Examples
Mitoxantrone is given as an intravenous (IV)
injection.
How It Works
Mitoxantrone belongs to a group of
medicines that interfere with the growth of the cancer cells.
It is used to treat some kinds of cancer.
How Well It Works
Mitoxantrone is an effective
treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and acute myelogenous leukemia. It also
reduces the frequency of relapses of multiple sclerosis.
Side Effects
Side effects of mitoxantrone are common
and can include:
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Hair
loss.
- Damage to the muscle of the heart. This can be
serious.
- Increased risk of infections, especially urinary tract
infections.
- Changes in a woman's menstrual cycle.
- Mouth
sores (stomatitis).
- Diarrhea or constipation.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Mitoxantrone should be administered
only under the supervision of a
medical oncologist,
hematologist, or
neurologist.
Mitoxantrone may make worse
any heart problems that you already have. Before you take this medicine, be
sure to talk with your doctor about any heart problems you have.
Mitoxantrone may cause serious, even fatal, heart damage in some people.
Frequent tests are needed to monitor heart function while taking this
medicine.
Mitoxantrone can affect your ability to have children.
You may not be able to become pregnant or father a child after taking
mitoxantrone. Discuss fertility with your doctor before starting treatment with
this drug.
Mitoxantrone can cause birth defects. Do not use this
medicine if you are pregnant or wish to become pregnant or father a child while
you are taking it.
Women who take this medicine may experience
menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
|---|
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology |
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| Last Revised | December 17, 2010 |
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