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papaverine - oral, Pavabid, Vasal

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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 throughout the body, including the heart and the brain. Papaverine is a vasodilator. It works by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels.Papaverine is also an antiarrhythmic medication that treats certain abnormal heartbeats (ventricular arrhythmias). It works by blocking the abnormal electrical activity in the heart so a normal heart beat can return. It may also help the heart beat better by increasing the blood flow to the heart.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually every 8 to 12 hours or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, warm/red face (flushing), sweating, headache, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. To lower your risk of serious side effects, follow your doctor's directions and keep all medical/lab appointments.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fast/irregular heartbeat, vision changes (e.g., blurred/double vision).Papaverine has rarely caused very serious liver disease. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of liver disease, including persistent nausea, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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.