Topotecan (Injection)

Introduction:

Topotecan (toe-poe-TEE-kan)

Treats ovarian cancer and small-cell lung cancer.

Brand Name(s):

Hycamtin

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.
• 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. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• 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.
• The medicine is usually given every day for 5 days. This 5-day treatment is given again every 21 days for 2 or 3 months, or until your body responds to the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets. Follow any special instructions about how to throw away empty medicine bottles, tubes, or bags.

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 about ALL other medicines or treatments you are receiving while you are being treated with topotecan.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use two forms of birth control to keep from getting pregnant while you are using this medicine and for at least 6 months after your treatment ends. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Chemotherapy causes nausea and/or vomiting in many people. Ask your doctor or nurse about ways to control these side effects.
• This medicine may make you weak or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• This medicine will reduce your body's ability to fight infection. Avoid exposure to people with colds or infections while you are receiving topotecan.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

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 face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Fever, chills, cough, or sore throat
• Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Sores or ulcers on the lips or in the mouth
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

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

• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Mild rash
• Stomach pain

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