Drugs & Vitamins

Flucytosine oral Active Ingredients: Flucytosine Representative Names: 5-FC, Ancobon What are flucytosine capsules? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I take this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with flucytosine? What side effects may I notice from taking flucytosine? What should I watch for while taking flucytosine? Where can I keep my medicine? What are flucytosine capsules? (Back to top) FLUCYTOSINE (Ancobon®) is an antifungal type of antibiotic. It treats serious fungal infections found throughout the body. These include infections of the heart, blood, urinary tract, or lungs, and meningitis. Generic flucytosine capsules are not yet available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •anemia, blood disorders •dental problems •kidney disease •liver disease •other chronic illness •an unusual or allergic reaction to flucytosine, other foods, dyes or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I take this medicine? (Back to top) Take flucytosine capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take the capsules at regular 6 hour intervals through the day and night. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of capsules prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you feel better. 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? (Back to top) 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 flucytosine? (Back to top) •amphoteracin B •carbamazepine •clozapine •medicines for cancer chemotherapy •medicines for mental problems and pschotic disturbances •norfloxacin •zidovudine (AZT) Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use 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 side effects may I notice from taking flucytosine? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •dark yellow or brown urine •increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light •skin rash, redness, blistering, or peeling of skin •stomach pain •unusual weakness or tiredness •unusual bleeding or bruising •yellowing of the eyes or skin Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •diarrhea •dizziness •headache •loss of appetite •nausea, vomiting What should I watch for while taking flucytosine? (Back to top) Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in a few weeks. Some fungal infections need many weeks or months of treatment to cure. Use your medicine regularly for as long as your prescriber or health care professional tells you to. Flucytosine capsules may make you feel sick. If you are taking 2 or more capsules for each dose, take them 15 minutes apart with a drink of water. This will help to reduce stomach upset. Flucytosine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, or in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth. You may get dizzy; until you know how it affects you do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) 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). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.