oxaliplatin-injection (cont.)
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea and vomiting may be severe in some patients. Medication may be given prior to and after therapy to help reduce this effect. Pain, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, heartburn, change in taste, hiccups, runny nose, trouble sleeping, or hair loss may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: pain/burning/redness at the injection site, nose bleeds, loss of appetite, mouth sores, unusual bruising or bleeding, depression, fast or irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dry cough, shortness of breath, decreased urination/thirst/dry mouth (dehydration), muscle cramps, weakness, groin or calf pain, sudden severe headache, chest pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: black stools, "coffee-ground" - appearing vomit, persistent stomach/abdominal pain. Oxaliplatin can affect how your nerves work (peripheral neuropathy). Tell your doctor promptly if you develop the following symptoms: sensitivity to cold temperature and cold objects, trouble breathing/swallowing, jaw tightness, strange feeling in your tongue, eye pain, chest pressure, numbness or tingling of hands or feet. You may lessen these types of nerve problems by avoiding cold drinks, use of ice, and covering skin prior to exposure to cold temperature. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: allergy to platinum products (e.g., cisplatin, carboplatin). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, pre-existing blood disorders, bone marrow disease, nerve disorders, any other allergies. This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infections such as fever, chills or persistent sore throat. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects, especially diarrhea, dehydration, loss of potassium (hypokalemia), and fatigue. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of child-bearing age use effective birth control measures while taking this drug since oxaliplatin may cause fetal harm. It is not known if oxaliplatin passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.
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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