In this Article

• What is epirubicin (Ellence)?
• What are the possible side effects of epirubicin (Ellence)?
• What is the most important information I should know about epirubicin (Ellence)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive epirubicin (Ellence)?
• How is epirubicin given (Ellence)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Ellence)?
• What happens if I overdose (Ellence)?
• What should I avoid while receiving epirubicin (Ellence)?
• What other drugs will affect epirubicin (Ellence)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive epirubicin (Ellence)?

Tell your doctor about all other cancer medications and treatments you have received, including radiation.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to epirubicin or similar medications (Cerubidine, Adriamycin, Idamycin, Novantrone), or if you have:

• an untreated or uncontrolled infection (including mouth sores);
• severe liver disease;
• severe heart problems; or
• if you have recently had a heart attack.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely receive this medication. Before you receive epirubicin, tell your doctor if you have:

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• a weak immune system caused by prior cancer treatments;
• heart disease;
• congestive heart failure; or
• if you have ever had a heart attack.

Some people being treated with epirubicin have developed secondary cancers such as leukemia. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not receive epirubicin without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

If a man fathers a child while receiving this medication, the baby may have birth defects. Use a condom to prevent pregnancy during your treatment.

It is not known whether epirubicin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is epirubicin given (Ellence)?

Epirubicin is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take at least 15 minutes to complete.

Epirubicin is usually given together with other cancer medications. Follow your doctor's instructions about your specific treatment schedule.

You may also receive medications to prevent nausea, vomiting, or infections.

If any of this medication accidentally gets on your skin, wash it thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Epirubicin can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your heart and liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.