Azacitidine

Brand name(s):
Vidaza

What is the most important information I should know about azacitidine?

azacitidine should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified
healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic
agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of azacitidine including:
allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling
of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); decreased bone marrow function
and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black,
bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection); kidney
failure; severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite; and
others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment
with azacitidine.
What is azacitidine?

azacitidine is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. azacitidine interferes
with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the
body.

Azacitidine is used in the treatment myelodysplastic
syndromes and certain cancers.

azacitidine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using azacitidine?
Do not use azacitidine without first talking to your doctor if you have

* kidney disease;
* liver disease or tumors;
* had an allergic reaction to mannitol; or
* poor bone marrow function.

The use of azacitidine may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions
listed above.
It is not recommended for men to father a child while receiving azacitidine.
Please discuss the risks with your doctor. azacitidine is in the FDA pregnancy
category D. This means that azacitidine is known to be harmful to an unborn
baby. Do not use azacitidine without first talking to your doctor if you
are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. Discuss with your doctor
the appropriate use of birth control during treatment with azacitidine.
It is not known whether azacitidine passes into breast milk. Do not take
azacitidine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding
a baby.
How should I use azacitidine?

Azacitidine should only be administered under the supervision
of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic
agents.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment
with azacitidine depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other
factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding
the treatment schedule.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood
tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with azacitidine
to monitor progress and side effects.

Skin accidentally exposed to azacitidine should be rinsed thoroughly
with soap and warm water.

Unopened azacitidine vials can be stored at room temperature. Talk to
your healthcare provider if you are storing azacitidine at home, follow
the directions provided by your healthcare provider.
What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of azacitidine.
What should I avoid while using azacitidine?

azacitidine can lower the activity of your immune system making you susceptible
to infections. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other
contagious illnesses and do not receive vaccines that contain live strains
of a virus (e.g., live oral polio vaccine) during treatment with azacitidine.
In addition, avoid contact with individuals who have recently been vaccinated
with a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus can be passed on
to you.

Skin accidentally exposed to azacitidine should be rinsed thoroughly
with soap and warm water.
What are the possible side effects of azacitidine?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects from azacitidine,
seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

* an allergic reaction (including difficulty breathing; closing of the
throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
* decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue;
easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; or fever, chills,
or signs of infection);
* tissue or vein reactions near the site of administration;
* blood in the urine;
* little or no urine production;
* severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; or
* difficulty in breathing.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue
taking azacitidine and talk to your doctor if you experience:

* flu-like symptoms (fever, weakness, loss of appetite, cough, chills
and muscle pain);
* mouth or lip sores;
* headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, or insomnia;
* mild to moderate nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea;
* nerve problems such as burning, pricking or tingling;
* swelling of the feet or ankles;
* rash, itching, or hives; or
* temporary hair loss.

Other side effects have also been reported. Discuss with your doctor
any side effect that occurs during treatment with azacitidine.
What other drugs will affect azacitidine?
Do not receive "live" vaccines during treatment with azacitidine.
Administration of a live vaccine may be dangerous during treatment with
azacitidine.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with azacitidine.
Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional about all other medications
you are currently taking. In addition, talk to your doctor and pharmacist
before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines including
vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
Where can I get more information?

Your healthcare provider may have additional information about azacitidine
that you may read.
What does my medication look like?

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