GENERIC NAME: PAPAVERINE - ORAL (pap-AV-er-een)
BRAND NAME(S): Pavabid, Vasal
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to increase blood flow in certain parts of the body.
HOW TO USE: If this medication upsets your stomach, take it with food, milk or antacids. Smoking may decrease the effects of this medication. Make sure you understand how often to take this medication and the maximum amount of medication that should be taken. Review your dosing directions with your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure to ask any questions you may have.
SIDE EFFECTS: May cause dizziness, flushing of face, fast pulse, or deep breathing, especially when injected. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Avoid activities requiring alertness if dizziness or drowsiness occurs. Notify your doctor if you experience: blurred or double vision, extreme drowsiness or weakness, yellowing eyes or skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking papaverine, tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, glaucoma, Parkinson's disease, drug allergies. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known whether papaverine appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially: levodopa. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, double vision, drowsiness, dizziness, and uncontrolled eye movement.
NOTES: Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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.
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