Treats swelling in the brain that is caused by cancer, also called lymphomatous meningitis (lim-FOH-ma-tus men-in-JY-tis).
Brand Names:
Depocyt
Contraindications:
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to cytarabine, or if you have an active infection of the brain (meningitis).
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 in a hospital or cancer treatment center. Your doctor will tell you how often the medicine should be given.
An intrathecal (in-tra-THEE-kal) injection is a shot given through your back into the fluid around your spinal cord. The medicine is given only by a doctor who is trained in giving this type of injection.
You may also receive other medicines to help prevent nausea and vomiting.
After the injection, you will need to lie flat for about 1 hour. During this time, a doctor or nurse will watch for any side effects you may have from the medicine.
This medicine is usually given every 2 weeks or every 4 weeks. You may receive only 2 treatments or as many as 4 treatments.
If a dose is missed:
This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor or treatment clinic for instructions.
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
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before receiving this medicine.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Fever
Headache
Nausea, vomiting
Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
Muscle stiffness or body movements that are hard to control
