This medication is typically used to help induce sleep. It may also be used for depression, as well as for other uses. When used as a treatment for a mood disorder, this medication produces its full effect only after a few weeks.
The dosage of this medication depends on what it is used for. Depending on the circumstance, it may be used regularly or only as needed. Follow the instructions provided by your health care professional. It is not advisable to chew or crush this medication since it has an unpleasant taste.
It is not advisable to stop using this product suddenly, particularly if you have been on it for several weeks. If you are considering stopping the medication, talk to your pharmacist first. It is preferable to take this medication with a meal or a snack in order to reduce side effects.
Consuming alcohol may intensify the effect of this product. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Talk to your health care professional to find out exactly how much alcohol you can drink.
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.
Rarely, this product causes potentially severe reactions, mostly if taken at high doses or with some other drugs. If you experience agitation, confusion, diarrhea, fever, tremor and muscular rigidity or contractions, you should contact your doctor.
This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.
A treatment with this medication requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.
Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.