Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

This medicine should only be used by a person who has been trained to recognize when and how it should be used.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

To reduce constipation, eat high fiber foods, drink plenty of water and exercise.

If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

This medicine has an opioid. Opioids help many people but may cause addiction, especially if used for a long time. The addiction risk is higher if you have a substance use disorder (overuse of or addiction to drugs or alcohol). Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should have naloxone on hand to treat opioid overdose. Teach your family or household members about the signs of an opioid overdose and how to treat it.

If you stop this medicine suddenly after using it for a long time, you may have withdrawal. Your doctor may slowly lower your dose before stopping it. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms, such as unusual sweating, watering eyes, runny nose, chills, diarrhea, yawning, muscle aches, restlessness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, or thoughts of suicide.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting. Do not stand or sit up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not operate machinery or drive while on this medicine.

If possible, avoid using with alcohol, marijuana, or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Use medicine with caution if you have breathing problems. Get help right away for slow or shallow breathing.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• constipation
• dizziness or drowsiness
• dry mouth
• headaches
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• shallow, irregular breathing
• changes in memory, mood, or thinking
• confusion
• fainting
• hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
• seizures
• shortness of breath
• cold, moist skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.