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What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking vorinostat (Zolinza)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to vorinostat.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• diabetes;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• an electrolyte imbalance (such as high or low potassium levels);
• a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome";
• a history of stroke or blood clot; or
• if you have recently been vomiting or had diarrhea.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use vorinostat, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use vorinostat without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

It is not known whether vorinostat passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take vorinostat (Zolinza)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Vorinostat is usually taken once daily with food.

Drink at least 2 liters of water each day to keep from getting dehydrated while you are taking vorinostat. Tell your doctor if you have severe vomiting or diarrhea during treatment.

Do not crush or open a vorinostat capsule. Swallow the pill whole. The medicine inside the capsule can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. If contact occurs, wash the skin area with soap and water or rinse the eyes thoroughly with plain water. If you must handle a broken capsule, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely dispose of it.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store vorinostat at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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