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Drug References
Cytarabine, ARA-CHydrocortisone
CYTARABINE LIPOSOMAL (sye TARE a been LIP oh som al) is a chemotherapy drug that is given into the spinal fluid. It is used to treat lymphoma and other cancers that are in the fluid surrounding the brain.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
infection
recent or ongoing radiation therapy
an unusual or allergic reaction to cytarabine or ARA-C, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
This medicine is only for injection into the spinal fluid. It is administered in a hospital or clinic by a doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
Interactions are not expected.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your doctor for checks on your progress. You will receive dexamethasone for 5 days starting on the day you receive this drug. Take the dexamethasone exactly as directed as it will help to decrease some of the serious side effects of this drug.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
back pain
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
fever
headache
neck stiffness and/or pain
seizures
unsteady in walking
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
confusion
dizziness
feeling tired and weak
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.