Dactinomycin Injection (DACTINOMYCIN - INJECTION)

Instructions

This is an IV medicine. It is given through a sterile tube directly into the vein by a healthcare provider.

This medicine is given gradually through the IV line.

This medicine should be given over 15 minutes.

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

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

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.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

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.

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

Rarely, this medicine may cause serious injury at the site of injection. Call your doctor right away if you notice any pain, swelling, blisters, sores, lumps under the skin, or scabbing at the injection site.

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.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

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 2 weeks after stopping treatment.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

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.

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

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

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.

• diarrhea
• hair loss
• mouth sores or irritation
• nausea and vomiting

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

• bleeding or bruising
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• 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)
• pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
• red, peeling or blistering skin
• sore throat
• difficulty swallowing
• sudden or unexplained weight gain

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.