Dacarbazine

What is DACARBAZINE?

(DACARBAZINE) Dacarbazine is used to treat certain types of cancer, such as skin cancer and Hodgkin's disease. It is a cancer chemotherapy drug that is used to slow or stop cancer cell growth.

How should I use DACARBAZINE?

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is given on a schedule as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take DACARBAZINE?

Before using dacarbazine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, blood disorders, decreased bone marrow function, current infections. Tell your health care professional that you are using dacarbazine before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose). Dacarbazine can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details. To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like safety razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports. This drug may rarely cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What may interact with DACARBAZINE?

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

What should I watch for while using DACARBAZINE?

This medication may often cause serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to a low number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). These effects can cause anemia, lower your body's ability to fight an infection, and increase your risk of bleeding. Dacarbazine may also cause rare but serious liver problems. These side effects may rarely be life-threatening. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are receiving this medication. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of the following symptoms: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, unusual tiredness, pale skin, easy bruising/bleeding, signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills), dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, stomach/abdominal pain.

What if I miss a dose of DACARBAZINE?

It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.

What side effects may I notice from receiving DACARBAZINE?

See also Warning section. Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite commonly occur. Vomiting may last up to 12 hours. Your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Eating several small meals, not eating for 4 to 6 hours before treatment, or limiting activity may help lessen these effects. These symptoms usually decrease after 1 to 2 days. Diarrhea, flu-like symptoms (such as discomfort, uneasiness, body aches, headache), blurred vision, or flushing/numbness/tingling of the face may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. People using this medication may have serious side effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk. If this medication leaks out of the vein into the tissue under the skin, it may cause serious tissue damage. Tell your doctor right away if you experience pain, burning, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mouth sores, confusion, seizures. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Where should I keep DACARBAZINE?

Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.