Maryland Oncology Hematology

Samarium SM-153

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Samarium (su-MARE-ee-um) SM-153, Samarium Sm-153 lexidronam injection
Trade Name: Quadramet®

How is this drug used? Samarium 153 is FDA approved for the relief of pain of cancer that has spread to the bone. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.
What is the mechanism of action? Samarium 153 is classified as a radiopharmaceutical. The mechanism by which Samarium 153 relieves the pain from cancer that has spread to the bone is not known. Samarium 153 has an affinity for bone and concentrates in areas of bone turnover, more so than in normal bone. Samarium 153 produces its effects by binding to cancerous areas of the bone and emitting radiation that helps relieve pain at the site.

How is samarium 153 given (administered)? Samarium 153 is administered into a vein (intravenous) and the dose depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, the size of the patient, the particular treatment regimen being used, and the overall health of the patient. Patients may also receive intravenous hydration to promote elimination of samarium 153 from the body. Some patients may have a transient pain reaction after injection.

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with samarium 153. Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver. Patients may also undergo physical examinations, scans or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the common (occur in 30% or more of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

• Low white blood cell levels – increases risk of infection
• Low red blood cell (hemoglobin) levels – increases risk of anemia
• Low platelet levels – increases risk of bleeding
• Nausea and vomiting
• Nervous system disorders (dizziness, numbness/tingling of extremities)

What are the less common (occur in 10% to 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

• Bleeding (nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, blood in the urine, etc.)
• Infection

This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed here. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.

What are the possible late side effects of treatment with samarium 153? There is a slight possibility that patients treated with samarium 153 may develop a secondary malignancy. A secondary malignancy is a new and unrelated cancer that occurs in an individual as a result of previous treatment with radiation or chemotherapy. Patients should ask their physician about the possibility of developing a secondary malignancy as a result of their treatment.

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• If possible, patients should avoid large crowds or persons who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.
• While patients are being treated with a radioactive substance and for several hours following administration, radioactivity will be present in excreted urine. Precautions against radioactivity need to be in effect for 12 hours following administration.
• A toilet, versus a urinal should be used whenever possible. The toilet should be flushed several times immediately after every use.
• If urine spills outside the toilet, it should be cleaned up immediately and completely. Patients should wash their hands thoroughly.
• If blood or urine gets onto clothing, bed sheets, towels, etc., these items should be washed separately from other items, or stored for 1-2 weeks to allow for decay of the samarium 153.

When should patients notify their physician?

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Noticeable differences in heart rate or rhythm
• Numbness or tingling of the extremities
• Paralysis of the extremities
• Dizziness
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, flu or cold-like symptoms
• Signs of infection – redness, swelling, pus, tenderness, painful urination
• Persistent or severe fatigue
• Unexplained or excessive bleeding (nosebleeds, bruising, black tarry stools, blood in the urine, etc.)

What is a package insert?
A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers. A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. Click here to view the package insert

Important Limitations of Use
The information provided below on the chemotherapy drug you have selected is provided for your information only and is not a substitute for consultation with an appropriate medical doctor. We are providing this information solely as a courtesy and, as such, it is in no way a recommendation as to the safety, efficacy or appropriateness of any particular drug, regimen, dosing schedule for any particular cancer, condition or patient nor is it in any way to be considered medical advice. Patients should discuss the appropriateness of a particular drug or chemotherapy regimen with their physician.

As with any printed reference, the use of particular drugs, regimes and drug dosages may become out-of-date over time, since new information may have been published and become generally accepted after the latest update to this printed information. Please keep in mind that health care professionals are fully responsible for practicing within current standards, avoiding use of outdated regimens, employing good clinical judgment in selecting drugs and/or regimens, in calculating doses for individual patients, and verifying all dosage calculations.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

CANCERCONSULTANTS.COM SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ALL EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES AS TO QUALITY, ACCURACY (INCLUDING TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS), MERCHANTABILITY, OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. CANCERCONSULTANTS.COM DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY OR DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY USE OF THE INFORMATION.

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

samarium

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Samarium (su-MARE-ee-um) SM-153, Samarium Sm-153 lexidronam injection
Trade Name: Quadramet®

What are the common (occur in 30% or more of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

What are the less common (occur in 10% to 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

• Bleeding (nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, blood in the urine, etc.)
• Infection

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

strontium 89 chloride

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Strontium 89 (STRAHN-tee-um), strontium 89 chloride injection
Trade Name: Metastron®

How is this drug used? Strontium 89 is FDA approved for the relief of bone pain caused by bone metastasis. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.
What is the mechanism of action? Strontium 89 is classified as a radiopharmaceutical. Strontium 89 produces its effects by binding to cancerous areas of the bone, and emitting radiation. The radiation emitted destroys the cancer cells and shrinks the area of cancer in the bone. By shrinking the area of cancer, strontium 89 relieves pain at the site.

How is strontium 89 given (administered)? Strontium 89 is given into a vein (intravenous) and the dose depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, the size of the patient, the particular treatment regimen being used, and the overall health of the patient.

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with strontium 89. Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver. Patients may also undergo physical examinations, scans or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the common side effects of treatment with strontium 89?

• Low white blood cell levels – increases risk of infection
• Low red blood cell levels – increases risk of anemia
• Low platelet levels – increases risk of bleeding
• Temporary increase in bone pain
• Flushing

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.
• Patients are being treated with a radioactive substance, and radioactivity will be present in excreted urine. Patients need to discuss precautions against radioactivity with their physician.
• A toilet, versus a urinal should be used whenever possible. The toilet should be flushed several times immediately after every use. If urine spills outside the toilet, it should be cleaned up immediately and complete, and patients should wash their hands thoroughly.
• If blood or urine gets onto clothing, bed sheets, towels, etc., these items should be washed separately from other items.

When should patients notify their physician?

• Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, flu or cold-like symptoms
• Signs of infection – redness, swelling, pus, tenderness, painful urination
• Persistent or severe fatigue
• Unexplained or excessive bleeding (nosebleeds, bruising, black tarry stools, blood in the urine, etc.)

What is a package insert?

A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers. A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. Click here to view the package insert

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

sodium iodide

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Sodium Iodide (SOE-dee-um EYE-oh-dyde) I 131
Trade Name: Iodotope®

How is this drug used? Sodium iodide I 131 is FDA approved for the treatment of some types of thyroid cancer. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.
What is the mechanism of action? Sodium iodide 131 belongs to a class of agents referred to as radiopharmaceuticals. Sodium iodide I 131 selectively collects in the thyroid, emitting radiation to kill the cancer cells and shrink the cancer.

How is sodium iodide I 131 given (administered)? Sodium iodide I 131 may be administered orally as a capsule, or as a solution, and the dose depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, the size of the patient, the particular regimen being used and the overall health of the patient. Patients may receive special instructions from their physician to get ready for treatment.

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with sodium iodide I 131. Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver. Patients may also undergo physical examinations, scans or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common (occur in 10 – 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with sodium iodide I 131?

• Low levels of white blood cells – increases risk of infection
• Low levels of red blood cells – increases risk of anemia
• Low levels of platelets – increases risk of bleeding
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increase in symptoms caused by the cancer
• Tenderness, swelling, pain of the neck
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Thinning of hair
• Allergic-type reactions
• Loss of taste (temporary)
• Tenderness of salivary glands

Some side effects may require medical attention. Other side effects do not require medical attention and may go away during treatment. Patients should check with their physician about any side effects that continue or are bothersome.
What are the possible late side effects of treatment with sodium iodide I 131? Patients treated with sodium iodide I 131 are at an increased risk of developing a secondary malignancy. A secondary malignancy is a new and unrelated cancer that occurs in an individual as a result of previous treatment with radiation or chemotherapy. Patients should ask their physician about the possibility of developing a secondary malignancy as a result of their treatment.

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Over the counter pain medication may help alleviate some pain caused by treatment. Patients should speak with their physician about this issue.
• Patients should prepare family members or roommates prior to treatment of the possible radiation precautions that need to be taken.
• If possible, the patient should avoid large crowds or persons who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.
• Patients are being treated with a radioactive substance, and radioactivity will be present in excreted urine. Patients need to discuss precautions against radioactivity with their physician and how long precautions should be followed.
• A toilet, versus a urinal should be used whenever possible. The toilet should be flushed several times immediately after every use. If urine spills outside the toilet, it should be cleaned up immediately and completely, and patients should wash their hands thoroughly. If blood or urine gets onto clothing, bed sheets, towels, etc., these items should be washed separately from other items.
• Patients should not use another persons eating or drinking utensils, towels or toothbrush.
• Wash eating utensils and clothes separately.
• Patients should not sit close to others, especially pregnant women.
• Patients should not engage in sex while being treated with sodium iodide I 131.
• If an oral dose is missed, do not double up on doses. Patients should contact their doctor in this event.
• Keep tablets out of reach of children and return to the pharmacy for safe disposal if treatment is terminated.

When should patients notify their physician?

• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual bleeding (nosebleeds, bruising, pin sized red dots on skin, blood in urine or stool)
• Chest pain
• Swelling, pain, redness of one extremity and not the other
• Pain, lower back pain, side pain
• Swelling of feet or ankles
• Flu or cold-like symptoms – fever, chills, sore throat, cough, hoarseness
• Signs of infection – redness, swelling, pus, tenderness, painful or difficulty urination
• Severe fatigue

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Phosphocol®

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Chromic phosphate (KROE-mik FOSS-fate) 32
Trade Name: Phosphocol P32®

For which conditions is this drug approved? Chromic phosphate is FDA-approved to treat the leaking of fluid (effusion) into the peritoneum (sac surrounding the abdominal organs) or pleura (sac surrounding the lungs) as a result of advanced cancer. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.

What is the mechanism of action? Chromic phosphate belongs to a group of agents classified as radiopharmaceuticals. Chromic phosphate produces its anti-cancer effects by emitting radiation to tissues surrounding it.

How is chromic phosphate typically given (administered)? Chromic phosphate is administered by catheter into a body cavity (intracavitary) and the dose depends on several factors, including the condition being treated, the size of the patient, the particular regimen being used and the overall health of the patient.

How are patients typically monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with chromic phosphate. Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems, such as the kidneys or liver. Patients may also undergo physical examinations, scans or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the common (occurs in 10-29% of patients) side effects of treatment with chromic phosphate?

• Nausea and vomiting
• Low levels of white blood cells
• Low levels of red blood cells (anemia)
• Low levels of platelets (thrombocytopenia)
• Abdominal cramping
• Feeling of discomfort
• Inflammation of the peritoneum
• Inflammation of the pleura
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.
• If possible, avoid large crowds or people who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

When should patients notify their physician?

• Difficulty breathing
• Extreme abdominal cramping
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, flu or cold-like symptoms
• Signs of infection – redness, swelling, pus, tenderness
• Persistent or severe fatigue
• Unexplained or excessive bleeding (nosebleeds, bruising, black tarry stools, blood in the urine, etc.)
• Chest pain
• Dry cough
• Severe nausea or vomiting
What is a package insert?
A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers. A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. Click here to view the package insert

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

chromic phosphate

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Chromic phosphate (KROE-mik FOSS-fate) 32
Trade Name: Phosphocol P32®

What are the common (occurs in 10-29% of patients) side effects of treatment with chromic phosphate?

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.
• If possible, avoid large crowds or people who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

samarium Sm-153 lexidronam

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Samarium (su-MARE-ee-um) SM-153, Samarium Sm-153 lexidronam injection
Trade Name: Quadramet®

What are the common (occur in 30% or more of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

What are the less common (occur in 10% to 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

• Bleeding (nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, blood in the urine, etc.)
• Infection

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

sodium iodide 131

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Sodium Iodide (SOE-dee-um EYE-oh-dyde) I 131
Trade Name: Iodotope®

What are the most common (occur in 10 – 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with sodium iodide I 131?

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Over the counter pain medication may help alleviate some pain caused by treatment. Patients should speak with their physician about this issue.
• Patients should prepare family members or roommates prior to treatment of the possible radiation precautions that need to be taken.
• If possible, the patient should avoid large crowds or persons who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.
• Patients are being treated with a radioactive substance, and radioactivity will be present in excreted urine. Patients need to discuss precautions against radioactivity with their physician and how long precautions should be followed.
• A toilet, versus a urinal should be used whenever possible. The toilet should be flushed several times immediately after every use. If urine spills outside the toilet, it should be cleaned up immediately and completely, and patients should wash their hands thoroughly. If blood or urine gets onto clothing, bed sheets, towels, etc., these items should be washed separately from other items.
• Patients should not use another persons eating or drinking utensils, towels or toothbrush.
• Wash eating utensils and clothes separately.
• Patients should not sit close to others, especially pregnant women.
• Patients should not engage in sex while being treated with sodium iodide I 131.
• If an oral dose is missed, do not double up on doses. Patients should contact their doctor in this event.
• Keep tablets out of reach of children and return to the pharmacy for safe disposal if treatment is terminated.

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

samarium 153 lexidronan

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:36 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Samarium (su-MARE-ee-um) SM-153, Samarium Sm-153 lexidronam injection
Trade Name: Quadramet®

What are the common (occur in 30% or more of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

What are the less common (occur in 10% to 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with samarium 153?

• Bleeding (nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, blood in the urine, etc.)
• Infection

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Iodotope®

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 07:29:35 +0000

Class: Radiopharmaceutical

Generic Name: Sodium Iodide (SOE-dee-um EYE-oh-dyde) I 131
Trade Name: Iodotope®

What are the most common (occur in 10 – 29% of patients) side effects of treatment with sodium iodide I 131?

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

• Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.
• Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing and try to minimize sun exposure.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (Patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day.)
• Over the counter pain medication may help alleviate some pain caused by treatment. Patients should speak with their physician about this issue.
• Patients should prepare family members or roommates prior to treatment of the possible radiation precautions that need to be taken.
• If possible, the patient should avoid large crowds or persons who are sick or not feeling well, as this drug may leave some patients susceptible to infection.
• Wash hands often to reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid activities that may cause injury or bruising.
• Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to prevent cuts on the mouth or skin.
• Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

• Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use some kind of birth control while undergoing treatment. Also, patients may want to talk to their physician if they are considering having children in the future, since some drugs may cause fertility problems.
• It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions (chicken pox, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lung disease, etc.) as they may worsen with this drug.
• Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.
• Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.
• Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.
• Patients are being treated with a radioactive substance, and radioactivity will be present in excreted urine. Patients need to discuss precautions against radioactivity with their physician and how long precautions should be followed.
• A toilet, versus a urinal should be used whenever possible. The toilet should be flushed several times immediately after every use. If urine spills outside the toilet, it should be cleaned up immediately and completely, and patients should wash their hands thoroughly. If blood or urine gets onto clothing, bed sheets, towels, etc., these items should be washed separately from other items.
• Patients should not use another persons eating or drinking utensils, towels or toothbrush.
• Wash eating utensils and clothes separately.
• Patients should not sit close to others, especially pregnant women.
• Patients should not engage in sex while being treated with sodium iodide I 131.
• If an oral dose is missed, do not double up on doses. Patients should contact their doctor in this event.
• Keep tablets out of reach of children and return to the pharmacy for safe disposal if treatment is terminated.

When should patients notify their physician?

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.