Brand name:

Navane

Why is Navane prescribed?

Navane is used in the treatment of schizophrenia (a disruption of thought and the understanding of reality). Researchers theorize that antipsychotic medications such as Navane work by lowering levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter (or chemical messenger) in the brain. Excessive levels of dopamine are believed to be related to psychotic behavior.

Most important fact about Navane

Navane may cause tardive dyskinesia--a condition marked by involuntary muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. This condition can be permanent and appears to be most common among the elderly, especially women. Ask your doctor for information about this possible risk.

How should you take Navane?

Navane may be taken in liquid or capsule form. In liquid form, a dropper is supplied.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours of your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep the liquid form from freezing.

Navane side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Navane.

• Side effects may include:
  Agitation, blood disorders, blurred vision, drowsiness, dry mouth, exaggerated reflexes, fainting, high blood pressure, insomnia, light-headedness, low blood pressure, Parkinson's--like movements, profuse sweating, rapid or irregular heartbeat, rash, sensitivity to sunlight, skin color changes

Why should Navane not be prescribed?

Do not give Navane to comatose individuals. Do not take Navane if you are known to be hypersensitive to it. Also, you should not be using Navane if the activity of your central nervous system is slowed down for any reason--for example, by a sleeping medication, if you have had circulatory system collapse, or if you have an abnormal bone marrow or blood condition.

Special warnings about Navane

Navane may hide symptoms of brain tumor and intestinal obstruction. Your doctor will prescribe Navane cautiously if you have or have ever had a brain tumor, breast cancer, convulsive disorders, the eye condition called glaucoma, intestinal blockage, or heart disease; or if you are exposed to extreme heat or are recovering from alcohol addiction.

This drug may impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full alertness if you are unsure of your ability.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Navane

If Navane is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Navane with the following:

Antihistamines such as Benadryl
Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
Drugs that contain atropine, such as Donnatal

Extreme drowsiness and other potentially serious effects can result if Navane is combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants such as painkillers, narcotics, or sleeping medications.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately; pregnant women should use Navane only if clearly needed. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding; he or she may have you stop while you are taking Navane.

Recommended dosage for Navane

Dosages of Navane are tailored to the individual. Usually treatment begins with a small dose, which is increased if needed.

ADULTS

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

• Symptoms of Navane overdose may include:
  Central nervous system depression, coma, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, drowsiness, head tilted to the side, low blood pressure, muscle twitching, rigid muscles, salivation, tremors, walking disturbances, weakness