Hexalen (Altretamine) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 10, 2012

Hexalen

Ovarian Cancer »

Ovarian cancer facts*

*Ovarian cancer facts medically edited by Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Most ovarian growths in women under age 30 are benign, fluid-filled cysts.

There are several types of ovarian cancer.

The exact causes of ovarian cancer are unknown.

Risk factors that increase the chance of developing ovarian cancer include a family history of cancer, being over 55 years of age, and never being pregnant.

The ovarian cancer symptoms and signs can be vague but may include abdominal swelling, pressure, or pain, frequent urination or urinary urgency, back pain, leg pain, unusual vaginal bleeding, and feeling full quickly.

There are no routine screening tests for ovarian cancer.

A physical examination (including pelvic exam), ultrasound, X-rays, ...

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Hexalen User Reviews >>

Hexalen

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HEXALEN®
(altretamine) Capsules 50 mg

WARNINGS

HEXALEN® (altretamine) capsules should only be given under the supervision of a physician experienced in the use of antineoplastic agents.
Peripheral blood counts should be monitored at least monthly, prior to the initiation of each course of HEXALEN® (altretamine) capsules, and as clinically indicated (see ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Because of the possibility of HEXALEN® (altretamine) capsules-related neurotoxicity, neurologic examination should be performed regularly during HEXALEN® capsules administration (see ADVERSE REACTIONS).

DRUG DESCRIPTION

HEXALEN® (altretamine) capsules, is a synthetic cytotoxic antineoplastic s-triazine derivative. HEXALEN® capsules contain 50 mg of altretamine for oral administration. Inert ingredients include lactose, anhydrous and calcium stearate. Altretamine, known chemically as N,N,N',N',N“,N”-hexamethyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine, has the following structural formula:

HEXALEN® (altretamine) Structural Formula Illustration

Its empirical formula is C₉H₁₈N₆ with a molecular weight of 210.28. Altretamine is a white crystalline powder, melting at 172°± 1°C. Altretamine is practically insoluble in water but is increasingly soluble at pH 3 and below.

What are the possible side effects of altretamine (Hexalen)?

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 your throat; difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives);
decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; or fever, chills, or signs of infection);
pain, tremors, tingling, burning, or prickling in hands or feet;

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What are the precautions when taking altretamine (Hexalen)?

Before taking altretamine, 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, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, brain/nerve disorders, blood/bone marrow disorders (e.g., low levels of platelets/white blood cells/red blood cells).

Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine or flu vaccine inhaled through the nose.

To lower your risk of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 10/9/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.