Ontak (Denileukin Diftitox) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Ontak

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Ontak

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Ontak Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using denileukin diftitox (Ontak)?

You should not use denileukin diftitox if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a diphtheria vaccine or to medicines containing interleukin-2 (IL-2).

Before using denileukin diftitox, tell your doctor if you have heart disease.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether denileukin diftitox is harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

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

Some patients receiving denileukin diftitox have had permanent changes in their vision or ability to see colors. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk. Tell your doctor if you have any vision changes during your treatment.

How should I use denileukin diftitox (Ontak)?

Denileukin diftitox is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection in a hospital or clinic setting. The injection normally takes about 15 minutes or longer. During this time you will be observed for side effects.

Denileukin diftitox is usually given each day for five days, followed by three weeks off the medication.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis before and during your treatment. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

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