GENERIC NAME: EPIRUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE - INJECTION (epp-ih-REWB-ih-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Ellence
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Epirubicin must only be injected slowly and directly into a vein (IV) through other intravenous (IV) fluids. Do not inject this medication into the muscle (IM) or just beneath the skin (subcutaneously). If this medication accidentally leaks into surrounding tissue, the skin and/or muscle may be severely damaged. Notify your doctor immediately if redness, pain, or swelling occur at or around the injection site. Epirubicin may cause heart problems (including possibly fatal heart failure), bone marrow suppression, or other types of cancer (acute myelogenous leukemia). Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing, swelling of the hands and feet, easy bruising or bleeding, dry cough, signs of infection (e.g., fever, unusual fatigue, or persistent sore throat). Heart problems may occur during therapy or sometimes months to years after receiving this medication. The risk of developing heart problems or leukemia varies depending on your dose, condition, and other medications. Tell your doctor if you have liver problems before starting treatment with this medication. You may require smaller doses of epirubicin.
USES: Epirubicin is used to treat breast cancer. It works by eliminating or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
HOW TO USE: Inject this medication into a vein (IV) through other IV fluids (e.g., saline, dextrose), usually over three to five minutes; or as directed by your doctor. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions regarding the use of this medication. To minimize serious side effects, you may be given other medications (e.g., antiemetics, antibiotics) in addition to this drug. Follow all directions for the proper use of other medications. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions regarding the use of additional medications. 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 needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your 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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