Cytarabine Injection (CYTARABINE - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Generic Name: Cytarabine

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

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.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Use effective birth control to avoid pregnancy.

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

Cautions

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

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this 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 is associated with a rare, but serious problem of the liver. Speak to your doctor about the early signs of liver problems and the benefits and risks of using this medicine.

There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Watch for excessive bruising or bleeding. Contact your doctor if you notice any.

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.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

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.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

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
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting

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

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • drowsiness or sedation
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • eye pain or redness
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • muscle weakness
  • joint or muscle pain
  • inability to move
  • seizures
  • sore throat
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • difficulty swallowing
  • big toe pain
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting

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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