Dexfenfluramine capsules

What are dexfenfluramine capsules?

DEXFENFLURAMINE (Redux®) was originally marketed as a drug to help you lose weight.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the United States.

What should my health care professional know before I take dexfenfluramine?

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

• diabetes

• heart disease

• high blood pressure

• liver disease

• sleeplessness

• thyroid disease

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

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take dexfenfluramine capsules by mouth, preferably with meals. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow with a drink of water. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

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 drug(s) may interact with dexfenfluramine?

• linezolid

• medicines for blood pressure

• medicines for diabetes

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines that make you drowsy

• other medicines or herbal products for weight loss or to decrease appetite

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines and illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking dexfenfluramine?

Keep in mind that dexfenfluramine was intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. While your prescriber or health care professional will most likely prescribe dexfenfluramine for only a few months, some people have used it for longer periods. Eventually your weight loss may "level out". At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your physician.

What side effects may I notice from taking dexfenfluramine?

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

• breathlessness on exertion

• chest pain

• heart palpitations

• severe dizziness

These symptoms describe a very rare but serious heart condition. Stop using dexfenfluramine and call your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible if you experience any of these side effects.

Most side effects of dexfenfluramine are minor and eventually go away. They include:

• constipation

• diarrhea

• drowsiness

• dry mouth

• frequent passing of urine

• headache

• nausea

• unusual tiredness

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.