IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
(al-TRET-uh-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Hexalen
WARNING: Because altretamine can cause blood problems (e.g., bone marrow suppression, thrombocytopenia), blood tests must be done before starting this drug and at least once a month thereafter. This drug can also cause nervous system problems; therefore, nervous system tests must be done during treatment with this drug. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of blood disorders or nervous system problems such as persistent fever or sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, loss of coordination, mood changes, dizziness, tingling of the hands or feet.
USES: Altretamine is an anticancer medication used to treat ovarian cancer.
HOW TO USE: This medication is taken by mouth as directed usually after meals and at bedtime. This is usually taken in a cycle for 14 or 21 days then stopped for 14 or 21 days. Do not increase your dose, take this more often or stop taking this without first consulting your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or weakness may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: a rapid heartbeat, fainting, tingling of the hands or feet, mental confusion, mood changes, dizziness, incoordination, fever, sore throat, skin rash, chills, unusual bleeding or bruising. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: a seizure disorder, nervous system disease, blood disorders, allergies (especially drug allergies). If this medication makes you feel dizzy, use caution driving or operating machinery. Rise from a seated position slowly and be careful on stairs. Altretamine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for details. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. The manufacturer of this drug recommends that breast-feeding be stopped while using this medication. Consult your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, especially of: antidepressants, other anti-cancer medications. 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: This medication may affect your blood and nervous system. Laboratory tests will be done regularly while taking this medication to guide therapy and monitor for possible side effects.
MISSED DOSE: Doses may be stopped or held depending on your condition. Discuss the dosing schedule with your doctor. If you miss a dose, do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) as directed away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
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