DepoCyt (Cytarabine Liposome Injection) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

DepoCyt

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DepoCyt

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DepoCyt Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: DepoCyt

Generic Name: cytarabine liposomal (Pronunciation: sye TAR ah been lye poe SEW mul)

What is cytarabine liposomal (DepoCyt)?

Cytarabine liposomal is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Cytarabine liposomal interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Cytarabine liposomal is used to treat lymphomatous meningitis.

Cytarabine liposomal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of cytarabine liposomal (DepoCyt)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; unusual bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; or fever, chills, sore throat, or signs of infection); or
chemical arachnoiditis (a syndrome characterized by neck pain or rigidity, back pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, fever).

Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience

muscle weakness;
fatigue or confusion;
constipation; or
swelling or water retention.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about cytarabine liposomal (DepoCyt)?

Cytarabine liposomal should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of cytarabine liposomal including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection such as fever; chills, or sore throat); chemical arachnoiditis (a syndrome characterized by neck pain or rigidity, back pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, fever), and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with cytarabine liposomal.

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