Dequalinium is used to treat a certain type of vaginal
infection (bacterial vaginosis). This medication is an antiseptic that
works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
This medication should not be used by people who have
not had their first menstrual period.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using dequalinium and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This product is for vaginal use only. Wash your hands
before and after use. You should not use this medication during your
period. Doing so may make it work less well. Start treatment at least 6
days before your next menstrual period or after your period ends. If you
get your period while you are already using this medication, stop using it
until your period ends. Then, finish the remaining doses after your period
ends.
Use this medication as directed by your doctor, usually
once daily at bedtime for 6 nights. Continue to use this medication for the
full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping
the medication too early may result in a return of the
infection.
You may use either the applicator or your finger to
insert the tablet. If you are using the applicator, follow the package
instructions for how to place the tablet in the applicator. Lie on your
back with your legs slightly bent. Gently insert the tablet into the vagina
as far as it will comfortably go. If you are using the applicator, gently
press the plunger to release the tablet into your vagina. Remove the
applicator from your vagina. After each use, clean the applicator with warm
water and fragrance-free soap. The applicator should not be shared with
others. Throw away the applicator after completing the full
treatment.
If your vagina is dry, the tablet may not dissolve and
may come out of your vagina in one piece. In this case, add a drop of water
to the tablet before inserting. If the tablet is accidentally split, insert
both halves of the tablet one after the other, or both at once, if
possible.
Do not have vaginal intercourse or use products that go
inside your vagina while using this medication. Some examples include:
condoms, spermicides, douches, tampons, or menstrual cups. These products
may make this medication work less well. Unscented sanitary pads may be
used to protect your clothing from leakage of the
medication.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts, gets worse, or
returns after treatment.
Vaginal itching, irritation, or a change in discharge
may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly. These symptoms could also be due to a new vaginal
infection (such as a yeast/fungal infection) and require other
treatment.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- vaginal sores (ulcers)
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using dequalinium, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. To prevent dequalinium from getting on your baby, do
not use this medication within 12 hours before labor/delivery. Discuss the
risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. However, it is unlikely to pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor
before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your
doctor tells you to.
If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up. Do not use
more than one tablet a day. Keep using one tablet at bedtime until all 6
tablets are used.
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away
from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.
