AZACITIDINE

Azacitidine is also called by antimetabolites. Its trade name is Vidaza. This drug is very effective to treat various subtypes myelodysplastic syndrome, conditions which are developed due to abnormalities in the blood-forming cells of the bone marrow. This medicine is also used to treat different form of cancer. The growth of cancerous cells is destroyed by this drug. This medicine is available in the form of injection.

How this medicine is given?

The quantity of Azacitidine depends on several factors such as weight and height, the different kinds of cancer and other health conditions. The right amount of dose and schedule will be determined by the health care provider. This drug is given through the injection under the skin. Patients should take it as directed by the doctor.

The following are some important things about the side effects of this medicine:

• There is various ways to prevent or minimize the side effects of azacitidine.
• There is no any relationship between the effectiveness of the medication and severity of presence of side effects.
• All of the side effects are not experienced by the mostly patients.
• Side effects will go away after treated the disease.

What are the possible side effects of azacitidine?

• Nausea and vomiting
• Low red blood cell count
• Low white blood cell count
• High fever
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Other less side effects of azacitidine:

• Problems in breathing
• Headache and back pain
• Muscle and joint pain
• Sore throat and cough
• Weight loss
• Anxiety, rash and itching

Precautions

• Tell the health care providers about other medications such as herbal remedies, over-the-counter, before taking this medicine.
• If one is pregnant or may be pregnant while taking this drug, tell the doctor as soon as possible.
• During this medication, do not breast feed a baby.
• Barrier methods of contraception like condoms will be recommended by the doctor for both women and men.