Valstar (Valrubicin) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information

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May 27, 2012

Valstar

Bladder Cancer »

What is the bladder?

The urinary bladder, or the bladder, is a hollow organ present in the pelvis. Most of it lies behind the pubic bone of the pelvis but when full it can extend up into the lower part of the abdomen. Its primary function is to store urine that drains into it from the kidney through tube-like structures called the ureters. The ureters from both the kidneys open into the urinary bladder. The bladder forms a low-pressure reservoir which gradually stretches out as urine fills into it. In males, the prostate gland is located adjacent to the base of the bladder where urethra joins the bladder. From time to time, the muscular wall of the bladder contracts to expel urine through the urinary passage (urethra) into the outside world.

What are the layers of the bladder?

The bladder consists of three layers of tissue. The innermost layer of the bladder which comes into contact with the urine stored inside the bl...

Read the Bladder Cancer article »

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Patients should be informed that VALSTAR (valrubicin) has been shown to induce complete responses in only about 1 in 5 patients, and that delaying cystectomy could lead to development of metastatic bladder cancer, which is lethal. They should discuss with their physician the relative risk of cystectomy versus the risk of metastatic bladder cancer (see Clinical Trials) and be aware that the risk increases the longer cystectomy is delayed in the presence of persisting CIS.

Patients should be informed that the major acute toxicities from VALSTAR (valrubicin) are related to irritable bladder symptoms that may occur during instillation and retention of VALSTAR (valrubicin) and for a limited period following voiding. For the first 24 hours following administration, red-tinged urine is typical. Patients should report prolonged irritable bladder symptoms or prolonged passage of red-colored urine immediately to their physician.

Women of childbearing potential should be advised not to become pregnant during treatment. Men should be advised to refrain from engaging in procreative activities while receiving therapy with VALSTAR (valrubicin) . All patients of reproductive age should be advised to use an effective contraception method during the treatment period.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/24/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.