Miltefosine 50 mg 100 capsules

Miltefosine 50 mg Capsules - General Patient Instructions

1. What is Miltefosine Used For?
Miltefosine is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat:

• Leishmaniasis: A parasitic disease transmitted by sand fly bites (visceral, cutaneous, and mucosal forms).
• Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM): A very rare and serious brain infection caused by Naegleria fowleri (the "brain-eating amoeba").

2. How to Take It (Dosing Guidelines)

• Dosage: The dose is based on your body weight and the condition being treated. Your doctor will calculate your exact dose.
• Administration: Take the capsules with food (preferably during a meal) to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.
• Schedule: Usually taken once or twice daily for a specified number of days (e.g., 28 days for leishmaniasis). Follow your doctor's schedule precisely.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break them.
• Consistency: Try to take it at the same time(s) each day.

3. Important Warnings & Side Effects

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Contraindication:
  • DO NOT take Miltefosine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause severe birth defects. You must have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment.
  • Effective contraception is required during treatment and for several months after (as advised by your doctor).
  • DO NOT breastfeed while taking this medicine and for some time after.
• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, dizziness, and loss of appetite are very common. Taking it with food helps. Inform your doctor if these are severe.
• Serious Side Effects (Seek medical help immediately):
  • Signs of severe liver problems (yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, severe abdominal pain).
  • Signs of kidney problems (swelling, changes in urination).
  • Severe skin reactions.
  • Hearing changes or ringing in the ears.
• Vomiting: If you vomit within 30 minutes of taking a dose, take another dose. If you vomit more than 30 minutes after a dose, do NOT take an extra dose. Wait and take the next dose at the regular time.

4. What to Avoid

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of liver problems and worsen side effects like nausea.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Miltefosine can interact with other medications.

5. Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place (not necessarily refrigerated unless specified by the manufacturer/pharmacist).
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

6. Missed Dose

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Do not double the dose to catch up.

7. Monitoring
Your doctor will likely order regular blood tests (to check liver and kidney function) during your treatment.

Summary of Key Instructions (Quick Reference)

✔ Take WITH FOOD.
✔ Swallow capsule whole.
✔ Use reliable contraception (Pregnancy is STRICTLY forbidden).
✔ Report severe vomiting, diarrhea, or yellow skin/eyes to your doctor.
❌ Do not get pregnant.
❌ Do not breastfeed.
❌ Avoid alcohol.

Final and Most Important Instruction:
This is a potent prescription medication. Your specific treatment plan (dose, duration) is determined by your doctor based on your individual condition, weight, and health status. You must complete the full course of treatment even if you start to feel better. Do not change your dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.