Protects the bladder from harmful effects caused by some anti-cancer medicines (chemotherapy). Also protects the saliva glands during some types of radiation therapy
Brand Names:
Ethyol
Contraindications:
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to amifostine
Uses:
Injectable
This medicine, like all medicines used to treat cancer, is very strong. Make sure you understand why you are getting it and what the risks and benefits of treatment are. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor.
You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or chemotherapy treatment center.
This medicine is given before chemotherapy or radiation therapy. You may also receive other medicines to help prevent nausea and vomiting.
Your medicine will be given directly into a vein, usually in your arm or chest. This is called intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us), or IV.
You will be watched closely for unwanted side effects while you are receiving this medicine.
Drink plenty of fluids during the 24 hours before receiving this medicine.
Special precautions:
Before taking, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking, call your doctor
Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking diuretics (water pills) or any other medicines for high blood pressure. Your doctor may tell you not to take these medicines for 24 hours before receiving amifostine.
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before you start your treatments.
Be sure your doctor knows if you have a history of heart disease, stroke, or TIA (transient ischemic attack).
This medicine causes nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.
Your doctor may want to check your blood. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
