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 | Medical Alert
WARNING: This medication will be given where you can be closely monitored by your doctor because serious (rarely fatal) blood disorders (e.g., anemia, bone marrow suppression) have been caused by this medication. Liver problems may also develop. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop fever, unusual fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, persistent sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, abdominal or stomach pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, or mouth sores.
USES: Cytarabine is one of a large group of drugs known as "antineoplastics"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy, or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve better results and minimize side effects.
HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while using this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop using this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, itching, freckling, diarrhea, dizziness are common side effects. Using the drug on an empty stomach may help to relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limited activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, chest pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, easy bruising or bleeding, black or tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, pinpoint red spots on the skin, joint/back/side pain, swollen feet or lower legs, sores in the mouth or on the lips, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, shortness of breath, bone or muscle pain, severe stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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.
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