Succimer
Generic name: succimer [ SUCK-sih-mer ]
Brand name: Chemet
Dosage form: oral capsule (100 mg)
Drug class:Chelating agents
What is succimer?
Succimer is used to treat lead poisoning.
Succimer is a chelating (KEE-late-ing) agent that binds to lead in the blood and allows it to be passed out in the urine.
Succimer may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use succimer if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
liver disease; or
treatment with dimercaprol or edetate calcium disodium.
Succimer may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
You should not breast-feed while using succimer.
How should I take succimer?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, open it and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of soft food. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save it for later use.
You may also empty the medicine beads into a spoon, swallow all of the beads, and then drink a glass of juice or fruit-flavored drink.
Drink plenty of liquids to keep your kidneys working properly so they can help eliminate the lead from your body.
Succimer is usually given daily for 19 days in a row. You may need to receive more than one course of treatment. Use succimer regularly to get the most benefit.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the lead is completely cleared from your body.
You may need medical tests to help your doctor determine how long to treat you with succimer.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using succimer.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using succimer.
Succimer can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to get sick. Your blood cells may need to be tested often.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost t...
