Phenylephrine rectal suppository

What is this medicine?

PHENYLEPHRINE (fen il EF rin) is used to treat the itching, swelling, and pain of hemorrhoids.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Take off the foil wrapping. Wet the tip of the suppository with cold tap water to make it easier to use. Lie on your side with your lower leg straightened out and your upper leg bent forward toward your stomach. Lift upper buttock to expose the rectal area. Apply gentle pressure to insert the suppository completely into the rectum, pointed end first. Hold buttocks together for a few seconds. Remain lying down for about 15 minutes to avoid having the suppository come out. Do not use more often than directed.

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

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

• bleeding from the rectum

• breathing problems

• chest pain

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

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

• redness, swelling, pain of the rectum

What may interact with this medicine?

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

• bromocriptine

• cocaine

• dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergoloid mesylates, methysergide, or ergot-type medication

• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

• other stimulant medicines

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• anesthesia

• medicines for blood pressure

• medicines for mental depression

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use 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). Do not refrigerate. 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 the following conditions:

• diabetes

• heart disease

• high blood pressure

• prostate problems

• thyroid disease

• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

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

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. See your doctor if your symptoms last more than 7 days. Do not use if there is blood in your stools. Report rectal bleeding, pain, burning, itching, blistering, or any other sign of irritation to your doctor.