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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using idarubicin (Idamycin PFS)?

Do not use idarubicin without first talking to your doctor if you have

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• heart disease;
• poor bone marrow function;
• received radiation therapy that encompassed the heart; or
• previously received treatment with doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Rubex), doxorubicin liposomal (Doxil), daunorubicin (Cerubidine), daunorubicin liposomal (Daunoxome), idarubicin (Idamycin), or mitoxantrone (Novantrone).

The use of idarubicin may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Idarubicin is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that idarubicin is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use idarubicin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of birth control during treatment with idarubicin if necessary.

Because of the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, breast-feeding should be avoided during treatment with idarubicin.

The safety and effectiveness of idarubicin in children has not been established.

How should I use idarubicin (Idamycin PFS)?

Idarubicin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with idarubicin depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.

Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with idarubicin to monitor progress and side effects.

Skin accidentally exposed to idarubicin should be rinsed thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Your healthcare provider will store idarubicin as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing idarubicin at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.

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