Dexrazoxane (dex-ray-ZOX-ane)

Prevents heart problems in women receiving a breast cancer medicine called doxorubicin (Adriamycin®, Doxil®). Also prevents or treats tissue damage caused by the leakage of certain anticancer medicines from the blood vessels.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This medicine is usually given 30 minutes before doxorubicin is given.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) before you start receiving this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or blood disorder.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Dark-colored urine or pale stools.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.
• Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Depression.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Dizziness or headache.
• Hair loss.
• Muscle pain.
• Pain, burning, redness, or swelling under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat.
• Trouble sleeping.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

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