Fludarabine Injection (FLUDARABINE - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Generic Name: Fludarabine

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Do not freeze the medicine.

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

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Avoid getting medicine on the skin or in the eyes. If this happens, wash the skin with soap and water. For eyes, open eyelid and flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor right away.

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

This medicine may cause serious bleeding problems in patients taking blood thinner medications. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully to monitor your blood lab tests if you are on blood thinners.

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

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

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.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

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 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 or men must use 2 reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

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.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • muscle pain
  • nausea and vomiting

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

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • back pain
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • changes in memory, mood, or thinking
  • confusion
  • cough that does not go away
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • muscle cramps or weakness
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine
  • dark urine
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting

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.

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