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gallium nitrate - injection, Ganite

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GENERIC NAME: GALLIUM NITRATE - INJECTION (GAL-ee-um NYE-trate)

BRAND NAME(S): Ganite

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

WARNING: Gallium nitrate should not be used with other drugs that may harm the kidneys (e.g., gentamicin, amphotericin B) because of the increased risk for severe kidney problems. If one of these other medications must be used, gallium nitrate treatment should be stopped. To help reduce the effects on your kidneys, you should continue to receive fluids (hydration) as directed by your doctor for several days after the other drug treatment has been completed. Your doctor will closely monitor how well your kidneys are working during this period.

USES: This medication is used to treat high calcium blood levels (hypercalcemia) that may occur with cancer. It is used along with fluids (hydration). This medication helps to reverse the symptoms of too much calcium in the blood (e.g., tiredness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, dehydration). Gallium nitrate works by reducing the amount of calcium released from your bones into your blood.

HOW TO USE: This medication is mixed in IV fluids and given by injection into a vein once a day by a health care professional. It is given slowly over a 24-hour period. It is usually given for 5 days or as directed by your doctor. You will also be given fluids (hydration) as directed by your doctor.Before using, check this medication visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.Dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS: Minor side effects are uncommon with this medication. If you have any side effects that 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.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: muscle twitching/cramps/spasms, weakness, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion), seizures, fast breathing.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: vision changes, hearing changes.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.

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.