Topotecan (Systemic)

Brand Names : Hycamtin

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Black, tarry stools; blood in urine or stools; cough or hoarseness (accompanied by fever or chills); fever or chills; lower back or side pain (accompanied by fever or chills); painful or difficult urination (accompanied by fever or chills); pinpoint red spots on skin; shortness of breath or troubled breathing; unusual bleeding or bruising

Rare

Fast or irregular breathing; large, hive-like swellings on the face, eyelids, mouth, lips, and/or tongue; puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes; tightness in chest or wheezing

Also check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

Changes in the skin color of the face; skin rash, hives, and/or itching

Some of the above side effects may occur, or continue to occur, after treatment with topotecan has ended. Check with your doctor if you notice any of them after you stop receiving the medicine.

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

Abdominal or stomach pain; burning or tingling in hands or feet; constipation; diarrhea; fatigue; headache; loss of appetite; muscle weakness; nausea or vomiting; sores, ulcers, or white spots on lips or tongue or inside the mouth

Topotecan sometimes causes bruising or redness at the place of injection. Check with your doctor or nurse if these effects are especially bothersome.

Topotecan may also cause a temporary loss of hair in some people. After treatment with topotecan has ended, normal hair growth should return.

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.