RADIUM RA 223 DICHLORIDE - INJECTION

RADIUM RA 223 DICHLORIDE - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (RAY-dee-um)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Xofigo

GENERIC NAME(S): radium-223 dichloride

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat prostate cancer and cancer that has spread to bones. Radium Ra 223 dichloride is a radioactive drug. It works by building up in certain cancer cells and causing them to die.


How to use RADIUM RA 223 DICHLORIDE - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by slow injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 weeks for a total of 6 injections. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, lab tests, and response to treatment. To prevent dehydration, it is important to drink plenty of fluids while you are being treated with this drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Because this medication releases some radiation and may be present in the blood, urine, or stool for about 1 week after an injection, avoid contact with your blood, urine, or stool for at least 1 week after your treatment. To avoid splashing, sit down on the toilet seat each time you use the bathroom during the 1-week period after your injection. When you are done, flush the toilet twice. Afterward, wash your hands well with soap and water. Use medical gowns and gloves if you need to clean up any blood, urine, or stool. If any blood, urine, or stool gets on your clothing, wash the clothing right away and separately from your other clothing.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Dehydration can occur. The risk is increased if you have vomiting or diarrhea that doesn't stop, and you cannot drink normally. Contact your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual dry mouth/thirst, fast heartbeat or dizziness/lightheadedness. People using this medication may have serious side effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: easy bruising/bleeding, signs of kidney damage (such as change in amount of urine). This medication may increase the risk of bone fractures. Tell your health care provider right away if you have bone pain or changes in movement. This medication may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills, cough). A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using radium Ra 223 dichloride tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; 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. This medication can make you more likely to get infections or may worsen any current infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose). To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports. This medication may increase your risk for other cancers (such as bone cancers). Talk to your doctor for details. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Radium Ra 223 dichloride is not recommended for use by women. Males with female partners of childbearing age should ask about reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for 6 months after stopping treatment. Their female partners should also use reliable forms of birth control for the same amount of time. It is unknown if this medication affects sperm. If you plan to father a child, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

Interactions

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for RADIUM RA 223 DICHLORIDE - INJECTION

Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection is used to treat prostate cancer that has spread to the bones.

Radium Ra 223 dichloride is a radioactive substance that specifically targets bone metastases. It emits radiation that helps to kill cancer cells in the bones.

Radium Ra 223 dichloride is given as an injection into a vein in your arm. The treatment is usually given every four weeks for up to six injections.

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, low blood cell counts, and fatigue. It may also lead to an increased risk of fractures in the treated bones.

Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection should not be used in patients who have low blood cell counts, a history of certain heart conditions, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.

Clinical studies have shown that Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection can prolong survival in patients with advanced prostate cancer and bone metastases. It can also help to reduce pain associated with bone metastases.

Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection can be used alone or in combination with other therapies, such as hormonal therapy or chemotherapy. Your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment plan for you.

The duration of treatment with Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection can vary depending on the individual response and treatment goals. It is typically given for up to six injections, with each injection being four weeks apart.

Coverage for Radium Ra 223 dichloride injection may vary depending on your insurance plan and specific circumstances. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage details.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.