Cytarabine Injection (CYTARABINE - INJECTION)

Cytarabine Injection (CYTARABINE - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Generic Name: Cytarabine

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • hair loss
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • eye pain or redness
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • muscle weakness
  • joint or muscle pain
  • inability to move
  • seizures
  • sore throat
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • difficulty swallowing
  • big toe pain
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.