Why is it prescribed?
Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup contains orciprenaline.
Orciprenaline is used to treat symptoms of asthma and bronchospasm that may occur with COPD (e.g. bronchitis and emphysema).
Side Effects
Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup contains orciprenaline.
Along with its needed effects, orciprenaline may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Generally, orciprenaline is well tolerated and many people will not experience unwanted effects. The severity and duration of these effects are dependant on many factors including duration of therapy, dose, route of administration and individual response.
Possible unwanted effects include:
- nervousness
- headache
- slight palpitations (awareness of heart beat)
- increased heart rate
- tremor
Rare:
- bad taste
- changes in blood pressure
- muscle cramps
- allergic reactions
Many of these unwanted effects, especially the most common ones, may disappear with continued use. Check with the doctor or pharmacist if any of them continue or become bothersome.
Precautions and Warnings for Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup
Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup contains orciprenaline
Use as directed. Never exceed the maximum dosage set by your physician. If you find that you are not responding to your usual dose, your asthma may be worsening and you should contact your physician. Increasing the dose, especially over extended periods, can lead to tolerance. Keep in mind that the bronchodilator action should last between 3 and 6 hours.
If you are using orciprenaline for an acute asthma attack and the condition continues or worsens, stop using the orciprenaline and call your doctor.
Drug Interactions: Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. The following drugs and drug classes have been known to interact with orciprenaline:
- MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors (e.g. phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
- tricyclic antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline)
- some beta-blockers (e.g. propranolol)
- epinephrine
- other bronchodilators (e.g. salbutamol)
Use is not recommended in the following situations:
- allergy to orciprenaline or any component of the preparation
- in combination with beta-blocking drugs (e.g. propranolol)
- cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) associated with tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
Caution recommended in the following situations:
- hyperthyroidism
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- heart disease
- vascular disease
Use in pregnancy: Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you suspect that you may be
pregnant.
Use while breastfeeding: Consult
your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breastfeeding.
Patient Information
Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup is intended to be taken by mouth.
This medication starts working in about 20 to 30 minutes, and it's effects can last from 3 to 6 hours.
The syrup is useful in people who cannot swallow tablets, and is a good choice for children and the elderly.
Apo-Orciprenaline® syrup should be stored at room temperature (15 to 30 degrees centigrade).
Directions for Use
Dosage should be individualized. General dosing guidelines which is found suitable for the majority of people are as follows: In adults: 20 mg (10 mL) three to four times a day, In children 4 to 12 years of age: 10 mg (5 mL) three times a day and in children over the age of 12 years: 20 mg (10 mL) three times a day.
Lung Diseases Treated with this Drug
- asthma
- bronchospasm associated with COPD
- COPD
- emphysema (COPD)
Need More Information?
For more information contact your physician, pharmacist, other health care professional or for general questions call your local lung association.
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