Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Pamelor as follows:
- Pamelor intake can induce some dizziness and make one drowsy. Starting the medication at a low dose, watching for the response, and gradually changing the dose, to help optimum control of your symptoms, can contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication. If the dizziness becomes bothersome, report it to your physician and other health care personnel, for any change in plan of care to be considered. Stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until you are used to the side effects caused by Pamelor intake.
- Do not take Pamelor with alcohol or opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, as these products can add to the dizziness and confusion caused by Pamelor, and contribute to falls and accidents. A number of OTC cough medications and antihistamines, muscle relaxant medications, and antianxiety medications, can potentiate the confusion caused by Pamelor and so, must be avoided taking along with Pamelor. Avoid taking any other medications with potential to cause drowsiness along with Pamelor at the same time.
- Pamelor use can result in pupillary dilation and obstruction to the drainage of fluid (aqueous humor) inside the eye. This blockage of fluid in the eye can result in increase in the intraocular pressure, leading to glaucoma. Individuals with glaucoma can present with eye pain, headache, and blurred vision with haloes around light. Observe compliance with any periodical vision exams recommended. Report any eye pain and changes with vision, while taking Pamelor, to your physician immediately, so that, an alternative plan of care could be considered.
