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Pronunciation |
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(BAY
tah KARE oh
teen) |
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Generic
Available |
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Yes |
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Pharmacological Index |
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Vitamin, Fat Soluble |
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Use |
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Reduces severity of photosensitivity reactions in patients with
erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) |
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Pregnancy Risk
Factor |
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C |
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Contraindications |
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Hypersensitivity to beta-carotene |
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Warnings/Precautions |
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Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment; not proven
effective as a sunscreen |
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Adverse
Reactions |
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>10%: Dermatologic: Carotenodermia (yellowing of palms, hands, or soles of
feet, and to a lesser extent the face)
<1%: Dizziness, bruising, diarrhea, arthralgia |
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Drug
Interactions |
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Fulfills vitamin A requirements, do not prescribe additional vitamin
A |
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Mechanism of
Action |
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The exact mechanism of action in erythropoietic protoporphyria has not as yet
been elucidated; although patient must become carotenemic before effects are
observed, there appears to be more than a simple internal light screen
responsible for the drug's action. A protective effect was achieved when
beta-carotene was added to blood samples. The concentrations of solutions used
were similar to those achieved in treated patients. Topically applied
beta-carotene is considerably less effective than systemic
therapy. |
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Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics |
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Metabolism: Prior to absorption, converted to vitamin A in the wall of the
small intestine and then further oxidized to retinoic acid and retinol in the
presence of fat and bile acids; small amounts are then stored in the liver;
retinol (active) is conjugated with glucuronic acid
Elimination: In urine and feces |
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Usual Dosage |
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Oral:
Adults: 30-300 mg/day |
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Dietary
Considerations |
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May be administered with meals |
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Dental Health: Local
Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor
Precautions |
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No information available to require special precautions |
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Dental Health:
Effects on Dental Treatment |
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No effects or complications reported |
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Patient
Information |
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Take exactly as directed; do not take more than the recommended dose. Take
with meals. Skin may appear slightly yellow-orange. Not a proven sunblock.
Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend
to be pregnant. Consult prescriber if breast-feeding. |
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Nursing
Implications |
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Skin may appear slightly yellow-orange; not a proven
sunscreen |
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Dosage Forms |
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Capsule: 15 mg, 30 mg |
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