MS CONTIN

Drug Name: MS CONTIN

MS CONTIN DESCRIPTION:
NARCOTIC ANALGESICS - ORAL TABLET SUSTAINED ACTION

COMMON MS CONTIN BRAND NAME(S):
MS Contin, Oramorph SR

MS CONTIN 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 heartbeat, 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 MS CONTIN:
MS CONTIN: To prevent upset stomach, take with food or milk. Swallow tablets whole. Do not chew or crush them. 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 MS CONTIN 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 MS CONTIN can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period, do not suddenly stop using MS CONTIN without your doctor's approval. Over time, MS CONTIN may not work as well. Consult your doctor if MS CONTIN is not relieving the pain sufficiently.

MS CONTIN USES:
MS CONTIN is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

MS CONTIN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, breathing problems, history of alcohol and/or drug use, 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 MS CONTIN. MS CONTIN should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. MS CONTIN is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, no problems have been noted in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

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

MS CONTIN 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.

MS CONTIN 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 MS CONTIN 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.

MS CONTIN 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.