Novantrone Side Effects and Risks

Side Effects

In clinical trials the most common side effects included:

• nausea
• hair loss
• bladder infections
• changes in menstruation
• mouth sores
• diarrhea
• constipation
• changes in cardiac rhythm

Patients with serious heart problems, liver disease, certain blood disorders should not take Novantrone. Also women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should not use Novantrone.

Serious heart problems may develop in patients treated with Novantrone. Regular testing of the patients heart's ability to pump blood should be measured to note any potential changes to the heart. Because of the potential risk of injury to the heart the there is a limit on the lifetime amount of Novantrone that a person can receive--approximately 8 to 12 doses over 2 to 3 years. It's important for patients and physician's to keep track of the number of doses of Novatrone administered.

Before each dose of Novantrone blood samples should be taken to check blood counts and liver function due to the increased potential for infection caused by Novantrone. Women who may become pregnant, even if using birth control, should have a pregnancy test prior to each dose as well.

For more information, including full prescribing information visit the Immunex-Novantrone website or call 1-800-5-NOVANTRONE (1-800-566-8268).

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