Dexrazoxane Injection
What is this medication?
DEXRAZOXANE (dex ray ZOX ane) reduces the risk of heart problems caused by doxorubicin, a type of chemotherapy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Totect, Zinecard
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- An unusual or allergic reaction to dexrazoxane, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for injection or infusion into a vein. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting. This medication is given just before you are given your chemotherapy medication.
Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.
What may interact with this medication?
This medication may interact with the following:
- Topical dimethyl sulfoxide (when used to treat extravasation)
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.
Do not become pregnant while taking this medication or for 6 months after stopping it. Inform your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. Do not father a child while taking this medication and for 3 months after stopping it. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your care team or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medication or for 2 weeks after stopping it.
This may interfere with the ability to father a child. You should talk to your care team if you are concerned about your fertility.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Infection—fever, chills, cough, or sore throat
- Low red blood cell level—unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Additional Information From Chemocare.com About Dexrazoxane
Self-Care Tips
- You may be at risk of infection so try to avoid crowds or people with colds, and report fever or any other signs of infection immediately to your health care provider.
- Wash your hands often.
- Use an electric razor and a soft toothbrush to minimize bleeding.
- Avoid contact sports or activities that could cause injury.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Maintain good nutrition.
- Remain active as you are able. Gentle exercise is encouraged such as a daily walk.
- If you experience symptoms or side effects, be sure to discuss them with your health care team. They can prescribe medications and/or offer other suggestions that are effective in managing such problems.
When to Contact Your Doctor or Health Care Provider
Contact your health care provider immediately, day or night, if you should experience any of the following symptoms:
- Fever of 100.4° (38° C) or higher, chills (possible signs of infection)
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, closing up of throat, swelling or facial features, hives (possible allergic reaction)
The following symptoms require medical attention, but are not an emergency. Contact your health care provider within 24 hours of noticing any of the following:
- Nausea (interferes with ability to eat and unrelieved with prescribed medication)
- Vomiting (vomiting more than 4-5 times in a 24 hour period)
- Diarrhea (4-6 episodes in a 24 hour period)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Black or tarry stools, or blood in your stools
- Blood in the urine
- Pain or burning with urination
- Extreme fatigue (unable to carry on self-care activities)
- Mouth sores (painful redness, swelling or ulcers)
Always inform your health care provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.
