plicamycin-injection, Mithracin

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GENERIC NAME: PLICAMYCIN - INJECTION (ply-kuh-MY-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Mithracin

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

WARNING: Infrequently, this medication has caused severe (sometimes fatal) blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia). Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count. Platelets affect your blood's ability to clot properly. Plicamycin should only be used under close medical supervision. Close monitoring and laboratory studies will need to be performed. Immediately notify your doctor if you have signs of easy bruising or bleeding.

USES: Plicamycin is used to treat various types of cancer.

HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, or if you miss a dose, contact your doctor. Do not take any medicines for pain or inflammation, like aspirin or acetaminophen without first informing your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, irritated or sore mouth, tiredness, weakness, drowsiness or depression are common side effects. Taking the medication on an empty stomach may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: nosebleed, bloody or tarry stools, bloody vomit, sore throat, fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, small red spots on the skin, redness/flushing/swelling of the face, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or 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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.