KADIAN

Drug Name: KADIAN

KADIAN DESCRIPTION:
MORPHINE SUSTAINED ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (MORE-feen)

COMMON KADIAN BRAND NAME(S):
Kadian

KADIAN SIDE EFFECTS:
May cause constipation, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea, and flushing the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: irregular heartbeats, anxiety, tremors. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE KADIAN:
KADIAN: To prevent upset stomach, take with food or milk. Swallow capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, they may be opened and their entire contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce. Swallow this mixture whole. Do not chew the mixture, as serious side effects could result. Pain medications work best in preventing pain before it occurs. Once the pain becomes intense, the medication is not as effective in relieving it. Use KADIAN exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because KADIAN can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using KADIAN without your doctor's approval. Over time, KADIAN may not work as well. Consult your doctor if KADIAN is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

KADIAN USES:
KADIAN is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

KADIAN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, breathing problems, alcohol and/or substance abuse, colitis or other intestinal/stomach problems, severe diarrhea, head injury, heart problems, drug allergies. Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Limit alcohol intake because it may add to the dizziness/drowsiness effects of KADIAN. KADIAN should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. KADIAN is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, no problems have been noted in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

KADIAN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all drugs you are taking both prescription and nonprescription, especially of: alcohol- containing medicines, tranquilizers, antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, naltrexone, zidovudine, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), cimetidine, buprenorpine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

KADIAN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.

KADIAN NOTES:
To prevent constipation increase your intake of fiber, drink plenty of water and exercise. Stool softeners may be helpful. Do not allow anyone else to take your medication: it is against the law.

MISSED KADIAN DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

KADIAN STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.