Instructions

This is an IV medicine. It is given through a sterile tube directly into the vein by a healthcare provider.

This medicine should be given over 90 minutes.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

You must be monitored by a healthcare professional for at least 1 hour after each dose is given.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

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.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

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

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.

Tell your doctor or nurse right away if fever, chills, flushing, headache, or shortness of breath develop while the medicine is being given. The medicine may need to be stopped or given at a slower rate.

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.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 6 months after stopping treatment.

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 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

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.

• back pain
• headaches
• pain in the joints

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

• loss of balance
• confusion
• cough that does not go away
• fever or chills
• memory problems or loss
• seizures
• sore throat
• difficulty speaking
• difficulty or discomfort urinating
• blurring or changes of vision
• weakness

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.