Instructions

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Follow instructions on the package for storing medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

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.

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

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

This medicine may affect the strength of your bones. If you have or are at increased risk for osteoporosis (weakening of the bones), your doctor may recommend foods with calcium and vitamin D.

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

Cautions

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

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

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.

• headaches
• menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
• stomach upset or abdominal pain

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

• bleeding or bruising
• bone pain
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• depression or feeling sad
• dizziness
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fever or chills
• fast or irregular heart beats
• mood changes
• joint or muscle pain
• small red, purple or brown spots on the skin
• seizures
• thinning of the skin
• sore throat
• severe stomach or bowel pain
• bloody or dark, tarry stools
• persistent or unusual thirst
• increased urinary frequency
• blurring or changes of vision
• weakness
• sudden or unexplained weight gain
• slow wound healing

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.