Dronabinol Oral capsule, liquid filled Health Article

Generic name(s):

Dronabinol Oral capsule, liquid filled

Brand name(s):

Dronabinol, Marinol

What is this medicine?

DRONABINOL (droe NAB i nol) is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatment, especially for those patients who do not respond to other medicines. This medicine is also used to increase appetite in AIDS patients.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• a history of drug or alcohol abuse
• heart disease, including angina or irregular heart rate
• high or low blood pressure
• dizziness or fainting spells on standing
• mental health problems (schizophrenia, mania, depression)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to dronabinol, marijuana, sesame oil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• nabilone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• alcohol-containing medicines or drinks
• amphetamine or other stimulant drugs
• barbiturates such as phenobarbital
• certain antidepressants or tranquilizers
• certain antihistamines used in cold medicines
• cocaine
• disulfiram
• muscle relaxants
• theophylline

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

The first time you take this medicine or have an increase in dose make sure there is a responsible person nearby. You may experience mood changes, easy laughter, or other changes in behavior.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you have low blood pressure or if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

If you are taking this medicine to improve your appetite, this is only part of your therapy. Discuss what you can eat and ways of improving your diet with your health care professional or nutritionist. Frequent small snacks as well as regular meals can help provide extra calories and protein.

Do not smoke marijuana while you are taking this medicine. It is similar to one of the active substances found in marijuana. You are at increased risk of serious heart and/or nervous system side effects if these drugs are used together.