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Guanidine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Guanidine (GWAHN-i-deen)

Treats tiredness and muscle weakness caused by Eaton-Lambert syndrome.

Brand Name(s):

Guanidine Hydrochloride

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 guanidine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

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:

  • 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.

  • There are many drugs that interact with this medicine. Make sure your doctor knows about allother medicines you are using.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, a blood disorder, or a history of mental illness.
  • 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.
  • This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.

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.
  • Change in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Fast or uneven heartbeat.
  • Fever.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Problems with walking.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising or weakness.

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

  • Chills, cough, sore throat, or bodyache.
  • Dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or stomach pain.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Nervousness, agitation, bad dreams, or unusual behavior.
  • Numbness or tingling in your lips, face, hands, or feet.
  • Pale skin or pale lip color.
  • Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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