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.
FLOXURIDINE - INJECTION
(flox-YOUR-eh-deen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): FUDR
Uses
This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer.
How To Use
This medication is given by injection into an artery using a continuous infusion pump. It is usually given in the hospital where you can be watched closely. This medication should be used as long as a positive response continues. If side effects appear, the dose may be reduced or the infusion stopped for a period of time. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while using this medication.
Side Effects
This medication may cause loose stools, fever, weakness, loss of appetite, stomach upset, nausea, headache or dry skin. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. This medication may cause temporary hair loss (alopecia). When the medication is stopped, hair growth will return. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, weakness, chills, unusual bleeding or bruising, flu-like symptoms, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin; dark urine), stomach cramps, mouth sores, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle or joint pain, swelling of the feet or legs, skin rash, mental confusion, vision changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: infections, blood disorders, bone marrow problems, kidney or liver problems, chickenpox, herpes zoster (shingles), allergies. Because this medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection, avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Floxuridine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is usually stopped while using anticancer drugs. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially of: leucovorin calcium. 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. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and intestinal bleeding.
Notes
Laboratory tests will be done periodically to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose
It is important to use each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store this medication as directed, usually in the refrigerator. Properly discard of any unused medication after the expiration date.
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).