Metyrosine Oral capsule Health Article

Generic name(s):

Metyrosine Oral capsule

Brand name(s):

Demser

What is this medicine?

METYROSINE (me TYE roe seen) lowers the amount of epinephrine and norepinephrine that the body makes. It is used to treat pheochromocytoma.

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:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to metyrosine, 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 with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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?

• alcohol
• antihistamines
• barbiturates, like phenobarbital
• general anesthetics
• haloperidol
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for pain
• medicines for sleep
• muscle relaxants
• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine

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?

Visit your doctor or healthcare professional for regular check ups.

After you stop taking this medicine you may have trouble sleeping for a few days.

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 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.

Drink several glasses of water a day. This will help to lower your risk of kidney problems.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• blood in urine
• confusion
• depression
• drooling
• hallucinations
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• swelling in feet, hands
• tremor
• trouble talking

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• drowsy, tired
• dry mouth
• nausea, vomiting
• change in sex drive or performance
• stuffy nose
• unusual milk production in women

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.