TEMOZOLOMIDE – ORAL (temm-oh-ZOH-loh-mide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Temodar
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of brain cancers (e.g., refractory anaplastic astrocytoma).
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication by mouth, generally once daily for five consecutive days per 28-day treatment cycle; or take as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your size and response to therapy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are not certain which days of the cycle to take your medication. Take this medication on an empty stomach (one hour before or three hours after a meal) or at bedtime, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules (medication) whole with a full glass of water (8oz. or 240mL). Do not crush or chew the capsules. If you vomit within 30 minutes of taking this medication, notify your doctor immediately. If you vomit before taking this medication, your doctor may be able to prescribe anti-nausea medication for you to take before therapy begins. Consult your doctor. Do not open the capsules (medication). If capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, avoid inhalation or contact of the medication with skin or mucous membranes (e.g., inside the nose). Take all other medication (e.g., anti-nausea drugs) exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, tiredness, constipation and headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: unusual dizziness or drowsiness, easy bleeding or bruising, persistent sore throat, fever, seizures, unusual weakness, loss of coordination, mental/mood changes, vision changes, swelling, rash, diarrhea, trouble sleeping. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, blood disorders (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), allergies (especially to dacarbazine). This medication can lower the body’s ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills or persistent sore throat. Use this medication with caution in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Use this medication with caution in women because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details. Men and women should use effective birth control while using this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast- feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood tests, brain scans) may be performed to monitor your progress. Keep all scheduled medical appointments.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
