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dexrazoxane - injection, Zinecard

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GENERIC NAME: DEXRAZOXANE - INJECTION (dex-razz-OX-ane)

BRAND NAME(S): Zinecard

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

USES: This medication is used to reduce the risk of heart damage from doxorubicin, an anticancer medication. Dexrazoxane is known as a chelating agent. It is believed to work by preventing the release of certain chemicals (iron-mediated free radicals) in the body. These chemicals are thought to be part of the reason why doxorubicin (and similar drugs known as anthracyclines) causes damage to the heart. Dexrazoxane also allows your oncologist (cancer doctor) to treat you longer with doxorubicin as part of your cancer treatment.The manufacturer recommends that dexrazoxane should not be given with the first dose of doxorubicin. It is believed that the beneficial effects of doxorubicin may be decreased if it is given with the first dose of doxorubicin. Talk to your oncologist for more details.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is started no more than 30 minutes before a dose of doxorubicin. It is given by either slow IV push or rapid infusion from an infusion bag.The health care professional should follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct IV fluids. If you have any questions about the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.Dosage is based on your dose of doxorubicin and your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment. If your doxorubicin dose is changed, your dexrazoxane will also need to be changed. Follow your doctor's directions exactly.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.Do not mix dexrazoxane with any other medications.If skin contact occurs, flush with plenty of soap and water. If irritation occurs, contact your doctor immediately.Use this medication before each dose of doxorubicin (after your first dose) to get the most benefit from it.Symptoms of heart damage may occur when you first receive doxorubicin, during later doses of doxorubicin, or years after the end of your doxorubicin treatment. It is important to continue using this medication even if you do not have symptoms of heart damage such as sudden nighttime shortness of breath, difficulty breathing while lying down, or shortness of breath when active.

SIDE EFFECTS: Because this medication is used with another medication, it is difficult to tell which side effects are caused by dexrazoxane. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, trouble swallowing, diarrhea, temporary hair loss, or pain/irritation at the injection site have been reported. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.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.When combined with chemotherapy, dexrazoxane may worsen the effects that these medications can have on your bone marrow. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual weakness, mouth sores, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding.Very rarely, people with cancer who have been treated with this medication have developed other cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma). Consult your doctor for more details.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: 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.

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