MedicineNet.com

cytarabine - injection, Cytosar-U, Tarabine PFS

Take the Chronic Fatigue Quiz Surprising Benefits of Sex Slideshow Foods & Drinks That Make You Gotta Go Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: CYTARABINE - INJECTION (sye-TAIR-uh-bean)

BRAND NAME(S): Cytosar-U, Tarabine PFS

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This medication may cause serious (rarely fatal) blood disorders (bone marrow suppression leading to anemia, low number of white blood cells and platelets). Liver problems may also occur. Your doctor will monitor you closely for these side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, persistent sore throat), unusual fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, or mouth sores.

USES: Cytarabine is used alone or with other medications to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping cancer cell growth.

HOW TO USE: This medication is usually given by injection into a vein as directed by your doctor. It may also be given by other methods of injection depending upon your medical condition. The dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to therapy.If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while using this medication. This helps your kidneys remove the drug from your body and may help you avoid some of the side effects.

SIDE EFFECTS: See also the Warning section.Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and pain/swelling/redness at the injection site may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. In some cases, drug therapy may be needed to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Not eating before your treatment may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fever with body aches, muscle/bone pain, chest pain, eye redness/itching/pain, painful/difficult swallowing, anal sores, change in the amount of urine, painful/difficult urination, joint/side/back pain, pain/redness/swelling of the arms/legs/feet, numbness or tingling of hands/feet, freckling, big toe pain, trouble breathing, black/bloody stools, blood in the urine, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, vision problems, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion), unexplained drowsiness, unconsciousness, enlarged abdomen, trouble walking, muscle weakness, loss of coordination, inability to move (paralysis), seizures.This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, unusual cough, or persistent sore throat.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but get medical help right away if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.