Pentostatin (Injection)

Introduction:

Pentostatin (pen-toe-STAT-in)

Treats a specific kind of cancer known as hairy cell leukemia.

Brand Name(s):

Nipent

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• 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.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you receive your treatments at a clinic, your medicine will be kept there.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• You should not use this medicine if you are using any other cancer medicines such as vidarabine (Vira-A®), carmustine (BICNU®), etoposide (Vepesid®, VP-16®), or cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®, Neosar®).
• You should not use aspirin or any product that has aspirin in it (such as some cold medicines) unless you have talked to your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you have ever been treated with steroids, chemotherapy, or radiation for cancer in the past.
• Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are 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.
• Do not breast feed while you are being given this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, liver disease, kidney stones, gout, or any infections.
• 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.
• Cancer medicines can cause nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.

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.
• Blood in your urine or stools.
• Confusion, extreme tiredness, fainting, or drowsiness.
• Cough, fever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection.
• Pain, redness, or swelling where the IV is given.
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing.
• Skin wound that does not heal or looks infected.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, feet, or face.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Urinating less than one cup (8 ounces) a day.

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

• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Nervousness, depression, or trouble sleeping.
• Tooth pain, swelling in your gums, or mouth sores.
• Upset stomach, nausea, or gas.

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