Cesamet

Generic name: Nabilone

What is Cesamet?

Cesamet is used to treat nausea and vomiting that follow chemotherapy in patients who have failed to respond adequately to other anti-nausea treatments.

What is the most important information I should know about Cesamet?

Cesamet should be used with caution in the elderly and those with high blood pressure or heart disease. Cesamet should also be used with caution in patients with psychiatric disorders (including manic depressive illness, depression, and schizophrenia); disease symptoms may return with the use of this drug.

The effects of Cesamet may last for an indefinite time period after taking by mouth. Adverse psychiatric effects can last for 48 to 72 hours after treatment. Cesamet may cause dizziness, drowsiness, euphoria or a "high" feeling, anxiousness, depression, hallucinations, and psychosis.

Taking Cesamet for long periods of time may cause dependence or addiction. If you stop taking Cesamet suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms which include anxiousness, distress, hiccups, loose stools, runny nose, sweating, and trouble sleeping.

Who should not take Cesamet?

You should not take Cesamet if you are allergic to any cannabinoids.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Cesamet?

Tell your doctor about all the prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of high or low blood pressure, heart disease, irregular or fast heart beat, liver or kidney problems, mental or mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder, a history of alcohol abuse or drug abuse or dependence, or if you are pregnant, going to become pregnant, nursing or are going to have surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose of Cesamet is 1-2 milligrams (mg) two times a day, 1-3 hours before chemotherapy. The maximum daily dose is 6 mg given in divided doses three times a day.

Cesamet may be administered 2 or 3 times daily during the entire course of each cycle of chemotherapy and if needed, for 48 hours after the last dose of each cycle of chemotherapy.

How should I take Cesamet?

Take Cesamet by mouth as prescribed by your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Cesamet?

Avoid potentially hazardous activities, such as driving or operating machinery while taking Cesamet.

If you have a history of substance abuse, including drug or alcohol abuse, Cesamet may not be for you. Do not take Cesamet with alcohol, sedatives or sleep medicines, of other drugs that affect your brain.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Cesamet?

If Cesamet 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 Cesamet with the following: alcohol, amphetamines, antihistamines, atropine, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, buspirone, cocaine, disulfiram, fluoxetine, lithium, naltrexone, opioids, scopolamine, sedatives, and theophylline.

What are the possible side effects of Cesamet?

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

Side effects may include: change in appetite, difficulty concentrating, dizziness/spinning feeling, drowsiness, dry mouth, euphoria (feeling "high"), headache, poor coordination, trouble sleeping, weakness

Can I receive Cesamet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cesamet?

If you miss a dose of Cesamet, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

How should I store Cesamet?

Store Cesamet at room temperature away from the reach of children.