Rucaparib tablets

May 24, 2020

Rucaparib tablets

What is this medicine?

RUCAPARIB (roo KAP a rib) is a chemotherapy drug. It targets specific enzymes within cancer cells and stops the cancer cell from growing. This medicine is used to treat certain kinds of ovarian cancer and prostate cancer.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

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, like shortness of breath, cough, or wheezing

  • signs and symptoms of bleeding such as bloody or black, tarry stools; red or dark-brown urine; spitting up blood or brown material that looks like coffee grounds; red spots on the skin; unusual bruising or bleeding from the eye, gums, or nose

  • signs and symptoms of infection like fever or chills; cough; sore throat; pain or trouble passing urine

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

  • changes in taste

  • constipation

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • loss of appetite

  • nausea, vomiting

  • sensitivity to light

  • stomach pain

  • weak or tired

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

  • caffeine

  • midazolam

  • warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not store at temperatures greater than 30 degrees C (86 degrees F) and do not take this medicine if you think it may have been stored at a temperature greater than 86 degrees F. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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

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

  • low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts

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

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This drug may make you feel generally unwell. This is not uncommon, as chemotherapy can affect healthy cells as well as cancer cells. Report any side effects. Continue your course of treatment even though you feel ill unless your doctor tells you to stop. You will need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Women who are able to become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 6 months after receiving the last dose. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that may be right for you. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine or for 2 weeks after your last dose.

Call your doctor or health care professional for advice if you get a fever, chills or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. This drug decreases your body's ability to fight infections. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.

This medicine may increase your risk to bruise or bleed. Call your doctor or health care professional if you notice any unusual bleeding.

If you are going to have surgery or any other procedures, tell your doctor you are taking this medicine.

Updated:  

May 24, 2020