Amifostine Injection

Amifostine Injection Ingredients: Amifostine Injection
Representative Names: Ethiofos, Ethyol, WR-2721

Who is Amifostine Injection for ?

Your doctor has ordered the drug amifostine to help treat your illness. The drug is given by injection into a vein. Amifostine Injection is used to:

protect the kidneys against the harmful effects of the cancer-fighting drug cisplatin

Amifostine Injection is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Amifostine is in a class of drugs known as chemoprotectants; it protects against the harmful effects of the cancer-fighting drugs. The length of treatment depends on the types of drugs you are taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer you have.

When should I be careful taking Amifostine Injection ?

Before taking amifostine,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amifostine or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially medications for blood pressure and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or heart disease, problems with blood pressure, or a stroke.
women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should tell their doctors before they begin taking this drug. You should not plan to have children while receiving chemotherapy or for a while after treatments. (Talk to your doctor for further details.) Use a reliable method of birth control to prevent pregnancy.

Amifostine Injection Side Effects

Side effects from amifostine are common and include:

nausea
vomiting
flushing or feeling of warmth
sneezing
hiccups

Tell your doctor if the following symptom is severe or lasts for several hours:

drowsiness

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

dizziness or lightheadedness
chills or feeling of coldness
severe nausea or vomiting
persistent diarrhea or any change in normal bowel habits for more than 2 days

The most common side effect of amifostine is a decrease in blood pressure, which may start while the drug is being given and lasts about 6 minutes. You will be told to lie on your back and your pressure will be checked regularly during your treatment. Your doctor may order fluids to be given by injection into a vein to help improve your pressure. Last Revised - 6/98.