| ASA (Acetylsalicylic Acid) | A | ASA (Acetylsalicylic Acid) | ASA (Acetylsalicylic Acid) | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Cardiovascular system;Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2008-05-27T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.60000000000000 | 66.1000000000000 | 902.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called ASA (Acetylsalicylic Acid). This information sheet explains what ASA does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine.<br></p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called ASA (acetylsalicylic acid, say: a-SEE-ta-sal-a-si-lik). This information sheet explains what ASA does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | | <h2>How should you give your child ASA?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when giving your child ASA.</p>
<ul><li>Give your child ASA regularly, exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. Avoid missing doses by giving your child ASA at the same time each day. </li>
<li>Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving ASA for any reason. </li>
<li>Make sure you have enough ASA to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. </li>
<li>Give your child ASA with food or milk so their stomach does not become upset. </li>
<li>If your child is taking the regular tablets or children's Aspirin, they may be swallowed whole, crushed, or chewed. Make sure your child drinks a glass of water or milk after taking the ASA. </li>
<li>If your child is taking the enteric-coated ASA, the tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, not crushed or chewed. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of ASA?</h2>
<ul><li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. </li>
<li>Give your child the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Give your child only 1 dose at a time. </li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of ASA?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some side effects while they take ASA. Usually your child will not need to see a doctor about them.</p>
<p>These mild side effects may go away as your child's body gets used to ASA. Check with your child's doctor, and follow their instructions if your child has any of these signs or symptoms and they do not go away or they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>a rash or itchy skin </li>
<li>mild stomach cramps (usually happens shortly after taking a dose) </li>
<li>upset stomach or throwing up </li></ul>
<p>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </p>
<ul><li>severe or lasting stomach pain </li>
<li>black, tarry stools </li>
<li>difficulty breathing </li>
<li>severe sweating </li>
<li>problems seeing, blurred vision </li>
<li>dizziness </li>
<li>ringing in the ears, trouble hearing </li></ul> | | <h2>What other important information should you know about ASA?</h2><ul><li>Before starting ASA, tell your child’s doctor if your child has ever had asthma. Also tell your child’s doctor and pharmacist if your child has ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to ASA or any other medicines.</li><li>Tell your child’s doctor if your child has ever had bleeding from the stomach or frequent stomach aches.</li><li>ASA should not usually be given to a child with a fever who has a viral illness such as chickenpox or flu (influenza). Check with your child’s doctor before giving ASA if your child seems to be coming down with a virus. The doctor may tell you to change the amount of ASA that you give your child.</li><li>Check with your child’s doctor or pharmacist before you give your child any other medicines, even medicines that you can buy without a doctor’s order (prescription), such as cough medicines. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before you give your child any herbal products because they can increase or decrease your child’s response to ASA.</li><li>Before your child has any kind of surgery, even on the teeth, or emergency treatment, tell the doctor or dentist that your child is taking ASA. If they tell you to stop the ASA, speak to your child’s doctor or dentist about when is the right time to start taking ASA again.</li><li>Keep all appointments at the clinic or doctor’s office and for blood tests, so that the doctor can check your child’s reaction to ASA.</li><li>Keep this medicine at room temperature. Keep it away from damp places, such as the bathroom or the kitchen sink.</li><li>Do not give your child any ASA that has changed color or that smells of vinegar. Ask your pharmacist about how to throw away any ASA that has gone bad or is out of date.</li><li>Throw away any ASA that is out of date.</li></ul><br> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Acetazolamide | A | Acetazolamide | Acetazolamide | | English | Pharmacy | NA | Eyes | Nervous system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2008-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.80000000000000 | 60.3000000000000 | 707.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called acetazolamide. This information sheet explains what acetazolamide does, how to take it, and what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called acetazolamide (say: a-set-a-ZOLE-a-mide). This information sheet explains what acetazolamide does, how to take it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | | <h2>How should I give my child acetazolamide?</h2><ul><li>Avoid missing doses by giving your child the medicine at the same times every day. Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving your child this medicine for any reason. Make sure you have enough medicine on hand to last through weekends, holidays, or vacations. </li><li>With food to reduce the chance of an upset stomach </li><li>With the special spoon or syringe the pharmacist gave you, if your child is taking the liquid form of acetazolamide </li><li>If the dose is more than once a day, give the last dose early in the evening so your child can avoid having to urinate (go to the bathroom) during the night. Acetazolamide can increase the number of times your child will have to urinate. This effect should lessen with time. </li></ul> | <h2>What should I do if my child misses a dose?</h2><ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember.</li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give your child the next dose at the regular time.</li><li>Give your child only one dose at a time.</li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of acetazolamide?</h2><p>Call your doctor if your child continues to have any of these signs, or symptoms:</p><ul><li>Upset stomach, throwing up </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">Headache</a> </li><li>Increased need to urinate </li><li>Loss of appetite </li><li>Taste of metal in the mouth </li><li>Loss of weight </li><li>Watery bowel movements (diarrhea) </li><li>Nervousness, irritability </li><li>Trouble having a bowel movement (constipation) </li><li>Feelings of numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands, fingers, feet, toes, mouth, lips, tongue, or anus (bum) </li></ul><p>Call your doctor immediately if your child has:</p><ul><li>Any unusual or allergic reactions </li><li>Dark urine </li><li>Shortness of breath or trouble breathing </li><li>Confusion </li><li>Unusual bruising or bleeding </li><li>Yellow skin or eyes </li><li>Clumsiness or unsteadiness </li><li>Blood in the urine or stool </li>
<li>More severe seizures (if your child is taking acetazolamide for a seizure disorder) </li></ul> | | <h2>What other important information should I know about acetazolamide?</h2><ul><li>This medicine may cause your child's body to lose
<a href="/Article?contentid=220&language=English">potassium</a>. This may make your child feel dizzy, light-headed, confused, or more tired than usual. Your child may also have a dry mouth, muscle cramps, or an upset stomach. They may be throwing up or be more thirsty than usual. To prevent these problems, the doctor may want your child to eat or drink foods that contain potassium, such as bananas or orange juice. </li><li>Acetazolamide may make your child's skin more likely to sunburn. Your child must cover up with clothing and a hat or use a strong sunscreen. Look for a sunscreen that protects against the sun's UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 15. Ask your pharmacist to help you pick the right sunscreen. </li><li>Tell your child's doctor if your child has any of these medical problems:</li><ul><li>liver or kidney disease </li><li>
<a href="/diabetes">diabetes</a> </li><li>allergies to medicines, especially sulfas or water pills (diuretics) </li></ul><li>Store the liquid form of acetazolamide at room temperature. Shake the bottle well before you use it. Throw away any acetazolamide that is outdated.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Acetylcysteine | A | Acetylcysteine | Acetylcysteine | | English | Pharmacy | NA | Lungs;Liver | Lungs;Liver | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2008-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.20000000000000 | 60.1000000000000 | 1014.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called acetylcysteine. This information sheet explains what acetylcysteine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called acetylcysteine (say: a-seet-il-SIS-teen). This information sheet explains what acetylcysteine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving acetylcysteine to your child?</h2><p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has an allergy to acetylcysteine. </p><p>Also, talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=785&language=English">Asthma</a> </li><li>Trouble coughing or cannot cough </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child acetylcysteine?</h2><p>Give your child acetylcysteine exactly the way the doctor or pharmacist tells you. Do not use it in larger amounts, and do not use it more often than you are told to by the doctor or pharmacist. </p><p>If your child is
<em>inhaling</em> this medicine: </p><ul><li>Your child will breathe this medicine in through a special machine called a nebulizer. You may need to mix the acetylcysteine with other medicines, sterile normal saline, or sterile water. </li><li>Do not mix the dose of acetylcysteine until you are ready to use the medication. </li><li>If you are not sure how to use the machine, ask your child's nurse or pharmacist. </li><li>Clean the nebulizer right after each use. The residue can clog parts of the nebulizer. </li></ul><p>If your child is taking this medicine by
<em>mouth</em>: </p><ul><li>You may mix acetylcysteine with water, juice, soft drinks or chocolate milk. </li><li>Mix the acetylcysteine right before you are ready to give it to your child. You should use the solution within 1 hour of mixing it. </li></ul><p>If your child is getting this medicine by
<em>injection</em>: </p><ul><li>Your child will get this medicine at the hospital. A doctor or nurse will give it by needle into your child's vein. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose?</h2><ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li><li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose. </li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of acetylcysteine?</h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take acetylcysteine. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p><ul><li>Nausea (upset stomach) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">Vomiting</a> (throwing up) </li><li>White patches or sores inside the mouth or on the lips </li></ul><p>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=789&language=English">Hives</a></li>
<li>Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat</li><li>Chest tightness</li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using acetylcysteine?</h2><p>If your child is taking acetylcysteine to help with their mucus, give your child plenty of liquids to drink each day, unless your doctor tells you not to. Do not give your child liquids which contain caffeine, such as cola, coffee, or tea. </p><p>Do not mix other medicines in a nebulizer with acetylcysteine, unless your doctor has told you to.</p><p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). </p><p>Acetylcysteine should only be used with certain types of nebulizer machines. Check with your child's nurse or pharmacist to make sure you have the right type of machine. </p><p>Your child may have a sticky feeling around the nebulizer mask when inhaling acetylcysteine. This stickiness can be removed with water. </p><p>Your child may sense an unusual or unpleasant smell while using acetylcysteine. This is normal.</p><p>Call your doctor if you believe your child's condition is not getting better, or if it is worse.</p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about acetylcysteine?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Acetylcysteine liquid may change colour once you have opened the bottle. It is still safe to use if this happens.</li><li>Make sure you always have enough acetylcysteine to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least 2 days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills. </li><li>If a pharmacy is making acetylcysteine liquid for your child to take by mouth, it is good for only 2 days in the refrigerator.</li><li>If your child is taking acetylcysteine by mouth or by inhalation, and you are mixing the solution with a beverage or other solution, store the opened acetylcysteine vials in a refrigerator and use them within 4 days. </li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines. </li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Acyclovir | A | Acyclovir | Acyclovir | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2009-08-13T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.60000000000000 | 62.6000000000000 | 735.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called acyclovir. This information sheet explains what acyclovir does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called acyclovir (say: ay-sye-kloe-veer). This information sheet explains what acyclovir does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving acyclovir to your child</h2><p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has had any unusual or allergic reaction to acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir, or any other medicines in the past. </p><p>Also, talk with the doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p><ul><li>kidney problems </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child acyclovir?</h2><ul><li>Give your child this medicine by mouth</li><li>For as long as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, even if your child seems well. Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving acyclovir for any reason. </li><li>At the same times every day, exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. </li><li>With or without food; give it with food if it makes your child's stomach upset. </li><li>With a glass of water or other liquid. </li><li>It is important for your child to drink plenty of water or other liquid every day, unless they were told to drink less by the doctor. </li><li>If giving the suspension, shake the bottle well before measuring each dose. </li></ul><p>Acyclovir can also be given by a needle into your child's vein. It will be given by a nurse in the hospital clinic or the nursing unit.</p> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose?</h2><ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li><li>Give only one dose at a time. </li>
</ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of acyclovir?</h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take acyclovir. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p><ul><li>upset stomach </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> (throwing up) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a> (loose stools) </li><li>mild headache </li><li>dizziness </li></ul><h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be signs of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3><ul><li>problems passing urine or passing less urine than usual </li><li>unusual tiredness or weakness </li><li>confusion </li><li>seizures </li><li>skin rash </li></ul><p>It is important to consult with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines. These include prescription, over the counter, herbal, homeopathic, or natural remedies, supplements, or treatments. Inform your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child takes any other medicines and that your child is taking acyclovir. </p> | | <h2>What other important information should you know about acyclovir?</h2><ul><li>If your child's symptoms do not get better in a few weeks or if they get worse, check with your child's doctor.</li><li>Keep a list of all medicines your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others. Do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.</li><li>Keep acyclovir at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Adalimumab | A | Adalimumab | Adalimumab | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2013-01-23T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 9.30000000000000 | 53.9000000000000 | 1155.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called adalimumab. This information sheet explains what adalimumab does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called adalimumab. This information sheet explains what adalimumab does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.<br></p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving adalimumab to your child </h2><p>Tell your child's doctor if your child: </p><ul><li>has an allergy to adalimumab or any of the ingredients in the adalimumab injection.</li><li>is scheduled to receive any vaccinations. </li></ul><p>Talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p><ul><li>a latex allergy.</li><li>an infection (bacterial, fungal, or viral), especially serious infections such as tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis B.</li><li>congestive heart failure (heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs).</li><li>demyelinating diseases of the nervous system (for example, multiple sclerosis).</li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child adalimumab? </h2><p>Your child's first dose of adalimumab will likely be given in the hospital or in clinic. If your child is to receive adalimumab at home, arrangements may be made to have a nurse come into the home to give it. Alternatively, you may be taught by one of the nurses to give your child the subcutaneous (sc) injections (injections under the skin) at home. If you give the injections at home: </p><ul><li>Make sure you understand and are comfortable with the way to prepare and inject adalimumab and know how to dispose of the needle and syringe in a needle/sharps disposal container</li><li>Do not inject adalimumab at the same site. The injection site should be rotated</li>
<li>Adalimumab should not be injected at sites that are red, tender, bruised, or hard. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of adalimumab? </h2><ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember.</li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time.</li><li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose. </li></ul> | <h2>How long does adalimumab take to work? </h2><p>Some patients see improvements after their first or second dose of adalimumab, however it may take up to 3 months before the full benefit is seen. It is important to stay on track with the dosing schedule even if you see the effects right away. </p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of adalimumab? </h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take adalimumab. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p><ul><li>Irritation, pain, or redness at the place of injection</li><li>Headache</li></ul><p>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem.
<strong>Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency</strong> if your child has any of these side effects: </p><ul><li>Signs of a life-threatening reaction, including: wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, itching, bad cough, blue skin colour, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat</li><li>Rash or hives (red raised spots on the skin), peeling or blisters on the skin</li><li>Signs of an infection, including: fever, chills, generally not feeling well (weak or tired), sore throat, runny nose, cough, and headache</li><li>Numbness or tingling</li><li>Sudden weight gain</li><li>Bruising or bleeding very easily, looking very pale </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using adalimumab? </h2><p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with adalimumab or in some cases the dose of adalimumab or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist if your child takes any other medications (prescription, over the counter or herbal) including: </p><ul><li>abatacept (Orencia)</li><li>anakinra (Kineret)</li><li>Immunosuppressants (for example,
<a href="/Article?contentid=244&language=English">tacrolimus</a>,
<a href="/Article?contentid=115&language=English">cyclosporine</a>,
<a href="/Article?contentid=195&language=English">mycophenolate</a>, and
<a href="/Article?contentid=221&language=English">prednisone</a>)</li><li>Live vaccines (for example, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, the chicken pox vaccine, and the oral polio vaccine)</li></ul><p>There have been rare cases of cancers in children and teenage patients taking TNF-blocking agents (such as adalimumab). For children taking TNF-blocker medicines, the chances of developing lymphoma or other cancers may increase. Although this risk is higher than the general population, it is still quite low. </p><p>It is important that your child be tested for tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis B to make sure they do not have one of these infections before they receive adalimumab. </p><p>It is also important to make sure that your child's immunizations are up to date before they start therapy with adalimumab. Vaccines may not work as well if they are given to your child while they are being treated with adalimumab, or the vaccine dose may need to be adjusted. </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about adalimumab? </h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist. </li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child. </li><li>Make sure you always have enough adalimumab to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least 2 days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills. </li><li>Keep adalimumab in the refrigerator. Do not freeze this medicine. Protect this medicine from light. </li><li>An adalimumab syringe can be stored at room temperature for a maximum of 14 days. Once taken out of the refrigerator for room temperature storage, the adalimumab syringe must be used within 14 days even if it is put back in the refrigerator. </li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Allopurinol | A | Allopurinol | Allopurinol | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Cardiovascular system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2010-03-11T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.60000000000000 | 56.9000000000000 | 993.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called allopurinol. This information sheet explains what allopurinol does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine.<br></p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called allopurinol (say: al-oh-PURE-i-nole). This information sheet explains what allopurinol does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine. <br></p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving allopurinol to your child?</h2><p>Tell your doctor if your child has ever reacted badly to allopurinol or any other medications. </p><p>Also, talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. This medicine may not be right for your child if they: </p><ul><li>has a history of kidney problems </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child allopurinol?</h2><ul><li>Give your child allopurinol exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. </li><li>You may give the tablets whole. If your child cannot swallow a whole tablet, you may crush the tablets and mix them with some liquid (such as water or fruit juice), or a small amount of food. Alternatively, the liquid form of allopurinol may be used. </li><li>If your child is taking liquid allopurinol, measure the dose with the special spoon or syringe that the pharmacist gave you. </li><li>Shake the liquid allopurinol well before you give your child each dose. </li><li>Have your child drink plenty of fluid while taking allopurinol. Your child's doctor or nurse will tell you how much fluid your child needs. </li><li>Have your child take allopurinol with food or milk to decrease the chance of stomach upset. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose?</h2><ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li><li>Do not give your child 2 doses to make up for 1 missed dose. </li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of allopurinol?</h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take allopurinol. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects and they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p><ul><li>upset stomach (nausea) or throwing up (<a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a>) </li><li>watery bowel movements (<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a>) </li><li>drowsiness </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">headache</a> </li></ul><h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3><ul><li>a rash, redness, itchy skin, or hives </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">fever</a>, chills, muscle aches or pains, or sore throat </li><li>blood in the urine or stools </li><li>black, tarry stools </li><li>unusual bruising or bleeding </li><li>difficult or painful urination </li><li>decreased amount of urine </li><li>yellow eyes or skin </li><li>shortness of breath, trouble breathing, or tightness in the chest </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using allopurinol?</h2><ul><li>Allopurinol may affect the way the body handles certain drugs, including 6-<a href="/Article?contentid=182&language=English">mercaptopurine</a> (6MP) and
<a href="/Article?contentid=80&language=English">azathioprine</a>. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if your child is using these medicines. </li><li>Drugs such as diuretics (water pills) may increase the amount of allopurinol in the body. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if your child is using a diuretic, such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=144&language=English">furosemide</a>, Lasix, <a href="/Article?contentid=241&language=English">hydrochlorothiazide, Aldactazide, spironolactone</a>, or
<a href="/Article?contentid=187&language=English">metolazone</a>. </li><li>The antibiotics
<a href="/Article?contentid=73&language=English">amoxicillin</a> (Amoxil) and ampicillin may increase the chance of rash with allopurinol. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if your child is using these medications. </li><li>Allopurinol may also affect the way the body handles blood thinners. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if your child is using medications such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=77&language=English">ASA</a> (Aspirin) or
<a href="/Article?contentid=265&language=English">warfarin</a> (Coumadin). </li></ul><p>Allopurinol may make your child drowsy or less alert than normal. Watch carefully when your child is doing something that they need to be alert for, such as climbing stairs. </p><p>Do not give your child anything that may make the urine more acidic. For example, taking too much vitamin C may make the urine more acidic and increase the possibility of kidney stones forming while taking allopurinol. </p><p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, or herbal products). </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about allopurinol?</h2><ul><li>Keep all appointments at the clinic or doctor's office so that the doctor can check your child's reaction to allopurinol.</li><li>Allopurinol liquid must be made by a pharmacy. Make sure your pharmacy is able to make it for your child.</li><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on to show the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others. Do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.</li><li>Make sure you always have enough allopurinol to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least 2 days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills. </li><li>Store allopurinol tablets and liquid at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amantadine | A | Amantadine | Amantadine | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2015-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.80000000000000 | 62.6000000000000 | 813.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amantadine. This information sheet explains what amantadine does, how to take it, and what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amantadine (say: a-MAN-ta-deen). This information sheet explains what amantadine does, how to take it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amantadine to your child<br></h2><p>Tell your child's doctor if your child is allergic to amantadine or any component of the medication.</p><h3>Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. This medicine may not be right for your child if they have:</h3><ul><li>heart disease</li><li>liver disease</li><li>kidney disease </li><li>seizures </li><li>glaucoma (eye condition) </li><li>eczematoid dermatitis (skin condition)</li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child amantadine?</h2><p>Follow these instructions when you give your child amantadine:</p><ul><li>Give your child amantadine exactly as your doctor or your pharmacist (druggist) tells you to, even if your child seems better. </li><li>Give your child amantadine for as long as your doctor orders. Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving this medicine for any reason. </li><li>Give your child amantadine at the same times every day. Doses should be at least 12 hours apart. Pick times that are easy for you so that you do not miss doses. </li><li>Have your child take amantadine with food or milk so their stomach does not become upset.</li><li>Shake the bottle well before you give your child the medicine, if your child is taking liquid amantadine.</li><li>Measure the dose with the special spoon or syringe that the pharmacist gave you.</li><li>You may mix liquid amantadine with a small amount of water or milk.</li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of amantadine?</h2><p>If your child misses a dose of amantadine:</p><ul><li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li><li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.</li><li>Give your child the next dose at the regular time. Wait at least 12 hours between doses. </li><li>Give your child only 1 dose at a time. </li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amantadine?</h2><p>Your child may have some side effects while they take amantadine. Usually your child will not need to see a doctor about them. These side effects may go away as your child's body gets used to amantadine. </p><p>Check with your child's doctor if your child has any of these signs or symptoms and they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p><ul><li>drowsiness </li><li>constipation </li><li>headache </li><li>dry mouth, nose, and throat </li><li>confusion </li><li>upset stomach </li><li>difficulty falling asleep </li><li>dizziness, especially when standing up quickly</li></ul><p>Call your child's doctor or nurse as soon as possible, during office hours, if your child has any of these signs:</p><ul><li>mood changes </li><li>difficulty peeing, or urinating </li></ul><h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency if your child has any of these side effects: </h3><ul><li>swollen feet or legs</li><li>seizures </li><li>fainting </li><li>vision changes </li><li>hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not really there)</li><li>rash (eczema, or purple blotchy spots) </li><li>muscle rigidity, irregular heartbeat, high fever<br></li></ul> | | <h2>What other important information should you know about amantadine?</h2><ul><li>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before you give your child any other medicines, even medicines that you can buy without a doctor's order (prescription). </li><li>If your child has difficulty sleeping while taking amantadine, give them the evening dose several hours before bedtime.</li><li>If your child has a dry mouth from taking amantadine, give them lots of small glasses of water, ice chips, or sugarless hard candy. </li><li>Amantadine may cause your child to be dizzy or less alert. Have your child avoid activities that require them to be alert (for example riding a bicycle, rollerblading, contact sports). School work may be more difficult for your child to focus on so tell your child's teacher that they are taking this medicine.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Aminoglycosides (Amikacin, Gentamicin, and Tobramycin) | A | Aminoglycosides (Amikacin, Gentamicin, and Tobramycin) | Aminoglycosides (Amikacin, Gentamicin, and Tobramycin) | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2015-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 10.4000000000000 | 46.1000000000000 | 765.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take a medicine called an aminoglycoside. This information sheet explains what aminoglycosides do and how they are given to your child. It also explains what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take a medicine called an aminoglycoside (say: a-MEE-noe-GLYE-koe-side). This information sheet explains what aminoglycosides do and how they are given to your child. It also explains what side effects, or problems, your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before aminoglycosides are given to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has had an unusual or allergic reaction to an aminoglycoside antibiotic or any other medicine. </p>
<h3>Talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with these medicines if your child has: </h3>
<ul><li>any kidney problems </li>
<li>any problems with their sense of balance and/or hearing </li>
<li>myasthenia gravis, an immune disease that causes severe muscle weakness </li></ul> | <h2>How are aminoglycosides given to your child?</h2>
<ul><li>A nurse will give the aminoglycoside by needle into your child's vein (intravenously) in the hospital. If your child has a central venous catheter (port, PICC, CVC, central line), the aminoglycoside will likely be given through this catheter. If your child gets this medicine at home, a nurse will come to your home to give it. </li>
<li>Aminoglycoside antibiotics may be given once a day (every 24 hours) or several times a day (for example, every 8 or 12 hours). Sometimes they are given only every day and a half (every 36 hours) or even less often (once every 2 or more days). </li></ul> | | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of aminoglycosides?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some side effects while they receive an aminoglycoside. Some side effects are more likely to occur in premature and newborn babies. </p>
<p>Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>upset stomach </li>
<li>throwing up </li>
<li>loss of appetite </li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. These side effects may occur even after your child has completed treatment. Let your child's doctor or nurse know as soon as possible if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li>loss of hearing </li>
<li>ringing or buzzing in the ears </li>
<li>feeling of fullness of the ears </li>
<li>increased thirst </li>
<li>needing to urinate more or less frequently than usual </li>
<li>skin rash or itchiness </li>
<li>unusual drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness </li>
<li>clumsiness or unsteadiness </li></ul>
<h3>Some possible side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away, or if you are at home, take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li>muscle twitching </li>
<li>seizures </li>
<li>difficulty breathing </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using aminoglycosides?</h2>
<p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about aminoglycosides?</h2><ul><li>Your child will need regular blood tests while they are receiving an aminoglycoside. Some of these blood tests will be used to make sure that the aminoglycoside dose is right for your child. Other tests will be used to see if your child's kidneys are being affected by the aminoglycoside. If your child is getting an aminoglycoside at home, keep all appointments at the clinic or doctor's office so that the doctor can check your child's reaction to the aminoglycoside. </li><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amiodarone | A | Amiodarone | Amiodarone | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Heart | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2009-03-25T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.00000000000000 | 59.1000000000000 | 1162.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amiodarone. This information sheet explains what amiodarone does, how to give it, and what side effects, or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amiodarone (say: a-MEE-oh-da-rone). This information sheet explains what amiodarone does, how to give it, and what side effects, or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amiodarone to your child<br></h2><p>Tell your doctor if your child has:</p><ul><li>an allergy to amiodarone </li><li>a slow heartbeat not controlled by a pacemaker </li></ul><h3>Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </h3><ul><li>a low heartbeat </li><li>liver disease </li><li>thyroid problems </li><li>lung problems </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child amiodarone?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when you give your child amiodarone:</p>
<ul><li>Give your child amiodarone exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to, even if your child seems better. </li>
<li>Talk to your child's doctor before you change the dose or stop giving this medicine for any reason. Your child may become ill if they stop taking this medicine suddenly. </li>
<li>Give amiodarone at the same times every day. Make sure you leave the same amount of time between doses. </li>
<li>Give with or without food. Give it with food if it upsets the stomach. </li>
<li>Do not give your child grapefruit juice or other grapefruit products. </li>
<li>Amiodarone can also be given as an injection (needle) into your child's vein. This injection is given at the hospital. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose?</h2>
<ul><li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose. </li></ul> | <h2>How long does amiodarone take to work?</h2>
<p>It may take several weeks after starting amiodarone before your child feels better.</p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amiodarone?</h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take amiodarone. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p><ul><li>dizziness </li><li>headache </li><li>weakness, reduced alertness, feeling unsteady or clumsy </li><li>constipation </li><li>loss of appetite </li><li>nausea and vomiting </li><li>bitter or metallic taste in mouth </li><li>flushing of the face </li></ul><p>Call your child's doctor during office hours if your child has any of these side effects:</p><ul><li>unexplained low fever </li><li>trembling, shaking, or unusual movements of the body </li><li>numbness or tingling in fingers or toes </li><li>changes in heartbeat (fast or irregular) </li></ul><h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3><ul><li>a cough that does not go away, painful breathing or shortness of breath </li><li>severe nausea and vomiting or stomach pain </li><li>yellowing of the eyes or skin </li><li>fainting, severe weakness, or chest pain </li></ul><h3>After your child stops taking amiodarone, it may still cause some side effects that need attention. During this period of time, check with your doctor as soon as possible if your child has the following side effects: </h3><ul><li>a cough that does not go away </li><li>painful breathing<br></li><li>shortness of breath </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using amiodarone?</h2><p>Keep all appointments at the clinic or doctor's office so that the doctor can check your child's reaction to amiodarone.</p><p>Your child's doctor will order blood tests to check for problems with the liver and thyroid.</p><p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with amiodarone. In some cases, the dose of amiodarone or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if your child is also taking any of the following medicines: </p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=265&language=English">warfarin</a> (Coumadin®) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=124&language=English">digoxin</a> (Lanoxin®) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=216&language=English">phenytoin</a> (Dilantin®) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=115&language=English">cyclosporine</a> </li>
<li>other heart medications (e.g.,
<a href="/Article?contentid=228&language=English">quinidine</a>, procainamide, flecainide) </li><li>certain antibiotics or antifungal medications </li></ul><p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). </p><p>Amiodarone may sometimes affect eyesight. Check with your doctor if there are any changes in your child's vision. Keep any eye appointments that your doctor makes to have your child's eyes checked. </p><p>Before your child has any surgery, including dental surgery or emergency treatment, tell the doctor or dentist that your child is taking amiodarone. </p><p>Amiodarone may make your child's skin more likely to sunburn, even after they stop taking amiodarone. To help prevent sunburn:</p><ul><li>Avoid direct sunlight for long periods of time. </li><li>When outside, cover your child with clothing and a hat. </li><li>Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. </li><li>Avoid sunlamps, bright indoor lights, and tanning beds. </li></ul><p>After your child has taken this medicine for a long time, amiodarone may cause the skin to turn a blue-gray colour (especially areas where the skin is exposed to the sun). This colour will usually fade after amiodarone is stopped, but it may take several months. Tell your doctor if this happens. </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about amiodarone?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.</li><li>Amiodarone capsules must be made by a pharmacy. If your child is taking amiodarone capsules, make sure your pharmacy is able to make them. </li><li>Make sure you always have enough amiodarone to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least 2 days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills. </li><li>Keep amiodarone at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do NOT store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amitriptyline | A | Amitriptyline | Amitriptyline | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Brain | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2014-01-03T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.10000000000000 | 59.3000000000000 | 1069.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amitriptyline. This information sheet explains what amitriptyline does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amitriptyline (say: Am-i-TRIP-ta-leen). This information sheet explains what amitriptyline does, how to give it and what side effects your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amitriptyline to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your child's health care provider if your child is:</p>
<ul><li>
allergic to amitriptyline or other medicines
</li>
<li>
taking thioridazine or other medicines in the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) drug class
</li>
<li>
recovering from acute heart failure
</li></ul>
<h3>Talk to your child's health care provider if your child has any of
the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this
medicine if your child has:</h3>
<ul><li>
mental health issues such as thoughts of suicide, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia
</li>
<li>
heart problems
</li>
<li>
increased pressure in the eye
</li>
<li>
hyperthyroidism
</li>
<li>
liver disease
</li>
<li>
a history of seizures
</li>
<li>
difficulty passing urine
</li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child amitriptyline?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when giving your child amitriptyline:</p>
<ul><li>
Give your child this medicine exactly as your child's health care
provider has instructed, even if your child seems better. Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving this medicine for any reason. Your child may have side effects if they stop taking this medicine suddenly.
</li>
<li>Do not increase or decrease the amount of medicine without speaking with your child's prescriber first.
</li>
<li>Give amitriptyline one hour before bedtime or as instructed by your child's health care provider.
</li>
<li>Amitriptyline can be given with or without food. Give it with food if it causes an upset stomach.
</li>
<li>If your child has trouble swallowing the tablet whole, you may crush
the tablet and mix it with a small amount of food, water or juice.
</li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of amitriptyline?</h2>
<ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember.
</li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time.
</li>
<li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose.
</li></ul> | <h2>How long does amitriptyline take to work?</h2>
<ul><li>
Your child may start feeling better a few weeks after starting this
drug, but it may take up to six weeks to see the full effect.
</li>
<li>Sometimes it is necessary to increase the dose to have an effect. Discuss with your child's health care provider.
</li></ul> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amitriptyline?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take
amitriptyline. Check with your child's health care provider if your
child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go
away, or if they bother your child:</p>
<ul><li>
drowsiness
</li>
<li>
dizziness
</li>
<li>
blurry vision
</li>
<li>
trouble having a bowel movement
</li>
<li>
dry mouth
</li>
<li>
weight gain
</li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a
sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take
your child to the nearest emergency department if your child experiences
any of these side effects:</h3>
<ul><li>
Sudden trouble in swallowing or breathing, including shortness of breath.
</li>
<li>Swelling of the face, tongue or lips.
</li>
<li>Unusual behaviour, such as increased agitation, hostility or
thoughts of self-harm or harm to others. If this happens, call your
child's doctor immediately, but do not stop amitriptyline on your own.
</li>
<li>Any changes in heartbeat, such as fast, slow or irregular heartbeat.
</li>
<li>Seizures.
</li>
<li>Yellow eyes or skin.
</li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you taken when your child is using amitriptyline?</h2>
<ul><li>
Amitriptyline can make some existing heart rhythm problems worse. Your child's doctor may order an <a href="/Article?contentid=1276&language=English">electrocardiogram</a> (ECG) to check your child's heart rhythm.
</li>
<li>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with
amitriptyline; the dose of amitriptyline or the other medicine may need
to be adjusted. It is important to tell your child's health care
providers if your child takes any other medications (prescription, over
the counter or herbal). These may include MAOIs, <a href="/Article?contentid=101&language=English">cisapride</a>, linezolid,
<a href="/Article?contentid=139&language=English">fluconazole</a>, <a href="/Article?contentid=131&language=English">erythromycin</a>, anti-retrovirals, <a href="/Article?contentid=123&language=English">diazepam</a>, <a href="/Article?contentid=236&language=English">SSRIs</a> and
migraine medications.
</li>
<li>This medicine may cause your child to be less alert. Watch your
child's activities closely until you see how amitriptyline affects them.
You may also have your child avoid tasks that require alertness, such
as riding a bicycle, driving or contact sports.
</li>
<li>Your child may get sunburned more easily. Avoid lots of sun,
sunlamps and tanning beds. Use sunscreen, dress your child in protective
clothing and encourage them to wear sunglasses.
</li>
<li>Do not stop giving your child amitriptyline suddenly, talk to your
child's doctor first. The doctor may want to slowly decrease the dose of
amitriptyline before stopping it to prevent withdrawal symptoms such as
nausea, restlessness, headache and tiredness.
</li>
<li>Keep your appointments with the doctor to have your child checked regularly.
</li></ul> | <h2>What other information should you know about amitriptyline?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.</li><li>Make sure you always have enough amitriptyline to last through weekends, holidays and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least two days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills.</li><li>Keep amitriptyline tablets at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do NOT store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amlodipine | A | Amlodipine | Amlodipine | | English | Pharmacy | NA | Chest | Cardiovascular system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2020-06-25T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 6.90000000000000 | 70.4000000000000 | 844.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amlodipine. This information sheet explains what amlodipine does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amlodipine (say: am-LOE-di-peen). This information sheet explains what amlodipine does and how to give it to your child. It also explains what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | | <h2>How should you give your child amlodipine?</h2><p>Follow these instructions when you give your child this medicine:</p><ul><li>Give this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, even if your child seems well. </li><li>Talk to your child's doctor before you stop giving your child this medicine for any reason. Make sure you have enough to last through weekends, holidays or vacations. </li><li>Give your child amlodipine at the same time each day. </li><li>Have your child take this medicine with food or milk if the medicine causes an upset stomach. </li></ul><h3>If you are using ready-made oral solution:</h3><ul><li>Use the oral syringe and syringe adapter that comes with the bottle to measure the dose.</li><li>Do not shake the bottle before use.<br></li></ul><h3>If you are using split tablets:</h3><p>Use a pill splitter to cut the tablet to the appropriate dose:</p><ul><li>For a dose of 1.25 mg, use a quarter of a 5 mg tablet.</li><li>For a dose of 2.5 mg, use a half of a 5 mg tablet.</li><li>For a dose of 3.75 mg, use a quarter and a half of a 5 mg tablet.</li></ul><p>If your child cannot swallow tablets, the dose may be crushed and mixed into a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce or yogurt. The dose may also be mixed with 3–5 mL of water and given with an oral syringe.</p><p>If you are using the dissolve and dose device, please refer to the
<a href="/article?contentid=991&language=english">Dissolve and Dose family med aid</a> for instructions on how to prepare a dose. One 5 mg amlodipine tablet should be placed in 5 mL of water to make a 1 mg/mL solution.</p><p>If you are giving your child amlodipine through a feeding tube (either oral solution or dissolved tablets), make sure you flush the tube well with water before and after the dose to avoid clogging the tube.</p><p>If mixing amlodipine tablets in water, each dose must be newly prepared each time and administered immediately after the tablet has dissolved.</p> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of amlodipine?</h2>
<p>If your child misses a dose of the medicine:</p>
<ul><li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and give your child the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Give your child only one dose at a time. </li></ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amlodipine?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some side effects while they take amlodipine. Usually your child will not need to see a doctor about them. </p>
<p>These side effects may go away as your child's body gets used to amlodipine. Check with your child's doctor if your child has any of these signs or symptoms and they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>dizziness or light-headedness </li>
<li>headache </li>
<li>unusual tiredness or weakness </li>
<li>upset stomach </li>
<li>flushing of the face and a feeling of warmth </li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li>chest pain </li>
<li>bleeding, tender or swollen gums </li>
<li>fainting or severe dizziness after a dose </li>
<li>swollen ankles, feet or lower legs </li>
<li>any change in heartbeat, such as faster, slower or uneven heartbeats </li></ul> | | <h2>What other important information should you know about amlodipine?</h2><ul><li>Your child may feel dizzy or light-headed when they start taking amlodipine. If your child feels dizzy, they should sit or lie down until they feel better.<br></li><li>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before you give your child any other medicine, even medicine you can buy without a doctor's order (prescription). Some cold or allergy medicines may increase your child's blood pressure.<br></li><li>Keep your appointments with the doctor to have your child's blood pressure checked.<br></li><li>Make sure your child brushes and flosses their teeth daily to help prevent gum problems. You should also massage your child's gums regularly. Tell your child's dentist that your child is taking amlodipine. Your child should see the dentist regularly.<br></li></ul><h3>Other important information about amlodipine oral solution</h3><ul><li>If your child is taking the amlodipine oral solution, the bottle is only good for up to 60 days once opened. After 60 days of use, the bottle must be discarded, even if there is still medicine remaining in the bottle.</li><li>Amlodipine oral solution must be stored in the fridge.</li></ul><h3>Other important information about amlodipine tablets</h3><ul><li>Amlodipine tablets should be kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do NOT store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amoxicillin | A | Amoxicillin | Amoxicillin | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2023-07-29T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.80000000000000 | 62.9000000000000 | 883.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amoxicillin. This information sheet explains what amoxicillin does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amoxicillin (say: a-moks-i-SIL-in). This information sheet explains what amoxicillin does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amoxicillin to your child<br></h2>
<p>Tell your health-care provider if your child has an allergy to amoxicillin, penicillin antibiotics or to other antibiotics </p>
<h3>Talk with your health-care provider if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </h3>
<ul><li>kidney disease</li>
<li>stomach or intestinal disease, especially <a href="/Article?contentid=924&language=English">colitis</a></li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=785&language=English">asthma</a></li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=938&language=English">phenylketonuria</a> (PKU): some chewable tablets may contain phenylalanine </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child amoxicillin?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when you give your child amoxicillin:</p>
<ul><li>Give your child amoxicillin for as long as your health-care provider tells you, even if your child seems better. Talk to your child's health-care provider before you stop giving amoxicillin for any reason. </li>
<li>Give your child amoxicillin at the same times every day, exactly as your child's health-care provider tells you. Pick a time that is easy for you so that you do not miss any doses. </li>
<li>Your child may take amoxicillin orally with or without food. Give it with food if it upsets your child's stomach.</li>
<li>If your child is taking chewable tablets, your child should chew the tablets well and thoroughly before swallowing. You can also crush the tablets and mix with a small amount of soft food or milk, if preferred, and give right away. </li>
<li>If your child is taking liquid amoxicillin, shake the bottle well before giving your child each dose. Measure the dose with the special spoon or syringe that the pharmacist gave you. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of amoxicillin?</h2>
<ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose. </li></ul> | <h2>How long does amoxicillin take to work?</h2>
<p>Your child may begin to feel better a few days after starting amoxicillin.</p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amoxicillin?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take amoxicillin. Check with your child's health-care provider if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>Loose or watery bowel movements (<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a>) </li>
<li>stomach cramps or bloating (fullness) </li>
<li>upset stomach or throwing up (vomiting)</li></ul>
<p>Call your child's health-care provider during office hours if your child has any of these side effects:</p>
<ul><li>no improvement in condition or if you believe your child's condition is worse </li>
<li>mild skin rash </li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's health-care provider right away or take your child to Emergency if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li>severe skin rash, or<a href="/Article?contentid=789&language=English"> hives</a> (raised, red itchy areas on the skin) </li>
<li>trouble breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath </li>
<li>swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat </li>
<li>unusual tiredness or weakness </li>
<li>a new <a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">fever</a> or a fever that does not get better </li>
<li>severe stomach pain </li>
<li>severe watery diarrhea, which may have blood or red streaks </li>
<li>severe <a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> (throwing up) </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using amoxicillin?<br></h2><p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with amoxicillin, or, in some cases, the dose of amoxicillin or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your health-care provider if your child takes any other medications (prescription, over the counter or herbal), including: </p><ul><li>birth control pills</li><li><a href="/article?contentid=265&language=english">warfarin</a></li><li><a href="/article?contentid=185&language=english">methotrexate</a></li><li>typhoid vaccine</li></ul><p>If your child is diabetic, amoxicillin may cause false test results with some urine glucose (sugar) tests. Check with your child's pharmacist about what other glucose tests can be used. </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about amoxicillin?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the health-care provider.</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others, and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child.</li><li>If your child is on amoxicillin for extended periods of time, make sure you always have enough amoxicillin to last through weekends, holidays and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least two days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills.</li><li>Keep amoxicillin capsules and chewable tablets at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li><li>Keep amoxicillin liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze this medicine.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.</li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amoxicillin and clavulanate | A | Amoxicillin and clavulanate | Amoxicillin and clavulanate | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2017-01-25T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 10.2000000000000 | 43.7000000000000 | 1224.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amoxicillin + clavulanate. This information sheet explains what amoxicillin + clavulanate does, how to take it and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amoxicillin + clavulanate (say: a-moks-I-SIL-in and klav-yoo-LAN-ate). This information sheet explains what amoxicillin + clavulanate does, how to take it and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amoxicillin + clavulanate to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your child’s doctor if your child has:</p>
<ul>
<li>an allergy to amoxicillin, <a href="/Article?contentid=212&language=English">penicillin</a> or any other antibiotics </li>
<li>an allergy to clavulanate </li>
<li>an allergy to any other ingredient in the formulation</li>
</ul>
<h3>Talk with your child’s doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. This medicine may not be right for your child if they have:</h3>
<ul>
<li>liver or kidney disease </li>
<li>phenylketonuria (PKU) — the liquid form contains aspartame, which should be used with caution </li>
<li>mononucleosis (“mono”) </li>
</ul> | <h2>How should you give your child amoxicillin + clavulanate?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when giving your child amoxicillin + clavulanate:</p>
<ul>
<li>Give your child amoxicillin + clavulanate for as long as your child’s pharmacist or doctor tells you to, even if your child feels better. Tell your child’s doctor before you stop giving your child amoxicillin + clavulanate for any reason.</li>
<li>Give your child amoxicillin + clavulanate at the same times each day, as instructed by your child’s doctor or pharmacist. Pick times that are easy to remember so that your child does not miss any doses. </li>
<li>Your child may take amoxicillin + clavulanate with or without food. It is better to give your child amoxicillin + clavulanate at the same time as a meal if it upsets your child’s stomach.</li>
</ul>
<p>If your child is taking the liquid form of amoxicillin + clavulanate, shake the bottle well before each dose. Measure the dose with the syringe or medicine cup provided by your pharmacist.</p> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of amoxicillin + clavulanate?</h2>
<p>If your child misses a dose of the medicine:</p>
<ul>
<li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and give your child the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Give your child only one dose at a time. Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose.</li>
</ul> | <h2>How long does amoxicillin + clavulanate take to work?</h2>
<p>The medication will begin to work immediately.</p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amoxicillin + clavulanate?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take amoxicillin + clavulanate. These side effects are generally mild and may go away with time. Check with your child's doctor if the side effects are severe, do not go away or they bother your child:</p>
<ul>
<li>watery bowel movements (diarrhea)</li>
<li>stomach cramps or bloating (fullness) </li>
<li>upset stomach or throwing up (vomiting) </li>
</ul>
<p>Call your child’s doctor during office hours if your child has any of the following side effects:</p>
<li>no improvement in condition or if you believe your child’s condition is worse</li>
<li>mild skin rash, including diaper rash. </li>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of the following side effects:</h3>
<ul>
<li>severe skin rash, such as hives (raised, red itchy areas on the skin) or if large areas of skin are red, swollen, blistering or peeling</li>
<li>trouble breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath</li>
<li>swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat </li>
<li>signs of liver problems like dark urine, light colored stools, yellow skin or eyes, severe stomach pain, unusual tiredness or weakness </li>
<li>a new fever or a fever that does not get better </li>
<li>severe watery diarrhea, which may have blood or red streaks </li>
<li>severe vomiting (throwing up) </li>
<li>redness or white patches in the mouth or throat. </li>
</ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using amoxicillin + clavulanate?</h2>
<p>There are some medicines that should not be taken during the same period when your child is taking the course of amoxicillin + clavulanate. Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal or natural products) during this period. </p>
<p>Birth control pills may not work properly while taking amoxicillin + clavulanate, and for seven days after the course of amoxicillin + clavulanate is finished. If your child takes birth control pills, please tell her doctor or pharmacist before your child starts the course of amoxicillin + clavulanate.</p>
<p>If your child has diabetes, amoxicillin may cause false test results with some urine glucose (sugar) tests. Check with your child’s pharmacist about what other glucose tests can be used.</p> | <h2>What other important information should I know about amoxicillin + clavulanate?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or to the pharmacist</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child</li><li>Amoxicillin + clavulanate tablets should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom or kitchen</li><li>Keep amoxicillin + clavulanate liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze this medicine</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines</li><li>Keep all medicines out of your child's sight and reach and locked up in a safe place. Keep the medicine in its original child-proof container or vial<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | <h2>References</h2>
<ul>
<li>Lexi-comp Online [Internet]. Amoxicillin and Clavulanate: Pediatric & Neonatal Lexi-Drugs, Hudson, Ohio: Lexi-Comp, Inc. [updated 2016 February 10; cited 2016 March 9]. Available from http://online.lexi.com/</li>
<li>Canadian Pharmacists Association [Internet]. Clavulin Monograph. eCPS. [updated 2014 March 14; cited 2016 March 9]. Available from http://www.etherapeutics.ca/</li>
<li>Lexi-comp Online [Internet]. Amoxicillin: AHFS Essentials (Adult and Pediatric), Hudson, Ohio: Lexi-Comp, Inc. [updated 2016 February 10; cited 2016 March 9]. Available from: http://online.lexi.com/</li>
</ul> | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amphotericin B | A | Amphotericin B | Amphotericin B | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2008-05-27T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 9.40000000000000 | 48.9000000000000 | 564.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amphotericin B. This information sheet explains what amphotericin does, how it is given, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amphotericin B (say: am-foe-TER-i-sin). This information sheet explains what amphotericin does, how it is given, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amphotericin B to your child</h2><p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has:</p><ul><li>an allergy to amphotericin B. </li></ul><p>Talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p><ul><li>kidney disease. </li><li>low blood potassium levels. </li><li>a history of infusion reactions with amphotericin B (fever, chills, nausea, flushing). </li></ul> | <h2>How is amphotericin B given?</h2><p>Amphotericin B is a liquid which is injected or given as a shot into a vein (IV).</p> | | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amphotericin B?</h2><p>If your child has any of these side effects during the infusion, tell the nurse or doctor immediately:</p><ul><li><a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">Fever</a>, chills </li><li>Sweating </li><li>Difficult or rapid breathing </li><li>Fast, slow, or uneven heart beat </li><li>Fainting </li><li>Blurred vision </li></ul><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take amphotericin B. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go away, or if they bother your child: </p><ul><li><a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">Headache</a> </li><li>Loss of appetite </li><li>Upset stomach, <a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> </li><li>Watery bowel movements (<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a>) </li><li>Dizziness or feeling light-headed </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using amphotericin B?</h2><p>Your doctor will check your child's blood on a regular basis. This is to check for changes in kidney function as well as to monitor the amount of potassium and <a href="/Article?contentid=179&language=English">magnesium</a> in the blood. </p><p>Please tell your doctor immediately if your child is unable to pass urine, or if the urine has changed colour (dark urine, or pink-red urine). </p><p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal or natural products). </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about amphotericin B?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist</li><li>Your child may be given other medicines before their amphotericin B dose in order to prevent chills and fever</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Amsacrine | A | Amsacrine | Amsacrine | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Lymphatic system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2015-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.40000000000000 | 64.9000000000000 | 1193.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called amsacrine. This information sheet explains what amsacrine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called amsacrine (say: AM-sah-kreen). This information sheet explains what amsacrine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving amsacrine to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has ever reacted badly to amsacrine or any other drug, food, preservatives, or colouring agents. </p>
<p>Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medication if your child has: </p>
<ul><li>low blood counts. </li>
<li>heart rhythm problems. </li>
<li>infection or recent exposure to infection (for example, <a href="/Article?contentid=760&language=English">chickenpox</a>). </li>
<li>kidney or liver problems. </li></ul> | <h2>How will your child get amsacrine?</h2>
<p>Amsacrine is an orange-red liquid given as an injection (needle) into your child's vein. This is done in the hospital clinic or on the nursing unit. </p>
<p>If amsacrine leaks out of the vein through which it is being given, it may cause severe damage and scarring. This may happen while your child is getting amsacrine or afterwards. Tell the doctor or nurse right away if you or your child notice redness, pain, or swelling at the place of injection. </p> | | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of amsacrine?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take amsacrine. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>nausea (upset stomach) or <a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> (throwing up) </li>
<li>sores in mouth or on lips </li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a> (loose, watery stools) </li>
<li>hair loss </li>
<li>burning, numbness, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings </li>
<li>orange-coloured urine (common for a few days after amsacrine) </li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">headache</a> </li></ul>
<p>Call your child's doctor during office hours if your child has any of these side effects:</p>
<ul><li>unusual tiredness or weakness </li>
<li>yellow eyes or skin </li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li><a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">fever</a>, chills, cough, sore throat </li>
<li>easy bruising or bleeding </li>
<li>vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds </li>
<li>black tarry stools </li>
<li>blood in the urine </li>
<li>painful or difficult urination </li>
<li>lower back or side pain </li>
<li>fast or irregular or uneven heartbeat </li>
<li>dizziness, feeling faint or lightheadedness </li>
<li>seizures </li>
<li>pain or swelling around the rectum </li>
<li>tightness of the throat, trouble breathing, itchiness, or redness during the time the drug is being given into the vein </li>
<li>symptoms of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat </li>
<li>symptoms of low potassium levels: muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using amsacrine?</h2>
<p>Your child may lose their hair. It will grow back once your child is no longer receiving amsacrine. Its colour and texture may change. Use a gentle shampoo and a soft brush. </p>
<p>Amsacrine may cause changes in heart rhythm in some people. Your child's heart may be monitored while they are getting amsacrine.</p>
<p>Amsacrine can lower the number of white blood cells in the blood temporarily, which increases your child's chances of getting an infection. Your child can take the following precautions to prevent infections, especially when the blood count is low: </p>
<ul><li>Avoid people with infections, such as a cold or the flu. </li>
<li>Avoid places that are very crowded with large groups of people. </li>
<li>Be careful when brushing or flossing your child's teeth. Your doctor, nurse or dentist may suggest different ways to clean your child's mouth and teeth. </li>
<li>You/your child shouldn't touch your child's eyes or inside their nose without washing yours/their hands first. </li>
<li>Your child's nurse will review with you what to do in case of fever. </li></ul>
<p>Amsacrine can lower the number of platelets in the blood, which increases your child's risk of bleeding. You can take the following precautions: </p>
<ul><li>Be careful not to cut your child when using a razor, fingernail scissors, or toenail clippers. </li>
<li>Your child should avoid contact sports where bruising or injury could occur. </li>
<li>Before your child has surgery, including dental surgery, inform the doctor or dentist that your child is taking amsacrine. </li></ul>
<p>Your child should not receive any immunizations (vaccines) without your child's doctor's approval. Your child or anyone else in your household should not get oral polio vaccine while your child is being treated for cancer. Tell your child's doctor if anyone in your household has recently received oral polio vaccine. Your child should avoid contact with anyone who has recently received this vaccine. </p>
<p>Amsacrine may cause sores in the mouth. Rinse your child's mouth with a mouthwash made from baking soda to help keep it clean. Your nurse or pharmacist can review this with you. Avoid store bought mouthwash as it may sting and cause dry mouth. </p>
<p>There is a chance that amsacrine may cause birth defects if it is taken at the time of conception or if it is taken during pregnancy. <br>If your child is sexually active it is best that they use some kind of birth control while receiving amsacrine. Tell the doctor right away if your child may be pregnant. </p>
<p>After receiving amsacrine, your child may not be able to have children or have more difficulty having children. Your child's doctor will discuss this in more detail with you/your child. </p>
<p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). The medicines listed below may interact with the amsacrine as well, but this list is not complete.</p>
<ul><li>Acetylsalicyclic acid (Aspirin)</li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=153&language=English">Ibuprofen</a> (Advil)</li>
<li>Blood thinners</li></ul> | <h2>What other important information should you know about amsacrine?</h2><ul><li>Your child will receive medicine to prevent upset stomach and throwing up caused by amsacrine</li><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on to show the doctor or pharmacist</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Antithymocyte Globulin (ATG) | A | Antithymocyte Globulin (ATG) | Antithymocyte Globulin (ATG) | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2015-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.90000000000000 | 53.4000000000000 | 1322.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called antithymocyte globulin. This information sheet explains what antithymocyte globulin does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called antithymocyte globulin (say: an-tee-THY-moe-site GLOB-yoo-lin). This information sheet explains what antithymocyte globulin does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving antithymocyte globulin to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your doctor if your child has:</p>
<ul><li>received either form of ATG (horse or rabbit) in the past. </li>
<li>an allergy to ATG. </li>
<li>an allergy to rabbit proteins. </li>
<li>an allergy to other horse globulin preparations. </li>
<li>any other allergies. </li></ul>
<p>Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p>
<ul><li>a current infection or recent exposure to infection (for example, <a href="/Article?contentid=760&language=English">chickenpox</a>). </li>
<li>persistent, low white blood cell count (leukopenia). </li>
<li>persistent, low blood platelet count (thrombocytopenia). </li></ul> | <h2>How will antithymocyte globulin be given to your child?</h2>
<p>ATG is a liquid given by needle into your child's vein (intravenously or IV) or through a central venous line. It is given very slowly over a period of hours. Your child will get this medicine in the hospital clinic or on a nursing unit. </p> | | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of antithymocyte globulin?</h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they receive antithymocyte globulin. Some side effects are more likely to occur while the drug is being given. These side effects are called infusion reactions. Common infusion reactions with ATG include: </p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">fever</a> </li><li>chills </li><li>shaking (also called rigors) </li><li>rash </li></ul><p>Because these reactions are common during ATG, your child will probably be given medicine before getting antithymocyte globulin.
<a href="/Article?contentid=62&language=English">Acetaminophen</a> (Tylenol), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and <a href="/article?contentid=221&language=English">corticosteroids</a> (for example, hydrocortisone) may be used while in hospital to try to prevent or ease some of these side effects. </p><p>If these side effects occur at home, call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency.</p><p>Once your child is out of the hospital, check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p><ul><li>abdominal pain </li><li>nausea or upset stomach </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a> (loose, watery stools) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">headache</a> </li></ul><p>Call your child's doctor during office hours if your child has any of these side effects:</p><ul><li>weakness, loss of strength </li><li>muscle and joint pain </li><li>white patches in the mouth </li>
</ul><h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3><ul><li>fever or chills </li><li>cough or hoarseness </li><li>lower back or side pain </li><li>painful or difficult urination </li><li>nervousness or confusion </li><li>irregular heartbeat or fast heartbeat </li><li>numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips </li><li>shortness of breath or difficulty breathing </li><li>weakness or heaviness of legs </li><li>unusual bleeding or bruising </li><li>black, tarry stools </li><li>blood in urine or stools </li><li>pinpoint red spots on skin </li><li>severe skin rash, itching </li><li>fainting </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using antithymocyte globulin?</h2>
<p>The use of ATG combined with other drugs which suppress the immune system may increase the risk of getting severe infections. Your child may be given some antibiotics to lower the risk of getting infections. Other things that you and your child can do to help prevent infections include: </p>
<ul><li>avoiding people with infections, such as a cold or the <a href="/Article?contentid=763&language=English">flu</a> </li>
<li>avoiding places that are very crowded with large groups of people </li>
<li>frequent hand washing to prevent the spread of germs that cause infections </li>
<li>you/your child shouldn't touch their eyes or inside of their nose without washing your/your child's hands first </li></ul>
<p>Your child should not receive any immunizations (vaccines) without your child's doctor's approval. Your child or anyone else in your household should not get oral polio vaccine while your child is being treated with ATG. Tell your child's doctor if anyone in your household has recently received oral polio vaccine. Your child should avoid contact with anyone who has recently received this vaccine. Other live vaccines that your child should not get include measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and chickenpox vaccine. </p>
<p>ATG can lower the number of platelets in the blood, which increases your child's risk of bleeding. You can take the following precautions: </p>
<ul><li>Be careful not to cut your child when using a razor, scissors, or clippers to cut their nails or hair. </li>
<li>Your child should be careful when shaving or waxing. </li>
<li>Your child should avoid contact sports where bruising or injury could occur. </li>
<li>Your child should not receive a permanent tattoo or any kind of body piercing. </li>
<li>Before your child has surgery, including dental surgery, inform the doctor or dentist that your child is receiving ATG. </li>
<li>Be careful when brushing or flossing your child's teeth. Your child's doctor, nurse, or dentist can tell you about other ways to clean your child's mouth and teeth. </li></ul>
<p>Your child may still have side effects 1 or 2 weeks after they have finished getting antithymocyte globulin. Call your child's doctor or nurse right away if your child has any of the following signs: </p>
<ul><li>fever </li>
<li>tiredness </li>
<li>sore joints or muscles </li>
<li>rash </li>
<li>throwing up </li>
<li>swollen glands </li>
<li>changes in vision </li></ul>
<p>The use of ATG with other immunosuppresants may increase the risk of getting certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma. Check with your doctor right away if any of the following signs occur even after ATG treatment has stopped: </p>
<ul><li>yellow eyes or skin </li>
<li>black tarry stools </li>
<li>blood in urine or stools </li>
<li>unusual bleeding or bruising </li>
<li>swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin, or unexplained swelling in an arm or leg </li>
<li>fever and chills </li>
<li>unexplained weight loss </li>
<li>night sweats </li>
<li>lack of energy </li></ul>
<p>There is a chance that ATG may cause birth defects if it is taken at the time of conception or if it is taken during pregnancy. If your child is sexually active it is recommended that she use some kind of birth control while receiving ATG. Tell the doctor right away if your child may be pregnant. </p>
<p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about antithymocyte globulin?</h2><ul>
<li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines</li></ul>
<br> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Aprepitant | A | Aprepitant | Aprepitant | | English | Pharmacy | NA | Stomach | Stomach | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2016-12-05T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.40000000000000 | 57.7000000000000 | 799.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called aprepitant. This information sheet explains what aprepitant does, how to take it and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called aprepitant (say: ap-RE-pi-tant). This information sheet explains what aprepitant does, how to take it and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving aprepitant to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your doctor if your child is allergic to aprepitant or any ingredient in the formulation.</p> | <h2>How should you give your child aprepitant?</h2>
<p>Follow these instructions when giving your child aprepitant:</p>
<ul>
<li>Give your child aprepitant by mouth as the capsule or the liquid. Give the first dose of aprepitant about an hour before your child receives the first dose of chemotherapy.</li>
<li>Give aprepitant by mouth exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.</li>
<li>Aprepitant can be given with or without food.</li>
<li>Measure the dose of aprepitant oral liquid with the special spoon or syringe that the pharmacist gave you.</li>
</ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of aprepitant?</h2>
<p>If your child misses a dose of the medicine:</p>
<ul>
<li>Give your child the missed dose as soon as you remember.</li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give your child the next dose at the regular time.</li>
<li>Give your child only one dose at a time. However, if your child vomits (throws up) less than 30 minutes after you gave a dose, give your child another dose. Check to make sure that you have enough aprepitant on hand to give your child the aprepitant doses planned for the next two days. You may need to contact your doctor or pharmacist to get more.</li>
</ul> | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of aprepitant?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take aprepitant. Check with your child's doctor if these side effects do not go away or they bother your child:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hiccups</li>
<li>Feeling tired or weak</li>
<li>Diarrhea (loose stools)</li>
<li>Stomach pain</li>
<li>Loss of appetite </li>
<li>Dizziness</li>
<li>Headache </li>
</ul>
<h3>The following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency if your child has any of these side effects:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat </li>
<li>Wheezing, trouble breathing or shortness of breath </li>
<li>Severe skin rash or hives (red raised spots on the skin) </li>
<li>Signs of infection like fever, chills, sore throat, more phlegm (thick saliva, mucous, sputum) than usual or change in colour of phlegm, pain when urinating (peeing) or a wound that will not heal.</li>
</ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using aprepitant?</h2>
<p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with aprepitant or in some cases the dose of the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist if your child takes any other medications (prescription, non-prescription or herbal) including dexamethasone or warfarin.</p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about aprepitant?</h2><ul><li>Let your child’s doctor, nurse or pharmacist know if your child vomits (throws up) and retches (dry heaves) more than twice on a day that your child received chemotherapy.</li><li>Keep all medicines out of your child’s sight and reach.</li><li>Keep aprepitant capsules at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom.</li><li>Keep aprepitant liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze this medicine. </li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines. </li><li>Pregnancy should be avoided while taking this medication. </li></ul><br> | | | | | | | <h2>References</h2>
<ul>
<li>Lexicomp Online, Pediatric & Neonatal Lexi-Drugs, Hudson, Ohio: Lexi-Comp, Inc.; April 11, 2016.</li>
<li>Emend (aprepitant) [prescribing information]. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co; December 2015.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Asparaginase | A | Asparaginase | Asparaginase | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | NA | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2008-03-25T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 9.70000000000000 | 51.5000000000000 | 979.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called asparaginase. This information sheet explains what asparaginase does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called asparaginase (say: a-SPARE-a-jin-ase). This information sheet explains what asparaginase does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving asparaginase to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your doctor if your child has:</p>
<ul><li>ever reacted badly to asparaginase or any other medication </li>
<li>ever had problems with their pancreas, including a condition called pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) </li></ul>
<p>Also, talk with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </p>
<ul><li>an infection or recent exposure to infection (for example, chickenpox) </li>
<li>problems with blood sugar or diabetes </li>
<li>liver problems </li>
<li>a history of bleeding or clotting problems </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child asparaginase?</h2><p>Asparaginase is a clear liquid. A nurse will give your child asparaginase by putting a needle into a muscle (intramuscular or IM injection) or a vein (intravenous or IV injection). Usually your child will get this medicine in the hospital clinic or on the nursing unit. </p><p>Your child will need to stay in the clinic for about two hours after an injection of asparaginase. This is so the medical team can watch your child for any signs of an allergic reaction. They will watch your child for hives (raised, red, itchy areas on the skin), a skin rash, a swollen or flushed (red) face or trouble breathing.<br></p> | | | <h2>What are the possible side effects of this asparaginase?<br></h2><p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take asparaginase. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p><ul><li>nausea (upset stomach) </li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> (throwing up) </li><li>slight soreness at the site of injection </li><li>mild headache </li><li>loss of appetite </li></ul><p>Call your child's doctor during office hours if child has any of these side effects:</p><ul><li>unusual tiredness </li><li>yellow eyes or skin </li><li>joint pain, such as the toes, knuckles, knees </li><li>lower back or side pain </li><li>frequent urination </li><li>unusual thirst or extremely thirsty </li><li>hardness, redness or swelling at the site of injection </li></ul><p>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency if your child has any of these side effects: </p><ul><li>trouble breathing or shortness of breath </li><li>puffy face </li><li>skin rash or itching </li><li>unusual bleeding or bruising </li><li>stomach pain with vomiting (throwing up) </li><li>fever or chills </li><li>cough or chest pain </li><li>severe headache </li><li>cannot move arm or leg </li><li>slurred speech or trouble speaking </li><li>confusion or change in personality </li><li>seizures </li><li>unusual drowsiness, clumsiness, or loss of coordination </li><li>sudden changes in eyesight </li><li>sore throat or hoarseness </li><li>swelling of the legs and feet </li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using asparaginase?</h2>
<p>Asparaginase can increase the risk of blood clots. Blood clots can cause symptoms of a stroke such as a sudden change in level of consciousness (alertness), confusion, difficulty speaking, and difficulty using parts of the body. If you notice any of these changes in your child, it is important to get emergency help. Sometimes these symptoms may occur days or weeks after a dose of asparaginase. </p>
<p>If your child has diabetes, they may have trouble controlling the sugar in the blood while getting asparaginase. The doctor may need to check your child's blood sugar more often. </p>
<p>Your child should not receive any immunizations (vaccines) without your child's doctor's approval. Your child or anyone else in your household should not get oral polio vaccine while your child is being treated for cancer. Tell your child's doctor if anyone in your household has recently received oral polio vaccine. Your child should avoid contact with anyone who has recently received this vaccine. </p>
<p>There is a chance that asparaginase may cause birth defects if it is taken at the time of conception or if it is taken during pregnancy. If your child is sexually active it is best that they use some kind of birth control while receiving asparaginase. Tell the doctor right away if your child may be pregnant. </p>
<p>Tell your doctor or dentist that your child is getting asparaginase before your child has any surgery, including dental surgery, or an emergency treatment. </p>
<p>Check with your child's doctor or pharmacist before giving your child any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products). </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about asparaginase?</h2><ul><li>Stomach upset (nausea) and throwing up are not common with asparaginase</li><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on to show the doctor or pharmacist</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Atropine for drooling | A | Atropine for drooling | Atropine for drooling | | English | Pharmacy | NA | Mouth | Nervous system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2011-12-21T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.70000000000000 | 61.1000000000000 | 905.000000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called atropine. This information sheet explains what atropine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when he or she takes this medicine.<br></p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called atropine. This information sheet explains what atropine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when he or she takes this medicine.</p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving atropine to your child</h2>
<p>Tell your child's doctor if your child has:</p>
<ul><li>A history of allergic reaction to atropine or other anticholinergics (<a href="/Article?contentid=148&language=English">glycopyrrolate</a>, scopolamine, hyoscine, belladonna, and other medicines used to treat bowel spasms and urine incontinence)</li>
<li>Narrow-angle glaucoma</li>
<li>Blockage in the intestines</li>
<li>Myasthenia gravis</li>
<li>Ulcerative colitis</li></ul>
<p>Talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Your child may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine if your child has:</p>
<ul><li>Severe liver or kidney disease</li>
<li>Heart rhythm abnormalities (heart block, fast or irregular heart rate)</li>
<li>Heart failure</li>
<li>High blood pressure </li>
<li>Narrowing of the lower part of the stomach (pyloric stenosis)</li>
<li>Heartburn</li>
<li>High thyroid hormone</li>
<li>Urinary retention</li>
<li>Constipation</li>
<li>Nerve damage that affects your child's ability to control temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and bowel and bladder emptying</li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child atropine?</h2>
<ul><li>Wipe away any excess saliva or secretions</li>
<li>Give this medicine by placing the prescribed number of drops under the tongue</li>
<li>Take steps to avoid giving too large of a dose:</li></ul>
<p></p>
<ol><ol><li>Turn the bottle upside down.</li>
<li>Squeeze the bottle lightly and allow the drop to fall under the tongue. Do not give more than one drop with each squeeze of the bottle.</li>
<li>Repeat for the prescribed number of drops.</li></ol></ol>
<ul><li>Do not give this drug by any other method than by placing the drops under the tongue. The medicine will not work as well if they are swallowed. Your child may also experience more side effects if the drops are swallowed.</li>
<li>Avoid contact between the bottle and surfaces of the mouth.</li>
<li>If 2 drops are prescribed, attempt to deliver one on each side of the tongue as this may result in better drooling management.</li></ul> | | <h2>How long does atropine take to work?</h2><p>Atropine will start to reduce the amount of saliva within 5 to 30 minutes, and the effect will last approximately 4 to 6 hours.<br></p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of atropine?</h2>
<p>Even though atropine is meant to act locally within the mouth, side effects throughout the body can still occur. Side effects to atropine occur more frequently with higher doses. Children may be more sensitive to high doses of this medicine.</p>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take atropine. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, if they do not go away, or if they bother your child:</p>
<ul><li>Facial flushing</li>
<li>Excessive dry mouth/mucous membranes or skin</li>
<li>Blurred vision </li>
<li>Eyes are sensitive to light</li>
<li>Drowsiness</li>
<li>Upset stomach</li>
<li>Difficulty urinating</li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=6&language=English">Constipation</a></li></ul>
<p>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects:</p>
<ul><li>Rash</li>
<li>Fast and/or irregular heart rate</li>
<li>Severe abdominal pain</li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">Fever</a></li>
<li>Confusion</li>
<li>Excitement, irritability, behaviour changes</li>
<li>Hallucinations</li>
<li>Difficulty breathing</li></ul> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using atropine?</h2>
<p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with atropine or in some cases the dose of atropine or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist if your child takes any other medicines (prescription, over the counter or herbal) including: </p>
<ul><li>Antidepressants, antipsychotics, or medicines used to treat anxiety.</li>
<li>Antihistamines (diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, cyproheptadine, hydroxyzine)</li>
<li>Muscle relaxants</li>
<li>Antinauseants (prochlorperazine, dimenhydrinate)</li>
<li>Drugs used to treat urinary incontinence (<a href="/Article?contentid=207&language=English">oxybutynin</a>, tolteridine, and others)</li>
<li>Diphenoxylate atropine (Lomotil?)</li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=162&language=English">Ipratropium</a> (Atrovent?)</li></ul> | <h2>What other important information should you know about atropine?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medicines your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child</li><li>Keep atropine at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep tightly closed. Do NOT store it in the bathroom or kitchen</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
| Azathioprine | A | Azathioprine | Azathioprine | | English | Pharmacy | NA | NA | Immune system | Drugs and Supplements | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2015-04-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.00000000000000 | 61.0000000000000 | 1231.00000000000 | | Drugs (A-Z) | Drug A-Z | <p class="akh-article-overview">Your child needs to take the medicine called azathioprine. This information sheet explains what azathioprine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine.</p> | <p>Your child needs to take the medicine called azathioprine (say: ay-za-THYE-oh-preen). This information sheet explains what azathioprine does, how to give it, and what side effects or problems your child may have when they take this medicine. </p> | | | | | | | | | <h2>Before giving azathioprine to your child?</h2>
<p>Tell your child's doctor if your child is allergic to azathioprine, other medicines, preservatives, dyes, or food.</p>
<h3>Talk with your child's doctor or pharmacist if your child has any of the following conditions. Precautions may need to be taken with this medicine if your child has: </h3>
<ul><li>Kidney or liver disease. </li>
<li>An infection (as azathioprine may decrease your child's ability to fight infection) </li></ul> | <h2>How should you give your child azathioprine?</h2>
<ul><li>Exactly as your doctor or your pharmacist tells you to, even if your child seems better. </li>
<li>Talk to your child's doctor before you change the dose or stop giving this medicine for any reason. Your child may become ill if they stop taking this medicine suddenly. </li>
<li>At the same time every day. Pick a time that is easy for you so that you do not miss doses. </li>
<li>With or without food, however if the medicine upsets your child's stomach give after a meal. </li>
<li>If your child is taking the liquid form, shake the bottle well. Measure the dose with the special spoon or syringe that the pharmacist gave you. </li>
<li>If your child throws up (vomits) shortly after taking the medicine, check with your nurse or doctor about whether to give another dose. </li></ul>
<p>Azathioprine lowers your child's immune response, which increases your child's chances of getting an infection. Your child can take the following precautions to prevent infections: </p>
<ul><li>Avoid people with infections, such as a cold or the flu. </li>
<li>Your child's nurse will review with you what to do in case of <a href="/Article?contentid=30&language=English">fever</a>. </li></ul> | <h2>What should you do if your child misses a dose of azathioprine?</h2>
<ul><li>Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. </li>
<li>If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Give the next dose at the regular time. </li>
<li>Do not give your child two doses to make up for one missed dose. </li></ul> | <h2>How long does azathioprine take to work?</h2>
<p>Azathioprine may take up to several months to have its full effect in some conditions.</p> | <h2>What are the possible side effects of azathioprine?</h2>
<p>Your child may have some of these side effects while they take azathioprine. Check with your child's doctor if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: </p>
<ul><li>Loss of appetite</li>
<li>Upset stomach, throwing up </li></ul>
<h3>Most of the following side effects are not common, but they may be a sign of a serious problem. Call your child's doctor right away or take your child to the nearest Emergency Department if your child has any of these side effects: </h3>
<ul><li>If your child shows signs of a life-threatening reaction including: wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin colour; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. </li>
<li>If your child shows any signs or symptoms of infection. These include a fever of 38°C or higher, chills, severe sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, increased mucus or change in color, painful urination, mouth sores or a wound that will not heal. </li>
<li>Severe dizziness or fainting. </li>
<li>Severe belly pain. </li>
<li>Severe nausea or <a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a>. </li>
<li>Unusual bruising or bleeding. </li>
<li>Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes. </li></ul>
<p>Long-term use of azathioprine may very rarely increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including skin cancer and lymphoma. Limit sun exposure and use sunscreen to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Signs and symptoms of lymphoma to look out for include a painless swelling in one or more of the <a href="/Article?contentid=777&language=English">lymph nodes </a>of the neck, collarbone region, armpits, or groin. </p> | <h2>What safety measures should you take when your child is using azathioprine?</h2>
<p>There are some medicines that should not be taken together with azathioprine or in some cases the dose of azathioprine or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist if your child takes any other medications (prescription, over the counter or herbal) including: </p>
<ul><li><a href="/Article?contentid=67&language=English">Allopurinol</a> </li>
<li><a href="/Article?contentid=112&language=English">Co-trimoxazole</a> (Septra) or <a href="/Article?contentid=257&language=English">trimethoprim</a> </li>
<li>Aspirin containing products </li>
<li><a href="/article?contentid=1069&language=English">Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)</a> (e.g. <a href="/Article?contentid=153&language=English">ibuprofen</a>, <a href="/Article?contentid=198&language=English">naproxen</a>) </li>
<li>Blood thinners (<a href="/Article?contentid=265&language=English">warfarin</a> or <a href="/Article?contentid=108&language=English">clopidogrel</a>) </li>
<li>Garlic, ginseng, ginkgo, or vitamin E </li></ul>
<p>Be careful about vaccinations while your child is receiving this medicine. While your child is being treated with azathioprine, and for several weeks/months after you stop treatment with it, it is important to see your child's doctor about any immunizations (vaccinations) they may need. Do not get any immunizations without your doctor's approval. Some vaccinations must not be given while your child is taking azathioprine. In addition, other people living in the same house should not take oral polio vaccine since there is a chance they could pass the polio virus on to your child. </p>
<p>There is a chance that azathioprine may cause birth defects if it is taken at the time of conception or if it is taken during pregnancy. If your child is sexually active it is recommended that they use some kind of birth control while receiving azathioprine. Tell your doctor right away if you think your child may be pregnant. </p> | <h2>What other important information should you know about azathioprine?</h2><ul><li>Keep a list of all medications your child is on and show the list to the doctor or pharmacist.</li><li>Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child.</li><li>Make sure you always have enough azathioprine to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations. Call your pharmacy at least 2 days before your child runs out of medicine to order refills.</li><li>If your child needs azathioprine liquid, it must be made by a pharmacy. Check if your pharmacy is able to make azathioprine liquid and ensure that you give them plenty of notice as it may take several days.</li><li>Keep azathioprine at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Do NOT store it in the bathroom or kitchen.</li><li>Do not keep any medicines that are out of date. Check with your pharmacist about the best way to throw away outdated or leftover medicines.<br></li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/ICO_DrugA-Z.png | | | Main |
