paclitaxel-injection (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart disease, liver disease, bone marrow disorders, infections, any allergies you may have. Because this medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection, avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug, especially the effects on the bone marrow (myelosuppression). Paclitaxel is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known if paclitaxel passes into breast milk. Breast- feeding is usually stopped while using anticancer drugs. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of: ketoconazole, all anti-cancer medications, St John's wort. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include tingling of the hands or feet; severe mouth sores, or trouble breathing.
NOTES: Laboratory tests will be done periodically to monitor your progress.
MISSED DOSE: Discuss the dosing schedule with your doctor. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store original vials in the refrigerator. The infusion solution can be stored at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Check the expiration date and discard any unused medication after that time.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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