Samsca drug: Uses, indications and notes when using

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Samsca (generic name is Tolvaptan) is used to treat low levels of salt (sodium) in the blood, which can be the result of conditions such as heart failure and an imbalance of certain hormones in the body. . Tolvaptan belongs to a class of drugs known as vasopressin receptor antagonists that work by increasing urine production, causing the body to excrete more water. This helps to slowly increase the blood salt level and reach the normal value.

1. How to use Samsca

Patients should carefully read the instructions for use from the manufacturer or provided by the pharmacist before starting tolvaptan. If you have any questions or concerns, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Samsca is to be taken by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. The medicine is usually taken once per day. You should not take this medicine for longer than 30 days unless directed by your doctor.
To avoid losing too much water in the body, always have water ready to drink while taking tolvaptan. Drink water when you feel thirsty, or as otherwise directed by your doctor.
Use Samsca regularly to achieve the best effect. To make it easier for you to remember, take your medicine at the same time each day. Do not stop or use the medicine on your own without consulting your doctor. You may have to return to the hospital before you start using this medicine again. Tell and discuss with your doctor immediately if you stop taking Samsca for any reason.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using Samsca unless your doctor or pharmacist says you can safely do so. Because grapefruit can increase the risk of drug side effects. The dose of Samsca is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

2. Some side effects of the drug Samsca

When using Samsca, the patient may experience thirst, dry mouth, loss of appetite, constipation or weakness. If any of these effects persist or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist right away.
People with severe liver disease, such as cirrhosis, may have an increased risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding when taking Samsca. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
Black/bloody stools, Vomiting that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds. Tolvaptan has rarely caused serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, such as: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine .
Severe allergic reactions to Samsca are very rare. However, get immediate medical help if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face) /tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
The above is not a complete list of possible side effects when using Samsca. If you notice other side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

3. Precautionary measures

Before taking tolvaptan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to the medicine or if you have any allergies to other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may still cause allergic reactions or other problems.
In addition, the patient also needs to tell the doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially: diabetes mellitus, liver disease, decreased ability to produce urine (anuria), history of alcohol abuse. Samsca can rarely cause your blood sugar to rise, or make diabetes worse. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar as often as directed and report the results to your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
During pregnancy, Samsca should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. There are currently not enough data to conclude whether Samsca passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding

4. Samsca drug interactions:

Drug interactions can change the way a drug works or increase the risk of serious side effects. Patients should keep a list of all the products they are taking (including prescription/over-the-counter medicines and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine without your doctor's approval.
One drug that may interact with Samsca is: desmopressin. Other drugs may affect the clearance of tolvaptan from your body, which may affect how tolvaptan works. Examples include azole antifungals (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole), boceprevir, cobicistat, HIV protease inhibitors (such as lopinavir, ritonavir), macrolide antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin), ribociclib, rifamy arbutin, etc. such as rifamy arbutin, St. John's wort, medicines used to treat seizures (such as carbamazepine, phenytoin), telaprevir, among others.

5. Samsca drug overdose reaction

If someone has overdosed on Samsca and has severe symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911 or take the person to the nearest medical facility.
Note that Samsca should not be used with other drugs without consulting a doctor. Some laboratory tests need to be done while using Samsca, including blood sodium and potassium levels.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed dose.
Above is important information about Samsca drug, you need to pay close attention to taking the drug to bring good results and minimize the risks to health.

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Reference source: webmd.com