Temozolomide

What is Temozolomide for?

Temozolomide is a medicine that is used for the treatment of brain tumours.

How should I take or use Temozolomide?

Temozolomide is a capsule, to be taken by mouth at the same time of the day.
Take it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before food.

If your child is unable to swallow the capsule, you may open the capsule and dissolve the contents in apple juice or applesauce.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Temozolomide?

If you miss a dose of Temozolomide, contact your doctor for further instructions on what to do.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Temozolomide?

• Effective birth control measures are recommended for both men and women during and up to 6 months after treatment with Temozolomide. Inform your doctor if you plan to or suspect that you are pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed. Inform your doctor if you intend to breastfeed.

What are some common side effects of Temozolomide?

• Nausea and vomiting
  Your doctor may prescribe certain medicines to help prevent or manage this; take them accordingly as instructed. Where possible, taking Temozolomide at bedtime may also help to reduce nausea or vomiting.
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Constipation
• Decreased blood cells
  This may increase your chances of getting infections, bruising or bleeding and feeling tired.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Fever of 38°C or higher, chills, cough, sore throat,
• Unusual bruising, bleeding or black stools
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark tea-coloured urine and severe abdominal pain
• Allergic reactions - hives or rashes, facial swelling, breathing difficulty

How should I store Temozolomide?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

How should I handle Temozolomide safely?

Do not crush or chew the capsules. 

Take precautions to avoid cytotoxic exposure: wear gloves and mask when handling the capsules, and open the capsules in a still-air room (if applicable)

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.