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In this Article

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

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving dexrazoxane (Totect)?

You should not receive this medication if your chemotherapy does not include doxorubicin or a similar medication such as:

• daunorubicin (Cerubidine);
• epirubicin (Ellence);
• idarubicin (Idamycin); or
• mitoxantrone (Novantrone);

Before you receive dexrazoxane, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need dose adjustments or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether dexrazoxane 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 dexrazoxane given (Totect)?

Dexrazoxane is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or cancer treatment setting. Dexrazoxane is usually given 30 minutes before your dose of doxorubicin.

Dexrazoxane can add to the bone marrow lowering effects of chemotherapy. This can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to 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 kidney function may also need to be checked with urine tests. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.