Temozolomide 250mg

Temozolomide 250mg — Uses and Benefits

Temozolomide 250mg is prescribed for the treatment of certain types of brain tumours, including newly diagnosed and recurring forms.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of a type of aggressive brain tumour called glioblastoma multiforme, usually along with radiotherapy
• Treatment of certain recurrent brain tumours (such as anaplastic astrocytoma) that have not responded to other treatment

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class of medicines called alkylating agents
• It attaches chemical groups to the DNA inside cancer cells
• This damages the DNA and prevents the cancer cells from dividing and growing
• Over time, this leads to death of the cancer cells and slows tumour growth

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for common infections or fevers
• It is not a painkiller
• It is not used for cancers other than those specifically advised by your treating oncologist
• It should not be used without a confirmed cancer diagnosis and specialist supervision

How to Use Temozolomide 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the dose and cycle length advised
• Usually taken once a day, on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after food
• Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water; do not open, chew, or crush them
• Anti-nausea medicine may be given before your dose as advised by your doctor
• Regular blood tests are needed during treatment to monitor blood counts and organ function
• Do not stop or change the dose on your own even if you feel well

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Contact your doctor or treating hospital for advice; do not take a double dose to make up for it
• Follow the specific instructions given by your oncology team, as chemotherapy schedules are individually planned

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Handle capsules with care; wash hands after handling
• Do not use after the expiry date; dispose of unused medicine as per your pharmacist's instructions, not in household waste

Temozolomide 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Tiredness and weakness
• Headache
• Hair loss

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Changes in taste
• Weight changes

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or blood in urine or stool
• Signs of infection such as high fever, chills, or sore throat (due to low blood cell counts)
• Severe breathlessness or chest pain
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing, severe rash
• Seizures or severe confusion
• Signs of lung problems such as persistent cough or breathlessness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Temozolomide 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must be used only under the supervision of a qualified oncologist.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to temozolomide or any of its ingredients
• Have severe bone marrow suppression (very low blood counts)
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your oncologist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of low blood counts or bleeding disorders
• Have any current infection
• Are planning to have children in the future (fertility may be affected)
• Are taking any other medicines, herbal products, or supplements

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other chemotherapy or bone-marrow suppressing drugs
• Valproic acid and certain other anti-seizure medicines
• Live vaccines, which should generally be avoided during treatment
• Any new medicine or supplement should be checked with your doctor before use

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects and strain the liver; check with your doctor.

Will I need blood tests during treatment?

Yes, regular blood tests are essential to monitor your blood counts and organ function during treatment.

Can this medicine affect fertility?

• Yes, it may affect fertility in both men and women, so discuss family planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.