Why is this medication prescribed?

Yosprala is prescribed for individuals who require aspirin therapy for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events and are at risk of developing aspirin-associated gastric ulcers. The medication is a combination of two active ingredients:

• Aspirin: It is an antiplatelet agent that helps prevent blood clot formation. Aspirin is commonly prescribed for individuals who have had a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular events.
• Omeprazole: This is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that helps reduce stomach acid production. Omeprazole is added to Yosprala to lower the risk of aspirin-induced gastric ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues associated with aspirin use.

The combination of aspirin and omeprazole in Yosprala is designed to provide the cardiovascular benefits of aspirin while minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal complications, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding, which can be associated with aspirin use.

How should this medicine be used?

Yosprala should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Here are some general guidelines, but these may vary based on individual health conditions:

• Dosage: The typical recommended dosage of Yosprala is one tablet taken orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Swallow Whole: Yosprala tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this can affect the release of the medication.
• Timing: Take Yosprala with or without food. However, consistent timing of administration is important, so try to take it at the same time each day.
• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your medical condition. Do not stop taking Yosprala without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Inform Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting Yosprala, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or health conditions you may have. Some drugs or conditions may interact with Yosprala, and your healthcare provider can provide guidance on potential interactions.
• Adherence to Aspirin Guidelines: If you are taking Yosprala for cardiovascular protection, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding aspirin therapy. It’s important to adhere to the prescribed aspirin regimen for cardiovascular benefits.
• Regular Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Yosprala and address any concerns or side effects.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your health, any changes in your condition, and any side effects you may experience. If you have questions or concerns about the use of Yosprala, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Yosprala is primarily prescribed for its combination of aspirin and omeprazole to reduce the risk of aspirin-associated gastric ulcers in patients who require aspirin for the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. However, the medication is not typically used for other purposes. It’s important to use Yosprala only as prescribed by your healthcare provider and for the specific condition for which it was prescribed.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions and considerations for Yosprala include:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to aspirin, omeprazole, or any other ingredients in Yosprala.
• Bleeding Disorders: If you have a bleeding disorder or are at an increased risk of bleeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent and can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Inform your healthcare provider about any liver or kidney problems you may have. The dosage of Yosprala may need adjustment based on your kidney function.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Yosprala contains omeprazole to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers, but it’s important to inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as bleeding or ulcer disease.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Yosprala during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered, and your healthcare provider will assess the potential risks and benefits.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Yosprala may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and certain medications metabolized by the liver. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring may be necessary to assess your response to Yosprala and to monitor for any side effects. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests or other assessments as needed.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Yosprala without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping aspirin therapy can increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and communicate any concerns or side effects promptly. If you have specific questions or concerns about Yosprala, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Yosprala. However, taking the medication with or without food is acceptable. If you have any concerns about how your diet may interact with Yosprala, discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Yosprala, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Yosprala, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider. Common and serious side effects of Yosprala may include:

Common Side Effects:

• Upset Stomach: As Yosprala contains omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, it may cause stomach upset, indigestion, or nausea.
• Abdominal Pain: Some individuals may experience abdominal pain as a side effect of Yosprala.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of aspirin, one of the components of Yosprala.
• Bruising or Bleeding: Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent and can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Serious allergic reactions to Yosprala are rare but can occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding or Ulcers: Yosprala is prescribed to reduce the risk of aspirin-associated gastric ulcers, but in some cases, gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers may still occur. Symptoms may include black or bloody stools, abdominal pain, or vomiting that looks like coffee grounds.
• Liver Problems: In rare cases, Yosprala may cause liver problems. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Kidney Problems: Yosprala contains omeprazole, which can affect kidney function. If you notice changes in urination or swelling, inform your healthcare provider.
• Clostridium difficile Infection: The use of proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile infection, which can cause severe diarrhea.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual reactions can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Yosprala. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing conditions or other medications you may be taking, as these factors can affect the risk of side effects and interactions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Yosprala:

• Store Yosprala at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging to protect it from light.
• Do not store Yosprala in the bathroom, as moisture can affect its stability.

Disposal of Yosprala:

• Dispose of Yosprala according to local regulations and guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed.
• Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for information on how to dispose of Yosprala properly.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) or seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include confusion, ringing in the ears, rapid breathing, seizure, nausea, vomiting, and severe stomach pain.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Take Yosprala exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare professional.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled by your healthcare provider. They may monitor your response to the medication and assess for any side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Keep your healthcare provider informed about any new or worsening symptoms, changes in health, or concerns related to the medication.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to aspirin, omeprazole, or any other medications.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as some may interact with Yosprala.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. The use of Yosprala during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Medical Procedures: If you are scheduled for surgery or dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Yosprala.

Always seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific and personalized information about the storage, disposal, and usage of Yosprala based on your individual health situation.