Hydergine

Hydergine is used to help improve thinking (mental) and self-care abilities in people who have symptoms of dementia due to aging or conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Hydergine is not a cure for dementia or for any underlying diseases that may cause reduced mental ability.

Hydergine will not help with dementia that is caused by mental illness, mood disorders, or neurological diseases.

Hydergine may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

You should not take Hydergine if you have a history of mental illness or psychosis.

You should not take Hydergine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a history of mental illness or psychosis.

It is not known if Hydergine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using Hydergine.

It is not known if ergoloid mesylates passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Hydergine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

• any changes in memory, alertness, mood, appetite, energy level, or ability to care for yourself.

Common side effects of Hydergine may include:

• nausea or other stomach discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Hydergine is usually taken 3 times per day. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using Hydergine. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

It may take up to 4 weeks before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 weeks of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Other drugs may interact with ergoloid mesylates, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform each of your health care providers about all the medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or discontinue.