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USES: This medication is used in the treatment of leukemia, certain types of cancer and viral infections.
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| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Uses
This medication is used in the treatment of leukemia, certain types of cancer and viral infections.
Notes
- This medication is usually administered initially in the hospital where your condition can be monitored closely.
- Laboratory tests will be done periodically to be sure the drug is working properly and to monitor for possible side effects.
Storage
- Store this medication as directed, usually in the refrigerator.
- Properly discard of any unused medication after the expiration date.
How To Use
- HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is given by injection.
- Be sure to understand and follow the dosing schedule to receive maximum benefit from this medication.
- Different condition require different dosing schedules.
- Drink plenty of fluids while using this medication.
- Properly store and discard used needles and syringes.
Side Effects
- This medication may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, muscle aches, chills, diarrhea or stomach pain.
- These symptoms may subside as your body adjusts to the medication.
- Acetaminophen may help relieve the fever and headache.
- If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly.
- Unlikely but report promptly drowsiness, dizziness, sleep disturbances, one-sided weakness (arm/leg), vision changes, poor coordination, irregular heartbeat or intolerance to heat or cold.
- Very unlikely but report promptly black stools, persistent sore throat, chest tightening, unusual bleeding or bruising, tingling of hands or feet, mental changes or yellowing of the eyes or skin.
- In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately.
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
- If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver kidney, heart or thyroid disease, blood disorders, history of depression or other mental condition, lung disease, diabetes, seizures, brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, lupus, sarcoidosis or any drug allergies.
- Use caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
- It is important to receive each dose at the scheduled time.
- If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule.
- Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you may use including zidovudine, barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital), theophylline, vidarabine, any other anticancer drugs and of any drugs that may cause drowsiness such as: sedatives, drugs used for sleep, psychiatric drugs, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs and certain antihistamines.
- Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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