What is Cidaflex?
Chondroitin is a naturally occurring substance made of sugar chains. Chondroitin helps the body maintain fluidity and flexibility in joints. Glucosamine helps build cartilage in your body (the connective tissue that is mainly found on your bones near the joints). Glucosamine occurs naturally in shellfish, bone marrow, and fungi. Cidaflex is a combination of products that have been used as an alternative medicine to treat osteoarthritis pain. Research has not proved that other uses can be made of niacin, including treating rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis (arthritis), cataracts, glaucoma, and bladder problems. It also treats heart disease, high blood cholesterol, or TMJ. Cidaflex may not be effective for treating all medical conditions. The FDA has not approved the use of this product for medical purposes. This medicine should not replace medication prescribed by your healthcare provider. Cidaflex can be sold as an herbal supplement. Many herbal compounds are not manufactured to regulated standards, and some supplements on the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic drugs or metals. To minimise the risk, herbal or health supplements must be purchased from a reputable source. Cidaflex can be used in other ways than those listed in the product guide.
Side effects of Cidaflex
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat. Cidaflex may be safe to take for up to two years, even though not all side effects are known. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using Cidaflex immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
- Heartbeats irregular;
- Swelling in your legs.
Cidaflex side effects may include:
- Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation;
- Stomach pain, gas, bloating;
- Hair loss;
- Eyelids that puff up
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting is necessary.
Warnings
Please read all instructions on the label or package of your product. Informing your healthcare provider of all medical conditions, allergies and medicines you are currently taking will facilitate their diagnosis and care.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to Cidaflex, then this product is not for you.
- If you take warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).
If you are suffering from:
- Asthma;
- Allergy to shellfish, including oysters, crabs, and shrimp
- Diabetes;
- High cholesterol.
- Prostate cancer;
- Haemophilia is characterised by bleeding or blood-clotting disorders.
Consult your doctor before taking Cidaflex while pregnant or nursing. Don't give herbal or health supplements to children without consulting a doctor.
How to take Cidaflex?
Consult your doctor before using herbal supplements. Consult a health practitioner trained in herbal or health supplement use. Use Cidaflex as directed on the packaging or by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended dosage of this product. Use different formulations of both chondroitin (glucosamine) and glucosamine only after consulting a doctor. Combining different formulations increases the risk of a glucosamine and chondroitin overdose. Cidaflex should be stopped at least two weeks before any surgery or dental treatment. If the condition that you are treating with Cidaflex doesn't improve or worsens, call your doctor. Store away from direct heat or moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If the next dosage is due, skip any missed ones and wait. Cidaflex should not be used to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor has prescribed any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Cidaflex may interact with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies.Informing your physician of all medications you are currently taking and any that have recently been added or subtracted should help ensure safe care and avoid unexpected outcomes.
