Cytarabine, Liposome (Injection)

Cytarabine Liposome (sye-TARE-a-been LYE-poh-some)

Treats swelling in the brain that is caused by cancer, also called lymphomatous meningitis (lim-FOH-ma-tus men-in-JY-tis).

Brand Name(s):

Depocyt
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

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).

How to Use This Medicine:

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.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before receiving this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
• Muscle stiffness or body movements that are hard to control

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Confusion
• Drowsiness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.