Generic name: Mecamylamine
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Inversine?
Mecamylamine is used to treat moderate to severe hypertension (high blood pressure). Because of its many side effects, mecamylamine is not commonly used.
Mecamylamine is also used to treat malignant hypertension (extremely high blood pressure that comes on suddenly). Malignant hypertension can damage organs in the body if left untreated.
Mecamylamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use mecamylamine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- mild, moderate, or well-controlled hypertension;
- severe kidney disease, or kidney failure;
- glaucoma;
- a blockage in your stomach or intestines;
- poor blood flow to your heart; or
- if you have recently had a heart attack.
Some drugs should not be used together with mecamylamine. Your doctor may change your treatment plan if you also use an antibiotic or sulfa drug.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- a heart attack or stroke;
- coronary artery disease (clogged or hardened arteries);
- kidney disease;
- urination problems;
- a chronic infection;
- bleeding problems; or
- if you are on a low-salt diet.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while using mecamylamine.
How should I use Inversine
Use Inversine (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take mecamylamine after meals.
Allow for the same time interval between your meals and your mecamylamine doses. For example, if you take your medicine 15 minutes after eating, take it that way each time.
You may need different amounts of this medicine at different times of the day. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked often and you may need other medical tests.
Call your doctor at once if you have a fever, if you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual.
If you need surgery, tell your surgeon you currently use this medicine.
You should not stop using mecamylamine suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
Inversine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- tremors or jerky muscle movements;
- numbness, tingling, burning pain;
- painful or difficult urination;
- ongoing diarrhea with stomach bloating;
- confusion, thinking problems;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- a seizure; or
- dry cough, wheezing, feeling short of breath (even while lying down).
Common side effects may include:
- dizziness or fainting;
- nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
- constipation;
- dry mouth, swollen tongue;
- feeling weak or tired;
- blurred vision; or
- impotence, decreased interest in sex.
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.
What other drugs will affect Inversine?
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather.
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.
Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.