Brand name:
Cystadane
Pronounced: SIST-uh-dane
Generic name:
Betaine anhydrous
Why is Cystadane prescribed?
Cystadane is prescribed to reduce dangerously high blood levels
of the naturally occurring amino acid homocysteine. Excessive levels
of homocysteine can lead to formation of clots within your blood
vessels, brittle bones (osteoporosis), other bone abnormalities, and
dislocation of the lens of the eye. Homocysteine is also linked with
an increased risk of heart disease and heart attack.
When homocysteine levels are so high that the substance appears
in the urine, the condition is called homocystinuria. The problem is
usually the result of an inherited lack of the enzymes needed to
process homocysteine and generally shows up within the first months
or years of life. Early signs of homocystinuria include delays in
development, failure to thrive, seizures, and sluggishness.
Most important fact about Cystadane
The active ingredient in Cystadane (betaine) is found in our
bodies and in foods such as beets, cereals, seafood, and spinach.
Your doctor may prescribe Cystadane along with vitamin B6
(pyridoxine), vitamin B12 (cobalamin), and folate. All of
these dietary substances aid in the proper processing of
homocysteine.
How should you take Cystadane?
Take Cystadane exactly as directed. To avoid forgetting a dose,
try to get in the habit of taking it at the same time each day.
Cystadane will start to work within a week, and should have your
condition completely under control within a month. You can continue
therapy indefinitely; people have taken betaine for years without a
problem.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost
time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your
regular schedule.
--Storage instructions...
Store Cystadane at room temperature and protect from moisture.
Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Cystadane side effects
Side effects of Cystadane are minimal. If any develop or change
in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your
doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking
Cystadane.
- Side effects may include:
Diarrhea,
nausea,
odor,
stomach and intestinal problems,
possible mental changes
Why should Cystadane not be prescribed?
There are no known reasons for avoiding Cystadane.
Special warnings about Cystadane
Do not use the powder if it does not completely dissolve in
water, or if it makes a colored solution.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Cystadane
No interactions have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Cystadane during pregnancy have not been studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, check with your
doctor immediately. It is not known whether Cystadane appears in
breast milk. If Cystadane is essential to your health, your
doctor may advise you to avoid breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Cystadane
Shake the bottle of Cystadane before removing the cap. Measure
the number of scoops your doctor has prescribed by using the scoop
provided.
ADULTS
Overdosage
There have been no reported cases of overdose with Cystadane.
However, a massive overdose could be dangerous. If you suspect an
overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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