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.

STREPTOZOCIN - INJECTION

(strep-toe-ZOE-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zanosar

WARNING: This medication is a very potent anti-cancer drug that has caused serious, sometimes fatal, side effects including severe nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, kidney problems, liver problems, or blood problems. Only doctors experienced with this drug should prescribe it and it should only be given in an office, clinic, or hospital setting that has laboratory and/or life support equipment available.

Uses

Streptozocin is used to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., cancer of the pancreas).

How To Use

Follow all instructions for proper handling, use, and mixing with correct IV fluids. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Drink plenty of fluids while you are using this medication, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Do not allow this medication to come in contact with your skin; it may cause damage to healthy cells. If skin contact occurs, wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water. Give this medication by vein (IV) exactly as directed by the doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not exceed the maximum recommended dosage. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration (solution should appear pale gold in color). If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain/redness/burning and swelling at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: change in the amount of urine, unusual bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever, chills, unusual weakness. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, mental/mood changes, stomach pain, unusual dizziness or shakiness, rapid pulse and sweating, increased thirst, blurred vision, confusion. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, diabetes, radiation therapy, any allergies. Because this medication can decrease your immune system function, do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (e.g., oral polio vaccine). Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities that may increase the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss reliable forms of birth control. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other cancer chemotherapy drugs (e.g., doxorubicin), phenytoin, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, tobramycin), amphotericin, cyclosporine. 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: change in amount of urine, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood counts, liver/kidney function tests) will be performed frequently to monitor for side effects and response to therapy. Keep all scheduled medical appointments.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the vials in a refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. After mixing in the correct IV fluids, the IV solution is stable for 48 hours at room temperature (59 and 86 degrees F or 15 and 30 degrees C) or 96 hours refrigerated. Discard any unused portion of the vial(s).

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).