Eflornithine Oral Tablet (EFLORNITHINE - ORAL)

Eflornithine Oral Tablet (EFLORNITHINE - ORAL)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Iwilfin

Generic Name: Eflornithine

Instructions

Chew the pill or swallow it whole.

If unable to swallow the tablet, crush and mix with 2 tablespoons of liquid or soft foods (such as applesauce) and take immediately. If tablet pieces remain, mix with another 2 tablespoons of liquid or soft foods to get the whole dose.

After mixing the medicine, use it within 1 hour. Throw away any leftover medicine. Do not save for later use.

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

If you vomit after taking a dose, do not take an extra dose. Take your next dose at the usual time.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 7 hours to the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

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.

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

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

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. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

To prevent pregnancy, men and women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 week after stopping it.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

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

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

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.

  • diarrhea
  • vomiting

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

  • bleeding or bruising
  • coughing
  • ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
  • fever or chills
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • sore throat

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.