Capsules
To treat persistent or recurrent ovarian cancer. This drug is generally used following first-line treatment with other chemotherapy agents.
The exact mechanism of action of altretamine is not known, but the drug appears to interfere with the synthesis of genetic material within cells, thereby inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
260 mg per square meter of body size, in four equally divided doses per day (at mealtimes and at bedtime), generally given 14 or 21 consecutive days out of a 28-day cycle. The actual dose will depend on how much toxicity has occurred in previous cycles of chemotherapy.
Peak blood levels are achieved within three hours.
Up to 10 hours.
Take it after meals to minimize nausea and vomiting. Maintain adequate intake of food and fluids.
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat and direct light.
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next one. If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor.
The decision to stop taking the drug should be made in consultation with your physician.
Prolonged use can increase the incidence of nausea and vomiting, which can be treated by antiemetic drugs. Blood tests should be taken every two to four weeks and prior to the beginning of each new course of therapy with altretamine. Neurological exams should be performed regularly as well to determine whether altretamine is causing any nerve damage.
No special problems are expected.
This drug may produce side effects such as dizziness or nausea; avoid any potentially dangerous activities until you determine how the medication affects you.
Alcohol intake should be limited; drink only in moderation while taking this drug.
Altretamine should not be used during pregnancy because it may cause birth defects. When using this drug, a reliable method of birth control is recommended.
Breast feeding is not recommended; altretamine passes into breast milk and may harm the nursing child.
No specific information on use in children is available.
This drug may affect your ability to resist infections. If possible, avoid others who are sick with any sort of infection. Be careful when using a toothbrush, dental floss, or a toothpick, and check with your doctor before having any dental work done. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, unless your hands are very clean. Be careful not to cut yourself with objects such as razors or nail clippers, and avoid contact sports or any other activities that could result in injuries.
The symptoms of an altretamine overdose have not been well-defined, but an overdose may be life-threatening.
If someone takes a much larger dose than prescribed, call emergency medical services (EMS) immediately to receive evaluation and treatment in the closest emergency facility.
Consult your doctor if you are taking amphotericin B (by injection), antithyroid drugs, azathioprine, chlorambucil, colchicine, flucytosine, ganciclovir, interferon, plicamycin, zidovudine, or an MAO inhibitor (a class of antidepressants). Do not get vaccinated against bacteria or viruses while you are taking altretamine.
None expected.
Caution is advised when taking altretamine. Consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: bone marrow depression, chicken pox, shingles, any infection, or reduced kidney function.
