Thiotepa (Thiotepa Injection) Drug Overview of Side Effects and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Thiotepa

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Thiotepa Consumer (continued)

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain/redness at the injection site, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, or loss of appetite may occur. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug treatment may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Temporary hair loss is another common side effect. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.

Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, remember that your doctor has prescribed this drug 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.

Painful sores on the lips, mouth, and throat may occur. To decrease the risk, limit hot foods and drinks, brush your teeth carefully, avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol, and rinse your mouth frequently with cool water.

This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Tell your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.

This medication may also cause very serious bleeding. Tell your doctor immediately if any signs of serious bleeding occur, including: easy bruising/bleeding, bloody/black/tarry stools, coughing up blood, nosebleeds that are frequent or hard to stop, dizziness/fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat, pale/gray/bluish skin, unusual tiredness/weakness, vomit that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: severe stomach/abdominal pain, lower back/side pain, painful/difficult urination, pink/dark urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away 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 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 using thiotepa, 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: bone marrow problems (e.g., low white blood cell count/platelets from previous chemotherapy/radiation treatment), kidney disease, liver disease.

Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections. 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 sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.

This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Males and females must use 2 reliable forms of birth control (e.g., condoms and birth control pills) during treatment with this drug. Talk with your doctor about effective forms of birth control.

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.