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.

THIOTEPA - INJECTION

(thigh-oh-TEP-uh)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Thioplex

Uses

Thiotepa is used to treat various cancers and tumors.

How To Use

This is a potent medication. Use it exactly as prescribed. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience pain, burning or redness at the place where injected. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hives, missed menstrual periods, or dizziness are common side effects of this drug. Not eating before treatment may help 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: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, easy or unusual bruising or bleeding, black tarry stools, small red spots on the skin, skin rash, tightness of throat, wheezing, joint pain, swollen feet or lower legs, sores in mouth or on lips, cough, lower back or side pain. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: kidney problems, liver problems, blood disorders, any allergies. 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. Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Thiotepa is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. It is not known is this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: other anti-cancer drugs, drugs that affect bone marrow.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include persistent sore throat or fever; easy bleeding or bruising; or severe fatigue.

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. 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

Store in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degree F (between 2.2 and 7.8 degrees C) and protect from light.

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).