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Archive for the ‘tyrosine kinase inhibitors’ Category

Sprycel

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Sprycel

Generic Name: dasatinib (da SAT in ib)

What is Sprycel?

Sprycel is a cancer medication that slows the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. It works by blocking proteins that cause the rapid growth of certain types of leukemia cells.

Sprycel is used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) when other cancer treatments have not been effective.

Sprycel may also be used for other purposes not listed here.

Important information about Sprycel

Do not use Sprycel without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Before using Sprycel, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood, heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder, or if you have a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.”

Do not crush, chew, or break a Sprycel tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

There are many other medicines that can interact with Sprycel. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Sprycel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or 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. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking Sprycel?

You should not use Sprycel if:

you have not first received a medication called imatinib (Gleevec); or

if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment with Sprycel.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using Sprycel, tell your doctor if you have:

liver disease;

low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood;

heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder; or

a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.”

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use Sprycel without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are taking Sprycel, whether you are a man or a woman. Use of this medication by either parent may cause birth defects. If you are a man taking Sprycel, use a condom during any sexual activity.

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

Taking Sprycel may affect your ability to have children whether you are a man or a woman. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk.

Sprycel tablets contain lactose. Talk to your doctor before using this medication if you are lactose-intolerant.

How should I take Sprycel?

Take Sprycel exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

This medicine is usually taken once in the morning and once in the evening. Follow your doctor’s instructions. You may take the medication with or without food.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from Sprycel.

Do not crush, chew, or break a Sprycel tablet. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. Do not use a tablet that has been accidentally broken. The medicine from a crushed or broken tablet can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. If you must handle a broken tablet, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely handle and dispose of the tablet.

Sprycel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or 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. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store Sprycel at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Sprycel overdose are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking Sprycel?

Avoid using antacids without your doctor’s advice while you are taking Sprycel. Use only the specific type of antacid your doctor recommends. Antacids contain different medicines and some types can make it harder for your body to absorb dasatinib.

If you take an antacid, take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking Sprycel.

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

Sprycel side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Sprycel: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

pale skin, weakness;

easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums);

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

black, bloody, or tarry stools;

vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds;

sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;

sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;

swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet; or

uneven heartbeats.

Less serious Sprycel side effects may include:

headache, tiredness;

mild skin rash;

nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea; or

muscle or joint pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Sprycel?

Before taking Sprycel, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic, Fentora)

heart rhythm medication;

nefazodone (Serzone);

rifabutin (Mycobutin);

rifampin (Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane)

dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol);

St. John’s wort;

cisapride (Propulsid), pimozide (Orap);

quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute);

sirolimus (Rapamune), tacrolimus (Prograf);

cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf);

HIV medicine such as atazanavir (Reyataz), indinavir (Crixivan), ritonavir (Norvir), saquinavir (Invirase), nelfinavir (Viracept);

ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox);

antibiotics such as erythromycin (E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, E.E.S.), telithromycin (Ketek), or clarithromycin (Biaxin);

seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);

ergot medicine such as methysergide (Sansert), ergotamine (Ergomar), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E., Migranal Nasal Spray); or

stomach acid reducers such as cimetidine (Tagamet), esomeprazole (Nexium), famotidine (Pepcid), lansoprazole (Prevacid), nizatidine (Axid), omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), or ranitidine (Zantac).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Sprycel. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Iressa

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Iressa

Generic Name: gefitinib (geh FIH tih nib)

What is Iressa?

Iressa is a cancer chemotherapy medication. Gefitinib interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Iressa is used in the treatment of non-small cell lung.

Iressa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Iressa

Iressa should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of Iressa including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); lung problems; liver problems; eye problems; severe nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with Iressa.

Before taking Iressa

Do not use Iressa without first talking to your doctor if you have:

lung or breathing problems (other than lung cancer).

You may not be able to take Iressa, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Iressa is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Iressa without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Birth control should be used during treatment with Iressa. It is not known whether gefitinib passes into breast milk. Do not take this medicine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Iressa?

Iressa should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Take each dose of this medicine with a full glass of water.

Iressa can be taken with or without food.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with Iressa depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

It is important to take Iressa regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with Iressa to monitor progress and side effects.

Your healthcare provider will store this medicine as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing Iressa at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Iressa.

What happens if I overdose?

If an overdose of Iressa is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Symptoms of a Iressa overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the medication, although often more severe.

What should I avoid while using Iressa?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity during treatment with this medicine unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Iressa?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects from Iressa, contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (including difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

lung problems (difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, increased coughing, fever, or chest pain);

severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea; or

eye pain or irritation.

Other, less serious Iressa side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue taking Iressa and talk to your doctor if you experience:

mild to moderate nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea;

skin rash, dryness, itching, or acne; or

weakness.

Other side effects have also been reported. Discuss with your doctor any side effect that occurs during treatment with Iressa. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Iressa?

Before taking Iressa, tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

warfarin (Coumadin);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane);

phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek);

ketoconazole (Nizoral);

itraconazole (Sporanox); or

a stomach acid reducer such as cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB), ranitidine (Zantac, Zantac 75), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), and others.

You may not be able to take Iressa, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Many other drugs may interact with Iressa. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

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Votrient

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Votrient

Generic Name: pazopanib

FDA Approves Votrient

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Votrient (pazopanib) to treat patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma.

Votrient Medication Guide

Read the Medication Guide that comes with Votrient before you start taking it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.

Important information about Votrient

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these signs of liver problems:

What is Votrient?

Votrient is a prescription medicine used to treat advanced renal cell cancer in adults.

It is not known if Votrient is safe or effective in children under 18 years of age.

Before taking Votrient

Before you take Votrient, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Votrient may affect the way other medicines work and other medicines may affect how Votrient works.

Especially, tell your healthcare provider if you:

Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one that is listed above.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

How should I take Votrient?

Votrient side effects

Votrient may cause serious side effects including:

Call your healthcare provider right away, if you have any of the symptoms listed above.

The most common side effects of Votrient include:

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of Votrient. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store Votrient Tablets?

Store Votrient between 59?

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Torisel

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Torisel

Generic Name: temsirolimus (TEM sir OH li mus)

What is Torisel?

Torisel is a cancer medication. It slows the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Torisel is used to treat cancer of the kidneys, also called renal cell carcinoma.

Torisel may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Torisel

FDA pregnancy category D. Torisel can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication and for at least 3 months after your treatment ends.

If a man fathers a child while using Torisel, the baby may have birth defects. Use a condom to prevent pregnancy during your treatment. Continue using condoms for at least 3 months after you stop using Torisel.

Torisel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Do not receive any vaccines. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

Before receiving Torisel

You should not use Torisel if you are allergic to temsirolimus.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

high cholesterol or triglycerides;

diabetes;

a history of head injury, stroke, or brain tumor; or

if you are allergic to sirolimus (Rapamune).

FDA pregnancy category D. Torisel can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not receive Torisel without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using Torisel and for at least 3 months after your treatment ends.

If a man fathers a child while using this medication, the baby may have birth defects. Use a condom to prevent pregnancy during your treatment. Continue using condoms for at least 3 months after you stop using Torisel.

It is not known whether temsirolimus passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive Torisel without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is Torisel given?

Torisel is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 1 hour to complete.

Torisel is usually given once each week unless your cancer progresses or you have serious side effects from the medication.

You may receive other medications before your Torisel infusion. These medications will help prevent certain side effects.

Torisel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or 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 tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Torisel. Temsirolimus can make it harder for wounds to heal, and you may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor if you miss an appointment for your Torisel injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior, sudden numbness or weakness, sudden headache, problems with vision or speech, pain or swelling in one or both legs, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while receiving Torisel?

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

Do not receive a “live” vaccine while you are being treated with Torisel, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Torisel and lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.

Torisel side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Torisel: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

chest pain;

cough, feeling short of breath;

warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin;

increased thirst, hunger, or urination;

black, bloody, or tarry stools;

fever, severe stomach pain;

urinating less than usual or not at all;

drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting;

swelling, weight gain; or

pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, weakness.

Less serious Torisel side effects include:

minor skin rash; or

white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Torisel?

Before receiving Torisel, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol);

rifabutin (Mycobutin);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater);

St. John’s wort;

sunitinib (Sutent);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth;

an antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), telithromycin (Ketek) and others;

an antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or voriconazole (Vfend);

HIV/AIDS medicine such as atazanavir (Reyataz), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), ritonavir (Norvir), or saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase); or

seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs not listed that can affect Torisel. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Nexavar

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Nexavar

Generic Name: sorafenib (sor a FEN ib)

What is Nexavar?

Nexavar is a cancer (chemotherapeutic) medication. Nexavar interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Nexavar is used to treat a type of kidney cancer called advanced renal cell carcinoma. It is also used to treat liver cancer.

Nexavar may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Nexavar?

Nexavar can cause high blood pressure (hypertension). Before using Nexavar, tell your doctor if you have a history of hypertension. Your blood pressure will need to be checked on a regular basis while you are using Nexavar.

Call your doctor at once if you have serious side effects such as rash, blisters, oozing, or severe pain in the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet; unusual bruising or bleeding; chest pain spreading to the arm or shoulder; feeling short of breath; or sudden numbness or weakness. Using Nexavar while you are pregnant can cause harm to the unborn baby. Do not use Nexavar if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Both men and women taking Nexavar should use an effective form of birth control while taking the medication and for at least 2 weeks after treatment ends.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking Nexavar?

Do not use Nexavar if you are allergic to sorafenib.

Before using Nexavar, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

kidney or liver disease;

a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;

high blood pressure (hypertension);

heart disease; or

a history of stroke or heart attack.

If you have any of the conditions listed above, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Nexavar.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Both men and women taking Nexavar should use an effective form of birth control while taking the medication and for at least 2 weeks after treatment ends. It is not known whether Nexavar passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Nexavar without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Nexavar?

Take this medicine exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take Nexavar on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.

Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

To be sure Nexavar is not causing harmful side effects, your blood pressure will need to be checked on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Nexavar. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Store Nexavar at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, and skin rash, redness, swelling, or blistering.

What should I avoid while taking Nexavar?

Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using Nexavar, whether you are a man or a woman. Continue using birth control for at least 2 weeks after you stop taking Nexavar.

Nexavar side effects

Stop using Nexavar and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

rash, blisters, oozing, or severe pain in the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet;

increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure);

easy bruising, unusual bleeding;

black, bloody, or tarry stools;

coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;

feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;

swelling, rapid weight gain;

sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body; or

confusion, loss of balance or coordination, or seizure (convulsions).

Less serious Nexavar side effects may include:

numbness, tingling, or swelling of your hands or feet;

nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite;

headache, tired feeling;

tumor pain;

pain in your joints, bones, or mouth;

cough, trouble breathing;

weight loss;

hair loss; or

dry, itchy skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Nexavar?

Before taking Nexavar, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin);

dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane);

St. John’s wort;

seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin), or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton); or

other cancer medications such as docetaxel (Taxotere), doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Rubex) or irinotecan (Camptosar).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Nexavar. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Mylotarg

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Mylotarg

Mylotarg should not be used along with other chemotherapy medicines. Severe bone marrow problems occur even at normal doses of Mylotarg . Severe and sometimes fatal allergic reactions and lung problems have occurred with use of Mylotarg . Tell the doctor immediately if you experience rash; hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; or severe dizziness. Mylotarg may also increase the risk of severe and sometimes fatal liver problems. This risk may be increased if you have liver problems, you have had a hematopoietic stem-cell transplant (HSCT), or you use Mylotarg in combination with other chemotherapy medicines. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience sudden weight gain, right-sided stomach pain, stomach swelling, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark urine. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you use Mylotarg .

Mylotarg is used for:

Treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients 60 years of age and older who cannot take other cancer medications. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Mylotarg is a chemotherapy agent. It works by binding to and breaking specific parts that the cancer cell needs to survive.

Do NOT use Mylotarg if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Mylotarg :

Some medical conditions may interact with Mylotarg . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Mylotarg . However, no specific interactions with Mylotarg are known at this time.

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Mylotarg may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Mylotarg :

Use Mylotarg as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Mylotarg .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Mylotarg :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Back pain; constipation; cough; diarrhea; dizziness; fatigue; headache; indigestion; joint pain; loss of appetite; mouth sores; nausea; pain or inflammation at the injection site; runny nose; sleeplessness; stomach pain; vomiting; weakness.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); change in amount or frequency of urine; chest pain; dark urine; depression; fast or irregular heart rate; fever, chills, or sore throat; increased thirst; one-sided weakness; pink or red-colored urine; right-sided stomach pain; seizure; severe dizziness; severe headache; shortness of breath; slurred speech; stomach swelling; sudden weight gain; swelling of the arms, legs, or feet; unusual bleeding or bruising (eg, nosebleed, red or purple spots under the skin, unusual vaginal bleeding); vision changes; yellowing of the eyes or skin.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Mylotarg is usually handled and stored by a health care provider. If you are using Mylotarg at home, store Mylotarg as directed by your pharmacist or health care provider.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Mylotarg . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Mylotarg resources

Compare Mylotarg with other medications for the treatment of:

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Campath

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Campath

Serious infections, blood disorders, and infusion reactions have occurred from the use of Campath . You will be closely monitored during the infusion and it may be necessary to stop treatment if an infusion reaction occurs. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience rigid muscles, fever, shortness of breath, tightness in the throat, fainting, chest pain, chills, or rash.

Campath is used for:

Treating B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Campath is a monoclonal antibody. It works by recognizing certain proteins that are found on the surface of certain types of cancer cells. Once the proteins are recognized, the body’s immune system can kill the cancer cells.

Do NOT use Campath if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Campath :

Some medical conditions may interact with Campath . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Campath . However, no specific interactions with Campath are known at this time.

Ask your health care provider if Campath may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Campath :

Use Campath as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Campath .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Campath :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Abnormal skin sensations; back pain; bone pain; constipation; cough; depression; dizziness; general body discomfort; increased sweating; indigestion; loss of appetite; muscle pain; nosebleed; runny nose; sensation of temperature change; sleeplessness; stomach pain; tiredness; tremor; weakness; weight loss.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black, tarry stools; blood in urine; bronchitis; chest pain; decreased hearing; diarrhea; extreme tiredness; fainting; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; headache; hoarseness; itching; lightheadedness upon sitting or standing up; nausea; painful or difficult urination; pale skin; pneumonia; rapid weight gain; rigid muscles; shortness of breath; sores or ulcers on the lips or mouth; sudden sweating; swelling of the legs or feet; unusual bruising or bleeding; vomiting.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store Campath in the refrigerator, between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Discard if vial has been frozen. Keep Campath out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Campath . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Campath resources

Compare Campath with other medications for the treatment of:

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Afinitor

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Afinitor

Generic Name: everolimus (E ver OH li mus)

What is Afinitor?

Afinitor (everolimus) is used to treat advanced kidney cancer. Everolimus is a kinase inhibitor and works by preventing the growth of cancer cells.

Afinitor is usually given after sorafenib (Nexavar) or sunitinib (Sutent) have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

Afinitor may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Afinitor

You should not use Afinitor if you are allergic to everolimus or sirolimus (Rapamune). Do not use Afinitor without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Before taking Afinitor, tell your doctor if you have a breathing disorder, such as asthma or COPD, liver disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Do not receive a “live” vaccine while you are being treated with Afinitor, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine (including measles, mumps, rubella, oral polio, chickenpox, BCG, and nasal flu vaccine).

There are many other medicines that can interact with Afinitor. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

To be sure Afinitor is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as stabbing chest pain, feeling short of breath, fever, chills, cough, sore throat, flu symptoms, easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums), loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, or unusual weakness.

Before taking Afinitor

You should not use Afinitor if you are allergic to everolimus or sirolimus (Rapamune).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use Afinitor:

a breathing disorder, such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease);

liver disease;

diabetes; or

high cholesterol or triglycerides.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use Afinitor without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether everolimus passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Afinitor without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Afinitor?

Take Afinitor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Afinitor should be taken at the same time each day.

Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew.

You may take Afinitor with or without food.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

To be sure Afinitor is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Store Afinitor at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of an Afinitor overdose symptoms are not known.

What should I avoid while taking Afinitor?

Do not receive a “live” vaccine while you are being treated with Afinitor, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), oral polio, chickenpox (varicella), BCG (Bacillus Calmette and Gu?

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Tasigna

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Tasigna

Generic Name: nilotinib (nye LOE ti nib)

What is Tasigna?

Tasigna interferes with the growth of some cancer cells.

It is used to treat a type of blood cancer called Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Tasigna is usually given to people who cannot take certain other leukemia medications, or who have tried other medications without successful treatment.

Tasigna may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Tasigna

Do not use Tasigna without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Do not use Tasigna while you are breast-feeding a baby. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to nilotinib, or if you have low blood levels of potassium or magnesium or a history of “Long QT syndrome.”

Before using Tasigna, tell your doctor if you have heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder, liver disease, a personal history of pancreatitis, or a family history of “Long QT syndrome”.

Take Tasigna on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Call your doctor at once if you have any serious side effects, such as dizziness, fainting, fast or pounding heartbeat, feeling short of breath, swelling, seizure, warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, with nausea and vomiting.

There are many other medicines that can cause interact with Tasigna. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

To be sure Tasigna is not causing harmful effects, your blood and bone marrow will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your heart rate may also be checked using electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). This machine measures electrical activity of the heart. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Before taking Tasigna

You should not use Tasigna if you are allergic to nilotinib, or if you have:

low blood levels of potassium or magnesium; or

a history of “Long QT syndrome.”

Before using Tasigna, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

heart disease or heart rhythm disorder;

liver disease;

a personal history of pancreatitis; or

a family history of “Long QT syndrome”;

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Tasigna.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use Tasigna without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. It is not known whether Tasigna passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication while you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give Tasigna to anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tasigna capsules may contain lactose. Talk to your doctor before using this medication if you have galactose intolerance, or severe problems with lactose (milk sugar).

How should I take Tasigna?

Take Tasigna exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take Tasigna on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Take this medicine with a large glass of water. Do not break or open a Tasigna capsule. Swallow the pill whole.

Tasigna is usually taken every 12 hours.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood and bone marrow will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your heart rate may also be checked using electrocardiograph or ECG (sometimes called an EKG). This machine measures electrical activity of the heart. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Do not stop using Tasigna or change your dose without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication too soon, your condition may get worse. Store Tasigna at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of an Tasigna overdose may include severe muscle cramps.

What should I avoid while taking Tasigna?

Avoid eating for at least 1 hour after you take Tasigna. Food can increase your blood levels of Tasigna and may increase your risk of harmful side effects.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Tasigna and lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit products with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.

Tasigna side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

dizziness and a fast or pounding heartbeat;

shortness of breath;

swelling in your hands or feet;

seizure (convulsions);

warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin;

nausea, loss of appetite, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back; or

dry mouth, increased thirst, drowsiness, restless feeling, confusion, increased urination, muscle pain or weakness, uneven heart rate, or feeling like you might pass out.

Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:

skin rash or itching;

diarrhea, constipation;

headache, spinning sensation;

tired feeling;

numbness or tingling;

sleep problems (insomnia);

joint or muscle pain; or

runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, hoarseness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Tasigna?

Before taking Tasigna, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

arsenic trioxide (Trisenox);

chloroquine (Arelan) or halofantrine (Halfan);

droperidol (Inapsine);

midazolam (Versed);

a blood thinner such as warfarin;

HIV/AIDS medicine such as nelfinavir (Viracept) or ritonavir (Norvir);

narcotic medication such as levomethadyl (Orlaam), or methadone (Dolophine, Methadose);

an antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), pentamidine (NebuPent, Pentam), rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate, Rimactane), or troleandomycin (Tao);

an antifungal medication such as itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral);

an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), paroxetine (Paxil), and others;

medicines to treat psychiatric disorders, such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), haloperidol (Haldol), mesoridazine (Serentil), or thioridazine (Mellaril); or

heart rhythm medicine such as amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone), dofetilide (Tikosyn), disopyramide (Norpace), ibutilide (Corvert), procainamide (Procan, Pronestyl), quinidine (Quinidex, Quin-Release Quin-G), or sotalol (Betapace).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Tasigna. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Vectibix

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Vectibix

Generic Name: panitumumab (pan i TUE moo mab)

What is Vectibix?

Vectibix is a cancer medication. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells by binding to a protein found on cancer cells which slows their growth and spread.

Vectibix is used to treat colon or rectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body after treatment with other chemotherapy.

Vectibix may also be used for other purposes not listed in this guide.

Important information about Vectibix

Before receiving Vectibix, tell your doctor if you have any allergies or breathing problems. You may not be able to receive Vectibix, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Vectibix may cause severe skin problems such as acne, itching, redness, skin rash, dryness, peeling, cracking, or oozing, and swelling or infection around your fingernails or toenails. Vectibix can also cause redness or irritation of your eyes or eyelids. More severe forms of skin problems can lead to widespread infection and possibly death. Seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of any skin rash.

Some people receiving a Vectibix injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, short of breath, or if you have a fever or chills during the injection.

The side effects of Vectibix may not appear when you first start using the medication. Severe skin or eye reactions may occur up to 2 weeks after the start of your treatment. These effects may not clear up for weeks or even months after you stop receiving Vectibix.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Vectibix can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

This medication may affect a woman’s fertility (ability to have children). You may also have irregular menstrual periods while receiving Vectibix.

Before receiving Vectibix

This medication may cause severe skin problems such as acne, itching, redness, skin rash, dryness, peeling, cracking, or oozing, and swelling or infection around your fingernails or toenails. More severe forms of skin problems can lead to widespread infection and possibly death. Seek emergency medical attention at the first sign of any skin rash. Do not use Vectibix if you are allergic to panitumumab.

Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor if you have any allergies or breathing problems. You may not be able to receive Vectibix, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to receive this medication.

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 Vectibix 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.

This medication may affect a woman’s fertility (ability to have children). You may also have irregular menstrual periods while receiving Vectibix.

How is Vectibix given?

Vectibix is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 90 minutes to complete.

Before you receive this medication, you may need to undergo a biopsy to make sure Vectibix is the right medication to treat your cancer.

Vectibix is usually given once every 2 weeks. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss an appointment for your Vectibix injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Vectibix overdose are unknown.

What should I avoid while taking Vectibix?

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Vectibix can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Vectibix side effects

Some people receiving a Vectibix injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, itchy, short of breath, or if you have a fever or chills during the injection.

Some of the side effects of Vectibix may not appear when you first start using the medication. Severe skin or eye reactions may occur up to 2 weeks after the start of your treatment. These effects may not clear up for weeks or even months after you stop receiving Vectibix.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;

swelling of your hands or ankles;

acne, dryness, peeling, cracking, bleeding, oozing, pus, or any other sign of skin infection;

cough or wheezing, running out of breath easily;

white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;

drowsiness, restless feeling, confusion, muscle stiffness, fast or uneven heart rate, chest pain;

redness, swelling, or irritation of your eyes or eyelids; or

swelling or infection around your fingernails or toenails.

Less serious Vectibix side effects may include:

nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;

diarrhea or constipation; or

tired feeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Vectibix?

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Vectibix. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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