Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Cylert

Generic Name: pemoline (Pronunciation: PEH moe leen)

• What is pemoline (Cylert)?
• What are the possible side effects of pemoline (Cylert)?
• What is the most important information I should know about pemoline (Cylert)?
• Who should not take pemoline (Cylert)?
• How should I take pemoline (Cylert)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Cylert)?
• What happens if I overdose (Cylert)?
• What should I avoid while taking pemoline (Cylert)?
• What other drugs will affect pemoline (Cylert)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is pemoline (Cylert)?

Pemoline was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2005.

Pemoline stimulates the central nervous system (brain and nerves). The exact way that pemoline work is unknown.

Pemoline is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Pemoline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of pemoline (Cylert)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking pemoline and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• liver damage (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, itching, clay-colored stools, or dark urine)
• seizures;
• unusual behavior, confusion, or hallucinations; or
• unusual movements of the tongue, lips, face, or arms and legs.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take pemoline and talk to your doctor if you experience

• insomnia (difficulty sleeping);
• nervousness, headache, or drowsiness;
• mild depression; or
• nausea, decreased appetite, or weight loss.

Pemoline is habit forming and may cause drug dependence. Do not stop taking it suddenly.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What is the most important information I should know about pemoline (Cylert)?

Pemoline was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2005.

In rare cases, pemoline has caused severe liver damage resulting in death or liver transplant. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, itching, clay-colored stools, or dark urine. These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Before taking pemoline, you will be required to discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of this medicine and to sign an informed consent stating that you understand these risks and benefits. Also, your doctor will need to monitor your liver function with blood tests before starting therapy with pemoline, and every two weeks thereafter.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Pemoline may cause dizziness or impair your ability to concentrate. If you experience dizziness or impaired concentration, avoid these activities.