Your doctor has ordered the drug temozolomide to help treat your illness. This medication is used to treat brain tumors (astrocytoma). The drug is taken by mouth in capsule form. Your full dose may contain two or more different strengths of temozolomide capsules. Take your dose at bedtime, with a full glass of water, on an empty stomach. Do not chew or open the capsules. If a capsule opens or breaks, be careful not to get the contents on the skin around your eyes, nose, or mouth. Temozolomide is usually given once daily for 5 days. The treatment may be repeated every 28 days.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Temozolomide is in a class of drugs known as imidazotetrazine derivatives. It slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. The length of treatment depends on how well your body responds to the treatment.
Before taking temozolomide,
Side effects from temozolomide are common and include:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at Web Site] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
Keep temozolomide in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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