What is Duraclon?
When opioid pain medication alone is ineffective in treating severe pain due to cancer or other causes, Duraclon can be used with opioid medications. Duraclon can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Duraclon
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Duraclon may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Slow heartbeats
- Weak or shallow breathing
- Signs of infection on the infusion catheter, such as redness or swelling.
- Fever;
- Headache; neck stiffness nausea; increased sensitivity to lights.
Duraclon side effects may include:
- Dizziness, drowsiness;
- Depressed mood
- Nausea, dry mouth;
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
You should avoid using Duraclon if bleeding problems are present or if you take blood thinners (Warfarin and Coumadin).
Before you take this drug
Duraclon should not be used if:
- Bleeding problems
- If you are taking a blood thinner like warfarin (Coumadin),
Please inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- High or low blood pressure
- Heart problems
- Kidney disease is a serious condition.
This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Notify your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant. Duraclon should not be used while breastfeeding.
How to take Duraclon?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as it is prescribed. Duraclon can be given continuously (round-the-clock) by using an infusion device attached to a spinal catheter. You can learn how to use the infusion pumps by yourself with the help of a healthcare provider. Duraclon is monitored closely to monitor your breathing, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Please read and carefully follow all directions that accompany your medication. If there are any instructions that do not make sense to you, reach out to either your pharmacist or physician immediately for clarification. If this remains confusing to you, consult a healthcare provider immediately or pharmacist as necessary for more assistance.
If the color of your medicine has changed or if there are particles in it, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist. Do not stop taking Duraclon before consulting your doctor. You may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, agitation, or tremors. Consult your doctor about how to safely discontinue this medication. Do not hesitate to tell your doctor if you suddenly stop taking Duraclon. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Do not keep Duraclon leftovers that are no longer required. Discard the vial, even if it still contains medicine. Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of the reach of pets and children.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You are unlikely to miss a dose because this medication is administered around the clock. If your infusion pumps stop working or your medication is stopped for any other reason, tell your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
Overdose symptoms include changes in blood pressure (severe headaches, blurred vision, or a feeling of lightheadedness), slow heartbeats, and shallow breathing. They can also be accompanied by extreme drowsiness or limp muscles.
What should be avoided?
Duraclon can cause you to feel dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. Dizziness and drowsiness may cause accidents or serious injuries. You may get dizzy if you stand up quickly from a seated or lying position. Don't drink alcohol. Side effects and death can occur.
Interaction with other drug
Do not use Duraclon in conjunction with any other drug that makes you drowsy, slows your breathing, or causes anxiety. Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, particularly heart or blood pressure medications. Duraclon may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
