Temozolomide-oral

Before taking temozolomide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to dacarbazine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, decreased bone marrow function, blood cell disorders (e.g., anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia).Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine.To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured, use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to lower the risk of bleeding gums.Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections.The elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the increased risk of infection and easy bruising/bleeding.Women may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the increased risk of infection and easy bruising/bleeding.This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. It is recommended that men and women use reliable forms of birth control (e.g., condoms and birth control pills) during treatment with this drug. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss reliable forms of birth control. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, or if your partner becomes pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

This medication is used to treat certain types of brain cancer. Temozolomide belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

How to use Temozolomide

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking temozolomide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once a day on a treatment schedule. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters). Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules. If you vomit after taking your dose, do not take any more medication. Wait and take your next dose at the regular time. To reduce nausea and vomiting, take temozolomide on an empty stomach or at bedtime. For the best effect, take this medication at the same time every day in relation to a meal (for example, 1 hour before or 3 hours after a meal).

The dosage and treatment schedule are based on your medical condition, height, weight, and response to treatment. Carefully follow your doctor's directions for taking this medication. To help you remember, mark your calendar to keep track of when to take the next dose.

Your doctor may also prescribe other medications (such as antibiotics) to help prevent infection or side effects. Follow your doctor's directions for taking all your medications.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of serious side effects will increase.

If the capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, avoid inhaling the medication or getting it on your skin. If contact occurs, flush the area with water. Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the capsules.