Dexrazoxane injection

What is this medicine?

DEXRAZOXANE (dex ray ZOX ane) is used to protect against heart damage caused by certain chemotherapy. It is also used to prevent tissue injury from certain chemotherapy leaks.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. This medicine is given just before you are given your chemotherapy medicine.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• dizziness

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• low blood counts - this medicine may decrease the number of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. You may be at increased risk for infections and bleeding

• signs of decreased platelets or bleeding - bruising, pinpoint red spots on the skin, black, tarry stools, blood in the urine

• signs of infection - fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• hair loss

• nausea, vomiting

• pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• Topical dimethyl sulfoxide (when used to treat extravasation)

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to dexrazoxane, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine or for 6 months after stopping it. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. Men should not father a child while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping it. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine or for 2 weeks after stopping it.

This may interfere with the ability to father a child. You should talk to your doctor or health care professional if you are concerned about your fertility.