Family doctor

BRAND NAME:

Stemetil

Buccastem

USE: Anti-nausea

This medicine is called a phenothiazine which is mainly indicated for the relief of severe nausea, vomiting, vertigo, and also anxiety/psychosis related conditions.

Its mode of action mainly involves blocking dopamine and histamine receptors involved within the vomiting centre which has an anti-emetic effect, relieving nausea and vomiting.

Stemetil suppositories are also useful for severe vomiting, when tablets cannot be kept down.

Caution:

• Hypersensitivity to phenothiazines
• Liver and kidney impairment
• Epilepsy, Parkinson's disease
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Hypothyroidism, myaesthenia gravis (muscles weakness disorder)
• Children, elderly
• Glaucoma or prostate problems
• Exposure to hot/cold extremities

Side effects:

Drowsiness, dry mouth and impaired concentration are the most common adverse effects likely to occur.

Occasional nasal congestion, mild skin reactions, dizziness, insomnia, photosensitivity, tardive dyskinesia (facial spasm) and Parkinson-like effects can also occur (esp. in patients on high doses or long term therapy).

Rarely blood disorders, liver impairment and gynaecomastia (enlarged breast tissue) have also been reported.

Overdose: marked sedation, dizziness, heart irregularities, hypothermia - seek urgent medical help

Interactions:

Additive effects seen with alcohol, opoid analgesics and CNS depressants (sedatives, barbituates etc).

Patient information:

• Follow instructions carefully on the label of this medicine (do not exceed recommended dosage)
• AVOID ALCOHOL because this medicine will cause excess sedation
• Caution: driving or operating machinery because this medicine may cause drowsiness
• Avoid excess exposure to direct sunlight or sun lamps as this medicine can cause photosensitivity
• Avoid hot/cold extremities due to a higher risk of hyper/hypothermia
• Do not take this medicine with calcium (milk) or iron supplements (for approx. 4 hours)
• Place Buccastem tablet between gum and top lip or as directed and allow to dissolve
• Do not take any other medicines unless directed by your doctor/ pharmacist
• Contact your doctor or seek urgent medical attention if side effects are severe or ongoing.