FitSugar

5 Highest Sources of Zinc

FitSugar — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 11:00:00 -0700

I'm sure you rarely think to yourself, "Did I get enough zinc today?" Zinc just doesn't get the press like other minerals, calcium for instance. Zinc is an essential mineral since it's present in every cell of our bodies. We need zinc for a healthy immune system (it helps increase the production of white blood cells) to heal wounds, and in order to have the ability to taste and smell. Two of my favorite senses. Zinc has also been shown to slow the growth of cancer.

Adult women should be getting 9 mg of zinc per day, and it's best to obtain your zinc from actual food rather than a supplement, so here are some great sources:

6 ounces of oysters: 75 mg
3 ounces of crab: 7 mg
3 ounces of beef: 6 mg
1 cup chopped chicken: 2.9 mg
1 cup chickpeas: 2.5 mg

Fit's Tips: If you consume more than 50 mg of zinc (as can happen if you take supplements), it can lead to improper copper metabolism, altered iron function, reduction of HDLs (good cholesterol), and reduced immune function.

Source

Eye on IRON

FitSugar — Thu, 09 Nov 2006 03:00:00 -0800

Spinach went from being one of ‘the healthiest foods you could eat’ to ‘the throw it all out as fast as you can’ foods. In case another media crazed E-Coli outbreak surfaces, we're going to have to find other ways to get that iron, as spinach was (and still is) one of the best plant sources of getting this mineral.

For further ideas on how to get your iron, read more

Eat more foods rich in Iron, such as:

Meat, such as Beef, Pork or Lamb
Liver, if you can stomach it
Cereals, such as Total and Cream of Wheat
Potatos, with the skin still on
Beans, such as Garbanzo Beans

Fit's Tip: To further enhance your absorption of Iron, pair foods high in Iron with foods high in Vitamin C, like bell peppers--the Vitamin C helps absorb more Iron into your body. An easy and yummy way to get your Iron on: Try dipping Vitamin C-rich bell peppers into a garbanzo bean made hummus.

Source

Mineral supplement combination (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:09:59 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Supplies your body with minerals if you are not getting enough through your regular diet.

Brand Name(s)

Calcium/Magnesium/Zinc, Florical, Monocal, Mineral Compleet, Magnebind 200, Nonamin, Mineral Compleet Chelated, Life-Pack Women's, Slow-Mag, Mag64, Mag Delay, Mag-SR Plus Calcium, Nutra-Support Bone, Tonsiline, 666 Preparation w/Quinine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any of the minerals that are in the specific supplement you are using. The label on the package should list all of the minerals that the supplement contains.

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Chewable Tablet, Coated Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Liquid, Powder

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
Some minerals, such as calcium, may need to be taken with food or milk. Read the package label to find out if you need to take your supplement with food or milk.
Some oral liquid supplements can be mixed with water or juice. Read the package label to find out how to take your supplement if you want to mix it in water or juice.

If a dose is missed:

Missing a dose of a mineral supplement is usually not a problem.
If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Some oral liquid supplements need to be stored in the refrigerator. Read the package label to find out how to store your liquid supplement. Do not freeze.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Some medicines contain minerals. For example, many antacid medicines (such as Tums®) contain magnesium and calcium. Read the label on any medicine to make sure you are not getting too many minerals.
Some minerals can interfere with other medicines. You might need to take your mineral supplement at a different time than you take other medicines. If you are using any other medicine, ask your pharmacist or doctor about this.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Some minerals should not be used if you have certain health problems. If you have an on-going disease or other health problem, do not use this medicine unless your doctor says it is okay. Some health problems that could be affected by minerals are cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, kidney stones, food allergies, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or problems with your hyperparathyroid gland.
If you are using a mineral supplement that contains iron, it might have enough iron to poison a small child. Be very careful to keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If a child does swallow some of this medicine, call a doctor or poison control center right away.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Diarrhea or constipation
Nausea, loss of appetite, or upset stomach

Review Date: 8/4/2008

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A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5326

Parenteral mineral/trace mineral combination (Injection)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:09:35 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Provides your body with needed minerals when you are dehydrated or cannot eat food by mouth. You also may need this medicine if you have certain nutrition problems, or serious medical problems such as AIDS, cancer, or burns.

Brand Name(s)

Dexferrum, Infed, Chloromag, Iodopen, Calphosan, Venofer, Ferrlecit, Multilyte-20 Concentrate, Multilyte-40 Concentrate, Molypen, M.T.E.-7, M.T.E.-5, Multitrace-5, M.T.E.-5 Concentrate, M.T.E.-4

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

This medicine is ordered by a doctor to provide nutrients that your body needs. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, there is no reason why you should not receive this medicine.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.You will need to add this medicine with another solution before using it.
Do not use this medicine if the liquid looks cloudy or has solid pieces floating in it. Do not use the medicine if it is leaking from the bag or container. If your medicine comes in a single-dose vial, throw away any medicine that is left over after you have removed your dose from the vial. Carefully follow all instructions for preparing and using this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.Some forms of this medicine may need to be stored in the refrigerator. Follow your pharmacist's instructions. Remove the medicine from the refrigerator at least 2 hours before using it. This will bring the solution to room temperature and make the injection more comfortable for you. Do not heat the medicine in a microwave oven.
Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets. Follow any special instructions about how to throw away empty medicine bottles, tubes, or bags.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a heart medicine called digoxin (Lanoxin®, Digitek®).
Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
Do not use any other mineral supplements or electrolytes (such as GoLYTELY®, Pedialyte®, or Gatorade®) without asking your doctor first.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Your mineral needs may be different than normal.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have liver problems or kidney disease. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, heart disease, heart rhythm problems, or if you are on a low-salt diet. Make sure your doctor knows about any other health problems you may have.
Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Giving this medicine too quickly may be dangerous, even life-threatening. Follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist giving this medicine. Always use the IV pump and other equipment as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Confusion, weakness, trouble moving, or seizures.
New coughing or trouble breathing.
Heartbeat that is uneven or too fast.
Lightheadedness or fainting.
Muscle twitching.
Numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or lips.
Pain, redness, or swelling where the medicine is given.
Sudden sweating, flushing (heat and redness to the face and upper body), or chills.
Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet, or rapid weight gain.
Trouble urinating, or a change in how much or how often you urinate.
Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.
Vomiting blood.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Blurred vision.
Dry mouth, increased thirst, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting.
Muscle cramps.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5300

Vitamins and Minerals: What's the Diff?

FitSugar — Mon, 09 Apr 2007 02:00:00 -0700

First off, it's good to know that our bodies require 6 nutrients:

Carbohydrates
Fats
Protein
Vitamins
Minerals
Water

Carbs, fat, and protein are known as macronutrients because we need to eat them in larger quantities (grams per day). Our bodies metabolize them and turn them into energy.

Vitamins and Minerals are considered micronutrients because we need them in smaller quantities (milligrams per day). They don't give us energy but rather help our bodies carry out necessary and important physiological processes.

Vitamins are either water-soluble (water is required for absorption and are excreted in urine) or fat-soluble (requires fat for absorption and are stored in fat tissue). There are 9 different water-soluble vitamins: Vitamin C and all 8 B vitamins. There are 4 fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E, and K.

Each of these vitamins have unique roles and functions in our bodies. For example, Vitamin A promotes healthy eyesight and helps us see in the dark while Vitamin K plays an essential role in clotting the blood.
Minerals are either Macro (major) or Micro (trace) minerals. Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and sulfur are considered Macro minerals and are needed in quantities of 100 mg a day or more.
Iron, iodine, zinc, chromium, selenium, fluoride, molybdenum, copper, and manganese are Micro minerals, and are needed in much smaller or "trace" amounts.

There are 16 essential minerals and they are also needed to keep the body healthy. Calcium prevents osteoporosis and iron prevents anemia.

Want to know what else makes them different? Then read more

Vitamins are organic which means they contain carbon, and they contain atoms of one or more different elements. Minerals are pure inorganic elements (containing atoms of the same element), meaning they are much simpler in chemical form than vitamins.

Vitamins can be affected by heat, light, and chemicals so proper processing, cooking, and storage is necessary to preserve their health benefits. Minerals on the other hand are considered more stable.

Fit's Tips: To get enough vitamins and minerals each day, make sure you're eating a variety of fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and protein. It's completely possible to get everything you need in your diet alone. If you are concerned about a deficiency, get tested by your doctor.

The Skinny on: Vitamins vs. Minerals

FitSugar — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:30:00 -0700

We all know we should be consuming enough vitamins and minerals. We need them in order to stay healthy, but did you ever think about what the difference between the two is? Vitamins come from the plants and meat we eat. They are essential nutrients that fall into one of two categories: water soluble or fat soluble. Vitamin C and all eight B vitamins are water-soluble, which means water is required for their absorption. These nine vitamins are found mostly in fruits, veggies, and grains. You need water-soluble vitamins every day, and the extra is flushed out when you go to the bathroom. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble, and are mostly found in fatty foods such as meat, dairy, vegetable oils, and oily fish. They require fat for absorption and are stored in fat tissue for later use. If you eat excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins, they can be harmful to your body so pay close attention to your diet.

To hear all about minerals and find out if taking supplements is necessary read more.

Minerals fall into one of two categories as well: macro or micro. The ones needed in quantities of 100 mg or more are considered macro such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and sulfur. The ones needed in much smaller, trace amounts are considered micro. Iron, iodine, zinc, chromium, selenium, fluoride, molybdenum, copper, and manganese are micro minerals. There are 16 essential minerals needed by the body, and you can obtain them from a variety of foods including meat, cereals, bread, fish, milk, vegetables, fruit (especially dried fruit), nuts, and also from water.

Fit's Tip: The best way to get the vitamins and minerals your body needs is from your diet. As long as you're eating a variety of foods, vitamin supplements aren't necessary.

Vitamin/mineral combination, adult formula (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:09:31 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Multivitamins with minerals are given to people who need more vitamins and minerals in their diet.

Brand Name(s)

Nicomide, Premesis Rx, Strovite Advance, Hemocyte Plus, Vinate II, Duet, Duet Stuartnatal, PreCare Premier, Vita S Forte, Encora, Folgard OS, Vica-Forte, Strovite Plus, CalciFol, Centrum

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to a vitamin, multivitamin, or any mineral (such as fluoride, calcium, iron, zinc, and others).

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Long Acting Capsule, Capsule, Liquid, Chewable Tablet, Wafer, Liquid Filled Capsule, Long Acting Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
Swallow the capsule or tablet whole, unless the directions say you can break, crush, or chew the vitamin. Some tablets have a special coating and should not be chewed. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.
Measure the oral liquid vitamins with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, medicine dropper, or medicine cup. You may mix the liquid with food.
For spray vitamins: Spray the liquid directly into your mouth, on the inside of your cheek. Wait 30 seconds before swallowing.

If a dose is missed:

If a dose is missed, you can take it when you remember.
It is generally not harmful if you miss a dose of a multivitamin.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store at room temperature in a closed container away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

If you are pregnant or breast feeding, check with your doctor. It is very important during this time to take the right vitamins in the right amounts.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease. You should not use certain brands of this medicine if you have kidney disease or are on dialysis. Some brands contain ingredients that could be harmful if your kidneys are not working properly. Always ask your health caregiver what specific brands of this medicine will work best for you.
This medicine might contain phenylalanine (aspartame). This is only a concern if you have a disorder called phenylketonuria (a problem with amino acids). Talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
You should not use more of this medicine than your doctor has ordered or more than the label on the bottle recommends. Certain vitamins can build up in the body and may cause harm.
Vitamin supplements can sometimes make the stool darker and the urine dark yellow. This is normal.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Constipation or diarrhea
Loss of appetite, indigestion, or nausea
Staining of teeth
Tiredness

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5295

Mineral oil (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:08:58 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Mineral Oil (MIN-er-al oyl)

Treats constipation. This medicine is a laxative.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mineral oil. You should not use this medicine if you are pregnant or bedridden, or if you have trouble swallowing. You should not give this medicine to a child under 6 years of age.

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid

If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine is to be taken as needed. Follow the directions on the package.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Ask your doctor before using this medicine if you are also using other treatments for constipation, such as a stool softener.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you have severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting before using this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have had a sudden change in your bowel movements that has lasted for more than 2 weeks.
You should not use this laxative for longer than 1 week unless approved by your doctor. Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long.
You may not see results from this medicine for 6 to 8 hours after you use it.
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor if you have any blood in your stool, bleeding from your rectum, or if you are still unable to have a bowel movement.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Nausea or vomiting.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5253

Mineral oil/pramoxine/zinc oxide (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:08:11 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Mineral Oil (MIN-er-al oyl), Pramoxine (pra-MOX-een), Zinc Oxide (zink OX-ide)

Treats itching, burning, or pain in and around the anus caused by hemorrhoids.

Brand Name(s)

Tucks

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mineral oil, pramoxine, or to zinc.

How to Use This Medicine

Ointment

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
This medicine is for use only on your skin in your anus or around your anus. Do not get any medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Clean the anal region with mild soap and warm water and rinse thoroughly.
Gently dry the area with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying the medicine.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine applicator(s), containers, and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.
You should not use this medicine for your child unless your doctor tells you to.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Bleeding from your rectum.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Redness, irritation, swelling, or pain where you have applied the medicine.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5193

Parenteral electrolyte/mineral combination (Injection)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:03:14 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Provides your body with needed minerals when you are severely dehydrated or cannot eat food by mouth. You also may need this medicine if you have serious medical problems such as AIDS, cancer, or serious burns.

Brand Name(s)

Plasma-Lyte R, Hyperlite R, Hyperlite, TPN Electrolytes, Nutrilyte II, Lypholyte-II, Plasma-Lyte A pH-7.4, Plasma-Lyte 148, Plasma-Lyte 56, Isolyte S pH 7.4, Nutrilyte, Lypholyte

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

Parenteral electrolytes and minerals provide nutrients that your body needs. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, there is no reason why you should not receive this medicine.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you receive this medicine at home, a caregiver will teach you, a family member, or friend how to give the medicine. You may need to add vitamins or medicine to the solution before using it. Your caregiver will show you how to do this.
Do not use this medicine if the solution (liquid) looks cloudy or has solid pieces floating in it. Do not use the medicine if it is separated like oil and water or is leaking from the bag. Carefully follow all instructions for preparing and giving this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

If you store this medicine at home, keep it in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
Remove the medicine from the refrigerator at least 2 hours before using it. This will bring the solution to room temperature and make the injection more comfortable for you. Do not heat the medicine in a microwave oven.
Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets. Follow any special instructions about how to throw away empty medicine bottles, tubes, or bags.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use any other mineral supplements or electrolytes (including GoLYTELY®, Pedialyte®, Gatorade®) without asking your doctor first.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Your nutritional needs may be higher than normal.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had high levels of potassium or calcium in your blood. These conditions are also known as hyperkalemia or hypercalcemia.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have diabetes, blood clotting problems, or medical problems with your pancreas, liver, or kidney. Tell your doctor if you have heart disease or if you are on a salt-restricted diet.
Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Confusion and weakness with muscle twitching.
Confusion and weakness with uneven heartbeat and shortness of breath.
Numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or lips.
Pale, hot, dry skin with fruit-like breath odor, fainting, and shortness of breath.
Rapid weight gain.
Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
Yellow skin or eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Blurred vision, drowsiness, dry mouth, increased thirst.
Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting.
Increase in how much or how often you urinate.
Pain, redness, swelling, or cold feeling where the needle is placed.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_4830