Hycamtin for Injection

Generic name: Topotecan injection

What is Hycamtin for Injection?

Hycamtin for Injection is a medicine that is used for the treatment of certain types of cancer, such as recurrent ovarian cancer. It is also used for the treatment of small cell lung cancer that returns at least 2 months after completion of your first treatment.

Hycamtin for Injection plus another medicine called cisplatin is used for the treatment of cervical cancer, if the cervical cancer is widespread when first diagnosed, doesn't go away with your first series of treatments, or comes back in a form that can't be cured with surgery or radiation.

What is the most important information I should know about Hycamtin for Injection?

Treatment with Hycamtin for Injection affects your bone marrow and can cause a severe decrease in your blood cell counts (bone marrow suppression), neutrophils (a type of white blood cell important in fighting bacterial infections), red blood cells (blood cells that carry oxygen to the tissues), and platelets (important for clotting and control of bleeding).

If you develop fever or other signs of infection such as chills, cough, or burning pain on urination you should tell your doctor. Your doctor should perform frequent blood tests while you are taking Hycamtin for Injection.

Who should not take Hycamtin for Injection?

You should not take Hycamtin for Injection if are allergic to it, if you are pregnant or think that you may be pregnant, if you are breastfeeding, or if you have low blood counts.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Hycamtin for Injection?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Hycamtin for Injection. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Ovarian Cancer and Small Cell Lung Cancer

Adults: The recommended dose of Hycamtin is 1.5 mg/m² by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes daily for 5 consecutive days, starting on day 1 of a 21-day course.

Cervical Cancer

Adults: The recommended dose of Hycamtin is 0.75 mg/m2 by intravenous infusion over 30 minutes daily on days 1, 2, and 3; followed by cisplatin 50 mg/m2 by intravenous infusion on day 1 repeated every 21 days (a 21-day course).

How should I take Hycamtin for Injection?

Hycamtin for Injection will be given to you as intravenous (IV) infusion over 30 minutes by the nurse or doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Hycamtin for Injection?

You should avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while being treated with Hycamtin for Injection. Hycamtin for Injection may cause fatigue or tiredness. You should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel fatigued.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Hycamtin for Injection?

If Hycamtin for Injection is given with certain other drugs, the effect of either medication could be increased, decreased, or altered. Always check with your doctor before using Hycamtin for Injection with any medications.

What are the possible side effects of Hycamtin for Injection?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include (when using Hycamtin alone): nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, shortness of breath

Side effects may include (when used in combination with cisplatin): low blood counts, pain, vomiting, nausea, other digestive problems, bladder/pelvic problems, or abnormal lab values

Can I receive Hycamtin for Injection if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take Hycamtin for Injection if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should use effective methods of birth control while on Hycamtin for Injection. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Hycamtin for Injection?

If you miss a dose of Hycamtin for Injection, ask your doctor for advice.

How should I store Hycamtin for Injection?

This medication will be stored by your healthcare provider.