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.
PLICAMYCIN - INJECTION
(ply-kuh-MY-sin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mithracin
WARNING: Infrequently, this medication has caused severe (sometimes fatal) blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia). Thrombocytopenia is a low platelet count. Platelets affect your blood's ability to clot properly. Plicamycin should only be used under close medical supervision. Close monitoring and laboratory studies will need to be performed. Immediately notify your doctor if you have signs of easy bruising or bleeding.
Uses
Plicamycin is used to treat various types of cancer.
How To Use
This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, or if you miss a dose, contact your doctor. Do not take any medicines for pain or inflammation, like aspirin or acetaminophen without first informing your doctor.
Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, irritated or sore mouth, tiredness, weakness, drowsiness or depression are common side effects. Taking the medication on an empty stomach may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: nosebleed, bloody or tarry stools, bloody vomit, sore throat, fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, small red spots on the skin, redness/flushing/swelling of the face, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing kidney, liver disease, blood disorders. Plicamycin should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if plicamycin is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of any prescription and nonprescription medication you may use. Do not stop or start 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 can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, sore throat, rash, or chills. 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. Regular doctor visits are important. Frequent blood tests will be done to monitor therapy.
Missed Dose
It is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor.
Storage
Prior to reconstitution, store in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degree F (between 2.2 and 7.8 degrees C).
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).
