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Drug/Side Effect

Select from the list: ---select--- 6-Mercaptopurine Abraxane Actinomycin-D Adrucil Alpha Interferon Androxy Arimidex Aromasin Avastin BCNU Bendamustine BEXXAR ® Blenoxane ® Busulfex ® Camptosar ® Casodex ® Cerubidine ® Cosmegen ® Cytadren ® Cytosar-U DaunoXome Doxil DTIC-Dome Duralone ® Efudex ® Eligard ™ Ellence ™ Eloxatin ™ Elspar ® Emcyt ® Emend Etopophos ® Eulexin ® Evista ® Fareston ® Faslodex ® Femara G-CSF Gemzar Gleevec ™ Gliadel ® Wafer GM-CSF Halotestin ® Herceptin ® Hexadrol Hexalen ® Hycamtin ® Hydrea ® Idamycin ® Ifex ® IFN-alpha Imidazole Carboxamide Interferon Alfa-2b (PEG C Interleukin - 2, IL-2 Interleukin-11, IL-11 Intron A® (interferon al Iressa ® Ixempra ™ Kidrolase Lanacort Lapatinib Liquid Pred ® Lupron Depot ® Lxempra Matulane ® Maxidex Medralone ® Megace ® Melphalan Meticorten ® Mustargen ® Mutamycin ® Myleran ® Mylocel ™ Mylotarg ® Navelbine ® Neosar ® Neulasta ™ Neumega ® Nexavar ® Nilandron ® Novaldex ® Novantrone ® Oncospar ® Oncovin ® Ontak ® Panretin ® Panretin ® Paraplatin ® Platinol AQ Platinol ® Platinol-AQ ® PROCRIT ® Proleukin ® Purinethol ® Revlimid ® Rheumatrex ® Rituxan ® Roferon-A ® (Interferon Sandostatin ® VCR Vectibix ™ Velban ® Velcade ® VePesid ® Vesanoid ® Viadur ™ Vidaza ® Vinblastine Sulfate Vincasar Pfs ® Vinorelbine tartrate VLB VM-26 VP-16 Vumon ® Xeloda ® Zanosar ® Zevalin ™ Zinecard ® Zoladex ® Zolinza Zometa ®

6-Mercaptopurine

Generic Name:
mer-kap-toe-PYOOR-een

Uses:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Administered:
As a tablet by mouth. Comes in one tablet size (50mg). Take as a daily dose at the same time each day. Preferable to take on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals).

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Liver toxicity. (see liver problems) Increased bilirubin, increased liver enzymes, jaundice, abdominal swelling (ascites). Increased with higher doses of drug. Usually occurs within 2 months of treatment.

Abraxane

Generic Name:
Paclitaxel protein-bound

Uses:
Abraxane is used to treat breast cancer after failure of combination chemotherapy for metastatic disease or relapse within 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy. Prior therapy should have included an anthracycline chemotherapy unless clinically not appropriate.

Administered:
The amount of Abraxane that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition you have. Your doctor will determine your exact dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking Abraxane: Low blood counts (your white and red blood cells may temporarily decrease which can put you at increased risk for infection and/or anemia) Hair loss Nausea Abnormal ECG (electrocardiogram) Peripheral neuropathy (numbness and tingling of hands and feet) Arthralgias and myalgias, pain in the joints and muscles (usually temporary occurring 2-3 days after Abraxane, and resolve within a few days) Weakness and fatigue Increases in blood tests measuring liver function (these return to normal once treatment is discontinued)

Actinomycin-D

Generic Name:
Dactinomycin

Uses:
Dactinomycin is used to treat Wilms' tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, germ cell tumors, gestational trophoblastic disease, Ewing's sarcoma, testicular cancer, melanoma, choriocarcinoma, neuroblastoma, retinoblastoma, uterine sarcomas, Kaposi's sarcoma, sarcoma botryoides and soft tissue sarcoma.

Administered:
Dactinomycin is given through a vein (intravenous, IV). Dactinomycin is classified as a vesicant medication, meaning it can cause damage to tissue that comes in direct contact with the drug. It needs to be given with extreme caution by a qualified medical professional. You should notify medical personnel immediately if you have pain or swelling at the infusion site. The amount of dactinomycin that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking dactinomycin: Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Onset: 7 days Nadir: 14-21 days Recovery: 21-28 days Hair loss (occurs within weeks). Nausea and vomiting (occurs within hours to days). Mouth sores (occurs within weeks). Diarrhea (occurs within days to weeks). Skin problems (follicular acne, redness, desquammation - peeling of skin). Sensitivity to sunlight. (see skin reactions)

Adrucil

Generic Name:
Fluorouracil

Uses:
Colon and rectal cancer. Breast cancer. Gastrointestinal cancers including: anal, esphageal, pancreas and gastric (stomach). Head and neck cancer * Hepatoma (liver cancer). Ovarian cancer. Topical use (cream or solution) in basal cell cancer of the skin and actinic keratoses. -see document fluorouracil(cream).

Administered:
As an injection into the vein (intravenous or IV), or as an infusion. The amount of time and schedule of infusion varies depending on a specific protocol, it may be given over several hours to several weeks. As a topical ointment, a thin coating is applied to the affected skin lesions twice a day, treatment may continue over several weeks. (see document fluorouracil(cream).

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea. Nausea and possible occasional vomiting. Mouth sores. Poor appetite. Watery eyes, sensitivity to light (photophobia) (see eye problems). Taste changes, metallic taste in mouth during infusion. Discoloration along vein through which the medication is given. Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding.

Alpha Interferon

Generic Name:
Interferon alfa

Uses:
Approved for use in hairy cell leukemia, malignant melanoma, AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma, follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Other uses: Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), renal cell cancer, cervical cancer, carcinoid syndrome, medullary thyroid cancer, multiple myeloma, basal and squamous cell skin cancers, low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides). Blood disorders such as: polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenia purpura.

Administered:
By injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ) By injection through a vein (intravenously, by IV) By injection into a muscle (intramuscular, IM) There is no pill form of interferon alfa Due to differences in dosage, you should not change brands of interferons. Discuss with your doctor or health care professional if there is a problem with supply. The amount of interferon alfa you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer you have. Your doctor will determine your dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Early: (occurring after the first few doses) Flu-like syndrome: Fever, chills, generalized aches and pains, headache, poor appetite. (Over time the intensity of these symptoms decreases depending on the dose, how it is given, and the schedule of administration). Later: (occurring beyond one week of therapy) Fatigue Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Decreases are dose dependent. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Temporary blood test abnormalities: low calcium, high glucose, or high triglyceride levels. Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued (see liver problems). Weight loss Hair loss

Androxy

Generic Name:
Generic Name: Fluoxymesterone (floo-ox-i-MES-te-ro

Uses:
Treating a deficiency of the male hormone testosterone when the body does not make enough. It is also used to stimulate puberty in males with delayed puberty.Treating advanced breast cancer in women who are 1 to 5 years past menopause. Androxy is an androgen.It works by stimulating normal growth and development of the male sex organs and maintaining normal secondary sex characteristics.It is unknown exactly how Androxy works to treat breast cancer.

Administered:
Oral Medication, Androxy may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation. Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Androxy

Possible Side Effects:
Changes in sexual desire; absence of menstrual flow; acne; breast swelling or tenderness; deepening of voice; growth of facial hair; headache; irregular menstrual flow; mood changes; painful, prolonged erection; swelling of the clitoris. Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); ankle swelling; change in skin color; nausea; vomiting; weight gain.

Arimidex

Generic Name:
anastrozole (an AS troe zole)

Uses:
Arimidex lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, which may slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow in the body. Arimidex is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often given to women whose cancer has progressed even after taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox).

Administered:
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Arimidex is usually taken once per day. You may need to keep taking take this medication for up to 5 years. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Possible Side Effects:
swollen glands, a bone fracture; or swelling in your hands or feet; hot flashes; joint pain or stiffness; weakness; sore throat; depression, mood changes;nausea; or back pain, bone pain.

Aromasin

Generic Name:
exemestane (ex e MES tane)

Uses:
Aromasin lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, which may slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow. Aromasin is used to treat advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often given to women whose cancer has progressed even after taking tamoxifen for 2 to 3 years.

Administered:
Oral Medication, Take Aromasin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Aromasin is usually taken once per day. You may need to keep taking take Aromasin for up to 5 years. Follow your doctor's instructions

Possible Side Effects:
swollen glands; a bone fracture; or swelling in your hands or feet; hot flashes; joint pain or stiffness; weakness, tired feeling; headache; sleep problems (insomnia); or increased sweating.

Avastin

Generic Name:
bevacizumab (bev a CIZ oo mab)

Uses:
Avastin is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth of cancer cells by blocking the formation and growth of new blood vessels in the tumor which slows their growth. Avastin is used to treat cancers of the colon, rectum, lung or breast. It is usually given as part of a combination of cancer medicines.

Administered:
Avastin is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 90 minutes to complete. Avastin is usually given once every 2 weeks.

Possible Side Effects:
stomach pain with vomiting or constipation; black, bloody, or tarry stools; vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds; sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body; sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance; chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling; increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure); feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion; swelling or rapid weight gain; feeling like you might pass out; urinating less than usual or not at all; fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms; easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; or white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;

BCNU

Generic Name:
Carmustine

Uses:
Used to treat certain types of brain tumors; glioblastoma, brainstem glioma, medulloblastoma, astrocytoma, ependymoma and metastatic brain tumors. Other cancers treated with BCNU include multiple myeloma, Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, melanoma, lung cancer, colon cancer.

Administered:
BCNU is usually given by an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). There is no pill form of this medication. There is a form of this medication (Gliadel® wafer) that can be placed and left in the cavity after surgical removal of a brain tumor. The carmustine wafer allows for delivery of the drug directly to the site of the brain tumor. (See separate listing "carmustine wafer" for more details regarding this formulation).

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting, usually within 2-4 hours of infusion, lasting for about 4-6 hours. Anti-nausea nausea medication is given prior to infusion to prevent or decrease this side effect. Facial flushing (see skin problems). Pain and burning at the injection site. (Can be relieved by diluting the drug, let your health care provider know if you are experiencing pain during the infusion). Low blood counts. Your white blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, and/or bleeding. This effect is usually delayed, onset 2 weeks after dose with nadir 5-6 weeks later.

Bendamustine

Generic Name:
Bendamustine Hydrochloride

Uses:
Bendamustine is used for treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Administered:
As an injection into the vein (intravenous, IV). There is no pill form of Bendamustine.

Possible Side Effects:
Most people will not experience all of the Bendamustine side effects listed. Bendamustine side effects are often predictable in terms of their onset, duration, and severity. Bendamustine side effects are almost always reversible and will go away after therapy is complete. Bendamustine side effects may be quite manageable. There are many options to minimize or prevent the side effects of Bendamustine . The following Bendamustine side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking Bendamustine: Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Increase in bilirubin levels

BEXXAR ®

Generic Name:
Tositumomab

Uses:
Treatment of certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas that have recurred after, or have not responded to prior treatment.

Administered:
Infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). Given only as a two step protocol, the dosimetric step and the therapeutic step. Each step consists of an infusion of Bexxar followed by Iodine I 131 linked to a molecule of Bexxar. Step 1 - (dosimetric step), this step is performed in order to determine how the medication is distributed through the body. The infusion is followed by scans done within 1 hour, 2-4 days and at 6-7 days. The amount of the therapeutic dose of Iodine I 131 Bexxar that you will receive is calculated based on data obtained from the scans. Step 2 - (therapeutic step), 7-14 days following Step 1, Bexxar infusion followed by Iodine I 131 linked to Bexxar. You will be given a prescription for medication to protect your thyroid gland. This medication is to be started at least 24 hours before the first step of the protocol, and will continue until about 2 weeks after the second step (therapeutic dose).

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. (This effect may be delayed or prolonged for several weeks after treatment is given). Fever Weakness

Blenoxane ®

Generic Name:
Bleomycin

Uses:
Used in the treatment of squamous cell cancers, melanoma, sarcoma, testicular cancer, Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Also used to treat pleural effusion (build up of fluid in the space between the lining of the lung and the chest wall).

Administered:
As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). As an injection into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). As an injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ). As an intrapleural - into the pleural cavity (the space between the lining of the lung and the chest wall) injection. This is done to treat a malignant pleural effusion (build up of fluid). This procedure is also known as sclerosis or pleurodesis: A chest tube is inserted into the pleural space. Any fluid is drained (this may take several days). The chemotherapy is inserted into the chest tube. The chemotherapy causes the lung to stick to the pleural lining, allowing the lung to re-expand and stay expanded. Intrapleural chemotherapy is used primarily for symptom relief. There is no pill form of bleomycin.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever and chills (see flu-like symptoms). Skin reactions: redness, darkening of the skin, stretch marks on the skin, skin peeling, thickening of the skin, ulceration. Nail thickening, nail banding (see skin reactions). Hair loss.

Busulfex ®

Generic Name:
Busulfan

Uses:
Busulfan is used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Also used to treat certain blood disorders such as polycythemia vera and myeloid metaplasia. Used in some conditioning regimens prior to bone marrow transplant.

Administered:
Busulfan is taken by mouth in pill form. It also may be given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous or IV).

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. In rare cases this can also be a delayed effect. Nausea and vomiting (usually mild with standard doses). Diarrhea (usually mild with standard doses). Poor appetite. Mouth sores. Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by busulfan. This effect is dose dependent. Discuss this issue with your health care provider.

Camptosar ®

Generic Name:
Irinotecan

Uses:
Metastatic colon or rectal cancer

Administered:
Camptosar is given by infusion through a vein (intravenously, IV). There is no pill form of Camptosar. Camptosar is an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives Camptosar must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving Camptosar, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea - two types: Early diarrhea: Occurring within 24 hours of receiving drug, accompanied by symptoms runny nose, increased salivation, watery eyes, sweating, flushing, abdominal cramping. (This can occur while the drug is being administered. If so, alert your healthcare professional promptly. Medication can be given to stop and/or lessen this early side effect). Late diarrhea: Occurring greater than 24 hours of receiving drug, usually peaks at about 11 days after treatment. Because of concerns of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances with diarrhea it is important to be in contact with health care professionals for monitoring, and for medication and diet modifications advice. Nausea and vomiting Weakness Low white blood cell count (this can put you at increased risk for infection) Low red blood cell count (anemia) Hair loss Poor appetite Fever Weight loss

Casodex ®

Generic Name:
Bicalutamide

Uses:
Casodex therapy is for men with advanced prostate cancer at stage D2, when there is evidence of metastases (cancer spread) to other areas of the body.

Administered:
Casodex is a pill, taken by mouth. It is taken once a day and is usually started at the same time LHRH therapy is started. It should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. You should empty your bladder (urinate) before taking the medication. In some cases (e.g. spinal cord metastasis), Casodex will be started approximately 5-7 days before you receive the LHRH agonist. This is done to block the "flare" or surge of testosterone that occurs after LHRH agonist is given.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes Swelling of the breasts (gynecomastia) Breast pain Loss of libido (interest in sex) Impotence (inability to obtain or sustain an erection)

Cerubidine ®

Generic Name:
Daunorubicin

Uses:
To treat acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) Also to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

Administered:
Daunorubicin is given by intravenous injection (IV). The syringe needle is placed directly into the tubing of a freely flowing IV solution into a vein or central line and the drug is given over several minutes. Daunorubicin is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving daunorubicin, alert your health care professional immediately. There is no pill form of daunorubicin.

Possible Side Effects:
Pain along the site where the medication was given. Urine may appear red, red-brown, orange or pink from the color of the medication for one to two days after you receive a dose. Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea or vomiting (usually mild, occurs within 1-2 hours of treatment). Mouth sores (in the first week after therapy). Hair loss on the scalp or elsewhere on the body (called alopecia). Most patients do lose some or all of their hair during their treatment. But your hair will grow back after treatment is completed. Heart rhythm abnormalities, generally without symptoms and short lived.

Cosmegen ®

Generic Name:
Dactinomycin

Uses:
Dactinomycin is used to treat Wilms' tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, germ cell tumors, gestational trophoblastic disease, Ewing's sarcoma, testicular cancer, melanoma, choriocarcinoma, neuroblastoma, retinoblastoma, uterine sarcomas, Kaposi's sarcoma, sarcoma botryoides and soft tissue sarcoma.

Administered:
Dactinomycin is given through a vein (intravenous, IV). Dactinomycin is classified as a vesicant medication, meaning it can cause damage to tissue that comes in direct contact with the drug. It needs to be given with extreme caution by a qualified medical professional. You should notify medical personnel immediately if you have pain or swelling at the infusion site.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Hair loss (occurs within weeks). Nausea and vomiting (occurs within hours to days). Mouth sores (occurs within weeks). Diarrhea (occurs within days to weeks). Skin problems (follicular acne, redness, desquammation - peeling of skin). Sensitivity to sunlight. (see skin reactions)

Cytadren ®

Generic Name:
Aminoglutethimide

Uses:
To treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women Metastatic prostate cancer

Administered:
This drug is taken orally, in pill form. Drinking a glass of water and eating food is recommended when taking this medicine. About half of patients who take this medications will need to take a steroid medication to replace necessary steroids (made by the body) that are reduced by aminoglutethimide.

Possible Side Effects:
Drowsiness, fatigue Skin rash (usually seen during the first week of treatment then goes away) (see skin reactions) Mild nausea

Cytosar-U

Generic Name:
Cytarabine

Uses:
Cytarabine is used to treat different forms of leukemia, including acute and chronic myelogenous (AML and CML) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). It is also used to treat lymphoma, meningeal leukemia and lymphoma (cancers found in the lining of the brain and spinal cord)

Administered:
Cytarabine may be given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous or IV). As an injection into the layer of tissue between the skin and the muscle (subcutaneous or SubQ). As an injection into the muscle (intramuscular or IM). Another method it is given is by intraventricular or intrathecal infusion. This method is used when drugs need to reach the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) the fluid that is surrounding the brain and spinal cord, the drug is infused directly into the spinal fluid. There is no pill form of cytarabine.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea and vomiting. Mouth sores (usually occur 7-10 days after therapy). Blood test abnormalities: Increase in blood level of uric acid. A pill called allopurinol may be given to decrease these levels. Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued. More often associated with high-dose regimens.

DaunoXome

Generic Name:
Daunorubicin (liposomal)

Uses:
DaunoXome is used as first-line therapy against advanced Kaposi's sarcoma associated with HIV.

Administered:
Daunorubicin (liposomal) is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV). The syringe needle is placed directly into the vein or central line and the drug is given over several minutes. Because the parent drug daunorubicin is a vesicant this liposomal form is treated with equal caution. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving daunorubicin (liposomal), alert your health care professional immediately. There is no pill form of daunorubicin (liposomal).

Possible Side Effects:
Infusion-related reaction (symptoms which may occur during the actual treatment) include: Occurs within the first 5 minutes of infusion. Symptoms include back pain, flushing, and tightness in the chest and throat. Happens in about 15% of patients and usually only with the first infusion. Symptoms go away when the infusion is stopped and typically does not recur when the infusion is restarted at a slower rate.Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea. Fatigue. Fever. Heart rhythm abnormalities, generally without symptoms and short lived. Diarrhea.

Doxil

Generic Name:
(Doxorubicin,Liposomal)

Uses:
Doxil is used in chemotherapy to treat cancer

Administered:
Doxil is injected directly into the veins by a doctor or nurse. Each treatment takes 30-60 minutes and is usually given every three weeks.

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count (neutropenia; this poses a greater risk of infection) Reduced red blood cell count (anemia; symptoms include pallor, weakness, and difficulty breathing) Impaired blood clotting; bleeding and bruising(thrombocytopenia) Nausea General weakness Infusion reactions: symptoms include flushing, shortness of breath, swelling of the face, headache, chills, back pain, tightness in the chest and throat, and low blood pressure Skin reactions (hand-foot syndrome): symptoms include swelling, pain, redness and peeling of the skin on hands and feet Stinging or burning while Doxil is being injected Effects on the heart, such as irregular rhythm, rapid heart rate, or heart failure

DTIC-Dome

Generic Name:
Dacarbazine

Uses:
Dacarbazine is used for metastatic malignant melanoma, Hodgkin's disease, soft tissue sarcomas, neuroblastoma, fibrosarcomas, rhabdomyosarcoma, islet cell carcinoma, and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid.

Administered:
Dacarbazine is given into a vein (intravenously, IV). Dacarbazine is an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving dacarbazine, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Local pain, burning sensation and irritation at the needle site during the infusion. Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea and vomiting. Poor appetite. Elevation of blood liver enzymes.

Duralone ®

Generic Name:
Methylprednisolone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Prednisolone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands). Used as prevention and treatment of graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.

Administered:
This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in 2 mg, 4 mg, 8mg, 16mg, 24mg and 32 mg tablets. If you are on a daily dose of methylprednisolone, and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. Take pills with food or after meals. This medication may also be given by injection into the muscle (intramuscular, IM) or into the vein (intravenously, IV), by a healthcare provider.

Possible Side Effects:
Increased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention) Nausea, take with food Heartburn Muscle weakness Impaired wound healing Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Efudex ®

Generic Name:
Fluorouracil

Uses:
Basal cell cancer of the skin Actinic keratoses.(a pre-cancerous skin condition)

Administered:
As a topical cream or solution, a thin coating is applied to the affected skin lesions twice a day, treatment may continue over several weeks. Use non-metal applicator or fingertips to apply cream. Use care when applying cream or solution around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Wash your hands immediately after applying Efudex.

Possible Side Effects:
Pain, itching, burning, irritation, inflammation, dryness, swelling, tenderness at the site of application. This will heal once the treatment is complete.

Eligard ™

Generic Name:
Leuprolide

Uses:
Prostate cancer Breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer Also used in non-cancerous conditions such as endometriosis, infertility, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Administered:
As an injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ), or into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). May be given as a daily, monthly, or every 3 or 4month injection depending on the formulation and condition being treated. Also may be given as a once-a-year implantable device (Viadur(tm)). The device looks like a one and 1/2 inch coffee stirrer. It is implanted under the skin. Positioned at one end of the device are "osmotic tablets." These tablets expand in the presence of water drawn in from the surrounding tissue at a constant and steady rate. As water is drawn in through this end, it exerts pressure inside the implant that steadily pushes the right amount of medication out of a small hole in the other end. The device is removed at the end of the year. There is no pill form of leuprolide.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Loss of interest in sex (decreased libido) (see sexuality) Inability to obtain or sustain an erection (impotence)

Ellence ™

Generic Name:
Epirubicin

Uses:
Epirubicin is used to treat breast cancer. It is used as adjuvant therapy in women who have had surgery and have lymph node involvement. May be used in place of doxorubicin in some circumstances.

Administered:
pirubicin is given by intravenous injection (IV). The syringe needle is placed directly into the tubing of a freely flowing IV solution into a vein or central line and the drug is given over several minutes. Epirubicin is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving epirubicin, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Early: (within one week after treatment begins) Pain along the site where the medication was given Nausea or vomiting Urine will appear red for 1-2 days Later: (within two weeks after treatment begins) Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Mouth sores Hair loss on the scalp or elsewhere on the body (called alopecia). Most patients do lose some or all of their hair during their treatment. But your hair will grow back after treatment is completed. Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Amenorrhea (loss of menstrual cycle - see menopause and chemotherapy)

Eloxatin ™

Generic Name:
Oxaliplatin

Uses:
This medication is used to treat colon or rectal cancer that has spread (metastasized), it is often given in combination with other anticancer drugs (fluorouracil and leucovorin).

Administered:
It is given by infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). There is no pill form of Eloxatin.

Possible Side Effects:
The feeling of difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, jaw spasm, abnormal tongue sensation and feeling of chest pressure. This has been reported rarely (<5%). It generally starts within hours of Eloxatin infusion and often occurs upon exposure to cold. Avoiding exposure to cold (see self care tips below) helps to prevent this adverse reaction. Future infusions may be given over a longer time frame to help reduce the incidence.

Elspar ®

Generic Name:
Asparaginase

Uses:
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)

Administered:
Aspariginase is given as an injection into a large muscle (intramuscular or IM). Depending on your dose, the medication may need to be divided into two injections. Also may be given into the vein as an infusion (intravenous or IV). This method has higher risk of allergic reaction so often a test dose is given first. There is no pill form of aspariginase.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever, chills (see flu like symptoms) Nausea and vomiting Allergic reaction, (sudden onset of wheezing, itching, rash, face swelling, agitation, low blood pressure). You will be monitored closely for this reaction. Poor appetite Stomach cramping Central neurotoxicity: excessive sleepiness, depression, hallucinations, agitation, disorientation or seizure. Less commonly seen stupor, confusion and/or coma.

Emcyt ®

Generic Name:
Estramustine

Uses:
Emcyt is a combination anti-cancer ("antineoplastic" or "cytotoxic") chemotherapy drug classified as an "antimicrotubule agent". Emcyt also has hormonal therapy features. (For more detail, see "How this drug works" section below).

Administered:
Estramustine is given in pill form (a capsule), taken by mouth. Estramustine should be taken with water 1 hour before meals or 2 hours after meals to prevent stomach upset.

Possible Side Effects:
Breast tenderness Breast enlargement (mild) (see sexuality) Decrease in libido and impotence (see sexuality) Increases in blood tests measuring liver function (Lactate Dehydrogenase and AST). These return to normal once treatment is discontinued. (see liver problems).

Emend

Generic Name:
Aprepitant

Uses:
The generic name for Emend®, aprepitant is an antinausea drug used to help prevent acute and delayed nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy. Aprepitant is given along with other antinausea drugs and works by blocking the NK1 receptor in the brain. Blocking this receptor prevents the stimulation of the vomiting-center and chemotherapy-receptor trigger zone.

Administered:
It is administered as an oral medication

Possible Side Effects:
Fatigue, Dizziness, Constipation, Diarrhea, Nausea, Loss of appetite. Side effects of aprepitant other than those listed here may occur, including a rare but serious allergic reaction characterized by hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue; and closing of the throat. If you experience this reaction, stop taking aprepitant and seek immediate medical attention.

Etopophos ®

Generic Name:
Etoposide

Uses:
Testicular, bladder, prostate, lung, stomach, and uterine, cancers. Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, Kaposi's sarcoma, Wilm's tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, neuroblastoma, brain tumors. It also may be given as high-dose therapy in bone marrow transplant setting.

Administered:
In tablet form by mouth. As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV), as a short infusion or as a continuous infusion over 24 hours. Etoposide is considered an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving etoposide, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count. (This can increase your risk for infection). Low platelet count (This can increase your risk of bleeding). Hair loss Menopause (chemotherapy induced) Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive a child may be affected by etoposide. Discuss this issue with your health care provider. Nausea and vomiting (especially at high-doses) Low blood pressure (if the drug is infused too fast)

Eulexin ®

Generic Name:
Flutamide

Uses:
Flutamide therapy is for men with advanced prostate cancer at stage D2, when there is evidence of metastases (cancer spread) to other areas of the body.

Administered:
Flutamide is a capsule, taken by mouth. Contents of the capsule may be opened and mixed with a soft food such as applesauce. Mixing with a liquid is not recommended. Daily dosing should be spaced evenly throughout the day (for example - three times a day should be given every 8 hours). It is usually started at the same time LHRH therapy is started. In some cases (e.g. spinal cord metastasis), flutamide will be started approximately 5-7 days before you receive the LHRH agonist. This is done to block the "flare" or surge of testosterone that occurs after LHRH agonist is given.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality). Swelling of the breasts (gynecomastia) (see sexuality). Loss of interest in sex (decreased libido) (see sexuality). Nipple discharge (galactorrhea) (see sexuality). Inability to obtain or sustain an erection (impotence) (see sexuality). Diarrhea

Evista ®

Generic Name:
Raloxifene

Uses:
This medicine is given to prevent or treat osteoporosis (bone thinning) in women who have stopped having their periods (postmenopausal). Raloxifen has been approved for reduction in risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have osteoporosis and for postmenopausal women at high risk for breast cancer.

Administered:
This medication is given to you in a pill form. There is no intravenous (IV) preparation available. Take this medicine with a full glass of water, at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose the next day. This medicine is to be taken once a day. In addition to raloxifene, your healthcare provider may recommend that you take a calcium supplement with vitamin D (Vitamin D helps the calcium be absorbed better).

Possible Side Effects:
There are no common side effects of raloxifene

Fareston ®

Generic Name:
Toremifene

Uses:
Toremifene is used to treat metastatic (spread) breast cancer in women who are postmenopausal (stopped having menstrual periods) and whose tumors are estrogen receptor positive.

Administered:
Toremifene is a pill, taken by mouth. Toremifene should be taken with a full glass of water, at about the same time each day. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose the next day. Toremifene may be taken with or without food.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Sweating (see skin reactions) Nausea and vomiting Poor appetite Vaginal discharge

Faslodex ®

Generic Name:
Fulvestrant

Uses:
To treat estrogen receptor positive metastatic breast cancer (cancer that has spread) in postmenopausal women, with disease progression following antiestrogen therapy.

Administered:
As an injection into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). Fulvestrant is usually given as a once a month injection. Your doctor will determine any variations to this dosing or schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
None occurring greater than 30%

Femara

Generic Name:
letrozole (LET row zol)

Uses:
Femara lowers estrogen levels in postmenopausal women, which may slow the growth of certain types of breast tumors that need estrogen to grow in the body. Femara is used to treat breast cancer in postmenopausal women. It is often given to women who have been taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Soltamox) for 5 years. Femara may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

Administered:
Oral Medication, Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Femara is usually taken once a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Possible Side Effects:
hot flashes, warmth or redness in your face or chest; headache, muscle or joint pain; night sweats; weight gain; fatigue, feeling weak; nausea; or swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

G-CSF

Generic Name:
Filgrastim

Uses:
Filgrastim is used to stimulate the production of granulocytes (a type of white blood cell) in patients undergoing therapy that will cause low white blood cell counts. This medication is used to prevent infection and neutropenic (low white blood cells) fevers caused by chemotherapy. Filgrastim is a support medication. It does not treat cancer.

Administered:
Filgrastim may be given by subcutaneous (the layer between the skin and muscle) injection or infused into a vein (intravenous, IV). Filgrastim is generally given on a daily basis. The number of days you receive filgrastim will be prescribed by your doctor. Filgrastim should be refrigerated. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before injection. Do not shake the medication.

Possible Side Effects:
There are no common side effects of filgrastim.

Gemzar

Generic Name:
Gemcitabine

Uses:
Pancreas cancer Non-small cell lung cancer Bladder cancer Soft-tissue sarcoma Metastatic breast cancer

Administered:
Gemzar is given by infusion through a vein (intravenously, by IV). There is no pill form of Gemzar.

Possible Side Effects:
Flu-like symptoms (muscle pain, fever, headache, chills, fatigue) Fever (within 6-12 hours of first dose) Fatigue Nausea (mild) Vomiting Poor appetite Skin rash Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Temporary increases in liver enzymes Blood or protein in the urine

Gleevec ™

Generic Name:
Imatinib Mesylate

Uses:
Newly diagnosed adult and pediatric patients with Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in chronic phase. Ph+ CML in blast crisis, accelerated phase, or chronic phase after failure of interferon-alpha therapy. Adult patients with relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome + acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL). Adult patients with myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases (MDS/MPD) associated with PDGFR gene rearrangements. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors that are C-kit positive.

Administered:
Gleevec is a pill, taken by mouth, once or twice daily. Gleevec should be taken with a large glass of water, after a meal.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea and vomiting Edema (swelling of the face, feet, hands) Muscle cramps and bone pain Diarrhea Hemorrhage (see bleeding problems) Skin rash (see skin reactions) Fever

Gliadel ® Wafer

Generic Name:
Carmustine wafer

Uses:
Used to treat a certain type of brain tumor, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Administered:
Gliadel® wafer is a form of the medication carmustine that can be placed and left in the cavity after surgical removal of a brain tumor. The carmustine wafer allows for delivery of the drug directly to the site of the brain tumor.

Possible Side Effects:
Pain. Abnormal wound healing. Seizures - these do not occur more often than with surgery alone but may occur sooner after surgery. When to contact your doctor: Contact your health care provider immediately, day or night, if you should experience any of the following symptoms: Fever of 100.5ºF (38º C) or higher, chills (possible signs of infection). Drainage from surgery site. Always inform your health care provider if you experience any unusual symptoms. Precautions: Before receiving treatment with carmustine wafer, make sure you tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbal remedies, etc.). Do not take aspirin, products containing aspirin unless your doctor specifically permits this. The effects of carmustine wafer on the developing fetus are unknown. Implantation of carmustine wafer can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant let your doctor know. Pregnancy category D (carmustine may be hazardous to the fetus. Women who are pregnant or become pregnant must be advised of the potential hazard to the fetus). Discontinue breast feeding after receiving this medication.

GM-CSF

Generic Name:
Sargramostim

Uses:
Used to accelerate the recovery of white blood cells following chemotherapy. Used following induction chemotherapy in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). After bone marrow transplantation. Before and/or after peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. Sargramostim is a support medication. It does not treat cancer.

Administered:
As an injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ). As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). How it is given depends on why you are receiving this drug.

Possible Side Effects:
With the first dose of sargramostim a person may experience low blood pressure, fast heart rate, flushing, lightheadedness or feeling faint. This is referred to as "first-dose effect," and tends not to happen with future doses. Diarrhea. Local reactions at the injection site. (swelling, redness and tenderness) Weakness and fatigue

Halotestin ®

Generic Name:
Fluoxymesterone

Uses:
Fluoxymesterone is used to treat breast cancer. It is a palliative treatment for recurrent estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer.

Administered:
Fluoxymesterone is a pill, taken by mouth.

Possible Side Effects:
Absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea) (see menopause) Deepening of voice Clitoral enlargement (may be irreversible) Swelling of face, hands or feet Acne (see skin reactions) Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by fluoxymesterone. Discuss this issue with your health care provider.

Herceptin ®

Generic Name:
Trastuzumab

Uses:
Trastuzumab is used to treat metastatic (spread) breast cancer. It is effective against tumors that overexpress the HER2/neu protein. As part of chemotherapy regimen for adjuvant treatment of lymph-node positive, HER2/neu protein positive breast cancer. It is not known whether or not trastuzumab may be effective in other cancers that may also have this HER-2/neu protein, including ovarian, stomach, colon, endometrial, lung, bladder, prostate, and salivary gland tumors.

Administered:
Trastuzumab is given through an infusion into vein (intravenous, IV). The first dose is given over 90 minutes. If well-tolerated subsequent maintenance doses may be given over 30 minutes.

Possible Side Effects:
During the first infusion of this trastuzumab, you may develop chills or a fever. Your health care provider might prescribe medicine to prevent or treat these symptoms. Body pain Weakness Nausea

Hexadrol

Generic Name:
Dexamethasone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Dexamethasone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. It is used specifically to decrease swelling (edema), associated with tumors of the spine and brain, and to treat eye inflammation. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Administered:
This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in a variety of tablet sizes. If you are on a daily dose of dexamethasone (usually less than 10 mg), and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. If you are on high doses of dexamethasone (20 mg or 40 mg per day for 4 days out of the month), and you miss your dose, contact your healthcare provider. You may be instructed to repeat the missed dose, and continue the medication. Take pills with food or after meals This medication may also be given by infusion into a vein (intravenously or IV) Dexamethasone eye drops are given to treat or prevent many eye conditions. The eye drops are most commonly given to patients with leukemia or lymphoma, to prevent inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis), if you are receiving high dose chemotherapy (usually Cytarabine [Ara-C]). The eye drops are given every six hours, in both eyes, and for at least 48 hours after the chemotherapy has completed. Do not stop taking these eye drops unless directed by your healthcare provider. You may be given dexamethasone as a lotion (topical) to treat skin disorders.

Possible Side Effects:
Increased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention) Heartburn Muscle weakness Impaired wound healing Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Hexalen ®

Generic Name:
Altretamine

Uses:
Ovarian cancer

Administered:
Altretamine is taken by mouth in capsule form. Altretamine should be taken after meals.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting Loss of appetite Diarrhea Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease, putting you at increased risk for infection, anemia and or bleeding.

Hycamtin ®

Generic Name:
Topotecan

Uses:
This medicine is used to treat cancer of the ovaries when other treatments have failed. Hycamtinmay also used in certain types of lung cancer (small cell lung cancer).

Administered:
Hycamtin is given through an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV).

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nausea and vomiting Hair loss Diarrhea

Hydrea ®

Generic Name:
Hydroxyurea

Uses:
Chronic myeloid leukemia Essential thrombocytosis and polycythemia vera Head and neck cancer (used with radiation therapy) Melanoma Refractory ovarian cancer (ovarian cancer that has not responded or progressed after standard therapy).

Administered:
Hydrea is a pill, taken by mouth. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Hydrea may be dissolved in water.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding.

Idamycin ®

Generic Name:
Idarubicin

Uses:
Acute myelogenous leukemia Acute lymphoblastic leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia (in blast crisis) Myelodysplastic syndromes

Administered:
Idamycin is given by intravenous injection (IV). The syringe needle is placed directly into the tubing of a freely flowing IV solution into a vein or central line and the drug is given over several minutes. Idamycin is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving Idamycin, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Pain along the site where the medication was given. Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Urine may appear red, red-brown, orange or pink from the color of the medication for one to two days after you receive a dose. Nausea or vomiting (usually mild, occurs within 1-2 hours of treatment). Mouth sores (in the first week after therapy). Hair loss on the scalp or elsewhere on the body (called alopecia). Most patients do lose some or all of their hair during their treatment. But your hair will grow back after treatment is completed. Diarrhea/abdominal cramps.

Ifex ®

Generic Name:
Ifosfamide

Uses:
Recurrent testicular cancer and germ cell tumors Sarcomas (soft-tissue, osteogenic sarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma) Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma Hodgkin's disease Non-small cell and small cell lung cancer Bladder cancer Head and neck cancer Cervix cancer

Administered:
Ifosfamide is give through an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV).

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count. (This can put you at increased risk for infection. See low blood counts). Low platelet count. (This can put you at increased risk for bleeding. See low blood counts). Hair loss. Nausea and vomiting. Usually occurs 3-6 hours after therapy and may last up to 3 days. Poor appetite. Blood in the urine (hemorrhagic cystitis) (see bladder problems). The medication mesna (see mesna) may be given with or following treatment with ifosfamide to prevent or decrease the severity of this side effect.

IFN-alpha

Generic Name:
Interferon alfa

Uses:
Approved for use in hairy cell leukemia, malignant melanoma, AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma, follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Other uses: Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), renal cell cancer, cervical cancer, carcinoid syndrome, medullary thyroid cancer, multiple myeloma, basal and squamous cell skin cancers, low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides). Blood disorders such as: polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenia purpura.

Administered:
By injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ) By injection through a vein (intravenously, by IV) By injection into a muscle (intramuscular, IM) There is no pill form of interferon alfa Due to differences in dosage, you should not change brands of interferons. Discuss with your doctor or health care professional if there is a problem with supply.

Possible Side Effects:
Early: (occurring after the first few doses) Flu-like syndrome: Fever, chills, generalized aches and pains, headache, poor appetite. (Over time the intensity of these symptoms decreases depending on the dose, how it is given, and the schedule of administration). Later: (occurring beyond one week of therapy) Fatigue Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Decreases are dose dependent. Temporary blood test abnormalities: low calcium, high glucose, or high triglyceride levels. Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued (see liver problems). Weight loss Hair loss

Imidazole Carboxamide

Generic Name:
Dacarbazine

Uses:
Dacarbazine is used for metastatic malignant melanoma, Hodgkin's disease, soft tissue sarcomas, neuroblastoma, fibrosarcomas, rhabdomyosarcoma, islet cell carcinoma, and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid.

Administered:
Dacarbazine is given into a vein (intravenously, IV). Dacarbazine is an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving dacarbazine, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Local pain, burning sensation and irritation at the needle site during the infusion. Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Onset: 5 - 7 days Nadir: 7 - 10 days Recovery: 21 - 28 days Nausea and vomiting. Poor appetite. Elevation of blood liver enzymes.

Interferon Alfa-2b (PEG C

Generic Name:
PEG Interferon

Uses:
This medication is used to treat chronic hepatitis C. This medication is also being investigated for use in various cancers.

Administered:
This medication is given by injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ). It is given as a once a week injection. You may be taught to give yourself the injection if you are willing and able to learn.

Possible Side Effects:
Flu-like symptoms (headache, muscle aches, tiredness and fever) usually lessen after the first few weeks of treatment. Fatigue Injection site reactions (bruising, itching, irritation). Poor appetite Nausea

Interleukin - 2, IL-2

Generic Name:
Aldesleukin

Uses:
Cancers treated with Interleukin-2 include renal cell (kidney) and melanoma, a skin cancer.

Administered:
Interleukin-2 has been approved for cancer treatment with a high-dose regimen, but it may also be administered in a low-dose form. The high-dose regimen involves giving the drug intravenously (into a vein) every eight hours, as tolerated, for up to 15 doses. There are significant side effects with this regimen (though they are reversible once treatment is stopped). Because of the severity of these side effects, patients are hospitalized and sometimes need intensive care unit support while the drug is being given. In order to lessen these side effects, an alternate, low-dose regimen was developed. "Low-dose interleukin-2" is administered on an outpatient basis. Low-dose interleukin-2 is usually given as a shot under the skin (subcutaneous injection, SubQ). In some situations, patients may be able to give themselves these injections at home.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever and chills or flu-like symptoms. The severity decreases over time, particularly in low-dose regimens. Generalized flushing (redness) of the face and body, or skin rash. (All patients on high-dose therapy will experience this effect.) (see skin reactions). Nausea or vomiting Lowered blood pressure Diarrhea Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease in number. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Changes in mental status, such as confusion, drowsiness or memory loss. Fast heart beats (tachycardia) (see heart problems). Lowered urine output. Changes in liver function (see liver problems). Generalized aches and pains (see pain). Swelling of the face, ankles or legs (edema or water retention).

Interleukin-11, IL-11

Generic Name:
Oprevelkin

Uses:
Oprevelkin is used to stimulate the bone marrow to produce platelets in order to prevent low platelets that may be caused by chemotherapy. Platelets are blood cells that allow the blood to clot, and prevent bleeding. Oprevelkin may be given to decrease the need for platelet transfusions. Oprevelkin is not indicated for myeloid malignancies (diseases that start in the bone marrow such as leukemia). Oprevelkin is a support medication. It does not treat cancer.

Administered:
Oprevelkin is given by subcutaneous (the layer between the skin and muscle). Oprevelkin is usually given 6-24 hours after chemotherapy. Oprevelkin is generally given on a daily basis. The number of days you receive oprevelkin will be prescribed by your doctor. You may be taught to give these shots to yourself once a day after chemotherapy, or they may be given to you by another healthcare provider.

Possible Side Effects:
Swelling (water retention - most common in the hands, feet and ankles) Nausea and vomiting Mouth sores Diarrhea Shortness of breath

Intron A® (interferon al

Generic Name:
Interferon alfa

Uses:
Approved for use in hairy cell leukemia, malignant melanoma, AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma, follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Other uses: Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), renal cell cancer, cervical cancer, carcinoid syndrome, medullary thyroid cancer, multiple myeloma, basal and squamous cell skin cancers, low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides). Blood disorders such as: polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenia purpura.

Administered:
By injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ) By injection through a vein (intravenously, by IV) By injection into a muscle (intramuscular, IM) There is no pill form of interferon alfa Due to differences in dosage, you should not change brands of interferons. Discuss with your doctor or health care professional if there is a problem with supply.

Possible Side Effects:
Early: (occurring after the first few doses) Flu-like syndrome: Fever, chills, generalized aches and pains, headache, poor appetite. (Over time the intensity of these symptoms decreases depending on the dose, how it is given, and the schedule of administration). Later: (occurring beyond one week of therapy) Fatigue Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Decreases are dose dependent. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Temporary blood test abnormalities: low calcium, high glucose, or high triglyceride levels. Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued (see liver problems). Weight loss Hair loss

Iressa ®

Generic Name:
Gefitinib

Uses:
For the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer, after failure of both platinum-based and taxane-based chemotherapies.

Administered:
Iressa is a pill, taken by mouth, once daily. It can be taken with or without food.

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea Skin reaction (rash, acne)

Ixempra ™

Generic Name:
Ixabepilone (IX ab EP i lone)

Uses:
Ixempra is used in the treatment of metastatic or locally-advanced breast cancer.

Administered:
Ixempra is given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV).

Possible Side Effects:
Peripheral neuropathy: Although uncommon a serious side effect of decreased sensation and paresthesia (numbness and tingling of the hands and feet) may be noted. Sensory loss, numbness and tingling, and difficulty in walking may last for at least as long as therapy is continued. These side effects may become progressively more severe with continued treatment, and your doctor may decide to decrease your dose. Weakness Muscle and joint pains Hair loss Nausea & Vomiting Low white blood cell count

Kidrolase

Generic Name:
Asparaginase

Uses:
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)

Administered:
Aspariginase is given as an injection into a large muscle (intramuscular or IM). Depending on your dose, the medication may need to be divided into two injections. Also may be given into the vein as an infusion (intravenous or IV). This method has higher risk of allergic reaction so often a test dose is given first. There is no pill form of aspariginase.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever, chills (see flu like symptoms) Nausea and vomiting Allergic reaction, (sudden onset of wheezing, itching, rash, face swelling, agitation, low blood pressure). You will be monitored closely for this reaction. Poor appetite Stomach cramping Central neurotoxicity: excessive sleepiness, depression, hallucinations, agitation, disorientation or seizure. Less commonly seen stupor, confusion and/or coma.

Lanacort

Generic Name:
Hydrocortisone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Lanacort relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. The lotion (topical) is used in treatment of allergic skin reactions, and relieves symptoms of itching, redness, and swelling. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands)

Administered:
This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets. If you are on a daily dose of hydrocortisone, and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. You may be instructed to repeat the missed dose, and continue the medication. Take pills with food or after meals. This medication may also be given by injection into the muscle (intramuscular,IM) or into the vein (intravenously, IV), by a healthcare provider. Hydrocortisone eye ointment, or eye drops, is given to treat or prevent many inflammatory eye conditions. You may be given hydrocortisone as a lotion or a cream (topical) to treat skin disorders.

Possible Side Effects:
Most people do not experience all of the side effects listed. Side effects are often predictable in terms of their onset and duration. Side effects are almost always reversible and will go away after treatment is complete. There are many options to help minimize or prevent side effects. The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking Lanacort: Increased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention) Nausea, take with food Heartburn Muscle weakness Impaired wound healing Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Lapatinib

Generic Name:
la-PA-ti-nib

Uses:
Treatment of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer that is HER-2 positive, and have already had certain other breast cancer treatments. (It is approved for this use in combination with the chemotherapy medication capecitabine)

Administered:
Lapitinib is a tablet to be taken by mouth. Tablets come in 1 dosage size, 250mg. Take lapitinib exactly as instructed by your doctor. Lapitinib should be taken at least on hour before, or at least one hour after food (take total dose at the same time daily, dividing doses is not recommended). Do not eat or drink grapefruit products while taking lapatinib.

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea Hand-foot syndrome (Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia or PPE) -skin rash, swelling, redness, pain and/or peeling of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of feet. Usually mild, has started as early as 2 weeks after start of treatment. May require reductions in the dose of the medication. Low red blood cell count (anemia) Nausea and vomiting. Elevated liver enzymes (increased AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels).

Liquid Pred ®

Generic Name:
Prednisone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Prednisone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Administered:
This medication is given to you in a pill form. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose the next day. This medicine is to be taken once a day. Take pills with food or after meals.

Possible Side Effects:
Increased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention). Nausea, take with food. Heartburn. Muscle weakness. Impaired wound healing. Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Lupron Depot ®

Generic Name:
Leuprolide

Uses:
Lupron Depot is a hormone therapy. Prostate cancer Breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer Also used in non-cancerous conditions such as endometriosis, infertility, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Administered:
As an injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ), or into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). May be given as a daily, monthly, or every 3 or 4month injection depending on the formulation and condition being treated. Also may be given as a once-a-year implantable device (Viadur(tm)). The device looks like a one and 1/2 inch coffee stirrer. It is implanted under the skin. Positioned at one end of the device are "osmotic tablets." These tablets expand in the presence of water drawn in from the surrounding tissue at a constant and steady rate. As water is drawn in through this end, it exerts pressure inside the implant that steadily pushes the right amount of medication out of a small hole in the other end. The device is removed at the end of the year.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes Decreased libido (loss of interest in sex) Impotence (inability to obtain or sustain an erection)

Lxempra

Generic Name:
ixabepilone (IX ab EP i lone)

Uses:
Ixempra is usually given after other cancer medications have been tried without successful treatment.

Administered:
Ixempra is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. An Ixempra ijection is usually given every 3 weeks. Ixempra must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take at least 3 hours to complete. About 1 hour before you receive your Ixempra injection, you will be given other medications to help prevent an allergic reaction. You may also be given a steroid medication if you have ever had a reaction to an Ixempra injection.

Possible Side Effects:
numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling in your hands or feet; sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body; sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance; chest pain or heavy feeling; fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms; or redness, swelling, and pain on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet. tired feeling; joint or muscle pain; hair loss; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite; diarrhea or constipation; or white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips

Matulane ®

Generic Name:
Procarbazine

Uses:
Treatment of Hodgkin's disease. Other uses include non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, brain tumors, melanoma, lung cancer, and multiple myeloma.

Administered:
Procarbazine is taken in capsule form by mouth. It comes in 50 mg capsule strength. The amount of this medication you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer you have. Your doctor will determine your exact dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count. (This can put you at increased risk for infection). Low platelet count. (This can put you at increased risk for bleeding). Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Onset: none noted Nadir: 3 to 6 weeks after therapy. Recovery: platelets 4-6 weeks Nausea and vomiting may occur early in therapy. Poor appetite.

Maxidex

Generic Name:
Dexamethasone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Dexamethasone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. It is used specifically to decrease swelling (edema), associated with tumors of the spine and brain, and to treat eye inflammation. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Administered:
This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in a variety of tablet sizes. If you are on a daily dose of dexamethasone (usually less than 10 mg), and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. If you are on high doses of dexamethasone (20 mg or 40 mg per day for 4 days out of the month), and you miss your dose, contact your healthcare provider. You may be instructed to repeat the missed dose, and continue the medication. Take pills with food or after meals This medication may also be given by infusion into a vein (intravenously or IV) Dexamethasone eye drops are given to treat or prevent many eye conditions. The eye drops are most commonly given to patients with leukemia or lymphoma, to prevent inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis), if you are receiving high dose chemotherapy (usually Cytarabine [Ara-C]). The eye drops are given every six hours, in both eyes, and for at least 48 hours after the chemotherapy has completed. Do not stop taking these eye drops unless directed by your healthcare provider. You may be given dexamethasone as a lotion (topical) to treat skin disorders.

Possible Side Effects:
ncreased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention) Heartburn Muscle weakness Impaired wound healing Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Medralone ®

Generic Name:
Methylprednisolone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Prednisolone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands). Used as prevention and treatment of graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.

Administered:
This medication may be given to you in many forms. In a pill form, it is available in 2 mg, 4 mg, 8mg, 16mg, 24mg and 32 mg tablets. If you are on a daily dose of methylprednisolone, and you miss a dose, take the dose as soon as you remember. Take pills with food or after meals. This medication may also be given by injection into the muscle (intramuscular, IM) or into the vein (intravenously, IV), by a healthcare provider. The amount of hydrocortisone you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the reason you are receiving this drug. Your doctor will determine your exact dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Increased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention) Nausea, take with food Heartburn Muscle weakness Impaired wound healing Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Megace ®

Generic Name:
Megestrol

Uses:
Treatment of breast, and endometrial cancers. Use as a supportive medication to treat severe loss of appetite (anorexia), muscle wasting (cachexia) and significant weight loss (> 10% of baseline body weight) associated with cancer and/or AIDS.

Administered:
Megesterol is given by mouth in tablet form, or as a liquid suspension. The amount of megesterol that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition you have. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Note: there are no common side effects of megesterol. These are less common side effects (occurring in 10-29%) for patients receiving megestrol: Weight gain Edema (swelling, usually in the feet or hands) Breakthrough menstrual bleeding, spotting

Melphalan

Generic Name:
(MEL-fah-lan)

Uses:
Multiple myeloma Ovarian cancer Neuroblastoma Rhabdomyosarcoma Breast cancer Used in some conditioning regimens prior to bone marrow transplant

Administered:
As a pill by mouth. Tablets come in a 2mg size. Take medication on an empty stomach (1 hour before to 2 hours after meals). As an injection or infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV).

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. This effect may be prolonged and cumulative. Nausea and vomiting. (mild with regular dosing, can be severe with high-dose therapy)

Meticorten ®

Generic Name:
Prednisone

Uses:
As an anti-inflammatory medication. Prednisone relieves inflammation in various parts of the body. To treat or prevent allergic reactions. As treatment of certain kinds of autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, asthma and other lung conditions. As treatment for a variety of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. To treat nausea and vomiting associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Used to stimulate appetite in cancer patients with severe appetite problems. Also used to replace steroids in conditions of adrenal insufficiency (low production of needed steroids produced by the adrenal glands).

Administered:
This medication is given to you in a pill form. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose the next day. This medicine is to be taken once a day. Take pills with food or after meals. The amount of prednisone you will receive depends on many factors, including, your general health or other health problems, and the reason you are receiving this drug. Your doctor will determine your dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
ncreased appetite Irritability Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) Swelling in your ankles and feet (fluid retention). Nausea, take with food. Heartburn. Muscle weakness. Impaired wound healing. Increased blood sugar levels. (Persons with Diabetes may need to have blood sugar levels monitored more closely and possible adjustments to diabetes medications).

Mustargen ®

Generic Name:
Mechlorethamine

Uses:
As part of combination regimens in treatment of Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. As palliative chemotherapy in lung and breast cancers. As a lotion to skin lesions of mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).

Administered:
As an injection into the vein (intravenous, IV). Mechlorethamine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving mechlorethamine, alert your health care professional immediately. Diluted solution applied to mycosis fungoides skin lesions. There is no pill form of mechlorethamine. The amount of mechlorethamine that you will receive and route depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Nausea and vomiting. Usually occurs within first 3 hours after drug administration. You will be given anti-nausea medication before receiving drug. Hair loss Mouth sores Darkening of veins used for infusion Redness, dryness, irritation with topical use Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by mechlorethamine. Discuss this issue with your health care provider.

Mutamycin ®

Generic Name:
MTC

Uses:
Treatment of adenocarcinoma of the stomach or pancreas. Also used in treatment of anal, bladder, breast, cervical, colorectal, head and neck, and non-small cell lung cancer.

Administered:
As an injection or infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). Mitomycin is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving mitomycin, alert your health care professional immediately. As an intravesicle infusion to treat superficial bladder cancer (cancer on the surface of the bladder wall). This means it is given directly into the bladder through a urinary catheter. The urinary catheter is inserted through the urethra (the tube which carries urine from the bladder to the outside the body). The mitomycin solution is injected into the catheter, which is then removed. Normal walking around helps to disperse the medication throughout the bladder. The medication is left in for about 2 hours, after which the patient then empties the bladder (urinates). There is no pill form of mitomycin. The amount of mitomycin that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose, schedule, and the method it will be given.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. The nadir counts are delayed with this drug. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Mouth sores Poor appetite Fatigue

Myleran ®

Generic Name:
Busulfan

Uses:
Myleran is used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Also used to treat certain blood disorders such as polycythemia vera and myeloid metaplasia. Used in some conditioning regimens prior to bone marrow transplant. Note: If a drug has been approved for one use, physicians sometimes elect to use this same drug for other problems if they believe it might be helpful.

Administered:
Myleran is taken by mouth in pill form. It also may be given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous or IV). The amount of Myleran that you will receive and how it is given depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. In rare cases this can also be a delayed effect. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Nausea and vomiting (usually mild with standard doses). Diarrhea (usually mild with standard doses). Poor appetite. Mouth sores. Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by Myleran. This effect is dose dependent. Discuss this issue with your health care provider.

Mylocel ™

Generic Name:
Hydroxyurea

Uses:
Chronic myeloid leukemia Essential thrombocytosis and polycythemia vera Head and neck cancer (used with radiation therapy) Melanoma Refractory ovarian cancer (ovarian cancer that has not responded or progressed after standard therapy).

Administered:
Hydroxyurea is a pill, taken by mouth. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Hydroxyurea may be dissolved in water. The amount of hydroxyurea that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding.

Mylotarg ®

Generic Name:
Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin

Uses:
Gemtuzumab ozogamicin is used to treat patients with CD33 positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in first relapse who are 60 years of age or older and for whom other chemotherapy is not recommenced. Note: If a drug has been approved for one use, physicians may elect to use this same drug for other problems if they believe it may be helpful.

Administered:
Gemtuzumab ozogamicin is given through intravenous injection into a vein (IV). You may receive medications before the infusion to reduce allergic reactions. The amount of gemtuzumab ozogamicin that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Infusion-related reaction: Occur within the first 24 hours after the infusion and most commonly during the first week of treatment. Symptoms include: fever and chills, low blood pressure, and/or shortness of breath. Premedication is given to reduce the incidence of infusion-related reactions. Occasionally, infusion-related reactions can be severe including shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, closing up of the throat, swelling of facial features, and/or hives. Patients will be carefully monitored for this type of allergic reaction (anyphylaxis).

Navelbine ®

Generic Name:
Vinorelbine

Uses:
Non-small cell lung cancer Some healthcare providers may also give Navelbine for breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or Hodgkin's disease.

Administered:
Navelbine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Navelbine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives Navelbine must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving Navelbine, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection or anemia. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Nausea or vomiting Muscle weakness Constipatio

Neosar ®

Generic Name:
Cyclophosphamide

Uses:
Cancers treated with cyclophosphamide include: Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML), acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), t-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides), multiple myeloma, neuroblastoma, retinoblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma; breast, testicular, endometrial, ovarian, and lung cancers, and in conditioning regimens for bone marrow transplantation. Cyclophosphamide is also used to treat many disorders that are not cancer.

Administered:
Cyclophosphamide can be given can be given by a number of different routes. The route that it is given depends on the dosage, the condition being treated, as well as the purpose it is being used for. It is usually given through a vein by injection or infusion (intravenous, IV) or by mouth in tablet form, depending upon the diagnosis. Cyclophosphamide is also approved to be given by a shot into a muscle (IM), into the abdominal lining (intraperitoneal, IP), or into the lining of the lung (intrapleural). Tablets should be given with food or after meals. Tablets should not be cut or crushed.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Hair loss. Temporary - usually begins 3-6 weeks after the start of therapy. Hair will grow back after treatment is completed although the color and/or texture may be different. Nausea and vomiting, more common with larger doses, usually beginning 6-10 hours after therapy. Poor appetite Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive or father a child may be affected by cyclophosphamide. Discuss this issue with your health care provider. Discoloration of the skin or nails (see skin reactions). These are less common side effects for patients receiving cyclophosphamide: Diarrhea Mouth sores Bladder irritation and bleeding (hemorrhagic cystitis) (see bladder problems) Delayed effects: There is a slight risk of developing a blood cancer such as leukemia or myelodysplasia after taking cyclophosphamide. Talk to your doctor about this risk.

Neulasta ™

Generic Name:
Pegfilgrastim

Uses:
This medicine is used to stimulate the growth of "healthy" white blood cells in the bone marrow, once chemotherapy is given. White blood cells help the body to fight infection. This is not a chemotherapy drug. This medication is usually given at least 24 hours after chemotherapy to stimulate the growth of new, healthy, white blood cells (WBC). Pegfilgrastim is a longer acting form of filgrastim and the manufacturer recommends that it should not be given within 14 days prior to chemotherapy. Pegfilgrastim is given as a single injection.

Administered:
This medicine can be given as a shot underneath the skin (subcutaneous [SQ]), in pre-filled syringes. The dose of pegfilgrastim depends upon why you are receiving this drug.

Possible Side Effects:
There are no common side effects of pegfilgrastim These side effects are less common side effects (occurring in about 10-29%) of patients receiving pegfilgrastim: Pain (bone pain) Blood test abnormalities (temporary elevation in lactate dehydrogenase) These will return to normal once treatment is discontinued Tenderness at the site of injection

Neumega ®

Generic Name:
Oprevelkin

Uses:
Oprevelkin is used to stimulate the bone marrow to produce platelets in order to prevent low platelets that may be caused by chemotherapy. Platelets are blood cells that allow the blood to clot, and prevent bleeding. Oprevelkin may be given to decrease the need for platelet transfusions. Oprevelkin is not indicated for myeloid malignancies (diseases that start in the bone marrow such as leukemia). Oprevelkin is a support medication. It does not treat cancer.

Administered:
prevelkin is given by subcutaneous (the layer between the skin and muscle). Oprevelkin is usually given 6-24 hours after chemotherapy. Oprevelkin is generally given on a daily basis. The number of days you receive oprevelkin will be prescribed by your doctor. You may be taught to give these shots to yourself once a day after chemotherapy, or they may be given to you by another healthcare provider.

Possible Side Effects:
Swelling (water retention - most common in the hands, feet and ankles) Nausea and vomiting Mouth sores Diarrhea Shortness of breath

Nexavar ®

Generic Name:
Sorafenib

Uses:
Treatment of advanced renal cell cancer Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

Administered:
As tablets by mouth. It is recommended that tablets are taken without food (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating).

Possible Side Effects:
Rash Hand-Foot Syndrome (Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia or PPE) – skin rash, swelling, redness, pain and/or peeling of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of feet. Usually mild, starting 5-6 weeks after start of treatment. May require reductions in the dose of the medication. Diarrhea Fatigue

Nilandron ®

Generic Name:
Nilutamide

Uses:
Nilutamide therapy is for men with advanced prostate cancer at stage D2, when there is evidence of metastases (cancer spread) to other areas of the body. Anti-androgen medications are usually given in conjunction with LHRH agonists or after orchiectomy (surgical removal of the testicles).

Administered:
Nilutamide is a tablet, taken by mouth. It is taken once a day. It should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. In some cases (e.g. spinal cord metastasis), nilutamide will be started approximately 5-7 days before you receive the LHRH agonist. This is done to block the "flare" or surge of testosterone that occurs after LHRH agonist is given.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Swelling of the breasts (gynecomastia) (see sexuality) Breast pain (see sexuality) Loss of interest in sex (decreased libido) (see sexuality) Nipple discharge (galactorrhea) (see sexuality) Inability to obtain or sustain an erection (impotence) (see sexuality) This medication may make it harder for your eyes to adapt to the dark. This usually occurs when passing from a lighted area to one that is dark.

Novaldex ®

Generic Name:
Tamoxifen

Uses:
Tamoxifen may be given as adjuvant therapy (treatment after successful surgery) in women or men with lymph node negative or lymph node positive breast cancer. Cancers with positive estrogen and progesterone receptors are more likely to benefit from tamoxifen. Tamoxifen reduces the risk of getting breast cancer in the opposite breast. Tamoxifen may be prescribed in metastatic (cancer that has spread) breast cancer in both women and men. Tamoxifen may be prescribed in women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who have completed surgery and radiation therapy. Tamoxifen may reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer. Risks and benefits of tamoxifen therapy should be discussed in this setting. Tamoxifen may be prescribed for women at high risk of breast cancer to reduce the incidence of developing breast cancer. Risks and benefits of tamoxifen therapy should be discussed in this setting. Tamoxifen may also be prescribed for treatment of ovarian cancer.

Administered:
Tamoxifen is a pill, given by mouth. The pill should be swallowed whole. Tamoxifen should be taken at about the same time each day with a full glass of water. If you miss a dose, do not take a double dose the next day.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Vaginal discharge (see sexuality) Swelling (fluid retention in feet, ankles, or hands) Loss of libido (particularly in men) (see sexuality)

Novantrone ®

Generic Name:
Mitoxantrone

Uses:
Advanced prostate cancer not responding to hormone treatment - used in combination with steroids. Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) Breast cancer Non- Hodgkin's lymphoma

Administered:
As an injection into the vein (intravenous, IV). Mitoxantrone may be an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving mitoxantrone, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Nausea and vomiting Fever Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued.

Oncospar ®

Generic Name:
Pegaspargase

Uses:
Pegaspargase is used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Used in some patients who have had a hypersensitivity reaction to another form of asparaginase.

Administered:
Pegaspargase is given as an injection into a large muscle (intramuscular or IM). Depending on your dose, the medication may need to be divided into two injections. Also may be given into the vein as an infusion (intravenous or IV). This method has higher risk of allergic reaction so often a test dose is given first. There is no pill form of pegaspargase. The amount of pegaspargase that you will receive, and how it is given, depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting, generally mild Poor appetite Stomach pain Weakness

Oncovin ®

Generic Name:
Vincristine

Uses:
Cancers treated with vincristine include: acute leukemia, Hodgkin's and non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, Wilms' tumor, multiple myeloma, chronic leukemias, thyroid cancer, brain tumors. It is also used to treat some blood disorders.

Administered:
Vincristine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vincristine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vincristine sulfate, alert your health care professional immediately. The amount of vincristine you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer you have. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Hair loss (in 20-70% of patients) may be partial or complete hair loss

Ontak ®

Generic Name:
Denileukin Diftitox

Uses:
Denileukin diftitox is used to treat patients with persistent or recurrent cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The patient's lymphoma cells need to be a specific type -- they must have the high affinity component of the IL-2 receptor -- to be treated with this drug. This is generally confirmed by testing the lymphoma tissue before the drug is given.

Administered:
This medication is given by intravenous injection (IV), through a vein. The infusion will take 15 minutes or longer.

Possible Side Effects:
Hypersensitivity reaction during the infusion with symptoms such as low blood pressure, back pain, shortness of breath (see allergic reactions). Fever/Chills (usually occurs during or soon after the infusion). Nausea and vomiting. Blood test abnormalities (low albumin level, hypoalbuminemia). Liver problems (elevated liver enzymes; transaminase). Weakness. Swelling (usually of hands and feet). Infection. Pain. Low blood pressure (hypotension). Poor appetite. Rash.

Panretin ®

Generic Name:
Alitretinoin

Uses:
Treatment of skin sores (lesions) in patients with Kaposi's sarcoma.

Administered:
This medication comes in the form of a gel. It is usually applied directly to the lesions 2 times a day. A tight bandage over the sore is not recommended. Allow the gel to dry for at least 3 to 5 minutes before putting on clothing. This medication is to be applied to the skin only, and is not to be ingested (taken by mouth). Keep the gel away from your mouth, eyes, and nose. Wash your hands well if touching the gel.

Possible Side Effects:
There are no common side effects. You may develop a rash, pain or itching at the site where you apply the gel. Your skin may also become flaky, and you may see some crusting or scaling of the skin. You will be extremely sensitive to sunlight. There are no serious side effects from this drug when taken properly.

Panretin ®

Generic Name:
Alitretinoin

Uses:
Treatment of skin sores (lesions) in patients with Kaposi's sarcoma.

Administered:
This medication comes in the form of a gel. It is usually applied directly to the lesions 2 times a day. A tight bandage over the sore is not recommended. Allow the gel to dry for at least 3 to 5 minutes before putting on clothing. This medication is to be applied to the skin only, and is not to be ingested (taken by mouth). Keep the gel away from your mouth, eyes, and nose. Wash your hands well if touching the gel. Your doctor will determine the number of daily applications, and length of time treatment should be continued.

Possible Side Effects:
There are no common side effects. The following are less common side effects (occurring in >10%) for patients receiving alitretinoin: You may develop a rash, pain or itching at the site where you apply the gel. Your skin may also become flaky, and you may see some crusting or scaling of the skin. You will be extremely sensitive to sunlight. There are no serious side effects from this drug when taken properly.

Paraplatin ®

Generic Name:
Carboplatin

Uses:
Paraplatin is used to treat ovarian cancer. Paraplatin is also used for other types of cancer, including lung, head and neck, endometrial, esophageal, bladder, breast, and cervical; central nervous system or germ cell tumors; osteogenic sarcoma; and as preparation for a stem cell or bone marrow transplant.

Administered:
Paraplatin is usually given by infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). Paraplatin can also be given intra-peritoneal, directly into the peritoneal cavity in the abdomen.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts (including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets). Nausea and vomiting usually occurring within 24 hours of treatment Taste changes Hair loss Weakness Blood test abnormalities: Abnormal magnesium level

Platinol AQ

Generic Name:
Cisplatin (sis-PLA-tin)

Uses:
Treating cancer of the testes, ovaries, or bladder. Platinol AQ may be used alone or in combination with other medications. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Platinol AQ is an antineoplastic agent. It works by stopping cancer cells from growing and reproducing.

Administered:
Platinol AQ is administered as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea; loss of appetite; muscle pain; nausea; vomiting; weakness. Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); blindness; blood in the urine or stools; blurred vision; chest pain; decreased urine volume or frequency; dizziness; hearing problems; inability to distinguish colors; infection (fever, chills, sore throat, cough); joint pain; lightheadedness; loss of balance; loss of motor function; loss of taste; numbness, tingling, or pain of the hands or feet; pain, redness, or swelling at the site of injection; ringing in the ears; seizures; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness; wheezing.

Platinol ®

Generic Name:
Cisplatin

Uses:
Used to treat testicular, ovarian, bladder, head and neck, esophageal, small and non-small cell lung, breast, cervical, stomach and prostate cancers. Also to treat Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, neuroblastoma, sarcomas, multiple myeloma, melanoma, and mesothelioma.

Administered:
Cisplatin is administered through a vein (intravenously or IV) as an infusion. There is no pill form of cisplatin. Cisplatin is an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving cisplatin, alert your health care professional immediately. Before and/or after the cisplatin infusion, extra IV fluids are given, care is taken to ensure adequate hydration before, during and after cisplatin, to protect your kidney function. Cisplatin also has been used as an infusion into the abdominal cavity (contains the abdominal organs). The amount of Cisplatin that you receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer that you have. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting. Nausea may last up to 1 week after therapy. Anti-nausea medication is given before the infusion, and a prescription is also given for use after. Kidney toxicity, effects on kidney function are dose related, observed 10-20 days after therapy, and are generally reversible. Blood test abnormalities: (low magnesium, low calcium, low potassium). Low white blood cells (this may put you at increased risk for infection). Low red blood cells (anemia).

Platinol-AQ ®

Generic Name:
Cisplatin

Uses:
Used to treat testicular, ovarian, bladder, head and neck, esophageal, small and non-small cell lung, breast, cervical, stomach and prostate cancers. Also to treat Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, neuroblastoma, sarcomas, multiple myeloma, melanoma, and mesothelioma.

Administered:
Cisplatin is administered through a vein (intravenously or IV) as an infusion. There is no pill form of cisplatin. Cisplatin is an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving cisplatin, alert your health care professional immediately. Before and/or after the cisplatin infusion, extra IV fluids are given, care is taken to ensure adequate hydration before, during and after cisplatin, to protect your kidney function. Cisplatin also has been used as an infusion into the abdominal cavity (contains the abdominal organs). The amount of Cisplatin that you receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer that you have. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting. Nausea may last up to 1 week after therapy. Anti-nausea medication is given before the infusion, and a prescription is also given for use after. Kidney toxicity, effects on kidney function are dose related, observed 10-20 days after therapy, and are generally reversible. Blood test abnormalities: (low magnesium, low calcium, low potassium). Low white blood cells (this may put you at increased risk for infection). Low red blood cells (anemia).

PROCRIT ®

Generic Name:
Epoetin Alfa

Uses:
PROCRIT is a supportive care medication. It does not treat cancer. It is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy cancer treatment. PROCRIT is not indicated for patients with myeloid cancers (cancers that originate in the bone marrow such as acute myelogenous leukemia). PROCRIT is not appropriate for the treatment of anemia from other causes such as iron or folate deficiency or gastrointestinal bleeding. PROCRIT is not a substitute for blood transfusion.

Administered:
PROCRIT is given by subcutaneous (layer of tissue between the skin and the muscle) injection into the arm, abdomen or thigh. The amount of PROCRIT you receive depends on many factors, including your weight, your general health, any other health problems you may have, and how your body responds to it. Your doctor will determine your exact dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Diarrhea Edema (swelling, usually in the feet or hands) Fever Vomiting Shortness of breath Tingling Upper respiratory infection 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: Tremors or seizures Difficulty breathing Chest pain Sudden severe headache 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 urelieved with prescribed medication) Vomiting (vomiting more than 4-5 times in a 24-hour period) Diarrhea (4-6 episodes in a 24-hour period) Swelling of the face, feet, hands, arms or legs Swelling, redness and pain in one leg or arm and not the other

Proleukin ®

Generic Name:
Aldesleukin

Uses:
Cancers treated with Proleukin include renal cell (kidney) and melanoma, a skin cancer.

Administered:
Proleukin has been approved for cancer treatment with a high-dose regimen, but it may also be administered in a low-dose form. The high-dose regimen involves giving the drug intravenously (into a vein) every eight hours, as tolerated, for up to 15 doses. There are significant side effects with this regimen (though they are reversible once treatment is stopped). Because of the severity of these side effects, patients are hospitalized and sometimes need intensive care unit support while the drug is being given. In order to lessen these side effects, an alternate, low-dose regimen was developed. "Low-dose interleukin-2" is administered on an outpatient basis. Low-dose interleukin-2 is usually given as a shot under the skin (subcutaneous injection, SubQ). In some situations, patients may be able to give themselves these injections at home.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever and chills or flu-like symptoms. The severity decreases over time, particularly in low-dose regimens. Generalized flushing (redness) of the face and body, or skin rash. (All patients on high-dose therapy will experience this effect.) (see skin reactions). Nausea or vomiting Lowered blood pressure Diarrhea Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease in number. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Changes in mental status, such as confusion, drowsiness or memory loss. Fast heart beats (tachycardia) (see heart problems). Lowered urine output. Changes in liver function (see liver problems). Generalized aches and pains (see pain). Swelling of the face, ankles or legs (edema or water retention).

Purinethol ®

Generic Name:
Mercaptopurine

Uses:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

Administered:
As a tablet by mouth. Comes in one tablet size (50mg). Take as a daily dose at the same time each day. Preferable to take on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals). The amount of Purinethol that you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition being treated. Your doctor will determine your dose and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Liver toxicity - Increased bilirubin, increased liver enzymes, jaundice, abdominal swelling (ascites). Increased with higher doses of drug. Usually occurs within 2 months of treatment.

Revlimid ®

Generic Name:
Lenalidomide

Uses:
Treatment of transfusion-dependent myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality with or without additional cytogenetic abnormalities.

Administered:
Treatment of transfusion-dependent myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality with or without additional cytogenetic abnormalities.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts . Your white blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection and/or bleeding. Blood counts are monitored closely and dose adjustments may be necessary. Diarrhea Itching Rash Fatigue, tiredness A rare, but serious side effect of Revlimid is blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE). You should seek emergency help and notify your health care provider immediately if you develop sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. Notify your health care provider within 24 hours if you notice leg or arm swelling, redness, pain and/or skin warm to touch (signs and symptoms of possible blood clot)..

Rheumatrex ®

Generic Name:
Methotrexate

Uses:
Used in the treatment of breast, head and neck, lung, stomach, and esophagus cancers. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), sarcomas, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), gestational trophoblastic cancer, and mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T-cell lymphoma).

Administered:
As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). As an injection into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). Another method it is given is by intraventricular or intrathecal infusion. This method is used when drugs need to reach the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) the fluid that is surrounding the brain and spinal cord, the drug is infused directly into the spinal fluid. There is also a pill form of methotrexate

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Mouth sores. (usually occur 3-7 days after treatment) Nausea and vomiting. (uncommon with low dose) Poor appetite

Rituxan ®

Generic Name:
Rituximab

Uses:
Treatment of certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Administered:
As an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV), over about 6 hours. The time of the infusion may be shortened, depending on whether or not you have received Rituxan in the past, or how well you tolerate Rituxan. Medications may be given just before the infusion to reduce the occurrence of infusion-related symptoms. There is no pill form of Rituxan.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever and chills (see flu like symptoms A serious but rare Rituxan side effect is potential for a severe infusion reaction, typically with the first infusion (during infusion or within 30-120 minutes of infusion). You will be given medication prior to the infusion to decrease this reaction and monitored carefully during the infusion. If signs of reaction occur, the infusion is stopped. In most cases, the infusion can be restarted at a slower rate once symptoms subside.

Roferon-A ® (Interferon

Generic Name:
Interferon alfa

Uses:
Approved for use in hairy cell leukemia, malignant melanoma, AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma, follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Other uses: Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), renal cell cancer, cervical cancer, carcinoid syndrome, medullary thyroid cancer, multiple myeloma, basal and squamous cell skin cancers, low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (mycosis fungoides). Blood disorders such as: polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenia purpura.

Administered:
By injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ) By injection through a vein (intravenously, by IV) By injection into a muscle (intramuscular, IM) There is no pill form of interferon alfa Due to differences in dosage, you should not change brands of interferons. Discuss with your doctor or health care professional if there is a problem with supply

Possible Side Effects:
Early: (occurring after the first few doses) Flu-like syndrome: Fever, chills, generalized aches and pains, headache, poor appetite. (Over time the intensity of these symptoms decreases depending on the dose, how it is given, and the schedule of administration). Later: (occurring beyond one week of therapy) Fatigue Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Decreases are dose dependent. Nadir: Meaning low point, nadir is the point in time between chemotherapy cycles in which you experience low blood counts. Onset: 7-10 days Nadir: 14 days, may be delayed 20-40 days in hairy cell leukemia Recovery: 21 days Temporary blood test abnormalities: low calcium, high glucose, or high triglyceride levels. Increases in blood tests measuring liver function. These return to normal once treatment is discontinued (see liver problems). Weight loss Hair loss

Sandostatin ®

Generic Name:
Octreotide

Uses:
Sandostatin is given to control symptoms such as diarrhea or flushing in patients with tumors such as carcinoid, pancreatic islet cell tumors, gastrinoma, or vasoactive intestinal peptide-secreting tumors (VIPomas). It is also used to treat acromegaly, when the body produces too much growth hormone, and the hands, feet, face or head grow too large.

Administered:
Sandostatin has two formulations. For purposes of clarity, trade names will be used for discussion. Sandostatin is a short acting version and Sandostatin LAR is a long acting version. Sandostatin is given by subcutaneous injection (the layer of tissue between the skin and the muscle). It may be necessary to take the shot several times a day. The injection sites should be rotated regularly. Sandostatin may also be given intravenously. Sandostatin LAR is given by intramuscular injection (into the muscle) under a doctor's supervision. Sandostatin is generally given once every 4 weeks. The preferred site for injection is the hip, because it is painful given into the arm. Sandostatin LAR should NOT be given by S.C. or IV routes.

Possible Side Effects:
Gallstones (common with long term use but rarely symptomatic enough to require intervention) Nausea Pain at the injection site (especially with Sandostatin LAR) These side effects are less common side effects (occurring in about 10-29%) of patients receiving Sandostatin: Abdominal Pain Flatulence (gas) Constipation Vomiting Diarrhea (may be due to the disease rather than the medication) Upper respiratory infection (see lung problems) Fatigue Flu-like syndrome Dizziness Headache If you have diabetes, your blood sugar levels may be affected. Discuss this with your healthcare provider, how you will monitor your blood sugar readings at home. You may experience a slower heartbeat

VCR

Generic Name:
Vincristine

Uses:
Cancers treated with vincristine include: acute leukemia, Hodgkin's and non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, Wilms' tumor, multiple myeloma, chronic leukemias, thyroid cancer, brain tumors. It is also used to treat some blood disorders.

Administered:
Vincristine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vincristine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vincristine sulfate, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Hair loss (in 20-70% of patients) may be partial or complete hair loss

Vectibix ™

Generic Name:
Panitumumab

Uses:
Vectibix is used to treat colorectal cancer that has spread. It is used to treat colon cancers that express EGFR and disease that has gotten worse either on or following fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin and irinotecan containing chemotherapy regimens.

Administered:
Vectibix is given through an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). An infusion pump is used to give Vectibix.

Possible Side Effects:
Skin reactions (including redness, acneform dermatitis, itching, or rash) Low level of magnesium in the blood (hypomagnesemia)

Velban ®

Generic Name:
Vinblastine

Uses:
This drug is given to treat Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, testicular, breast, lung, head and neck, and bladder cancers, Kaposi's sarcoma, mycosis fungoides (t-cell lymphoma), and choriocarcinoma. It is also used in the treatment of certain blood disorders such as histiocytosis and idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP).

Administered:
Vinblastine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vinblastine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vinblastine, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Injection site reactions Fatigue, and weakness

Velcade ®

Generic Name:
Bortezomib

Uses:
Treatment of multiple myeloma. Treatment of mantle cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy.

Administered:
As an intravenous (into the vein) injection.

Possible Side Effects:
Fatigue, generalized weakness Peripheral neuropathy: characterized by decreased sensation and paresthesia (numbness and tingling of the hands and feet). There may be worsening of preexisting neuropathy. Your doctor may need to change your dose or schedule of Velcade. Symptoms may improve or return to baseline in some patients once Velcade is discontinued. Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Poor appetite Constipation Low platelet count. This can put you at increased risk for bleeding. Nadir: 11 days Fever Low red blood cell count (Anemia)

VePesid ®

Generic Name:
Etoposide

Uses:
Testicular, bladder, prostate, lung, stomach, and uterine, cancers. Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, Kaposi's sarcoma, Wilm's tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, neuroblastoma, brain tumors. It also may be given as high-dose therapy in bone marrow transplant setting.

Administered:
In tablet form by mouth. As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV), as a short infusion or as a continuous infusion over 24 hours. Etoposide is considered an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving etoposide, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count. (This can increase your risk for infection). Low platelet count (This can increase your risk of bleeding). Hair loss Menopause (chemotherapy induced) Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive a child may be affected by etoposide. Discuss this issue with your health care provider. Nausea and vomiting (especially at high-doses) Low blood pressure (if the drug is infused too fast)

Vesanoid ®

Generic Name:
Tretinoin

Uses:
This medicine is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL, APML) in people who have not responded to other treatments.

Administered:
Tretinoin is given by mouth (in capsule form). One size capsule - 10mg, do not crush chew or dissolve capsules. Protect from light. Take this medication with food.

Possible Side Effects:
Typical retinoid toxicity: (symptoms that are similar to those found in patients taking high doses of vitamin A) Headache, fever, dry skin, dry mucous membranes (mouth, nose), bone pain, nausea and vomiting, rash, mouth sores, itching, sweating, eyesight changes. Flu-like symptoms: malaise, chills Bleeding problems Infections Swelling of feet or ankles Pain (bone and joint pain, chest discomfort) Abdominal pain

Viadur ™

Generic Name:
Leuprolide

Uses:
Prostate cancer Breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer Also used in non-cancerous conditions such as endometriosis, infertility, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Administered:
As an injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ), or into the muscle (intramuscular, IM). May be given as a daily, monthly, or every 3 or 4month injection depending on the formulation and condition being treated. Also may be given as a once-a-year implantable device (Viadur(tm)). The device looks like a one and 1/2 inch coffee stirrer. It is implanted under the skin. Positioned at one end of the device are "osmotic tablets." These tablets expand in the presence of water drawn in from the surrounding tissue at a constant and steady rate. As water is drawn in through this end, it exerts pressure inside the implant that steadily pushes the right amount of medication out of a small hole in the other end. The device is removed at the end of the year. There is no pill form of leuprolide.

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Loss of interest in sex (decreased libido) (see sexuality) Inability to obtain or sustain an erection (impotence)

Vidaza ®

Generic Name:
Azacitidine

Uses:
Treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)

Administered:
As a once-a-day subcutaneous (under the skin) injection.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea Low red blood cell count (Anemia). Low platelet count. (This can put you at increased risk for bleeding.) Vomiting Fever Low white blood cell count. (This can put you at increased risk for infection.) Diarrhea Fatigue Injection site redness Constipation Ecchymosis, petechiae

Vinblastine Sulfate

Generic Name:
Vinblastine

Uses:
This drug is given to treat Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, testicular, breast, lung, head and neck, and bladder cancers, Kaposi's sarcoma, mycosis fungoides (t-cell lymphoma), and choriocarcinoma. It is also used in the treatment of certain blood disorders such as histiocytosis and idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP).

Administered:
Vinblastine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vinblastine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vinblastine, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Injection site reactions Fatigue, and weakness

Vincasar Pfs ®

Generic Name:
Vincristine

Uses:
Cancers treated with vincristine include: acute leukemia, Hodgkin's and non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, Wilms' tumor, multiple myeloma, chronic leukemias, thyroid cancer, brain tumors. It is also used to treat some blood disorders.

Administered:
Vincristine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vincristine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vincristine sulfate, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Hair loss (in 20-70% of patients) may be partial or complete hair loss Constipation Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding.

Vinorelbine tartrate

Generic Name:
Vinorelbine

Uses:
Non-small cell lung cancer Some healthcare providers may also give this drug for breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or Hodgkin's disease.

Administered:
Vinorelbine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vinorelbine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vinorelbine tartrate, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection or anemia. Nausea or vomiting Muscle weakness Constipation

VLB

Generic Name:
Vinblastine

Uses:
Cancers treated with vincristine include: acute leukemia, Hodgkin's and non- Hodgkin's lymphoma, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, Wilms' tumor, multiple myeloma, chronic leukemias, thyroid cancer, brain tumors. It is also used to treat some blood disorders.

Administered:
Vincristine is given through a vein by intravenous injection (IV push) or infusion (IV). There is no pill form. Vincristine is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving vincristine sulfate, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Hair loss (in 20-70% of patients) may be partial or complete hair loss

VM-26

Generic Name:
Teniposide

Uses:
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (particularly in children)

Administered:
Teniposide is given through an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). Teniposide may be an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving teniposide, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Mouth sores Diarrhea

VP-16

Generic Name:
Etoposide

Uses:
Testicular, bladder, prostate, lung, stomach, and uterine, cancers. Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, mycosis fungoides, Kaposi's sarcoma, Wilm's tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, neuroblastoma, brain tumors. It also may be given as high-dose therapy in bone marrow transplant setting.

Administered:
In tablet form by mouth. As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV), as a short infusion or as a continuous infusion over 24 hours. Etoposide is considered an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving etoposide, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low white blood cell count. (This can increase your risk for infection). Low platelet count (This can increase your risk of bleeding). Hair loss Menopause (chemotherapy induced) Loss of fertility. Meaning, your ability to conceive a child may be affected by etoposide. Discuss this issue with your health care provider. Nausea and vomiting (especially at high-doses) Low blood pressure (if the drug is infused too fast)

Vumon ®

Generic Name:
Teniposide

Uses:
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (particularly in children)

Administered:
Teniposide is given through an infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). Teniposide may be an irritant. An irritant is a chemical that can cause inflammation of the vein through which it is given. If the medication escapes from the vein it can cause tissue damage. The nurse or doctor who gives this medication must be carefully trained. If you experience pain or notice redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving teniposide, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. Mouth sores Diarrhea

Xeloda ®

Generic Name:
Capecitabine

Uses:
Metastatic colon or rectal cancer Metastatic breast cancer

Administered:
Taken as a pill by mouth. Take after food (within 30 minutes of a meal) with water. (Usually taken in a divided dose 12 hours apart). Tablets come in 2 sizes; 150mg and 500mg. Do not crush, chew or dissolve tablets.

Possible Side Effects:
Low red blood cell count (anemia) Fatigue Diarrhea Hand -foot syndrome (Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia or PPE) -skin rash, swelling, redness, pain and/or peeling of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of feet. Usually mild, has started as early as 2 weeks after start of treatment. May require reductions in the dose of the medication. Nausea and vomiting Dermatitis Elevated liver enzymes (increased bilirubin levels) (see liver problems).

Zanosar ®

Generic Name:
Streptozocin

Uses:
Treatment of islet cell cancer of the pancreas Carcinoid tumor and syndrome

Administered:
As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). Streptozocin is a vesicant. A vesicant is a chemical that causes extensive tissue damage and blistering if it escapes from the vein. The nurse or doctor who gives this drug must be carefully trained. If you notice pain, redness or swelling at the IV site while you are receiving streptozocin, alert your health care professional immediately.

Possible Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting. This may begin from 1 to 3 hours after you receive the injection, and last up to 12 hours. You will be given anti-nausea medication prior to receiving this drug. This drug may affect your kidneys. (see kidney problems, nephrotoxicity) Your kidney function will be closely monitored.

Zevalin ™

Generic Name:
Ibritumomab

Uses:
Treatment of certain types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that have recurred after, or not responded to prior treatment.

Administered:
Infusion into a vein (intravenous, IV). Given only as part of a protocol in combination with the drug rituximab (see rituximab). Two step protocol: Step 1 - Rituximab infusion starting at a slow rate. The rate is increased if no allergic or infusion related events occur (usual infusion time about 4-6 hours). Within 4 hours of the completion of this infusion, a radiolabeled tracer is injected over 10 minutes into the vein. Body scans are done 2-24 hours, 48-72 hours, and sometimes 96-120 hours later to check the distribution of the drug throughout the body. If the readings are acceptable the patient will proceed to Step 2. Step 2 - 7-9 days following Step 1, rituximab infusion is again given as above. Within 4 hours of the completion of the rituximab infusion the treatment dose of Zevalin (Zevalin linked with Yttrium-90) is infused over 10 minutes.

Possible Side Effects:
Low blood counts. Your white and red blood cells and platelets may temporarily decrease. This can put you at increased risk for infection, anemia and/or bleeding. (This effect may be delayed or prolonged for several weeks after treatment is given). Weakness Nausea

Zinecard ®

Generic Name:
Dexrazoxane

Uses:
Dexrazoxane is used to reduce the incidence and severity of heart problems associated with the chemotherapy agent doxorubicin in women being treated for metastatic breast cancer. It is only used for women who have received a high cumulative dose of doxorubicin and who would benefit from continued therapy. It is not recommended for women who are just starting doxorubicin. (There is some evidence that the addition of dexrazoxane when just starting doxorubicin may interfere with the antitumor effects of doxorubicin).

Administered:
This medication is given through a vein (intravenously, IV) It is given just prior to doxorubicin There is no pill form of this medication

Possible Side Effects:
Pain at the injection site Fever of 100.5º F (38º C) or higher, chills (possible signs of infection) Nausea (interferes with ability to eat and unrelieved with prescribed medication) Vomiting (vomiting more than 4-5 times in a 24 hour period) Unusual bleeding or bruising Black or tarry stools, or blood in your stools or urine Extreme fatigue (unable to carry on self-care activities) Sudden weight gain, swelling in feet or ankles, shortness of breath

Zoladex ®

Generic Name:
Goserelin

Uses:
Prostate cancer Breast cancer Also used to treat endometriosis (non-cancerous condition)

Administered:
Injection under the skin (subcutaneous, SubQ) As a monthly or every 3 month injection

Possible Side Effects:
Hot flashes (see sexuality) Loss of libido (decreased interest in sex) Impotence (inability to obtain or sustain an erection)

Zolinza

Generic Name:
Vorinostat

Uses:
Zolinza is used to treat relapsed or refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).

Administered:
The amount of Zolinza that you will receive depends on many factors, including your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer or condition you have. Your doctor will determine your exact dosage and schedule.

Possible Side Effects:
Fatigue Diarrhea Nausea Taste changes Increased blood glucose level (hyperglycemia) Increased creatinine level (transient) Increased level of protein in the urine Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

Zometa ®

Generic Name:
Zoledronic Acid

Uses:
Zometa is used as a support medication to treat symptoms of cancer such as hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels) or to decrease complications (such as fractures or pain) produced by bone metastasis (spread of cancer to the bone).

Administered:
As an infusion into the vein (intravenous, IV). There is no pill form of Zometa.

Possible Side Effects:
Fever usually mild and short lived Flu-like symptoms; mild fever sometimes accompanied by malaise, chills, fatigue and flushing. Usually occurs with first treatment with Zometa only.

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