Temozolomide Oral Capsule (TEMOZOLOMIDE - ORAL)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Temodar

Generic Name: Temozolomide

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

Take the medicine with 250 mL (1 cup) of water.

Take this medicine on an empty stomach. Do not eat or drink for 3 hours after taking this medicine.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Avoid touching any powder from an open or broken capsule. If the powder touches the skin, nose, or eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If you drink more than a few alcoholic beverages each day, ask your doctor whether you should be on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

This medicine may damage sperm. Men should use reliable birth control while taking this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use a condom and a second form of birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • constipation
  • coughing
  • dizziness
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • nausea and vomiting
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • changes in taste or unpleasant taste

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • fever or chills
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • severe stomach pain that spreads to the back
  • light colored stool

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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