Idarubicin (Idamycin PFS")
(eye-duh-ROO-bi-sin)
Definition | How to take | Special instructions | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us
What is idarubicin?
Idarubicin (Idamycin") is a medication that is used in the treatment of certain types of leukemias.
How to take this medication
Idarubicin is given by intravenous (IV) infusion in the hospital.
Special instructions
- Due to possible discoloration of tears, contacts should not be worn when the drug is administered and for several days after administration.
- Due to possible heart effects later, the total cumulative dose over time of this medication will be followed closely. Heart function studies will also be followed.
- Use precaution when changing your child's diapers or soiled linens for 48 hours after a dose - use gloves during this time to avoid contact with the medication.
- If too much medicine is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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If a dose is missed
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
Side effects
Contact your child's doctor if symptoms persist or become bothersome:
- Temporary red-pink discoloration of urine can occur for up to 48 hours after a dose
- Discoloration of tears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bone Marrow depression
- Hair loss
- Allergic reactions
- Rash
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Damage to the skin if the medication leaks from a vein
- Worsens side effects caused by radiation
- Facial flushing during the infusion of the medication
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Warning signs
Call your child's doctor if your child experiences any of the following side effects:
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain or irritation at the site of injection
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Dosage forms available
Injectable
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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Patient Education Program V 5052 5/01
rev. 9/05, 5/07, 9/07
