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The three drugs are: Toprol-XL, also known as metoprolol succinate (the South African trade name is Lopressor); Topamax, also known as topiramate; and Tegretol, also known as carbamazepine. Toprol-XL is used to treat hypertension, chest pain and some kinds of heart failure; Topamax is used to treat epilepsy and to prevent migraines; and Tegretol is used to treat certain kinds of seizures and a nerve disorder than causes severe head pain.

The letter from drug maker AstraZeneca asks doctors and pharmacists to take extra care in prescribing the three drugs, the Associated Press reported.

Patients who've received the wrong drugs have suffered recurrences of seizures, hallucinations and hypertension, the letter states. At least one patient who mistakenly received metoprolol succinate suffered a dangerous drop in heart rate and at least one suicide attempt was possibly linked to a prescription mix-up, the AP reported.

The letter urges doctors to write legible prescriptions that include both the brand and generic names of the drugs. It also asks that pharmacist double-check drug names against prescriptions. – (HealthDayNews)

September 2005
 

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