Dexrazoxane
(Generic Name) Other Names: Zinecard®
About This Drug
Dexrazoxane is used to protect your heart when you receive the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin. Dexrazoxane is given intravenously (IV).
Possible Side Effects
- This drug may add to the bone marrow depression caused by chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin. Bone marrow depression is a decrease in the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Bone marrow depression usually occurs about two weeks after this drug is given and may increase your risk of infection, fatigue, and bleeding.
- You may have mild pain on injection.
- This drug may have harmful effects on the unborn child, so effective methods of birth control should be used during your cancer treatment.
Treating Side Effects
Use effective methods of birth control during your cancer treatment.
Food and Drug Interactions
There are no known interactions of dexrazoxane and any food. This drug may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist all the medications that you are currently taking.
When to Call the Doctor
Call your doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- temperature of 100.5 F (38 C) or above
- chills
- unusual bleeding or bruising
Notify your doctor or nurse as soon as possible if you have the following symptom:
- extreme tiredness that interferes with normal activities
Other Information
Your kidney and liver functions will be checked as needed.