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Nelarabine Injection (NELARABINE - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Arranon

Generic Name: Nelarabine

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Watch for excessive bruising or bleeding. Contact your doctor if you notice any.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • constipation or diarrhea
  • coughing
  • drowsiness or sedation
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • kidney problems
  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • back pain
  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • confusion
  • cough that does not go away
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • muscle weakness
  • inability to move
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • extreme or persistent sleepiness
  • sore throat
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • unsteadiness while walking
  • increased urinary frequency
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine
  • dark urine
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.