GENERIC NAME: CARMUSTINE/POLIFEPROSAN 20 - IMPLANT (kar-MUST-een/poh-LIF-eh-pro-sin 20)
BRAND NAME(S): Gliadel
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used during brain surgery (craniotomy), to treat certain types of brain cancer (e.g., malignant glioma).
HOW TO USE: After the tumor is surgically removed from the brain, this medication is implanted (by the surgeon) into the cavity left by the tumor. The number of wafers implanted depends on your medical condition. Follow all instructions for proper use and handling. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, drowsiness, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling or infection of the surgical site, fever, urinary tract infection, trouble speaking, seizures, muscle weakness, stiff neck, pain, mental/mood changes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, trouble sleeping, memory trouble or loss of memory, vision changes, unusual bruising or bleeding, severe stomach pain, chest pain. An allergic reaction to this medication is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: radiation therapy, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Brain Tumor - Read about brain tumor symptoms such as headaches, nausea or vomiting, balance and walking problems, mood and personality changes, memory problems, and numbness or tingling in the legs.
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