Sign inBefore taking lofexidine
Before taking lofexidine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have a heart condition or have had a heart attack.
- If you have suffered from heart rhythm disturbances.
- If you suffer from kidney problems.
- If you suffer from mini-strokes (TIAs, transient ischaemia attacks) or have had a stroke.
- If you suffer from high blood pressure.
- If you have ever suffered from depression.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take lofexidine
- Lofexidine may be used as part of a detoxification programme in hospital or at home.
- Each programme is tailored to meet a person's individual needs - no two detoxifications are exactly the same.
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet and the label on your tablets.
- Your doctor or drugs worker will tell you when and how often to take the tablets. Take your tablets exactly as you have been told to.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember and then continue as before.
- Never take more than four tablets at the same time and never take more than a total of 12 tablets in any 24 hour period.
- Keep your appointments with your doctor or clinic. Your pulse rate will need to be regularly monitored while you are taking lofexidine because in some people it slows the heart beat down too much.
- Lofexidine is usually taken for 7-10 days although treatment in some people may be for a shorter or longer time.
- You should not stop taking this medicine suddenly, as this can cause your blood pressure to rise and be harmful. Lofexidine should be decreased gradually over several days according to the instructions given by your doctor.
Getting the most from your treatment
- It is important to note that lofexidine will not reduce cravings and will only help you deal with the symptoms of heroin or opiate withdrawal. You will need additional support to help with the psychological withdrawal process from your drugs worker and self-help support groups.
- Avoid drinking alcohol whilst you are undergoing a lofexidine detoxification because this can increase the side effects.
- Stay positive and relaxed, drink plenty of fluids, eat a light diet and use any support available to you, such as family and friends. It is also important to tell your drugs worker or doctor if you are feeling unwell.
- Your doctor may be able to prescribe other medicines to help with the effects of heroin or opiate withdrawal.
Can lofexidine cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. Avoid alcohol - it will increase any feelings of drowsiness |
| Dizziness, particularly when getting up from a sitting or lying position | Try getting up or moving more slowly |
| Dry mouth | Try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking pieces of ice or sugar-free sweets |
| Dry nose | If this becomes a problem speak with your doctor |
How to store lofexidine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, BritLofex® Tablets, Britannia Pharmaceuticals Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised July 2006, accessed November 2008.
- British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).