Radium Injection (RADIUM RA 223 DICHLORIDE - INJECTION)

Instructions

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

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.

This medicine releases some radiation and may be present in the blood, urine, or stool after the injection. Avoid contact with your blood, urine, or stool for at least 1 week after treatment. To avoid splashing, sit down on the toilet seat when you use the bathroom. Flush the toilet twice when you are done and wash your hands well with soap and water. Use medical gowns and gloves if you need to clean up any blood, urine, or stool. If blood, urine, or stool gets on clothing, wash the clothing right away and separately from other clothing.

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

Cautions

This medicine is not approved for use by women.

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

Severe vomiting or diarrhea may cause the body lose too much water. Contact your doctor right away if you notice symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual dry mouth, increased thirst, urinating less often, lack of tears, or pale or wrinkled skin.

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.

It is unknown if this medicine affects sperm. If you plan to father a child, discuss risks and benefits with your doctor.

Women of child-bearing age, whose male partners are receiving this medicine, should use reliable forms of birth control during his treatment and for 6 months after.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 6 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
• 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
• bone pain
• cough that does not go away
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• fever or chills
• signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
• lightheadedness
• rapid heartbeat
• sore throat
• persistent or unusual thirst

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.