Gliadel (Polifeprosan 20 with Carmustine) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Brain Tumor »

What is the brain?

The brain is a soft, spongy mass of tissue. It is protected by the bones of the skull and three thin membranes called meninges. Watery fluid called cerebrospinal fluid cushions the brain. This fluid flows through spaces between the meninges and through spaces within the brain called ventricles.

A network of nerves carries messages back and forth between the brain and the rest of the body. Some nerves go directly from the brain to the eyes, ears, and other parts of the head. Other nerves run through the spinal cord to connect the brain with the other parts of the body. Within the brain and spinal cord, glial cells surround nerve cells and hold them in place.

The brain directs the things we choose to do (like walking and talking) and the things our body does without thinking (like breathing). The brain is also in charge of our senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell), memory...

Read the Brain Tumor article »

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SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, stomach/abdominal/back pain, nausea, or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: swelling/redness/warmth at surgery site, wound at surgery site that is opening or not healing properly, signs of an infection (e.g., fever), chest pain, mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, anxiety).

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these unlikely but very serious side effects occur: seizures, severe headache, extreme tiredness/weakness, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, stiff neck, fainting.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before receiving carmustine/polifeprosan 20, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.