Thiotepa (Injection)

Thiotepa (thye-oh-TEP-a)

Treats different types of cancers, sometimes in combination with other medicines.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to thiotepa. You should not use if you have liver or kidney problems, or a bone marrow disorder.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• This medicine, like all medicines used to treat cancer, is very strong. Make sure you understand why you are getting it and what the risks and benefits of treatment are. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor.
• Your doctor will decide how much medicine you should have and when it will be given. A nurse or other caregiver trained to give cancer drugs will give your treatment.
• Your medicine will be given into a vein, usually in your arm, wrist, or hand, and sometimes in your chest. This is called intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us), or IV.
• Do not get the medicine on your skin. If it does, wash the area well with soap and water, and tell your caregiver.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or clinic where you get your treatments for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you have your treatments at a clinic, the staff at the clinic will keep your medicine there.
• If you have your treatments at home, you may need to store your medicine. Keep the medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Throw away any unused medicine that is not used within 5 days.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
• If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles, medicine bags or bottles, and tubes. Put it where children or pets cannot reach it.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use aspirin or any product that has aspirin in it (such as some cold medicines) unless you have talked to your doctor.
• Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines (such as flu shots).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Do not breastfeed while you are being given this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you recently had radiation treatments.
• You may get infections more easily while being treated with this medicine. Stay away from crowds or people with colds, flu, or other infections.
• This medicine may make your mouth sore and irritated. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush or mouth swab.
• This medicine can cause nausea and vomiting. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to keep you from feeling sick and throwing up. If the medicine does not help (you can't keep liquids down), call your doctor.
• Do not get pregnant while you or your sexual partner are being treated with thiotepa. Use an effective form of birth control while using this medicine.
• If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before you start your treatments.
• Some cancer drugs may make you sterile (unable to have children), whether you are a man or woman. If you plan to have children someday, talk with your doctor before you start your treatments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fever or sore throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Uncontrollable nausea or vomiting
• Skin rash, hives, or itching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pain where the IV is given
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness, headache, or dizziness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.