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.

DEXRAZOXANE-INJ

(dex-razz-OX-ane)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zinecard

Uses

This medication is used to prevent and/or reduce the risk of heart side effects of doxorubicin, an anticancer medication.

How To Use

This medication is given by IV (intravenous) injection by a health care professional. It is started no more than 30 minutes before a dose of doxorubicin. It is given by slow IV push or rapid drip from an infusion bag.

Side Effects

Because this medication is used with another medication, it is difficult to identify side effects of dexrazoxane alone. Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, temporary hair loss, and pain or irritation at the injection site have been reported. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these effects while using this drug: unusual weakness, mouth sores, infection, fever, trouble swallowing, easy bruising or bleeding, skin rash, itching. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any illnesses, infections or allergies. It is very important this drug be given no more than 30 minutes before administering doxorubicin. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: any chemotherapy 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

Laboratory tests will be done routinely while using this medication to monitor the effects of the medication and to prevent side effects.

Missed Dose

It is important to receive each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, consult your health care professional to establish a new dosing schedule. As with most medications, do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store dry powder at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C). Store reconstituted and diluted solutions at room temperature or under refrigeration, 36 to 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C) as directed. Reconstituted and diluted solution is stable for up to 6 hours at room temperature or refrigerated. Check the expiration date on the container and properly discard of any unused medication after the date.