Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Orkambi. It helps treat a certain genetic type of cystic fibrosis.  

Every month, you will receive 4 cartons of Orkambi. Each carton has seven blister strips. You will use one blister strip each day. Each blister strip has 4 tablets. You will take 2 tablets in the morning, and 2 tablets in the evening. You should separate each dose by 12 hours. 

To remove the tablets from the blister strip, you should unpeel the paper backing. Do NOT push the tablet through the backing. Also, you should take it with food that contains fat, like eggs, nuts, cheese pizza or whole-milk dairy products. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include a rash, getting a cold or the flu and having an upset stomach, nausea, gas and diarrhea. Some people feel a little tired. Children may have a headache, a stuffy nose, a cough, and an increase in sputum. Women may have changes to their menstrual cycle. You should tell your doctor about your side effects. He or she will help you manage them. 

As with any medicine, more serious side effects could occur. With Orkambi, breathing problems are common, but they can be serious. Let your doctor know right away if you have shortness of breath or chest tightness. Other possible effects include liver problems, high blood pressure, and cataracts in the eyes. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely and will order blood tests.

Orkambi can have serious drug interactions. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines or herbal remedies.

Women should talk to their doctors before becoming pregnant and before breastfeeding. 

For best results with Orkambi, be sure to read the Patient Information sheet for more information.