drug-information.ru

|Striant Striant

Striant

Generic name: Testosterone buccal system
Brand names: Striant

Why is Striant prescribed?

Striant is a hormone replacement product for men who have hypogonadism, a low level of the male hormone testosterone. The condition is marked by symptoms such as impotence and decreased interest in sex, lowered mood, fatigue, and decreases in bone density and lean body mass. Testosterone replacement therapy helps correct these problems.

The term "buccal" refers to the cheek. When the Striant buccal system is applied to the gum, medication is absorbed through the cheek.

Most important fact about Striant

To keep testosterone levels consistent, the buccal system should be replaced every 12 hours.

How should you take Striant?

Apply the buccal system to alternate sides of the mouth with each application. Remember that Striant is designed to stick to the gum or inner cheek; do not chew or swallow it.

Striant buccal system looks like a white to off-white tablet that is curved on one side and flat on the other. Open the Striant packet and apply the curved side against your gum above the right or left incisor tooth (the tooth just to the right or left of your two front teeth). The flat side should be facing the inside of your upper lip. Hold it in place by putting a finger over your lip and against the buccal system for 30 seconds to be sure it sticks.

If the system does not stick to the gum properly--or if it falls off within the first 8 hours--it should be removed and a new Striant system applied. This new system counts as your first dose and needs to be replaced at your next scheduled dose, even if 12 hours have not passed.

If the system falls off after the first 8 hours but before 12 hours, replace it with a new Striant system and skip your next scheduled dose until the following day.

Brushing your teeth, rinsing with mouthwash, chewing gum, and drinking alcohol do not appear to significantly alter the effectiveness of Striant. Check to see that the buccal system is in place following these activities, and if it becomes dislodged, follow the instructions above.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If the buccal system is replaced within 4 hours of your next scheduled dose, skip that dose and wait until the next day to replace the buccal system.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature and protect from heat and moisture. Do not use damaged blister packs.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Striant.

• More common side effects may include:
  Bitter taste, gum or mouth irritation, gum pain, gum tenderness, headache

Why should Striant not be prescribed?

You cannot use Striant if you have had breast cancer, prostate cancer, or if you are allergic to testosterone. Striant is not intended for use in females.

Special warnings about Striant

Before using Striant, you should be aware that prolonged, high-dose therapy with male hormones is associated with liver disease and in some cases, liver cancer. Breast enlargement is also a common problem.

Remember too that older men who take male hormones are at higher risk for developing prostate disease or prostate cancer. Your doctor should examine you carefully before prescribing Striant if you have a medical profile that increases your risk for prostate cancer.

Inform your doctor if you experience breathing disturbances, especially during sleep. Testosterone replacement therapy tends to worsen sleep apnea, a condition that causes breathing to stop temporarily during sleep. Obese men and those with chronic lung disease are especially at risk.

You should periodically inspect the gum area where Striant is applied and report any irritations or changes in appearance to your physician.

If you have a history of heart, kidney, or liver disease and develop swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles, stop using Striant and alert your doctor immediately. Also contact your doctor if you develop too frequent or persistent erections, nausea, vomiting, or changes in breathing or skin color.

This drug has not been tested in males under 18 years of age.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Striant

If Striant is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Striant with the following:

Insulin
Oxyphenbutazone
Steroids such as prednisone (Deltasone)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Striant is not indicated for use in women and must not be used by pregnant women or nursing mothers.

Recommended dosage

The recommended dose is one buccal system applied to the gum twice a day, in the morning and evening, about 12 hours apart. Each delivery system contains 30 milligrams of testosterone.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.