DEXATRIM

Drug Name: DEXATRIM

DEXATRIM DESCRIPTION:
PHENYLPROPANOLAMINE - ORAL (FEN-ill-pro-puh-NOLL-uh-meen)

COMMON DEXATRIM BRAND NAME(S):
Accutrim, Dexatrim

DEXATRIM SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, vision problems, rash, nervousness, increased nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion, chest pain, difficulty urinating. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE DEXATRIM:
DEXATRIM: Take DEXATRIM by mouth exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose or take DEXATRIM more often than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Long-acting (delayed-release) products must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew. When used for an extended period, DEXATRIM may not work as well and may require different dosing; your treatment may also be stopped or changed. Talk with your doctor if DEXATRIM stops working well.

DEXATRIM USES:
Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is used to treat nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, or other respiratory illnesses (e.g., rhinitis, sinusitis). It has also been used as a nonprescription diet-aid for weight loss.

DEXATRIM PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of any kidney problems, heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), thyroid problems (hyperthyroid), diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, or depression; and of any allergies you may have. DEXATRIM may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. In rare cases, phenylpropanolamine (PPA) may increase your risk of stroke. Symptoms of stroke include one-sided weakness, sudden vision changes, or slurred speech. The FDA considers PPA to be unsafe; consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Also, check your prescription and nonprescription medication labels carefully, and promptly consult your pharmacist if any other medications contain PPA. DEXATRIM should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. DEXATRIM passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DEXATRIM DRUG INTERACTIONS:
DEXATRIM is not recommended for use with other "stimulant" drugs (e.g., amphetamine, caffeine, methylphenidate, other decongestants), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, linezolid, selegiline). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), reserpine, or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

DEXATRIM OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact you local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include chest tightness, severe mental/mood changes, unusually fast heartbeat (tachycardia), and seizures.

DEXATRIM NOTES:
Do not share DEXATRIM with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

MISSED DEXATRIM DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

DEXATRIM STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.