mecamylamine - oral, Inversine

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GENERIC NAME: MECAMYLAMINE - ORAL (ME-ka-MIL-a-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): Inversine

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat moderately severe to severe high blood pressure. It can also be used in sudden high blood pressure emergencies (malignant hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Mecamylamine belongs to a class of drugs known as ganglion blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually 2 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Food can affect how this medication works. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start treatment at a low dose or take it less often. Your doctor may then gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when you suddenly stop this drug. A rapid rise in blood pressure may occur when the drug is abruptly stopped. Also, there have been rare reports of severe, possibly fatal reactions (such as stroke, heart failure) from stopping this drug too quickly. To prevent these problems while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may lower your dose gradually over several days. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.It is important that you do not run out of mecamylamine or miss any doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you are unable to take the medication (for example, due to vomiting).When used for a long time, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing or an additional medication. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well or if your condition persists or worsens (for example, your routine blood pressure readings increase).

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.