MedicineNet.com

valrubicin - intravesical, Valstar

Take the Chronic Fatigue Quiz Surprising Benefits of Sex Slideshow Foods & Drinks That Make You Gotta Go Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: VALRUBICIN - INTRAVESICAL (val-REWB-eh-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Valstar

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

USES: Valrubicin is used to treat bladder cancer. The usual treatment for bladder cancer is surgery. However, if you and your doctor decide that the risk of surgery is greater than its benefit or that surgery may be delayed, this medication may be used as part of your treatment.This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as anthracyclines and works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.This medication may not cure your cancer. Delaying surgery could lead to a more serious illness (metastatic cancer). Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by placement into the bladder as directed by your doctor. Do not give by injection into a vein or muscle or under the skin. After this medication is placed through a tube (catheter), it is usually left in the bladder for 2 hours, then released by urinating. This drug is usually used once weekly for 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor.Drink plenty of fluids after each treatment with this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Doing so helps clear it from your body and decrease side effects.

SIDE EFFECTS: Bladder irritation, with symptoms such as pain, spasm, and frequent urge to urinate, usually occurs. This medication usually will cause your urine to turn a reddish color. This is a normal, harmless effect of the drug and should not be mistaken for blood in your urine. If any of these effects persist or worsen after 24 hours, contact your doctor immediately.Infrequent side effects include nausea, abdominal/stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, weakness, dizziness, or back pain. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor.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 right away if you have any serious side effects, including: bloody urine, signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills), unusual tiredness.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), trouble breathing, severe dizziness.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.