Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given over 60 minutes.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

Avoid getting medicine in the eyes, mouth or on skin. If this happens, rinse mouth with plenty of water. Do not swallow. Wash the skin well with soap and water. For eyes, open eyelid and flush with steady stream of water for at least 5 minutes. Tell your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent sweating, diarrhea or vomiting. These can increase your risk of a serious side effect.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine is usually combined with another medicine to treat your condition.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

To prevent serious kidney damage, your doctor will usually prescribe another medicine (probenecid) and IV fluids for hydration. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If you drink alcohol regularly, please speak with your doctor.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use reliable birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Do not take aspirin, NSAIDS or other medicines that can damage the kidneys within 7 days before or after using this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a list of medicines to avoid.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist how to safely discard unused medicines, needles and syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• headaches
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• pain in the abdomen
• decreased appetite
• changes in memory, mood, or thinking
• confusion
• cough that does not go away
• feeling of swelling of the body
• eye pain or redness
• fever or chills
• signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
• muscle loss
• sore throat
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• blurring or changes of vision
• severe or persistent vomiting
• yellowing of eyes or skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.