Vansil

 
Generic Name: oxamniquine

Brands: Vansil

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What is the most important information I should know about Vansil?

· Vansil is not commercially available in the United States.

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Vansil may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.

· Take Vansil with food to lessen stomach upset.

 

What is Vansil?

· Vansil is an "antihelmintic," or anti-worm, medication. It prevents worms from growing or multiplying in your body.

· Vansil is used only to treat infections caused by the worm Schistosoma mansoni. This is an uncommon infection usually acquired through contact with freshwater in Africa.

· Vansil is not commercially available in the United States.

· Vansil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

Who should not take Vansil?

· Before taking Vansil, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions that you have, especially liver disease, kidney disease, or a seizure disorder. You may need a lower dose or special monitoring if you have any of these conditions.

· Vansil is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Do not take Vansil without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is also not known whether Vansil passes into breast milk and how it might affect a nursing baby. Do not take Vansil without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I take Vansil?

· Take Vansil exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass of water.

· Take Vansil with food to lessen stomach upset.

· Vansil is usually taken in one or two doses that completely treat the infection.

· Store Vansil at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Since only one or two doses are needed to treat this infection, you are not likely to miss a dose.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention or call a poison control center near you.

 

What should I avoid while taking Vansil?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Vansil may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these activities.

 

What are the possible side effects of Vansil?

· Stop taking Vansil and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; shortness of breath; closing of your throat; or hives).

· Rarely, seizures have occurred, most often in patients who already have epilepsy or another seizure disorder. Seek medical attention in the case of a seizure.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Vansil and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·a headache, dizziness, or drowsiness; or     ·abdominal pain, decreased appetite, or vomiting.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Vansil?

· Drug interactions with Vansil are not well known. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, so that they can monitor your therapy for interactions.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about Vansil written for health professionals that you may read.