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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving ixabepilone (Ixempra)?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to ixabepilone, or to a medication ingredient called Cremophor (synthetic castor oil). You may not be able to receive ixabepilone if you have severe liver disease, or severely low platelets or white blood cell counts.

To make sure you can safely receive ixabepilone, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver disease;
• heart disease;
• nerve problems (especially in your hands or feet);
• diabetes; or
• bone marrow suppression or weak immune system.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use ixabepilone if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether ixabepilone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while receiving ixabepilone.

How is ixabepilone given (Ixempra)?

Ixabepilone is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Ixabepilone must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take up to 3 hours to complete.

Ixabepilone is usually given every 3 weeks.

About 1 hour before you receive ixabepilone, you may be given other medications to help prevent certain side effects.

Ixabepilone can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. Your blood may need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

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