Gemzar IV

Gemzar IV Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pain/redness at the injection site, and flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, muscle aches) may occur. Nausea and vomiting can be severe. In some cases, drug therapy may be needed to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Changes in diet and lifestyle, such as eating several small meals or limiting activity, may help lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• dizziness
• fainting
• mouth sores
• numbness/tingling of hands/feet
• swelling of ankles/feet

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• severe stomach/abdominal pain
• easy bleeding/bruising
• cough
• difficulty catching your breath (shortness of breath, wheezing)
• unusual tiredness
• fast/irregular heartbeat
• change in amount of urine
• dark urine
• yellowing of the eyes/skin

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• chest pain
• jaw/left arm pain
• weakness on one side of the body
• slurred speech
• vision changes
• confusion

This medication can lower your ability to fight an infection (bone marrow depression). Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of infection (e.g., high fever, chills, persistent sore throat).

An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• 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.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. In the US, you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Gemzar IV Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).