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.

PALONOSETRON - INJECTION

(pal-oh-NOE-se-tron)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aloxi

Uses

This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. It works by blocking the hormone (serotonin) that causes vomiting.

OTHER

Uses

This medication may also be used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery.

How To Use

This medicine is injected into a vein (intravenous-IV) as a one-time dose 30 minutes before chemotherapy begins. Repeating a dose within 7 days is not recommended. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

Side Effects

Headache, constipation, diarrhea, or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, fainting. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems (e.g., QTc prolongation, arrhythmias), low mineral levels (electrolyte imbalances such as low potassium or magnesium), any allergies (especially to other serotonin receptor blockers such as ondansetron, dolasetron). This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Drug Interactions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: anthracylines (e.g., doxorubicin, daunorubicin), "water pills" (diuretics). Other drugs besides palonosetron which may affect the heart rhythm (QTc prolongation in the EKG) include dofetilide, pimozide, procainamide, quinidine, sotalol, and sparfloxacin among others. QTc prolongation can infrequently result in serious, rarely fatal, irregular heartbeats. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Ask for instructions about whether you need to stop any other QTc-prolonging drugs you may be using in order to minimize the risk of this effect. 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

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

Try to take this medicine at the scheduled time. If you miss the dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.