SAMSCA

Do not use Samsca in people with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity: Samsca should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the medication or any of its components. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• Anuria: Samsca is contraindicated in patients with anuria, which is the lack of urine production. This condition may be a result of severe kidney dysfunction or complete obstruction of the urinary tract. Since Samsca increases urine output, it would not be effective in individuals with anuria and may further worsen the condition.
• Hepatic impairment: Samsca is contraindicated in patients with significant hepatic impairment, as it can increase the risk of liver damage. It is important to assess liver function before initiating treatment and monitor liver enzymes regularly during therapy.
• Concomitant use with strong CYP3A inhibitors: Samsca is metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP3A, and concomitant use with strong CYP3A inhibitors can increase Samsca blood levels, leading to an increased risk of adverse effects. Examples of strong CYP3A inhibitors include clarithromycin, ketoconazole, and ritonavir. If these medications are necessary, alternative treatment options should be considered.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Samsca should not be used during pregnancy, as its safety has not been established. It is also not recommended for use while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant.

Samsca may have the following side effects:

• Thirst and dry mouth: Samsca works by increasing urine output, which can lead to increased thirst and dry mouth. It is important to stay adequately hydrated and drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
• Increased urination: Samsca can cause an increase in urine volume, which may result in more frequent urination.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Samsca can affect electrolyte levels in the body, particularly sodium. It is important to have regular monitoring of electrolyte levels to ensure they remain within normal range.
• Dizziness and lightheadedness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Samsca. This may be more common when standing up quickly. It is important to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize the risk of falls.
• Increased liver enzymes: Samsca can cause an increase in liver enzymes, which may indicate liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function is necessary during treatment.
• Hyperglycemia: Samsca can cause an increase in blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is important, especially in those with pre-existing diabetes.
• Headache and fatigue: Some individuals may experience headaches and fatigue while taking Samsca. If these symptoms persist or become severe, it is important to inform your healthcare provider.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Samsca can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some individuals. If these symptoms are persistent or severe, it is important to seek medical attention.

Keep in mind that your physician has recommended this drug since he or she has known that the advantage to you is more noteworthy than the risk of adverse reactions. Many individuals utilizing this medicine don’t have serious side effects.

A serious allergy to this medication is uncommon. In any case, seek emergency medical help if you see any manifestations of a serious allergic response, including a rash, tingling or swelling particularly of the face or tongue or throat, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you see other effects not recorded above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Kidney function: Samsca is primarily excreted through the kidneys, so it is important to assess kidney function before starting treatment. If you have pre-existing kidney disease or impaired kidney function, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage or closely monitor your kidney function during treatment.
• Fluid and electrolyte imbalances: Samsca can cause changes in fluid and electrolyte levels in the body. It is important to monitor these levels regularly, especially sodium levels, to prevent imbalances. If you have a history of electrolyte imbalances or are taking medications that can affect fluid or electrolyte levels, your healthcare provider should be informed.
• Hypotension: Samsca may cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness. It is important to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize the risk of falls. If you experience persistent or severe low blood pressure, inform your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Samsca should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Samsca may also pass into breast milk, so it is recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication.
• Liver function: Samsca can affect liver enzymes and function. It is important to assess liver function before initiating treatment and monitor liver enzymes regularly during therapy. If you have pre-existing liver disease or impaired liver function, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage or closely monitor your liver function during treatment.
• Drug interactions: Samsca can interact with other medications, including strong CYP3A inhibitors, which can increase Samsca blood levels and the risk of adverse effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, that you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Hyponatremia correction: Samsca should not be used for rapid correction of hyponatremia (low sodium levels) or in patients with severe hyponatremia who are symptomatic. Rapid correction of hyponatremia can lead to neurological complications, so careful monitoring and gradual correction are important.

Prior to taking this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have some other hypersensitivities. This drug may contain inert ingredients which can cause unfavorable side effects or different issues. Talk with your pharmacist for more information.

Interactions

Samsca may interact with the following medicines:

• Strong CYP3A inhibitors: Samsca is metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A, and strong inhibitors of this enzyme can increase Samsca blood levels. Examples of strong CYP3A inhibitors include ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir, and grapefruit juice. The concomitant use of Samsca with these medications should be avoided or used with caution, as it can increase the risk of Samsca-related side effects.
• Strong CYP3A inducers: Conversely, strong inducers of CYP3A can decrease Samsca blood levels and potentially reduce its effectiveness. Examples of strong CYP3A inducers include rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and St. John’s wort. Co-administration of Samsca with these medications may require dose adjustments to maintain therapeutic levels.
• Diuretics and other medications that affect fluid and electrolyte balance: Samsca is a diuretic that can cause changes in fluid and electrolyte levels in the body. Concurrent use of other diuretics or medications that affect fluid and electrolyte balance (such as loop diuretics or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists) may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring of electrolyte levels is important in such cases.
• Lithium: Samsca may increase lithium levels in the blood, leading to an increased risk of lithium toxicity. If you are taking lithium, your healthcare provider will need to monitor your lithium levels closely if Samsca is initiated or discontinued.
• Digoxin: Samsca can increase the plasma concentration of digoxin, a medication used to treat heart conditions. Close monitoring of digoxin levels and potential digoxin toxicity is recommended if Samsca is used concomitantly with digoxin.

Inform your physician about the drugs you take including over-the-counter medications, prescribed drugs, supplements and vitamins.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Approach your physician or pharmacist for more details.

The effects of certain medications can change if you consume different medications or herbal products simultaneously. This can build your risk for side effects or may cause your drugs not to work effectively. These interactions are conceivable, yet don’t generally happen. Your physician or pharmacist can prevent or oversee interactions by changing how you utilize your prescriptions or by close checking.

While utilizing this drug, don’t start, stop, or change the dose of other medicines you are using without your physician’s advice.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.

Available Brands:

• Tolvaptan