Inosine

About inosine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antivirals.

Inosine is used to treat viral infections such as genital herpes and genital warts.

Inosine is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Imunovir. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking inosine

Before taking inosine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you have ever suffered from gout
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take inosine

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• You must complete the prescribed course of inosine, otherwise your infection may come back.
• Try to take inosine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of inosine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside inosine.
• The affected areas should be kept clean and as dry as possible. Wearing loose-fitting clothing should help to avoid irritating the affected area.
• If you have been prescribed inosine for genital herpes (a sexually transmitted disease), it is recommended that a condom is used during sexual contact to prevent spreading the infection, even if treatment with inosine has begun.

Can inosine cause problems?

Inosine rarely causes side effects. It can however, occasionally cause gout (pain, stiffness or swelling of the joints), feeling or being sick, stomach discomfort, headache, dizziness, tiredness, rash, itching, diarrhoea, constipation, feeling anxious, problems sleeping, needing to pass water more often than usual.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store inosine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 21/11/2005