Type of medicine: homocystinuria treatment
Generic and brand names: betaine anhydrous, oral; Cystadane
This medicine is taken by mouth to treat homocystinuria (too much of a chemical called homocysteine in the blood). Sometimes vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid are taken with this medicine.
Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine.
Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.
This medicine is in powder form. Shake the bottle lightly before removing the cap. Measure the powder with the scoop provided with the medicine.
Measure the exact number of scoops your healthcare provider has prescribed. Mix the medicine with 4 to 6 ounces of water until the powder is completely dissolved. For children, it may be mixed with juice, milk, or formula. Then drink the medicine immediately. Do not use the solution if powder does not completely dissolve or if the solution is colored. Always replace the cap tightly after using. Protect from moisture.
Make sure you understand how much and how often you are to take this medicine each day. If you are not sure, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to explain.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider.
Symptoms of an acute overdose have not been reported.
You may need to have lab tests regularly to see how the medicine affects you. Keep all appointments for these tests.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you are taking this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Morning headache with vomiting or visual changes.
Other: Nausea, diarrhea.
No significant interactions have been reported.
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
