Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Pamelor as follows:
- Intake of Pamelor induces relaxation of urinary bladder, prevent/reduce episodes of bladder contraction, induce retention of urine in the bladder, and cause difficulty with emptying the bladder. Retention of urine in the bladder is a significant factor contributing to development of UTI. Individuals with history of retention of urine and frequent urinary tract infections must be aware of this side-effect of Pamelor, as the medication can exacerbate this risk significantly. Observing compliance with proper hydration measures, compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations, practicing hygiene & timed voiding with other UTI prevention measures can help reduce the risk of urinary retention and prevent development of any UTIs, secondary to Pamelor intake.
- As the balance between the chemicals in the brain has to be finely regulated to help relieve the anxiety and depressive symptoms and experience feelings of well-being, the dose of Pamelor also needs to be finely regulated, in order to accomplish this goal. Your physician could change the dose of Pamelor, based on the response and side-effects developed. Maintain compliance with follow-up physician appointments and be accommodative to the plan of dose changes, until you show an optimum response.
- Notify your doctor of any unresolved and worsening anxiety and depressive symptoms or continuing unpleasant side-effects, so that, your dosage on the medication could be revised.
- Pamelor intake can increase the risk for skin rash and photosensitivity, in individuals exposed to sunlight. Individuals can present with rash, itching, redness, or other discoloration, or severe sunburn upon exposure to sunlight. Individuals taking Pamelor, especially those with history of photosensitivity, should avoid natural bright lights and tanning booths. Using sunscreens and protective clothing, when getting out in the sun, can help prevent any photosensitive responses from developing.
