Levoleucovorin Injection

What is this medicine?

LEVOLEUCOVORIN (LEE voe LOO koe VOE rin) is used to prevent or treat the harmful effects of some chemotherapy medicines like methotrexate. It is also used with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) to treat colon cancer.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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

• diarrhea

• mouth sores

• seizures

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

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• fluoropyrimidines such as 5-fluorouracil and capecitabine

• phenobarbital

• phenytoin

• primidone

• trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

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:

• anemia from low levels of vitamin B-12 in the blood

• an unusual or allergic reaction to levoleucovorin, leucovorin, folic acid, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.