Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

You may need to cycle between periods of taking the medicine and taking breaks from the medicine to allow your body to recover. Follow your instructions carefully.

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

If you forget a dose, just wait. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not use 2 doses at once.

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.

Learn how to check blood pressure at home.

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.

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

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.

To avoid a serious skin reaction, avoid heat and hot water. Also avoid pressure on elbows, knees, and feet. For example, avoid tight clothing, kneeling, or long walks.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 month after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men should use reliable birth control while taking this medicine and for at least 1 month after finishing this medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

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.

• decreased appetite
• coughing
• lack of energy and tiredness
• hoarseness or throat irritation
• mouth sores or irritation
• nausea and vomiting
• weight loss

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

• severe or persistent abdominal pain
• chest or jaw pain
• changes in memory, mood, or thinking
• confusion
• constipation
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fever or chills
• severe or persistent headache
• slow heartbeat
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• seizures
• sore throat
• difficulty speaking
• bloody or dark, tarry stools
• excessive or unusual sweating
• difficulty adjusting to changes in temperature
• blurring or changes of vision
• weakness on one side of the body
• sudden or unexplained change in weight
• 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.