Uprima (apomorphine HCL) Prescribing Information

Possible uses of Uprima
Uprima is used to treat male impotence symptoms

Uprima Dosing Information
Follow the directions for using this Uprima provided by your physician. Common prescribed dosing for Uprima involves placing the tablet under the tongue allowing the medication to dissolve. Individuals should take Uprima at least 30 minutes prior to sexual intercourse. Uprima is supplied in 2mg and 3mg tablets, most physicians recommend taking the 2mg tablets first and then increasing the dose to 3mg if necessary (these doses are only generalizations; doses may vary depending on the patient's medical history). Individuals should not consume more than 3mg of Uprima in any given eight hour period. Uprima works in conjunction with sexual stimulation to help achieve an erection.

Uprima Precautions
Individuals should not exceed the recommended dose of Uprima or take Uprima for longer than prescribed without first consulting with your physician. Keep all physician and laboratory appointments while you are using Uprima. Uprima is contraindicated in individuals with known allergies or hypersensitivity to the medication or any of the components. The medication should be discontinued if hypersensitivity to any of the medications ingredients is noted. Inform your physician of your complete medical history especially if you have any conditions of the penis (fibrosis/scaring, history of painful/prolonged erection [priapism], abnormal curvature of the penis, [Peyronie's disease] etc.), cardiovascular complications (heart attack, congestive heart failure, unstable angina [chest pain], arrhythmia [an abnormal heartbeat rhythm] uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension, history of postural hypotension, stroke, transient ischemic attacks [TIAs], etc), blood disorders (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, bleeding disorders, etc.), cancer (leukemia, myeloma, prostate, etc), kidney or liver disease, Parkinson's disease, etc. Men who are taking medicines that contain nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of any kind must not use Uprima (please see drug interactions).

Uprima may produce a transient vasovagal syndrome that can lead to self-limiting fainting/syncope. Clinical studies showed that Uprima may uncommonly produce a transient vasovagal syndrome that may manifest as a self-limiting fainting/syncope. Almost all of the syncopal episodes were preceded by a prodrome of symptoms that included mild to severe nausea, vomiting, pallor, sweating and/or hot flushes, dizziness and lightheadedness. If an individual should experience any of the prodromal symptoms they should not attempt to stand up, but should lie down and raise their legs until their symptoms resolve.

There is also a potential for cardiac risk during sexual activity in patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Therefore, Uprima should not be used in men where sexual activity is inadvisable because of their underlying cardiovascular status. Secondary to some reports of dizziness and/or lightheadedness and uncommonly fainting, it is recommended that individuals do not drive or operate machinery for at least 4 hours after taking Uprima.

Uprima Drug Interactions
Inform your physician of all nonprescription and prescription medication you may use, especially if you are taking nitrates, certain hypertensive medications, centrally acting dopamine agonist or antagonists (Parkinson's disease). Do not start, stop or change the dose of any medicine without physician or pharmacist approval.

Men who are taking medicines that contain nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of any kind must not use Uprima. Patients should not take Uprima even if you only take nitroglycerin medication occasionally (combining Uprima with nitrates can result in a dangerously low blood pressure that can result in a heart attack, stroke or even death). Nitrate medications often have nitro or isosorbide in their names. Nitrates are also found in recreational drugs. The following chart depicts commonly prescribed nitrate medications:

Nitrate medications
Dilarate-Sr Nitrek (transdermal) Nitro-Dur Nitrostat Nitrol Ointment
Erythatyl Tetranitrate Nitro-Time Nitro-Bid Nitrogard
Nitrolingal Spray Isosorbide Dinitrate Imdur Sorbitrate
Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate Transderm-Nitro Nitro-Par Monoket Nitroglyn
Ismo Isosorbide Mononitrate Nitrong Nitroglycerin
Nitrodisc Sodium Nitroprusside Isordil  


Please note:
This list is for illustrative purposes only and is not all inclusive.

Side Effects of Uprima
Reported side effects were generally mild and include headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc. These symptoms generally occur early in the treatment and subside in a relatively short period of time with continued use of Uprima. If the side effects continue or you notice new side effects contact your physician, nurse, or pharmacist.

Missed Dose of Uprima
Not applicable.

Uprima Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of a medication overdose may include irregular or unusually slow or fast heartbeat, unusual nervousness or excitement, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures.

Storage of Uprima
Store Uprima at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture (do not store Uprima in the bathroom). Keep Uprima and all medications out of the reach of children.

Uprima Notes
The use of Uprima does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B, gonorrhea). Individuals should continue to use protective measures necessary to guard against these diseases. Do not share Uprima with others for whom the medication was not prescribed.