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Vanceril |
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What is Vanceril and why is it prescribed? Vanceril is prescribed for the prevention of recurring symptoms of bronchial asthma. Vanceril is not a bronchodilator medication and it should not be used for relief of asthma when bronchodilators and other nonsteroid drugs prove effective. Do not expect immediate relief from Vanceril, and do not take higher doses in an attempt to make it work. It is not intended for rapid relief, but it will help control symptoms when taken routinely. How should you take Vanceril? Follow your doctors directions for taking Vanceril. Vanceril is prescribed in an oral inhalant or a nasal spray form. Although some people begin to notice improvement within a day or two, it may take 1 or 2 weeks for the full benefits to appear. If there is no improvement after 3 weeks, let your doctor know. If you are already taking a steroid in tablet form for asthma, you will need to make a gradual transition to the oral inhalant. During the first week, you will probably take the usual number of tablets. After that, you will be instructed to slowly reduce the number of tablets, replacing them with the inhalant. Be sure to take Vanceril regularly, even if you have no symptoms. Many people will require additional drugs to control asthma symptoms fully, but this drug may allow other drugs to be used in smaller doses. If you are also using a bronchodilator inhalant, take it before inhaling Vanceril. This will improve the effect of the second drug. Take the two inhalations several minutes apart. Spray the inhalation aerosol into the air twice before you use it for the first time and when you have not used it for more than 7 days. Use it within 6 months. Gargling and rinsing your mouth with water after each dose may help prevent hoarseness and throat irritation. Do not swallow the water after you rinse. Be careful to avoid spraying the medication into your eyes. This medication comes with directions. Read them carefully before using it. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember and take the remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. If it is time for your next dose, skip the one you missed. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Vanceril at room temperature in a dry place, away from heat and cold. Do not puncture the container, store it near open flame, or dispose of it in a fire or incinerator. Are there any Vanceril side effects? Vanceril side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Vanceril side effects may include acne, agitation, allergic reactions, breathing problems, bruising, cataracts, chest pain, cold sores, cough, depression, dizziness, dry mouth, ear infections, fever, fluid retention, flu-like symptoms, headache, hives, hoarseness, increased pressure within the eye, itching, joint pain, light-headedness, mental disturbances, moon face, mouth or throat infection, muscle pain, nasal and throat dryness and irritation, nasal burning, nausea, nose infection, nosebleed, pain, pinkeye, "pins and needles" sensation, ringing in the ears, runny nose, skin rash, skin wasting, sneezing, sore mouth or throat, stuffy nose, stunted growth, tearing eyes, unpleasant--or loss of--taste and smell, upset stomach, vomiting, weight gain, and wheezing. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Vanceril? If Vanceril is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. There is no interaction information available. Are there any special warnings about Vanceril? When steroid drugs are taken by mouth they substitute for and decrease the body's normal ability to make its own steroids as well as its ability to respond to stress. There is a risk of causing a serious condition called "adrenal insufficiency" when people change from steroid tablets taken by mouth to aerosol Vanceril. Although the aerosol may provide adequate control of asthma during the changeover period, it does not provide the normal amount of steroid the body needs during acute stress situations, such as injury, surgery, and infection--particularly stomach flu. If you are being transferred from steroid tablets to Vanceril and you experience a period of stress or a severe asthma attack, contact your doctor immediately. You should also carry a warning card indicating that you may need steroid tablets during such incidents. As you continue taking Vanceril, your doctor may conduct periodic tests to measure your adrenal function. Transfer from steroid tablet therapy to Vanceril aerosol may reactivate allergic conditions that were previously suppressed by the steroid tablet therapy, such as runny nose, inflamed eyelids, and eczema. Some people also experience withdrawal side effects when they switch from tablets to aerosol. Potential symptoms include joint or muscle pain, weakness, and depression. Inform your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. High doses of steroids can suppress your immune system. When Vanceril is used nasally, your chances of developing nose and throat infections increase. Also take extra care to avoid exposure to measles or chickenpox if you have never had them or never had shots. These infections can be serious or even fatal if your immune system is below par. If you are exposed, seek medical advice immediately. Symptoms such as mental disturbances, increased bruising, weight gain, facial swelling, acne, menstrual irregularities, increased pressure in the eyes, and cataracts may occur with steroids. If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your doctor immediately. If you have ever had cataracts or increased eye pressure, your doctor will monitor you closely if you have any problems with your vision. Long-term use of steroids can slow down growth in children. If your child seems to be growing more slowly than normal, call your doctor. If bronchodilator medications seem less effective after you start taking Vanceril, be sure to tell your doctor. Do not abruptly stop using Vanceril on your own. If you have tuberculosis, a herpes infection of the eye, or any untreated infection, your doctor may not want you to use an inhaled steroid. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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