Sign inBefore taking sodium phenylbutyrate
Before taking sodium phenylbutyrate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from liver, heart or kidney problems.
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to take sodium phenylbutyrate
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Take sodium phenylbutyrate with or immediately after meals.
- Mix the granules with food before taking.
- Try to take sodium phenylbutyrate at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
- If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Getting the most from your treatment
- You should follow any dietary advice your doctor or dietician have recommended.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Can sodium phenylbutyrate 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.
| Possible side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling or being sick, stomach discomfort | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods |
| Fainting | Getting up or moving slowly may help |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor |
| Irregular menstrual periods or none at all, decreased appetite, body odour, disturbed taste, swollen ankles or feet, depression, skin rash, increase in weight and bruising | If any of these are troublesome, speak with your doctor |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store sodium phenylbutyrate
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).