Dicaris

levamisole

Brand(s):

• Vermisol

Manufacturer:

• Khandelwal Laboratories Pvt Ltd

Disease(s):

• Skin Infection / Leprosy / Warts / Lichen Planus / Aphthous Ulcers

Levamisole Tablets

What is Levamisole?

Levamisole is a medication used in conjunction with another cancer drug, fluorouracil, to enhance its effectiveness against colon cancer. It's crucial to understand that levamisole is a prescription-only medication; you cannot obtain it without a doctor's authorization.

Before Using Levamisole: Important Considerations

Before starting any medication, including levamisole, carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks. This is a decision best made in consultation with your doctor. Key factors to discuss include:

Allergies

Inform your doctor of any prior unusual or allergic reactions to levamisole or other medications. Also, disclose any allergies to food, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Always check non-prescription product labels for ingredients.

Pediatric Use

Research on levamisole has primarily focused on adult patients. There's limited data comparing its use in children to other age groups.

Geriatric Use

Many drugs haven't been extensively studied in older adults. While specific comparative data on levamisole in the elderly is limited, it has been used in this population and isn't expected to cause significantly different side effects than in younger adults.

Breastfeeding

Sufficient studies on infant risk during breastfeeding while using levamisole are lacking. Mothers should carefully assess the potential benefits against the risks before using this medication while breastfeeding.

Levamisole Drug Interactions

While some medications should never be combined, others can be used together despite potential interactions. Your doctor might adjust dosages or take other precautions in such cases. When taking levamisole, it's vital to inform your healthcare professional about all other medications you're using. The following interactions are noteworthy (but not exhaustive):

• Capecitabine
• Doxifluridine
• Fluorouracil
• Tegafur
• Warfarin

Using levamisole with any of these medications might increase the risk of certain side effects. However, combining them might be the best treatment option for your specific case. If prescribed together, your doctor will likely adjust dosages or frequency.

Interactions with Food, Tobacco, and Alcohol

Some medications shouldn't be taken around mealtimes or with specific foods due to potential interactions. Alcohol and tobacco use can also interact with certain medications. Always consult your healthcare provider about the appropriate use of levamisole with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Conditions

Pre-existing medical conditions can influence levamisole use. Disclose all your medical problems to your doctor, particularly:

• Infection: Levamisole may weaken your body's ability to fight infections.

Proper Use of Levamisole

Strictly follow your doctor's instructions regarding levamisole dosage and frequency. Never alter the prescribed amount or schedule without consulting your doctor. Taking too much can increase side effects, while taking too little may be ineffective. If you vomit soon after taking a dose, contact your doctor to determine if you should retake it or wait for the next scheduled dose.

Dosing Information

Levamisole dosages vary among patients. Always adhere to your doctor's instructions or the label directions. The information provided here represents average doses only. Don't adjust your dosage unless instructed by your doctor. The dosage depends on the medication's strength and factors like the number of daily doses, time between doses, and treatment duration.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the next dose. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Storage

Store levamisole in a sealed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Protect from freezing.

Precautions During Levamisole Use

Regular checkups with your doctor are vital to monitor levamisole's effectiveness and check for any unwanted side effects.

Levamisole Side Effects

Like all medications, levamisole can have side effects. While not everyone experiences these, medical attention may be necessary if they arise.

Side Effects Requiring Immediate Medical Attention:

Less Common:

• Fever or chills
• Unusual feelings of discomfort or weakness

Rare:

• Black, tarry stools
• Blood in urine or stools
• Cough or hoarseness
• Lower back or side pain
• Painful or difficult urination
• Pinpoint red spots on the skin
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

Side Effects Requiring Prompt Medical Attention:

Less Common:

• Sores in the mouth and on the lips

Rare:

• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Convulsions (seizures)
• Lip smacking or puffing
• Numbness, tingling, or pain in the face, hands, or feet
• Paranoia (feelings of persecution)
• Puffing of cheeks
• Rapid or worm-like movements of the tongue
• Trembling or shaking
• Trouble walking
• Uncontrolled movements of arms and legs

Side Effects That Usually Don't Require Medical Attention:

More Common:

• Diarrhea
• Metallic taste
• Nausea

Less Common:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Mental depression
• Nightmares
• Pain in joints or muscles
• Skin rash or itching
• Trouble sleeping
• Unusual tiredness or sleepiness
• Vomiting

Levamisole can cause temporary hair loss in some individuals. Normal hair growth usually resumes after treatment ends. Other side effects not listed here might occur. Report any unusual effects to your healthcare professional.