoconazole (Nizoral); or

• antidepressants such as fluvoxamine (Luvox), desipramine (Norpramin),
  or imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use
Xanax, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Xanax. Tell your
doctor about all the prescription and
over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals,
herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new
medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about Xanax written for health
  professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Alprazolam is available with a prescription under the brand names
Xanax and Niravam. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if
it is new to you.

Alprazolam

(al PRAY zoe lam)

Brand Names: Niravam, Xanax, Xanax XR,

What is the most important information I should know about alprazolam?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to alprazolam or to other
benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene),
diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax). This medication can
cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use alprazolam if you are
pregnant.

Before taking alprazolam, tell your doctor if you have any breathing
problems, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a history of depression,
suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Do not drink alcohol while taking alprazolam. This medication can increase
the effects of alcohol.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy. They can add to
sleepiness caused by alprazolam.

Alprazolam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Alprazolam should never be shared with another person,
especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the
medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

What is alprazolam?

Alprazolam is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines
(ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may
become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and
anxiety caused by depression.

Alprazolam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alprazolam?

Do not use this medication if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;

• if you are also taking itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole
  (Nizoral); or

• if you are allergic to alprazolam or to other benzodiazepines, such
  as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium),
  lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

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

• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary
  disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;

• glaucoma;

• kidney or liver disease (especially alcoholic liver disease);

• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
alprazolam, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during
treatment.

FDA pregnancy category D. Alprazolam can cause birth defects in an unborn
baby. Do not use alprazolam without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form
of birth control while you are using this medication. Alprazolam can pass into
breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without
telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. The sedative effects of
alprazolam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in
elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or
accidental injury while you are taking alprazolam. Do not give this medication
to anyone under 18 years old.

How should I take alprazolam?

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.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get
the best results from this medication.

Alprazolam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Alprazolam should never be shared with another person,
especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the
medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not crush, chew,
or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially
made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too
much of the drug to be released at one time.

Measure the liquid form of alprazolam with a special dose-measuring
spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring
device, ask your pharmacist for one.

To take alprazolam orally disintegrating tablets (Niravam):

• Using dry hands, remove a tablet from the bottle and place the
  tablet on your tongue. It will begin to dissolve right away.

• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth
  without chewing.

• Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. If desired, you may
  drink liquid after the tablet has completely dissolved.

Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in
treating your panic or anxiety symptoms.

Your symptoms may return when you stop using alprazolam after using
it over a long period of time. You may also have seizures or withdrawal symptoms
when you stop using alprazolam. Withdrawal symptoms may include blurred vision,
trouble concentrating, loss of appetite, diarrhea, muscle twitching, numbness or
tingling, or increased sensations.

Do not stop using alprazolam suddenly without first talking to your doctor.
You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your doctor
will need to check your progress on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled
visits to your doctor.

Store alprazolam at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
Remove any cotton from the bottle of disintegrating tablets, and keep the bottle
tightly closed.

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of
this medicine. Benzodiazepines are drugs of abuse and you should be aware if any
person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a
prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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. An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal.

Symptoms of an alprazolam overdose may include extreme drowsiness,
confusion, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling
light-headed, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking alprazolam?

Do not drink alcohol while taking alprazolam. This medication can increase
the effects of alcohol. Alprazolam 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.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold
medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures,
depression or anxiety). They can increase some of the side effects of
alprazolam.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with alprazolam and lead
to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with
your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in
your diet without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of alprazolam?

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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of
  danger;

• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

• hyperactivity, agitation, hostility;

• hallucinations;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• seizure (convulsions);

• urinating less than usual or not at all;

• muscle twitching, tremor; or

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• drowsiness, dizziness;

• amnesia or forgetfulness, trouble concentrating;

• feeling irritable;
• sleep problems (insomnia);

• muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination;

• slurred speech;
• blurred vision;
• appetite or weight changes;

• nausea, vomiting, constipation;

• dry or watery mouth, increased sweating; or

• loss of interest in sex.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to
your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.

What other drugs will affect alprazolam?

Before taking alprazolam, tell your doctor if you are using any of
the following drugs:

• birth control pills;
• cimetidine (Tagamet);

• diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem);

• isoniazid (Nydrazid, Rifamate);

• propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet);

• seizure medication;

• antibiotics such as fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox)
  or ketoconazole (Nizoral); or

• antidepressants such as fluvoxamine (Luvox), desipramine
  (Norpramin), or imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use
alprazolam, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during
treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect alprazolam. Tell
your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.
This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other
doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about alprazolam written for
  health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Alprazolam is available with a prescription under the brand names
Xanax and Niravam. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if
it is new to you.

Vicodin

Generic Name: acetaminophen and hydrocodone (a see ta MIN oh fen and hye droe
KOE doan)
Brand Names: Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Dolacet, Lorcet 10/650, Lortab,
Norco, T-Gesic, Vicodin, Zydone,

What is the most important information I should know about Vicodin?

Do not take Vicodin with alcohol, other narcotic pain medications, sedatives,
tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, or other medicines that can make you sleepy or
slow your breathing. Dangerous side effects may result.

Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if
you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day or if you have had
alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis). You may not be able to take medication that
contains acetaminophen.

Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Vicodin should never be given to another person, especially
someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.

Keep track of how many tablets have been used from each new bottle of
this medicine. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any
person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a
prescription.

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.

Never take more Vicodin than is prescribed. Tell your doctor if the
medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using this medication after
using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using Vicodin suddenly without
first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop
the medication completely.

What is Vicodin?

Hydrocodone is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers. It
is similar to codeine.

Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the
effects of hydrocodone.

The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone is used to relieve
moderate to severe pain.

Vicodin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Vicodin?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to acetaminophen or
hydrocodone, or other narcotic pain relievers such as fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic),
hydromorphone (Dilaudid, Palladone), methadone (Methadose, Dolophine), morphine
(Kadian, MS Contin, Oramorph, and others), oxycodone (Oxycontin), and
oxymorphone (Opana).

Before using Vicodin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any
drugs, or if you have:

• asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• underactive thyroid;

• a history of head injury or brain tumor;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• low blood pressure;
• gallbladder disease;

• Addison’s disease or other adrenal gland disorders;

• enlarged prostate, urination problems;

• mental illness; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
Vicodin, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Vicodin should never be given to another person, especially
someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.

Keep track of how many tablets have been used from each new bottle of
this medicine. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any
person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a
prescription.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby,
and could cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Tell your doctor
if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Vicodin can
pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication
without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this
medicine to anyone younger than 18 years old. Older adults may be more sensitive
to the effects of this medicine.

How should I take Vicodin?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use
the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your
doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

An overdose of acetaminophen can cause serious harm. The maximum amount of
acetaminophen for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per
day. Taking more acetaminophen could cause damage to your liver. One Vicodin
tablet may contain up to 750 mg of acetaminophen. Know the amount of
acetaminophen in the specific product you are taking.

If your medicine contains 650 mg of acetaminophen or more per tablet,
take no more than 5 tablets in 24 hours. If your medicine contains 500 mg or
less of acetaminophen, take no more than 8 tablets in 24 hours. Tell your doctor
if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. You may take the medication
with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.

Measure the liquid form of this medication with a special
dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a
dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Drink 6 to 8 full glasses of water daily to help prevent constipation while
you are taking Vicodin. Ask your doctor about ways to increase the fiber in your
diet. Do not use a stool softener (laxative) without first asking your doctor.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of
time that you are using Vicodin. You may need to stop using the medicine for a
short time.

You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using this medication after
using it over a long period of time. Do not stop taking Vicodin suddenly without
first talking to your doctor. You may need to take less and less before you stop
the medication completely. Store Vicodin at room temperature away from moisture
and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Vicodin is sometimes used 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 the next dose, skip the missed
dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use 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. An overdose of Vicodin can be fatal. Symptoms of an overdose may
include extreme drowsiness, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, sweating,
confusion, cold and clammy skin, shallow breathing, slow heart rate, fainting,
or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Vicodin?

Do not use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or pain
medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen is
contained in many cold and pain medicines available over the counter. If you
take certain products together you may accidentally take too much acetaminophen.
Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains
acetaminophen. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking Vicodin. Dangerous side
effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with hydrocodone. Check the
label of any other medicines you take to be sure they do not contain alcohol.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold
medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures,
depression or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by hydrocodone, which
could result in extreme drowsiness or coma.

What are the possible side effects of Vicodin?

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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• shallow breathing, slow heartbeat;

• seizure (convulsions);
• cold, clammy skin;
• confusion;

• severe weakness or dizziness; or

• feeling light-headed, fainting.

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• constipation;
• urinating less than usual;

• nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;

• dizziness, headache; or
• itching.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to
your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Vicodin?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any
of the following drugs:

• an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine
  (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or
  tranylcypromine (Parnate); or

• antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine
  (Ascendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Janimine,
  Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine
  (Surmontil).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use
Vicodin, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Vicodin. Tell
your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.
This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other
doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about Vicodin written for health
  professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Acetaminophen and hydrocodone is available with a prescription under
many brand names such as Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet, Zydone, Hydrocet, and Co-Gesic.
Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist
any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Valium

Generic Name: diazepam (dye-AZ e pam)

What is the most important information I should know about Valium?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Valium or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax). This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use Valium if you are pregnant.

Before taking Valium, tell your doctor if you have any breathing problems, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Valium. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy. They can add to sleepiness caused by Valium.

Valium may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Valium should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

What is Valium?

Valium is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Valium affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Valium is used to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or muscle spasms.

Valium may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Valium?

Do not use this medication if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are allergic to Valium or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

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

• glaucoma;

• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;

• kidney or liver disease;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Valium, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Valium can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use Valium without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Valium 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. The sedative effects of Valium may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are taking Valium. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 months old.

How should I take Valium?

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.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

Measure the liquid form of Valium with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Valium should be used for only a short time. Do not take this medication for longer than 4 months without your doctor’s advice. Valium may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Valium should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in treating your symptoms. Do not stop using Valium suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Your symptoms may return when you stop using Valium after using it over a long period of time. You may also have seizures or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using Valium. Withdrawal symptoms may include tremor, sweating, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, stomach pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or behavior, and seizure (convulsions).

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood and liver function may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

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

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Benzodiazepines are drugs of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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. An overdose of Valium can be fatal.

Symptoms of a Valium overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Valium?

Do not drink alcohol while taking Valium. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol. Valium 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.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety). They can increase some of the side effects of Valium.

What are the possible side effects of Valium?

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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior;

• unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of danger;

• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

• hyperactivity, agitation, hostility;

• hallucinations;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• muscle twitching, tremor;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or

• urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• drowsiness, tiredness;
• blurred vision;
• sleep problems (insomnia);

• muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination;

• slurred speech;

• nausea, vomiting, constipation;

• headache;
• drooling;
• skin rash; or
• loss of interest in sex.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Valium?

Before taking Valium, tell your doctor if you take any other seizure medications, or if you are using any of the following drugs:

• cimetidine (Tagamet);

• a barbiturate such as amobarbital (Amytal), butabarbital (Butisol), mephobarbital (Mebaral), secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);

• an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);

• medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil), pimozide (Orap), or thioridazine (Mellaril);

• narcotic medications such as butorphanol (Stadol), codeine, hydrocodone (Loratab, Vicodin), levorphanol (Levo-Dromoran), meperidine (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine, Methadose), morphine (Kadian, MS Contin, Oramorph), naloxone (Narcan), oxycodone (OxyContin), propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet); or

• antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine (Ascendin), citalopram (Celexa), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), paroxetine (Paxil), protriptyline (Vivactil), sertraline (Zoloft), or trimipramine (Surmontil).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use Valium, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect diazepam. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about diazepam written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Diazepam is available with a prescription under the brand name Valium. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Valium 2 mg–white, round, scored tablets with a cut-out “V” design

• Valium 5 mg–yellow, round, scored tablets with a cut-out “V” design

• Valium 10 mg–blue, round, scored tablets with a cut-out “V” design

Diazepam

(dye AZ e pam)

Brand Names: Valium,

What is the most important information I should know about diazepam?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to diazepam or to other
benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium),
clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax). This medication
can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use diazepam if you are
pregnant.

Before taking diazepam, tell your doctor if you have any breathing
problems, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a history of depression,
suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Do not drink alcohol while taking diazepam. This medication can increase the
effects of alcohol.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy. They can add to
sleepiness caused by diazepam.

Diazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was
prescribed for. Diazepam should never be shared with another person, especially
someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.

What is diazepam?

Diazepam is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines
(ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Diazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may
become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Diazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal
symptoms, or muscle spasms.

Diazepam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking diazepam?

Do not use this medication if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are
allergic to diazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax),
chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or
oxazepam (Serax).

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

• glaucoma;

• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary
  disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;

• kidney or liver disease;

• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;

• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or

• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
diazepam, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Diazepam can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use diazepam
without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you
become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while
you are using this medication. Diazepam 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. The sedative effects of diazepam may last longer in
older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take
benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are
taking diazepam. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 months
old.

How should I take diazepam?

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.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get
the best results from this medication.

Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the
pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body.
Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at
one time.

Measure the liquid form of diazepam with a special dose-measuring
spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring
device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Diazepam should be used for only a short time. Do not take this medication
for longer than 4 months without your doctor’s advice. Diazepam may be
habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for.
Diazepam should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has
a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place
where others cannot get to it. Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to
stop working as well in treating your symptoms. Do not stop using diazepam
suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less
before you stop the medication completely.

Your symptoms may return when you stop using diazepam after using it
over a long period of time. You may also have seizures or withdrawal symptoms
when you stop using diazepam. Withdrawal symptoms may include tremor, sweating,
trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, stomach pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or
behavior, and seizure (convulsions).

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood
and liver function may need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any
scheduled visits to your doctor.

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

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of
this medicine. Benzodiazepines are drugs of abuse and you should be aware if any
person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a
prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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. An overdose of diazepam can be fatal.

Symptoms of a diazepam overdose may include extreme drowsiness,
confusion, muscle weakness, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking diazepam?

Do not drink alcohol while taking diazepam. This medication can increase the
effects of alcohol. Diazepam 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.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold
medicine, pain medication, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures,
depression or anxiety). They can increase some of the side effects of diazepam.

What are the possible side effects of diazepam?

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. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior;

• unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of
  danger;

• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

• hyperactivity, agitation, hostility;

• hallucinations;

• feeling light-headed, fainting;

• muscle twitching, tremor;

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or

• urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:

• drowsiness, tiredness;
• blurred vision;
• sleep problems (insomnia);

• muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination;

• slurred speech;

• nausea, vomiting, constipation;

• headache;
• drooling;
• skin rash; or
• loss of interest in sex.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to
your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.

What other drugs will affect diazepam?

Before taking diazepam, tell your doctor if you take any other
seizure medications, or if you are using any of the following drugs:

• cimetidine (Tagamet);

• a barbiturate such as amobarbital (Amytal), butabarbital (Butisol),
  mephobarbital (Mebaral), secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Luminal,
  Solfoton);

• an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine
  (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or
  tranylcypromine (Parnate);

• medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine
  (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil), pimozide (Orap),
  or thioridazine (Mellaril);

• narcotic medications such as butorphanol (Stadol), codeine,
  hydrocodone (Loratab, Vicodin), levorphanol (Levo-Dromoran), meperidine
  (Demerol), methadone (Dolophine, Methadose), morphine (Kadian, MS Contin,
  Oramorph), naloxone (Narcan), oxycodone (OxyContin), propoxyphene (Darvon,
  Darvocet); or

• antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine
  (Ascendin), citalopram (Celexa), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin),
  doxepin (Sinequan), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem),
  fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor),
  paroxetine (Paxil), protriptyline (Vivactil), sertraline (Zoloft), or
  trimipramine (Surmontil).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use
diazepam, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect diazepam. Tell
your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.
This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other
doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has information about diazepam written for health
  professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Diazepam is available with a prescription under the brand name
Valium. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your
pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new
to you.

• Valium 2 mg–white, round, scored tablets with a cut-out "V" design

• Valium 5 mg–yellow, round, scored tablets with a cut-out "V"
  design

• Valium 10 mg–blue, round, scored tablets with a cut-out "V" design