Amifostine (Injection)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to amifostine.

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
This medicine is given before cisplatin therapy or radiation therapy. You may also receive other medicines to help prevent nausea and vomiting.
You will be watched closely for unwanted side effects while you are receiving this medicine.
Drink plenty of fluids during the 24 hours before receiving this medicine.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a diuretic or "water pill" (such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ], torsemide, Demadex®, Lasix®) or any medicines for high blood pressure (such as atenolol, lisinopril, metoprolol, quinapril, Accupril®, Cozaar®, Diovan®, Lotrel®, Norvasc®, Toprol®, Zestril®).

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, heart disease, heart failure, or heart rhythm problems. Tell your doctor if you are dehydrated, or have a history of low blood pressure, strokes, or transient ischemic attacks (TIA).
Serious skin reactions can occur with this medicine. Check with your doctor right away if you have a rash on the lips or mouth; red skin lesions on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet; sores or ulcers on the skin; or fever or chills while you are receiving this medicine.
This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you have a rash; itching; trouble breathing; any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth; or chest pain after you receive this medicine.
This medicine may cause nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.
Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash.
Chest pain.
Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
Fever or chills.
Red skin lesions on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
Severe nausea or vomiting.
Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat.
Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness.
Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
Unusual tiredness or weakness.

Blurred vision.
Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
Unusual drowsiness or sleepiness.
Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.