Monday, September 10, 2012

Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets


Pronunciation: e-RITH-roe-MYE-sin
Generic Name: Erythromycin
Brand Name: Ery-Tab


Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets are used for:

Treating infections caused by certain bacteria. It is also used to prevent attacks of rheumatic fever in certain patients. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets are a macrolide antibiotic. It works by killing or slowing the growth of sensitive bacteria.


Do NOT use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets

  • you are taking astemizole, cisapride, diltiazem, dofetilide, dronedarone, eletriptan, an ergot alkaloid (eg, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine), halofantrine, an HIV protease inhibitor (eg, ritonavir), an imidazole (eg, ketoconazole), nilotinib, pimozide, propafenone, a streptogramin (eg, quinupristin/dalfopristin), terfenadine, tetrabenazine, tolvaptan, toremifene, vandetanib, or verapamil

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets:


Some medical conditions may interact with Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have diarrhea

  • if you have a history of kidney or liver disease, heart problems, a fast or irregular heartbeat, myasthenia gravis, or the blood disease porphyria

  • if you take any medicine that may increase the risk of a certain type of irregular heartbeat (prolonged QT interval). Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if any of your medicines may increase the risk of this type of irregular heartbeat

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Astemizole, cisapride, diltiazem, dofetilide, dronedarone, halofantrine, an HIV protease inhibitor (eg, ritonavir), an imidazole (eg, ketoconazole), nilotinib, pimozide, propafenone, a streptogramin (eg, quinupristin/dalfopristin), terfenadine, tetrabenazine, toremifene, vandetanib, or verapamil because side effects, such as heart toxicity or irregular heartbeat, may occur. Check with your doctor if you have questions about which medicines may affect your heartbeat

  • Eletriptan, ergot alkaloids (eg, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine), or tolvaptan because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets

  • Many prescription and nonprescription medicines (eg, used for aches and pains, allergies, blood thinning, breathing problems, cancer, diabetes, erection problems, gout, irregular heartbeat or other heart problems, high blood calcium levels, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, HIV infection, inflammation, infections, low blood sodium levels, migraine, mood or mental problems, nausea and vomiting, overactive bladder, Parkinson disease, prevention of organ transplant rejection, seizures, stomach problems, trouble sleeping), multivitamin products, and herbal or dietary supplements (eg, herbal teas, coenzyme Q10, garlic, ginseng, ginkgo, St. John's wort) may also interact with Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if any of your medicines might interfere with Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets:


Use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

  • Swallow Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.

  • Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets.

  • Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets works best if it is taken at the same time(s) each day.

  • To clear up your infection completely, take Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets for the full course of treatment. Keep taking it even if you feel better in a few days.

  • If you miss a dose of Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets.



Important safety information:


  • Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may rarely occur. This may develop while you use the antibiotic or within several months after you stop using it. Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.

  • Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets only works against bacteria; it does not treat viral infections (eg, the common cold).

  • Be sure to use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.

  • Long-term or repeated use of Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Rarely, patients taking Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets have developed reversible hearing loss. The risk is greater if you have kidney problems or you take high doses of Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. Contact your doctor if you develop decreased hearing or hearing loss.

  • Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets may interfere with certain lab tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets.

  • Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed while you use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially irregular heartbeat (prolonged QT interval).

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets while you are pregnant. Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets are found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Loss of appetite; mild diarrhea; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody stools; changes in the amount of urine produced; decreased hearing or hearing loss; irregular heartbeat; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe diarrhea; severe stomach pain; stomach cramps; symptoms of liver problems (eg, yellowing of the skin or eyes; pale stools; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite; dark urine).



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Ery-Tab side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately.


Proper storage of Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets:

Store Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets at room temperature, below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep tightly closed. Keep Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets are to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Ery-Tab Delayed-Release Tablets. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Ery-Tab resources


  • Ery-Tab Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Ery-Tab Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Ery-Tab Drug Interactions
  • Ery-Tab Support Group
  • 1 Review for Ery-Tab - Add your own review/rating


Compare Ery-Tab with other medications


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Hydropres-25


Generic Name: hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine (hye droe klor oh THYE a zide and re SER peen)

Brand Names: Hydropres-25, Hydropres-50, Hydroserpine


What is Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?

Reserpine lowers blood pressure by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. This allows your blood vessels (veins and arteries) to relax and your heart to beat more slowly and easily.


Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It helps to lower your blood pressure and decrease edema (swelling) by increasing the amount of salt and water you lose in your urine.


Together, hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).


Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?


Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position. Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine may make you feel dizzy. Do not stop taking hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine suddenly. Even if you feel better, you need this medication to control your condition. Stopping suddenly could cause severe high blood pressure, anxiety, and other dangerous side effects.

Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery.


Who should not take Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?


Do not take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine if you have an allergy to sulfa-based drugs such as sulfa antibiotics. You may have an allergic reaction to hydrochlorothiazide.

You must not take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine if you



  • have peptic ulcer disease (stomach ulcers);




  • have ulcerative colitis;




  • are suffering from depression (especially if you have suicidal thoughts);




  • are receiving electroconvulsive shock therapy; or




  • are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate).



Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have



  • gallstones or other stomach problems,



  • kidney or liver disease,


  • diabetes,




  • gout,




  • a collagen vascular disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus,




  • high cholesterol or triglyceride levels,




  • pancreatitis,




  • asthma, or




  • any type of heart disease.



You may require a lower dose or special monitoring during therapy with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine if you have any of these conditions.


Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether hydrochlorothiazide will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine therapy. You may require a lower dose of this medication. Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine has not been approved for use by children.

How should I take Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?


Take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine exactly as directed. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.


Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

Do not stop taking hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine suddenly. Stopping suddenly could make your condition much worse or cause very serious side effects.


Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine overdose include low blood pressure (fainting, dizziness, weakness); sleepiness; uncontrollable hand, leg, or arm movements; a slow pulse; low body temperature; diarrhea; increased urination; vomiting; and slow breathing.


What should I avoid while taking Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?


Avoid a diet high in salt. Too much salt will cause your body to retain water and will decrease the effects of hydrochlorothiazide.


Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position, especially first thing in the morning. You may become dizzy while taking hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine and you may fall and injure yourself if you get up quickly.

Do not let yourself become overheated in hot weather or during exercise. Also avoid standing for long periods of time and use caution if you have a fever. These situations increase the effects of hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine, and you may become very dizzy.


Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Hydrochlorothiazide may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable. Avoid alcohol. It will greatly increase the effects of hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine.

Do not take any over the counter cough, cold, allergy, sleep, or diet medications without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. These will interfere with your hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine therapy.


Use caution when you are driving, climbing ladders, or performing other hazardous activities until you know how hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine affects you. If it makes you dizzy or drowsy, avoid these activities.


Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery.


Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine) side effects


If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine and seek emergency medical attention:

  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);




  • a very irregular heartbeat;




  • heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling of ankles or legs, sudden weight gain of 5 pounds or more);




  • chest pain;




  • unusual fatigue;




  • abnormal bleeding or bruising;




  • yellow skin or eyes;




  • confusion; or




  • little or no urine.



Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine and talk to your doctor if you experience



  • fatigue or drowsiness;




  • dizziness (avoid standing up too quickly and use caution when performing hazardous activities);




  • anxiety, depression, or nightmares;




  • diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or an acid stomach (take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach);




  • stuffy nose or a dry mouth (sucking on ice chips or sugarless hard candy may relieve a dry mouth);




  • blurred vision;




  • tingling or numbness in your arms, legs, hands, or feet;




  • excessive urination;




  • muscle weakness or cramps;




  • increased hunger or thirst;




  • weight gain;




  • sensitivity to sunlight; or



  • impotence or difficulty ejaculating.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.


What other drugs will affect Hydropres-25 (hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine)?


Do not take hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or if you have taken one in the last 14 days. MAOIs, used to treat depression, include isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).


Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:


  • tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep) or doxepin (Sinequan), which may decrease the effects of hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine;

  • other commonly used tricyclic antidepressants, including amoxapine (Ascendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and protriptyline (Vivactil);


  • digoxin (Lanoxin) or quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinora, Quinaglute), which will increase the risk that you will experience an irregular heartbeat when it is taken with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine;




  • barbiturates such as phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton), amobarbital (Amytal), and secobarbital (Seconal), which may cause extreme sleepiness or dizziness if taken with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine;




  • narcotic pain relievers such as codeine (Tylenol #3, Tylenol #4, others), propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet, Wygesic), oxycodone (Percodan, Percocet, Tylox), meperidine (Demerol), and morphine (MS Contin, Duramorph, others), which also may cause extreme sleepiness or dizziness if taken with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine;




  • steroid medications such as hydrocortisone (Hydrocortone, Cortef), prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), prednisolone (Delta Cortef, Prelone), methylprednisolone (Medrol), betamethasone (Celestone), and dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol), which may increase the side effects of hydrochlorothiazide;




  • prescription and over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, and sleeping pills, which may affect your condition or your treatment with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine;




  • the cholesterol-lowering drugs cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid), which may decrease the effects of hydrochlorothiazide;



  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), ketoprofen (Orudis, Orudis KT, Oruvail), and naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox, Aleve), which may also decrease the effects of hydrochlorothiazide and may increase the risk of damage to your kidneys (tell your doctor if you are taking these medications so that your therapy can be monitored);

  • other commonly used NSAIDs, including diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), etodolac (Lodine), fenoprofen (Nalfon), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), indomethacin (Indocin), ketorolac (Toradol), mefenamic acid (Ponstel), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), and tolmetin (Tolectin);


  • oral antidiabetic drugs such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Micronase, Glynase, Diabeta), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), tolazamide (Tolinase), and tolbutamide (Orinase), which may not lower your blood sugar as well (your diabetes therapy may have to be adjusted);




  • lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith, others), which should not be taken with hydrochlorothiazide because serious side effects may result; or




  • other drugs that also lower blood pressure, including acebutolol (Sectral), atenolol (Tenormin), bisoprolol (Zebeta), carteolol (Cartrol), labetolol (Trandate, Normodyne), propranolol (Inderal), pindolol (Visken), timolol (Blocadren), benazepril (Lotensin), enalapril (Vasotec), captopril (Capoten), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), amlodipine (Norvasc), bepridil (Vascor), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor), felodipine (Plendil), isradipine (Dynacirc), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), nimodipine (Nimotop), and verapamil (Calan, Veralan, Isoptin).



Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.



More Hydropres-25 resources


  • Hydropres-25 Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Hydropres-25 Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Hydropres-25 Drug Interactions
  • Hydropres-25 Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Hydropres-25 - Add your own review/rating


Compare Hydropres-25 with other medications


  • High Blood Pressure


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist has additional information about hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?


Hydrochlorothiazide and reserpine is available with a prescription under the brand name Hydropres. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.


Hydrochlorothiazide/reserpine strengths are as follows:



  • Hydropres 25 (25 mg/0.125 mg)--green, round, scored, compressed tablets




  • Hydropres 50 (50 mg/0.125 mg)--green, round, scored compressed tablets



See also: Hydropres-25 side effects (in more detail)


Mesna


Class: Protective Agents
VA Class: AD900
CAS Number: 19767-45-4
Brands: Mesnex

Introduction

Uroprotective agent; a synthetic sulfhydryl (thiol) compound.1 3 4 5


Uses for Mesna


Prophylaxis of Ifosfamide-induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis


Reduction in the incidence of ifosfamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis;1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 37 38 39 40 43 44 47 60 use recommended by ASCO.60 61 Designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use.27


Prophylaxis of Cyclophosphamide-induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis


Reduction in the incidence of hemorrhagic cystitis associated with high-dose cyclophosphamide in bone marrow transplantation (BMT) patients;7 9 10 11 12 13 14 26 28 45 46 60 ASCO currently recommends using either mesna plus saline diuresis or forced saline diuresis for this purpose.60 61


Designated an orphan drug by FDA for inhibition of urotoxic effects of oxazaphosphorine compounds (e.g., cyclophosphamide).27


Mesna Dosage and Administration


General



  • To maintain adequate urinary protection, administer mesna regimen with each dose of ifosfamide1 2 3 or cyclophosphamide.7 11 12 45 46




  • Employ adequate oral and/or IV hydration.1 3 4 To prevent ifosfamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis, hydrate with at least 1 L of oral or IV fluid daily before and during ifosfamide therapy.1 3 4 8 10 12 15 35 38 39 41 44 52 53



Administration


Administer orally1 or IV.1 2 3 7 8 10 15 34 38 41 43 44


Oral Administration


Administer orally.1


Prior to availability of oral dosage form, extemporaneous oral solutions3 4 5 6 8 16 26 29 were prepared by diluting the appropriate dose of mesna injection in syrup, carbonated beverages, or fruit (i.e., apple, orange) juice.3 5 6 26 (See Extemporaneous Oral Solutions under Stability.)


IV Administration


For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Administer diluted (20 mg/mL) solution by IV injection.1 2 3 7 8 10 15 34 38 41 43 44


Has been administered as a 20-mg/mL solution by IV infusion over 15–30 minutes.18 32


Also has been administered by continuous IV infusion.3 4 5 10 17 34 37 38 39 40 41 42 60 For continuous IV infusion, may admix with ifosfamide and administer both drugs simultaneously.3 4 5 17 18 39 40


Dilution

Withdraw appropriate dose from vial containing 100 mg/mL and dilute with an appropriate volume of a compatible IV solution (see Solution Compatibility under Stability) to obtain a final solution containing 20 mg/mL.1 2 4 18


Dosage


Adults


Prophylaxis of Ifosfamide-induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis

If ifosfamide dosage is increased or decreased, maintain constant mesna-to-ifosfamide ratio.1


IV

IV injection: For daily ifosfamide dosages <2.5 g/m2,60 administer a mesna dosage equivalent to 20% weight/weight (w/w) of the daily ifosfamide dosage 15 minutes before60 or at the time of ifosfamide administration and then at 4 and 8 hours after the ifosfamide dose;1 2 3 60 61 total daily mesna dosage is equivalent to 60% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage.1 In patients receiving ifosfamide 1.2 g/m2, administer mesna 240 mg/m2 15 minutes60 before or at the time of ifosfamide administration, followed by 240 mg/m2 at 4 and 8 hours after the ifosfamide dose.1 2


Continuous IV infusion: For daily ifosfamide dosages <2.5 g/m2,60 ASCO recommends administering a mesna loading dose equivalent to 20% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage by IV injection, followed by 40% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage by continuous IV infusion, continued for 12–24 hours after completion of the ifosfamide infusion.60


For daily ifosfamide dosages >2.5 g/m2, there are insufficient data to recommend a mesna dosage; however, ASCO recommends more frequent and prolonged administration of mesna for maximum protection against urotoxicity.60 61 (See Prescribing Limits.)


IV, then Oral

For daily ifosfamide dosages <2 g/m2, administer a mesna dosage equivalent to 20% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage by IV injection at the time of ifosfamide administration, followed by 40% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage orally at 2 and 6 hours after the ifosfamide dose;1 60 total daily mesna dosage is equivalent to 100% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage.1


In patients receiving 1.2 g/m2 of ifosfamide, administer mesna 240 mg/m2 by IV injection at the time of ifosfamide administration, followed by 480 mg/m2 orally at 2 and 6 hours after the ifosfamide dose.1


If patient vomits oral dose within 2 hours of administration, repeat dose or consider IV administration.1 60


Prophylaxis of Cyclophosphamide-induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis

IV

Mesna dosage equivalent to 60–160% w/w of the daily cyclophosphamide dosage, given by IV injection (in 3–5 divided doses daily) or by continuous IV infusion4 10 11 14 45 46 (continued for ≥24 hours after cyclophosphamide is discontinued).7 11 45 52


Prescribing Limits


Adults


Prophylaxis of Ifosfamide-induced Hemorrhagic Cystitis

IV

Maximum mesna dosage equivalent to 60% w/w of the daily ifosfamide dosage.61


Safety and efficacy of the recommended mesna-to-ifosfamide ratio (see Dosage) not established for ifosfamide dosages >2.5 g/m2 daily.1


IV, then Oral

Safety and efficacy of the recommended mesna-to-ifosfamide ratio (see Dosage) not established for ifosfamide dosages >2 g/m2 daily.1


Special Populations


Geriatric Patients


Cautious dosing recommended; always maintain constant mesna-to-ifosfamide ratio.1 (See Geriatric Use under Cautions.)


Cautions for Mesna


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to mesna or other sulfhydryl (thiol) compounds.1 2



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Therapy Limitations

Does not prevent ifosfamide- or cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis in all patients.1 2 36 40 Prior to each scheduled ifosfamide dose, examine morning urine specimen for presence of erythrocytes.1 2 52 If hematuria (>50 erythrocytes/HPF or WHO ≥grade 2) occurs despite mesna prophylaxis, reduce ifosfamide or cyclophosphamide dosage or discontinue these antineoplastic agents.1 2


Does not prevent ifosfamide-induced nephrotoxicity3 4 30 34 or other nonurologic toxicities (e.g., myelosuppression, neurotoxicity, alopecia).1 2 3 8 Does not reduce risk of hematuria associated with other conditions such as thrombocytopenia.1 2 14


Sensitivity Reactions


Hypersensitivity and Anaphylactic Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus,3 4 19 rash,20 21 23 generalized urticaria,3 19 20 decreased platelet counts,1 facial edema4 19 ) and anaphylaxis reported.1 2 Increased incidence of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with autoimmune disorders receiving cyclophosphamide and mesna; most patients received mesna orally.1


Hypersensitivity reactions may respond to antihistamines and corticosteroids.3 4 19


General Precautions


Lactose Intolerance

Each 400-mg Mesnex tablet contains 59.3 mg lactose;53 patients with a history of lactose intolerance may be sensitive to this formulation of the drug.a


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category B.1


Lactation

Not known whether mesna or dimesna is distributed into human milk.1 2 Discontinue nursing or the drug.1 2


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established;1 53 however, has been used in infants as young as 4 months of age without unusual adverse effects.4 32 33 34


Large amounts of benzyl alcohol (i.e., 100–400 mg/kg daily) have been associated with toxicity in neonates;54 55 56 57 58 59 each mL of mesna in multidose vials contains 1.04 mg of benzyl alcohol.1 2 Do not use multidose vials in neonates and infants (see Preparations for information regarding preservative-free preparation); use multidose vials with caution in children and adolescents.1 2


Geriatric Use

Insufficient experience in patients ≥65 years of age to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger adults.1 3 4 53 Select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and potential for concomitant disease and drug therapy.1 (See Geriatric Patients under Dosage and Administration.)


Common Adverse Effects


Mesna monotherapy: Headache, injection site reactions, flushing, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, somnolence, diarrhea, anorexia, fever, pharyngitis, hyperesthesia, influenza-like symptoms, coughing, constipation, flatulence, rhinitis, rigors, back pain, rash, conjunctivitis, arthralgia.1


Mesna with ifosfamide: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, leukopenia, fatigue, fever, anorexia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, granulocytopenia, asthenia, abdominal pain, alopecia, dyspnea, chest pain, hypokalemia, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, pain, increased sweating, back pain, hematuria, injection site reaction, edema, peripheral edema, somnolence, anxiety, confusion, facial edema, insomnia, coughing, dyspepsia, hypotension, pallor, dehydration, pneumonia, tachycardia, flushing.1


Interactions for Mesna


No formal drug interaction studies to date.1


Specific Drugs, Therapies, and Laboratory Tests















Drug, Therapy, or Test



Interaction



Comments



Antineoplastic agents (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, ifosfamide, methotrexate, vincristine)



Pharmacologic interaction (loss of antineoplastic effects) unlikely1 2 8 9



Irradiation, total body



Pharmacologic interaction (loss of antineoplastic effects) unlikely7 9 10 11 12 46



May safely use with regimens that include total body irradiation7 9 10 11 12 46



Sodium nitroprusside tests for urinary ketones



Possible false-positive results1 2 3 48 due to interaction between sulfonate group in mesna and sodium nitroprusside reagent4 48


Mesna Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


In systemic circulation, mesna is rapidly and almost completely oxidized to dimesna.1 2 3 4 5 29 Following oral administration, peak plasma concentrations of mesna and dimesna are achieved within 4 and 3 hours, respectively.29 Higher systemic exposure with oral (consisting of IV and oral doses) than with IV regimen.1


Peak urine concentrations of mesna and dimesna are achieved within 4 hours after IV administration or 8 hours after oral administration.29


Urinary bioavailability following oral administration is approximately 45–79% of that following IV administration.1


Food


Food does not appear to affect urinary bioavailability of orally administered mesna.1


Distribution


Extent


Hydrophilic; does not enter most cells, including tumor cells.3 4 5 7 8 9


Not known whether mesna or dimesna is distributed into human milk.1 2


Does not cross the blood-brain barrier.6


Plasma Protein Binding


Approximately 69–75%.1


Elimination


Metabolism


In systemic circulation, mesna is rapidly and almost completely oxidized to dimesna, a chemically stable, pharmacologically inert metabolite.1 2 3 4 5 29


Mesna and dimesna do not undergo hepatic metabolism.1 2 4


Elimination Route


Dimesna is rapidly filtered and eliminated by the kidneys; in the kidneys, dimesna is partially reduced to the active drug, mesna.1 2 3 4 5 29 62


Excreted principally in urine as mesna (18–32%) or dimesna (33%);1 29 majority of IV dose excreted within 4 hours.1 2


More sustained urinary excretion over 24-hour period with IV and oral regimen than with IV regimen.1


Half-life


IV regimen: 0.36 hours (for mesna) or 1.17 hours (for dimesna).1 2 4 29


IV and oral regimen: 1.2–8.3 hours (for mesna).1


Stability


Storage


Oral


Tablets

20–25°C.1


Parenteral


Injection

15–30°C.1 2 For multidose vials, may store and use for up to 8 days after initial entry.1 For preservative-free ampuls, discard unused portion.4 18


When diluted as directed (see Dilution under Dosage and Administration and also Solution Compatibility under Stability), stable at 25°C for up to 24 hours.1 2


Do not store in glass or plastic syringes with Luer-Lok fittings for >12 hours because particulates may form.4 18 53


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Oral


Extemporaneous Oral Solutions

Mesna 20 or 50 mg/mL in flavored syrup is stable at 24°C for up to 7 days;26 mesna 1, 10, or 50 mg/mL in carbonated beverages or apple or orange juice is stable at 5°C for at least 24 hours.26


Parenteral


Solution Compatibilityb







Compatible



Dextrose 5% in sodium chloride 0.2, 0.33, or 0.45%1



Dextrose 5% in water



Ringer’s injection, lactated



Sodium chloride 0.9%


Drug Compatibility









Admixture Compatibilityb

Compatible



Hydroxyzine HCl



Ifosfamide



Incompatible



Carboplatin



Cisplatin



Ifosfamide with epirubicin HCl






























Y-Site Compatibilityb

Compatible



Allopurinol sodium



Amifostine



Aztreonam



Cefepime HCl



Cladribine



Docetaxel



Doxorubicin HCl liposome injection



Etoposide phosphate



Filgrastim



Fludarabine phosphate



Gatifloxacin



Gemcitabine HCl



Granisetron HCl



Linezolid



Melphalan HCl



Methotrexate sodium



Ondansetron HCl



Paclitaxel



Piperacillin sodium–tazobactam sodium



Sargramostim



Sodium bicarbonate



Teniposide



Thiotepa



Vinorelbine tartrate



Incompatible



Amphotericin B cholesteryl sulfate complex


ActionsActions



  • Exhibits detoxification activity in urinary tract only; does not appear to alter systemic activity or nonurologic toxicity of oxazaphosphorine derivatives (e.g., ifosfamide, cyclophosphamide).62




  • Sulfydryl donor; contains free sulfhydryl groups that interact chemically (in urine) with urotoxic metabolites of ifosfamide or cyclophosphamide and their precursors, resulting in detoxification of these metabolites.1 2 3 4 5




  • Enhances urinary excretion of cysteine, which can react chemically with acrolein, thus further contributing to uroprotective activity.5 6




  • Reduces the viscosity of pulmonary secretions.5 8



Advice to Patients



  • Importance of drinking at least 1 quart (4 cups) of liquid a day.1 Importance of notifying clinician if discoloration of urine (e.g., pink, red) occurs.1




  • Importance of notifying clinician if vomiting occurs within 2 hours of administering tablets or if a dose is missed.1




  • Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, as well as any concomitant illnesses (e.g., autoimmune disorders).1




  • Importance of women informing their clinician if they are or plan to become pregnant or to breast-feed.1




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.1 (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.


Although not commercially available, a preservative-free formulation (containing 200 mg of mesna in single-use ampuls) is available through a compassionate use program for selected patients.53 For more information, contact the manufacturer at 800-437-0994.53


* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name























Mesna

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Oral



Tablets



400 mg



Mesnex



Bristol-Myers Squibb



Parenteral



Injection



100 mg/mL*



Mesna Injection



Mesnex



Bristol-Myers Squibb



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions April 2010. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.


† Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.




References



1. Bristol-Myers Squibb. Mesnex (mesna) injection and tablets prescribing information. Princeton, NJ; 2002 May.



2. American Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. Mesna injection prescribing information. Los Angeles, CA; 2001 Jun.



3. Dechant KL, Brogden RN, Pilkington T et al. Ifosfamide/mesna: a review of its antineoplastic activity, pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy in cancer. Drugs. 1991; 42:428-67. [PubMed 1720382]



4. Schoenike SE, Dana WJ. Ifosfamide and mesna. Clin Pharm. 1990; 9:179-91. [IDIS 264394] [PubMed 2107997]



5. Shaw IC, Graham MI. Mesna—a short review. Cancer Treat Rev. 1987; 14:67-86. [PubMed 3119211]



6. Shaw IC. Mesna and oxazaphosphorine cancer chemotherapy. Cancer Treat Rev. 1987; 14:359-64. [PubMed 3125971]



7. Hows JM, Mehta A, Ward L et al. Comparison of mesna with forced diuresis to prevent cyclophosphamide induced haemorrhagic cystitis in marrow transplantation: a prospective randomised study. Br J Cancer. 1984; 50:753-6. [PubMed 6437430]



8. Burkert H. Clinical overview of mesna. Cancer Treat Rev. 1983; 10:175-81. [PubMed 6414692]



9. Cronin SM, Sensenbrenner LL. Effect of mesna on cyclophosphamide. DICP. 1989; 23:798-9. [IDIS 260247] [PubMed 2510409]



10. Nicolau DP, Hogan KR. National survey of use of mesna for the prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis in recipients of bone marrow transplants. May Clin Proc. 1992; 67:611-2.



11. Shepherd JD, Pringle LE, Barnett MJ et al. Mesna versus hyperhydration for the prevention of cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis in bone marrow transplantation. J Clin Oncol. 1991; 9:2016-20. [PubMed 1941060]



12. Letendre L, Hoagland HC, Gertz MA. Hemorrhagic cystitis complicating bone marrow transplantation. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992; 67:128-30. [IDIS 290979] [PubMed 1545575]



13. Armitage JO. Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation: problems and prospects. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992; 67:195-7. [PubMed 1545582]



14. DeVries CR, Freiha FS. Hemorrhagic cystitis: a review. J Urol. 1990; 143:1-9. [IDIS 271282] [PubMed 2403595]



15. Fukuoka M, Negoro S, Masuda N et al. Placebo-controlled double- blind comparative study on the preventive efficacy of mesna against ifosfamide- induced urinary disorders. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 1991; 117:473-8. [PubMed 1909700]



16. Dorr RT. Bioavailability of orally administered mesna. In: Oral administration of the uroprotector mesna with ifosfamide. Mead Johnson. Princeton, NJ; 1992 Apr.



17. Brade WP, Herdrich K, Kachel-Fischer U et al. Dosing and side-effects of ifosfamide plus mesna. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 1991; 117:5164-8.



18. Mesna. In: Trissel LA. Handbook on Injectable Drugs. 12th ed. Bethesda, MD. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2002:905-8.



19. Pratt CB, Sandlund JT, Meyer WH et al. Mesna-induced urticaria. Drug Intell Clin Pharm. 1988; 22:913-4. [IDIS 247525] [PubMed 3148455]



20. Zonzits E, Aberer W, Tappeiner G. Drug eruptions from mesna: after cyclophosphamide treatment of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and dermatomyositis. Arch Dermatol. 1992; 128:80-2. [IDIS 290792] [PubMed 1531405]



21. Seidel A, Andrassy K, Ritz E et al. Allergic reactions to mesna. Lancet. 1991; 338:381. [IDIS 284116] [PubMed 1677714]



22. Gross WL, Mohr J, Christophers E. Allergic reactions to mesna. Lancet. 1991; 338:381-2. [IDIS 284116] [PubMed 1677714]



23. D’Cruz D, Haga H, Hughes GRV. Allergic reactions to mesna. Lancet. 1991; 338:705-6.



24. Reinhold-Keller E, Mohr J, Christophers E. Mesna side effects which imitate vasculitis. Clin Investig. 1992; 70:698-704. [PubMed 1392448]



25. Gilleece MH, Davies JM. Mesna therapy and hypertension. DICP. 1991; 25:867. [IDIS 283260] [PubMed 1949947]



26. Goren MP. Mesna stability. In: Oral administration of the uroprotector mesna with ifosfamide. Mead Johnson. Princeton, NJ; 1992 Apr.



27. Food and Drug Adminstration. Orphan designations pursuant to Section 526 of the Federal Food and Cosmetic Act as amended by the Orphan Drug Act (P.L. 97-414), to March 31, 1995. Rockville, MD; 1995 Apr.



28. Vose JM, Pipert G, Reed EC et al. Randomized trial comparing mesna to bladder irrigation for prevention of hemorrhagic cystitis following high-dose cyclophosphamide and bone marrow transplantation. Blood.



29. James CA, Mant TGK, Rogers HJ. Pharmacokinetics of intravenous and oral sodium 2-mercaptoethane sulphonate (mesna) in normal subjects. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1987; 23:561-8. [IDIS 229907] [PubMed 3109461]



30. Wagner T. Ifosfamide clinical pharmacokinetics. Clin Pharmacokinet. 1994; 26:439-56. [PubMed 8070218]



31. Burkert H, Lücker PW, Wetzelsberger N et al. Bioavailability of orally administered mesna. Arzneim Forsch Drug Res. 1984; 34:1597- 1600.



32. Miser JS, Kinsella TJ, Triche TJ et al. Ifosfamide with mesna uroprotection and etoposide: an effective regimen in the treatment of recurrent sarcomas and other tumors of children and young adults. J Clin Oncol. 1987; 5:191-8.



33. Demeocg F, Oberlin O, Benz-Lemoine E et al. Initial chemotherapy including ifosfamide in the management of Ewing’s sarcoma: preliminary results a protocol of the French Pediatric Oncology Society (SFOP). Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 1989; 24:S45-7. [PubMed 2667789]



34. Skinner R, Sharkey IA, Pearson ADJ et al. Ifosfamide, mesna, and nephrotoxicity in children. J Clin Oncol. 1993; 11:173-90. [PubMed 8418231]



35. Markman M, Hakes T, Reichman B et al. Ifosfamide and mesna in previously treated advanced epithelial ovarian cancer: activity in platinum- resistant disease. J Clin Oncol. 1992; 10:243-8. [PubMed 1732425]



36. Sutton GP, Blessing JA, Homesley HD et al. Phase II trial of ifosfamide and mesna in advanced ovarian carcinoma: a gynecologic oncology group study. J Clin Oncol. 1989; 7:1672-6. [PubMed 2509641]



37. Ghosn M, Droz JP, Theodore C et al. Salvage chemotherapy in refractory germ cell tumors with etoposide (VP-16) plus ifosfamide plus high- dose cisplatin. Cancer. 1988; 62:24-7. [IDIS 244194] [PubMed 3133101]



38. Loehrer PJ, Lauer R, Roth BJ et al. Salvage therapy in recurrent germ cell cancer: ifosfamide and cisplatin plus either vinblastine or etoposide. Ann Intern Med. 1988; 109:540-6. [IDIS 246234] [PubMed 2844110]



39. Elias A, Ryan L, Sulkes A et al. Response to mesna, doxorubicin, ifosfamide, and dacarbazine in 108 patients with metastatic or unresectable sarcoma and no prior chemotherapy. J Clin Oncol. 1989; 7:1208-16. [PubMed 2504890]



40. Antman K, Crowley J, Balcerzak SP et al. An intergroup phase III randomized study of doxorubicin and dacarbazine with or without ifosfamide and mesna in advanced soft tissue and bone sarcomas. J Clin Oncol. 1993; 11:1276-85. [PubMed 8315425]



41. Loehrer PJ, Rynard S, Ansari R et al. Etoposide, ifosfamide, and cisplatin in extensive small cell lung cancer. Cancer. 1992; 69:669-73. [IDIS 291929] [PubMed 1309677]



42. Thatcher N, Lind M, Stout R et al. Carboplatin, ifosfamide and etoposide with mid-course vincristine and thoracic radiotherapy for ’limited’ stage small cell carcinoma of the bronchus. Br J Cancer. 1989; 60:98-101. [PubMed 2553090]



43. Sutton GP, Blessing JA, Adcock L et al. Phase II study of ifosfamide and mesna in patients with previously-treated carcinoma of the cervix. Invest New Drugs. 1989; 7:341-3. [PubMed 2513286]



44. Coleman RE, Harper PG, Gallagher C et al. A phase II study of ifosfamide in advanced and relapsed carcinoma of the cervix. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 1986; 18:280-3. [PubMed 3802384]



45. Haselberger MB, Schwinghammer TL. Efficacy of mesna for prevention of hemorrhagic cystitis after high-dose cyclophosphamide therapy. Ann Pharmacother. 1995; 29:918-21. [IDIS 353390] [PubMed 8547741]



46. Bedi A, Miller CB, Hanson JL et al. Association of BK virus with failure of prophylaxis against hemorrhagic cystitis following bone marrow transplantation. J Clin Oncol. 1995; 13:1103-9. [IDIS 347745] [PubMed 7738616]



47. Katz A, Epelman S, Anelli A et al. A prospective randomized evaluation of three schedules of mesna administration in patients receiving an ifosfamide-containing chemotherapy regimen: sustained efficiency and simplified administration. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 1995; 121:128-31. [PubMed 7883776]



48. Ben Yehuda A, Heyman A, Shiner Salz D. False positive reaction for urinary ketones with mesna. Drug Intell Clin Pharm. 1987; 21:547-8. [IDIS 231148] [PubMed 3111808]



49. Mead Johnson. Ifex (sterile ifosfamide) product information. Princeton, NJ; 1992 Dec.



50. Tolcher A, Cown K, Riley J et al. Phase I study of paclitaxel (T) and cyclophosphamide (CTX) and G-CSF in metastatic breast cancer. Proc Ann Meet Am Soc Clin Oncol. 1994; 13:A93.



51. Reynolds JEF, ed. Martindale: the extra pharmacopoeia. 30th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press; 1993:741.



52. Reviewers’ comments (personal observations).



53. Bristol-Myers Squibb, Plainsboro, NJ: Personal communication.



54. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn and Committee on Drugs. Benzyl alcohol: toxic agent in neonatal units. Pediatrics. 1983; 72:356-8. [IDIS 175725] [PubMed 6889041]



55. Anon. Benzyl alcohol may be toxic to newborns. FDA Drug Bull. 1982; 12:10-1.



56. Anon. Neonatal deaths associated with use of benzyl alcohol—United States. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 1982; 31:290-1. [IDIS 150868] [PubMed 6810084]



57. Gershanik J, Boecler B, Ensley H et al. The gasping syndrome and benzyl alcohol poisoning. N Engl J Med. 1982; 307:1384-8. [IDIS 160823] [PubMed 7133084]



58. Menon PA, Thach BT, Smith CH et al. Benzyl alcohol toxicity in a neonatal intensive care unit: incidence, symptomatology, and mortality. Am J Perinatol. 1984; 1:288-92. [PubMed 6440575]



59. Anderson CW, Ng KJ, Andresen B et al. Benzyl alcohol poisoning in a premature newborn infant. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1984; 148:344-6. [IDIS 181207] [PubMed 6695984]



60. Schuchter LM, Hensley ML, Meropol NJ et al. 2002 update of recommendations for the use of chemotherapy and radiotherapy protectants: clinical practice guidelines of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. J Clin Oncol. 2002; 12:2895-903.



61. Hensley ML, Schuchter LM, Lindley C et al. American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical practice guidelines for the use of chemotherapy and radiotherapy protectants. J Clin Oncol. 1999; 17:3333-55. [IDIS 436807] [PubMed 10506637]



62. Links M and Lewis C. Chemoprotectants: a review of their clinical pharmacology and therapeutic efficacy. Drugs. 1999; 57:293-308. [PubMed 10193684]



a. AHFS drug information 2003. McEvoy GK, ed. Mesna. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2004:3693-7.



b. Trissel LA. Handbook on injectable drugs. 12th ed. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2003:905-908.



More Mesna resources


  • Mesna Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Mesna Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Mesna Drug Interactions
  • Mesna Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Mesna - Add your own review/rating


  • Mesna Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Mesna Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Mesna MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • mesna Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)

  • mesna Intravenous Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Mesnex Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Mesnex MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare Mesna with other medications


  • Hemorrhagic Cystitis Prophylaxis

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Zantac Tablets


Pronunciation: ra-NI-ti-deen
Generic Name: Ranitidine
Brand Name: Zantac


Zantac is used for:

Treating heartburn or irritation of the esophagus caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It may be used to treat and maintain healing of severe irritation of the esophagus (erosive esophagitis). It may be used for short-term treatment of stomach or small intestinal ulcers. It may be used to maintain healing of stomach or small intestinal ulcers. It may be used to treat conditions that cause your body to make too much stomach acid (eg, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Zantac is an H2-receptor blocker. It works by blocking the action of histamine in the stomach. This reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. Reducing stomach acid helps to reduce heartburn, heal irritation of the esophagus, and heal ulcers of the stomach or intestines.


Do NOT use Zantac if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Zantac

  • you have a history of the blood disease porphyria

  • you are taking dasatinib

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Zantac:


Some medical conditions may interact with Zantac. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have a history of kidney or liver problems

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Zantac. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Certain benzodiazepines (eg, midazolam, triazolam), glipizide, procainamide, or warfarin because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Zantac

  • Dasatinib, delavirdine, gefitinib, certain HIV protease inhibitors (eg, atazanavir), itraconazole, or ketoconazole because their effectiveness may be decreased by Zantac

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Zantac may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Zantac:


Use Zantac as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take Zantac by mouth with or without food.

  • If you also take itraconazole or ketoconazole, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take it with Zantac.

  • You may take antacids while you are using Zantac if you are directed to do so by your doctor.

  • Continue to take Zantac even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

  • If you miss a dose of Zantac, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Zantac.



Important safety information:


  • Zantac may rarely cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Zantac with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

  • Zantac may interfere with certain lab tests, including urine protein tests. Be sure your doctor and lab personnel know you are taking Zantac.

  • Zantac should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 1 month old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Zantac while you are pregnant. Zantac is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Zantac, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Zantac:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Constipation; diarrhea; headache; nausea; stomach upset.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); change in the amount of urine produced; confusion; dark urine; depression; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or sore throat; hallucinations; severe or persistent headache or stomach pain; unusual bruising or bleeding; yellowing of the eyes or skin.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Zantac side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include dizziness; trouble walking.


Proper storage of Zantac:

Store Zantac at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zantac out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Zantac, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Zantac is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Zantac. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Zantac resources


  • Zantac Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Zantac Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Zantac Drug Interactions
  • Zantac Support Group
  • 10 Reviews for Zantac - Add your own review/rating


Compare Zantac with other medications


  • Duodenal Ulcer
  • Duodenal Ulcer Prophylaxis
  • Erosive Esophagitis
  • Gastric Ulcer Maintenance Treatment
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
  • GERD
  • Indigestion
  • Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions
  • Stomach Ulcer
  • Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis
  • Surgical Prophylaxis
  • Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

Panitumumab


Class: Antineoplastic Agents
VA Class: AN900
Chemical Name: Disulfide with human monoclonal ABX-EGF light chain anti-(human epidermal growth factor receptor) (human monoclonal ABX-EGF heavy chain) immunoglobulin dimer
Molecular Formula: C6306H9732N1672O1994S46
CAS Number: 339177-26-3
Brands: Vectibix


  • Dermatologic Toxicity


  • Dermatologic toxicities were reported in 89% of patients and were severe in 12% of patients receiving panitumumab monotherapy in controlled trials.1 13 24 (See Dermatologic Toxicity under Dosage and Administration and Dermatologic, Mucosal, and Ocular Toxicity under Cautions.)



  • Infusion-related Reactions


  • Severe infusion-related reactions reported in about 1% of patients.1 14




  • Fatal infusion reactions not reported with panitumumab, but have occurred with other monoclonal antibody preparations.1 (See Infusion-related Reactions under Dosage and Administration and under Cautions.)




Introduction

Antineoplastic agent; a recombinant human IgG2 kappa monoclonal antibody that binds to the human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR; also called an epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR] inhibitor).1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14 22 31 35 37 42


Uses for Panitumumab


Colorectal Cancer


Used as a single agent for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer that is refractory to fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-containing chemotherapy regimens in adult patients with tumors that express EGFR.1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 11 13 14 21 22 31 32 37


Retrospective subset analyses of metastatic colorectal cancer trials have not shown a treatment benefit for panitumumab in patients whose tumors had KRAS (also called K-ras) mutations in codon 12 or 13;1 33 44 ASCO44 and some clinicians26 29 30 31 32 33 recommend that all patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who are potential candidates for EGFR inhibitor therapy (e.g., panitumumab, cetuximab) have their tumor tested for KRAS mutations26 29 30 31 32 33 44 in a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-accredited laboratory.44 If KRAS mutation in codon 12 or 13 is detected, use of panitumumab is not recommended.1 44


Efficacy of panitumumab monotherapy determined based on progression-free survival; actual clinical benefits (e.g., improvement in disease-related symptoms, increased survival) not adequately studied.1 13 37


Available data do not support the use of panitumumab after clinical failure of cetuximab in metastatic colorectal cancer and some authorities do not recommend the use of either of these agents after clinical failure of the other.11 However, panitumumab potentially may be used as an alternative to cetuximab therapy (e.g., if cetuximab is contraindicated or not tolerated).11 19 20


Panitumumab is not approved for use in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.1 (See Use in Combination with other Chemotherapeutic Regimens under Cautions and Specific Drugs or Therapies under Interactions.)


Panitumumab Dosage and Administration


General



  • Premedication to minimize the risk of infusion-related reactions does not appear to be necessary; however, appropriate medical resources for the treatment of severe reactions should be available during panitumumab infusions.1 7 8 9 15 19 22



Administration


IV Administration


For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Administer by IV infusion.1 Do not administer by rapid IV injection (e.g., IV push or “bolus”).1


Solution should be colorless and may contain a small amount of visible, translucent-to-white, amorphous, proteinaceous particulates of panitumumab; do not administer if discoloration observed.1


Do not shake vials.1


Use infusion pump to administer.1 Prior to and following administration, flush line with 0.9% sodium chloride injection.1 Administer drug through a low-protein-binding 0.2- or 0.22-mcm inline filter.1


Dilution

Withdraw appropriate dose of panitumumab injection solution (containing 20 mg/mL) and dilute in 0.9% sodium chloride injection to a total volume of 100 mL; doses >1 g should be diluted in 0.9% sodium chloride injection to a total volume of 150 mL.1 Final concentration should not exceed 10 mg of panitumumab per mL.1


Mix diluted solution by gentle inversion; do not shake.1


Do not mix or dilute panitumumab with other drugs or infusion solutions.1


Rate of Administration

Administer over 60 minutes if dose is ≤1 g; administer over 90 minutes if dose is >1 g.1


Dosage


Adults


Colorectal Cancer

IV

For the management of previously treated, EGFR-expressing metastatic colorectal cancer as monotherapy, 6 mg/kg over 60 minutes every 14 days.1 2 4 9 13 Doses >1 g should be infused over 90 minutes.1 2 9 In the randomized controlled trial evaluating panitumumab monotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, a median of 5 doses was administered.1


Dosage Modification for Toxicity


Infusion-related Reactions

If mild or moderate (grade 1 or 2) infusion-related reactions occur, reduce infusion rate by 50% for the duration of that infusion.1 9


If severe (grade 3 or 4) infusion-related reactions occur, discontinue therapy immediately and permanently.1 9 15


Dermatologic Toxicity

If severe (grade 3 or 4) or intolerable dermatologic toxicity occurs, withhold therapy.1 If toxicity does not improve to ≤ grade 2 within 1 month, permanently discontinue therapy.1


If dermatologic toxicity improves to ≤ grade 2 and patient is symptomatically improved after withholding no more than 2 doses, resume treatment at 50% of the original dosage.1 Dosage may then be increased in increments of 25% of the original dosage up to the recommended dosage of 6 mg/kg if toxicity does not recur.1 If toxicity recurs, permanently discontinue therapy.1


Special Populations


No special population dosage recommendations at this time.1


Cautions for Panitumumab


Contraindications



  • None known.1



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Dermatologic, Mucosal, and Ocular Toxicity

Dermatologic toxicity, which may affect the skin, mucosa, eyes, and/or nails, was reported in approximately 90% of patients and was severe (grade 3 or 4) in 16% of patients in a large, controlled trial.1 3 9 12 13 14 16 43 Manifested as dermatitis acneiform, pruritus, erythema, rash, skin exfoliation, paronychia, dry skin, and/or skin fissures.1 12 13 14 43 Severe dermatologic toxicity may result in infectious complications, including sepsis, septic death, and abscesses requiring incision and drainage.1 12


Mucosal toxicity, including oral mucositis and stomatitis, reported in 6–7% of patients receiving panitumumab therapy; one case of grade 3 mucosal inflammation reported.1


Ocular toxicity, including conjunctivitis, ocular hyperemia, increased lacrimation, and eye/eyelid irritation, reported in 15% of patients.1 9 14


Paronychia reported in 25% of patients receiving panitumumab, with severe cases (grade 3 or 4) reported in 2%; other nail disorders reported in 9% of patients.1 12 13


Median time to development of dermatologic and ocular toxicity was 14 days and median time to most severe toxicity was 15 days after the first dose of panitumumab; median time to resolution after the last dose of panitumumab was 84 days.1


Withhold panitumumab for severe or life-threatening dermatologic toxicity.1 If severe adverse dermatologic effects occur, monitor patients for possible inflammatory or infectious complications and initiate appropriate therapy.1 12 14 Prevention and treatment should be carefully individualized and may require specialized care; topical and/or systemic antibiotics, topical emollients, topical corticosteroids, and/or systemic antihistamines may be helpful in some cases.7 12 14 41 43 Dosage modifications, including possible discontinuance of therapy, may be required.1 12 14 (See Dermatologic Toxicity in Boxed Warning and under Dosage and Administration.)


Infusion-related Reactions

Infusion-related reactions occurred in 4% and severe reactions (grade 3 or 4) occurred in 1% of patients receiving panitumumab in the monotherapy clinical trial (designated Study 1 by the manufacturer).1 14 In all clinical studies, severe infusion reactions occurred in approximately 1% of the panitumumab-treated patients.1 Serious infusion reactions included anaphylactic reactions, bronchospasm, and hypotension.1 No fatalities were reported; however, fatalities have occurred with other monoclonal antibody products.1 A reduction in infusion rate or discontinuance of therapy may be necessary depending on severity of the reaction.1 (See Infusion-related Reactions in Boxed Warning and under Dosage and Administration.)


Pulmonary Effects

Pulmonary fibrosis (including 2 fatalities; 1 case occurred in a patient with preexisting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) reported in <1% of patients receiving panitumumab.1 Use with caution in patients with preexisting lung disease; such patients were excluded from clinical trials.1 24 Permanently discontinue panitumumab in patients who develop interstitial lung disease, pneumonitis, or lung infiltrates during therapy.1


Other Warnings and Precautions


Use in Combination with other Chemotherapeutic Regimens

Panitumumab is not indicated for use in combination with chemotherapy.1


In a large, randomized, open-label, multicenter trial, addition of panitumumab to a bevacizumab plus chemotherapy regimen (containing either oxaliplatin or irinotecan and fluorouracil) in the first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer resulted in poorer outcomes (i.e., decreased overall survival) and increased toxicity (e.g., higher incidence of grade 3–5 adverse reactions).1 18 27 39 Grade 3/4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in panitumumab-treated patients compared with those in non-panitumumab-containing treatment arms and included dermatologic toxicity (e.g., rash, acneiform dermatitis), diarrhea, dehydration (mainly in patients with diarrhea), hypokalemia, stomatitis or mucositis, and hypomagnesemia.1 18 27 39 Grade 3–5 pulmonary embolism also occurred more frequently in panitumumab-treated patients compared with non-panitumumab-containing treatment arms (7% and 4%, respectively).1 18 27 39 Because of the toxicities experienced, patients randomized to panitumumab, bevacizumab, and chemotherapy received a lower mean relative dose intensity of each agent (oxaliplatin, irinotecan, bolus fluorouracil, and/or infusional fluorouracil) over the first 24 weeks compared with those receiving bevacizumab plus chemotherapy.1


In another clinical study, addition of panitumumab to the irinotecan, direct IV injection (“bolus”) fluorouracil, and leucovorin (IFL) regimen resulted in an increased incidence and severity of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea (58% incidence of grade 3/4 diarrhea; one fatal case of grade 5 diarrhea).1 17 Grade 3 diarrhea reported in 25% of patients receiving panitumumab plus irinotecan, continuous fluorouracil infusion, and leucovorin (FOLFIRI).1 17


Severe diarrhea and dehydration, which may lead to acute renal failure and other complications, observed in patients receiving panitumumab in combination with chemotherapy.1 16 17 (See Specific Drugs or Therapies under Interactions.)


Pulmonary Effects

Pulmonary fibrosis (including 2 fatalities; 1 case occurred in a patient with preexisting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) reported in <1% of patients receiving panitumumab.1 Use with caution in patients with preexisting lung disease; such patients were excluded from clinical trials.1 24 Permanently discontinue panitumumab in patients who develop interstitial lung disease, pneumonitis, or lung infiltrates during therapy.1


Electrolyte Effects

Electrolyte abnormalities, including decreased serum magnesium concentrations, reported.1 9 13 14 22 Grade 3 or 4 hypomagnesemia requiring oral or IV electrolyte repletion occurred in 2% of patients in one study.1 13 In some patients, both hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia occurred.1 Hypomagnesemia usually occurred ≥6 weeks following initiation of panitumumab therapy.1


Monitor serum electrolytes (including magnesium and calcium) periodically during and for 8 weeks following completion of panitumumab therapy.1 22


Institute appropriate treatment (e.g., oral or IV electrolyte repletion) if necessary.1 13


Photosensitivity

Exposure to sunlight can exacerbate dermatologic toxicity; the manufacturer recommends that patients apply sunscreen, wear hats, and limit sun exposure during therapy and for 2 months following the last dose of the drug.1 7 12 16


Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality

May cause fetal harm; embryolethality and abortifacient effects demonstrated in animals.1 16 No studies to date in pregnant women.1 Avoid pregnancy during panitumumab therapy and for 6 months after the last dose.1 16 If used during pregnancy or patient becomes pregnant while receiving the drug, apprise of potential fetal hazard and/or risk for loss of the pregnancy.1 (See Advice to Patients.)


EGFR Testing

The manufacturer states that pretreatment assessment for EGFR expression is necessary for selecting appropriate patients for panitumumab therapy.1 23 24 However, panitumumab has demonstrated antitumor activity in patients with low or negative EGFR levels.4 24 25 Some authorities state that routine EGFR expression testing is not recommended and that patients should not be included or excluded from panitumumab therapy based solely on EGFR test results.11


If testing is conducted, EGFR expression should be assessed by laboratories with demonstrated proficiency in the specific technology being utilized.1 Improper assay performance may lead to unreliable results.1


Immunologic Effects

Appears to have relatively low immunogenic potential.1 13 Anti-panitumumab antibodies detected in ≤4.6% of panitumumab-treated patients using the acid dissociation ELISA and Biacore screening immunoassays.1 In patients whose sera tested positive in screening bioassays, neutralizing antibodies detected in ≤1.6% of samples using an in vitro biological assay.1 No known relationship between appearance of antibodies and the pharmacokinetic or tolerability profile of panitumumab.1


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category C.1 (See Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality under Cautions.) Amgen's Pregnancy Surveillance Program: 800-772-6436.1


Lactation

IgG distributed into human milk; published data suggest that breast milk antibodies do not enter the neonatal and infant circulation in substantial amounts.1 Discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.1 If nursing is interrupted, based on the mean half-life of panitumumab, nursing should not be resumed earlier than 2 months following the last dose of panitumumab.1 16


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients <18 years of age.1 16 24


Geriatric Use

In the randomized, controlled study, 42% of the patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who received panitumumab were ≥65 years of age.1 Although the clinical study of panitumumab did not include a sufficient number of geriatric patients to determine whether they respond differently than younger patients, no apparent differences in safety and efficacy relative to younger adults were reported.1 13


Common Adverse Effects


Monotherapy or combination therapy in patients with colorectal cancer: Dermatological effects (e.g., erythema, acne or acneiform dermatitis, pruritus, skin exfoliation, rash, skin fissures, dry skin),1 3 9 12 13 14 16 43 hypomagnesemia,1 9 13 14 22 paronychia and other nail disorders,1 9 12 13 14 fatigue,1 9 13 14 16 GI effects (e.g., abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, diarrhea),1 9 13 14 16 stomatitis or oral mucositis,1 dehydration,1 9 peripheral edema,1 13 14 cough,1 13 14 and ocular toxicity (e.g., conjunctivitis, increased lacrimation, ocular hyperemia, eye/eyelid irritation).1 9 14


Interactions for Panitumumab


No formal drug interaction studies have been performed.1 16


Specific Drugs or Therapies





















Drug or Therapy



Interaction



Comments



Bevacizumab



Potential increased toxicity (pulmonary embolism, dermatologic toxicity, diarrhea, dehydration, hypomagnesemia) during concurrent therapy1



Manufacturer states that use of panitumumab in combination chemotherapy regimens is not approved1



Fluoropyrimidines (e.g., fluorouracil)



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely8



Manufacturer states that use of panitumumab in combination chemotherapy regimens is not approved1



Irinotecan



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely8


Potential increased incidence and severity of diarrhea1 16 17



Manufacturer states that use of panitumumab in combination chemotherapy regimens is not approved1



Paclitaxel



Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely8



Manufacturer states that use of panitumumab in combination chemotherapy regimens is not approved1



Radiation therapy



Possible increased risk of adverse dermatologic effects; high-grade radiation dermatitis, rash, and mucositis reported in some patients receiving combined cetuximab (another EGFR inhibitor) and radiation therapy42


Panitumumab Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Pharmacokinetics are nonlinear following single-dose administration, with AUC increasing in a greater than dose-proportional manner and clearance decreasing with increasing doses; however, at doses >2 mg/kg, AUC increases in an approximately dose-proportional manner.8 1


Plasma Concentrations


Peak and trough plasma concentrations at steady-state (reached by 3rd infusion after 4 weeks) approximately 213 and 39 mcg/mL, respectively.1


Distribution


Extent


Human IgG crosses the placenta and is distributed into milk.1 Potential exists for panitumumab to cross the placenta.1 Although not known, panitumumab possibly distributed into milk.1


Elimination


Metabolism


Metabolism not fully understood.24


Elimination Route


Systemic clearance believed to be through internalization of panitumumab-EGFR complex and via the reticuloendothelial system.2 8 9 24


Half-life


Approximately 7.5 days (range: 3.6–10.9 days) following multiple dosing.1 8


Stability


Storage


Parenteral


Injection

2–8°C.1 Protect from direct sunlight; do not freeze.1 Discard any unused portion.1


Diluted infusion solutions are stable for up to 6 hours if stored at room temperature or for up to 24 hours if stored at 2–8°C.1 Do not freeze.1


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Parenteral


Solution Compatibility




Compatible



Sodium chloride 0.9%1


ActionsActions



  • Antineoplastic agent; a recombinant human IgG2 kappa monoclonal antibody that binds to human EGFR.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 14 22 An immunoglobulin containing a fully human framework.1 2 3 5 6 7 8




  • Panitumumab binds specifically to EGFR (HER1, c-erbB-1) on both normal and tumor cells and competitively blocks cellular action of EGF and other ligands (e.g., transforming growth factor [TGF]-α).1 2 3 5 6 7 8




  • Interaction of EGFR with its normal ligands (e.g., EGF, TGF-α) results in phosphorylation and activation of a series of intracellular proteins that, in turn, regulate transcription of genes involved with cellular growth and survival, motility, and proliferation.1 Signal transduction through EGFR leads to activation of the wild-type (nonmutated) KRAS gene.1 However, the presence of an activating somatic mutation of the KRAS gene (mutated KRAS) in a cancer cell can lead to dysregulation of signaling pathways and resistance to EGFR inhibitor therapy (e.g., cetuximab, panitumumab).1 33




  • Binding of panitumumab to EGFR blocks phosphorylation and activation of receptor-associated kinases, resulting in inhibition of cell growth, induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death), decreased proinflammatory cytokine and vascular endothelial growth factor production, and internalization of the EGFR.1 2 5 6




  • In vitro tests and in vivo animal studies suggest that panitumumab may inhibit growth and survival of tumor cells that overexpress EGFR.1 2 5 6 31



Advice to Patients



  • Risk of adverse dermatologic effects, infusion-related reactions (e.g., fever, chills, or breathing problems), pulmonary fibrosis, and potential embryofetal lethality.1 12 13 16 17




  • Importance of informing patients to report persistent or recurrent coughing, wheezing, dyspnea, or new onset facial swelling.1




  • Importance of informing patients to report diarrhea and dehydration to a healthcare professional.1




  • Importance of informing patients to report skin, ocular or visual changes to a healthcare professional.1 16




  • Importance of informing patients to use sunscreen and hats and limit sun exposure during therapy and for 2 months following the last dose of the drug to avoid exacerbation of adverse dermatologic effects.1 7 12 17




  • Importance of advising patients that periodic monitoring of serum electrolytes (including magnesium and calcium) is required.1 16 22




  • Necessity of advising men and women to use an effective method of contraception during panitumumab therapy and for 6 months following the last dose of the drug; women should avoid breast-feeding during therapy and for 2 months following discontinuance of the drug.1 16 Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed; panitumumab may affect ability of women to become pregnant.1 16 If pregnancy occurs, advise patient of risk to the fetus and/or the potential risk for loss of the pregnancy.1 16




  • Importance of informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs and dietary or herbal supplements, as well as any concomitant illnesses, particularly pulmonary disease.1 16




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.1 16 (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.













Panitumumab (Recombinant)

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Parenteral



Injection, for IV infusion only



20 mg/mL (100, 200, and 400 mg)



Vectibix



Amgen


Comparative Pricing


This pricing information is subject to change at the sole discretion of DS Pharmacy. This pricing information was updated 03/2011. Actual costs to patients will vary depending on the use of specific retail or mail-order locations and health insurance copays.


Vectibix 100MG/5ML Solution (AMGEN): 5/$935.9 or 15/$2658.29


Vectibix 400MG/20ML Solution (AMGEN): 20/$4349.4 or 60/$12943.1



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions January 2010. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.




References



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24. Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA: Personal communication.



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37. Giusti RM, Shastri K, Pilaro AM et al. U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval: panitumumab for epidermal growth factor receptor-expressing metastatic colorectal carcinoma with progression following fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-containing chemotherapy regimens. Clin Cancer Res. 2008; 14:1296-302. [PubMed 18316547]



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39. Hecht JR, Mitchell E, Chidiac T et al. A Randomized Phase IIIB Trial of Chemotherapy, Bevacizumab, and Panitumumab Compared With Chemotherapy and Bevacizumab Alone for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2008; 27:672-80. [PubMed 19114685]



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41. Lacouture ME, Mitchell EP, Shearer H et al. Impact of pre-emptive skin toxicity (ST) treatment (tx) on panitumumab (pmab)-related skin toxicities and quality of life (QOL) in patients (pts) with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC): results from STEPP. Paper presented at the 2009 Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium. Abstr. No. 291.



42. Tejwani A, Shenhong W, Jia Y et al. Increased risk of high-grade dermatologic t