Procaterol - Oral

Procaterol is used to manage breathing problems caused by asthma.

It belongs to a group of medicines called "bronchodilators", which helps open the airways. Procaterol treats asthma or chest illnesses by relaxing the airways in your lungs, and relieving chest tightness, wheezing, and cough so you can breathe more easily.

Take Procaterol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Procaterol is available as a tablet and syrup.

If you are taking the oral syrup, shake the bottle well before you take the medicine to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• heart problem e.g. irregular or abnormal heartbeat, heart failure (weakness and inability of the heart to pump blood)
• high blood pressure
• hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)
• diabetes
• low potassium levels in the blood

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Procaterol to a child or the elderly. Children and elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.

If you are going to have certain laboratory tests (e.g. allergy tests), inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

• Routine tests (e.g. lung function, blood sugar or potassium levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
• Your blood pressure and heart rate may rise to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Monitor your blood pressure and heart rate regularly during treatment.
• Regular monitoring of signs of allergic reactions may also be needed.

Procaterol may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, upset stomach, and shakiness.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• signs and symptoms of heart attack e.g. chest pain, tightness or pressure, pain that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder or back, shortness of breath, lightheadedness
• signs and symptoms of allergic reactions e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
• muscle weakness, cramping or numbness; fast or irregular heartbeat
• severe dizziness or headache, passing out, vision changes

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any of these medicines:

• isoprenaline (medicine used for slow heartbeat and heart block)
• epinephrine (medicine used for emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions)
• other asthma medicines e.g. theophylline, aminophylline
• corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory medicines) e.g. betamethasone, hydrocortisone
• water pills or medicines for water retention e.g. furosemide

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Procaterol.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Protect the tablet and syrup from light. Protect the tablet from moisture.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.