CYTARABINE

Drug Name: CYTARABINE

CYTARABINE DESCRIPTION:
CYTARABINE - INJECTION (sye-TAIR-uh-bean)

COMMON CYTARABINE BRAND NAME(S):
Cytosar-U, Tarabine PFS

CYTARABINE SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, itching, freckling, diarrhea, dizziness are common side effects. Using the drug on an empty stomach may help to relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limited activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor, without delay, if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, chest pain, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, easy bruising or bleeding, black or tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, pinpoint red spots on the skin, joint/back/side pain, swollen feet or lower legs, sores in the mouth or on the lips, yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, shortness of breath, bone or muscle pain, severe stomach pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE CYTARABINE:
CYTARABINE: This is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while using CYTARABINE. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop using CYTARABINE, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting.

CYTARABINE WARNING:
CYTARABINE will be given where you can be closely monitored by your doctor because serious, even fatal, blood disorders (e.g., anemia, bone marrow suppression) have been caused by CYTARABINE. Liver problems may also develop. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop fever, unusual fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, persistent sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, abdominal or stomach pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, or mouth sores.

CYTARABINE USES:
Cytarabine is one of a large group of drugs known as "antineoplastics"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy, or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve better results and minimize side effects.

CYTARABINE PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of kidney or liver problems, gout, infections, and of any allergies you may have. Contraceptive (birth control) measures are recommended for use in men and women while using CYTARABINE. Cytarabine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for details. It is not known if CYTARABINE passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

CYTARABINE DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of medicines used for gout. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

CYTARABINE OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

CYTARABINE NOTES:
CYTARABINE can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, sore throat, rash or chills. Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Regular doctor visits are important. Frequent blood tests will be done to monitor therapy.

MISSED CYTARABINE DOSE:
Do not double dose if missed. Contact your doctor.

CYTARABINE STORAGE:
Refrigerate piggyback or infusion device. Warm to room temperature before infusing. Check expiration date. Store vial at room temperature away from sunlight. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.