Also from Answers.com... Allergies Health videos on seasonal allergies, including allergy treatment options.

To return to the main entry click here.

What are Insoluble Prussian Blue capsules?

INSOLUBLE PRUSSIAN BLUE (Radiogardase™) is used to remove certain radioactive materials from the body after a radiation exposure. Prussian blue will speed up the removal of cesium and thallium from the body, but it may not prevent all the problems associated with radiation exposure. Generic Insoluble Prussian Blue capsules are not available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• constipation
• fast or irregular heart beat
• low blood levels of calcium, potassium, chloride, sodium or magnesium
• stomach or intestinal problems
• an unusual reaction to Insoluble Prussian Blue, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Take Prussian blue capsules by mouth. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. Prussian blue can be taken with food. If you cannot swallow capsules, then the capsules may be opened and the contents mixed with food and eaten. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Insoluble Prussian Blue?

• in general, any critical prescription medication may need to be closely monitored during Prussian Blue treatment
• tetracycline

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Insoluble Prussian Blue?

Insoluble Prussian Blue should be given only under the supervision of a physician after assessing your medical condition. It is only effective to treat contamination with radioactive cesium or thallium. This drug does not help eliminate other forms of radiation from the body.

How long you will need treatment depends on the amount of contamination you were exposed to. You will have regular check-ups to determine the level of radiation in your body. The amount of radiation in your body will determine how long you have to take Insoluble Prussian Blue capsules.

You will be given instructions to reduce the chance of exposing others to radiation. For example, some radiation gets into the urine and stool. A toilet should be used instead of a urinal, and it should be flushed several times after each use. Spilled urine or stool should be cleaned up completely. Wash your hands thoroughly and often. If body fluids soil clothing, wash the clothes separately.

DO NOT take Prussian blue artist's dye in an attempt to treat yourself. This dye is not designed to treat radioactive contamination and unlike medication, is not germ-free.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Insoluble Prussian Blue?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• fast or uneven heart beat, palpitations or chest pain
• muscle pain or weakness, cramps

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• blue colored mouth/teeth (if capsules are opened for swallowing)
• blue colored stools
• constipation
• upset stomach

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature, between 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F); do not freeze. Keep the capsules in the original container, in a dark place. Keep the container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.