Cysteamine capsules

What is this medicine?

CYSTEAMINE (sis TEE a meen) breaks down cystine in the body. It is used to treat nephropathic cystinosis in children and adults. This medicine is not a cure.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Capsules of this medicine may be opened and sprinkled on food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

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

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

• bone pain or fractures

• breathing problems

• changes in vision

• confusion, depression, other mood changes

• dark urine

• eye pain

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• fever or chills, sore throat

• general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms

• nausea, vomiting

• purple skin lesions

• ringing in the ears

• seizures

• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

• unusually bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

• yellowing of eyes or skin

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

• constipation or diarrhea

• drowsiness

• headache

• loss of appetite

• stomach upset

• unpleasant breath

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Store in a dry place away from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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

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

• bone problems

• depression or other nervous system problems

• history of blood disease

• history of stomach bleeding

• liver disease

• seizures

• skin conditions or sensitivity

• stomach or intestine problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to cysteamine, penicillamine, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You will need regular blood tests while you are taking this medicine.

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.