Altretamine (Hexamethylmelamine, HXM, HMM, Hexalen) For the Treatment of Cancer
Description
Altretamine is chemotherapy given for the treatment of ovarian cancer. Do not use if you are taking an MAO inhibitor or Cimetidine (Tagamet).
How It Is Given
It is taken by mouth, for 2 –3 weeks per month.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Reduced blood counts 1 to 2 weeks after treatment
Less Common Side Effects
- Inflammation of the bladder.
- Skin rash.
- Liver changes may occur.
- Diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
- Confusion, agitation, nervousness (most often subsides when drug is stopped).
- Kidney changes may occur.
- Hair loss may occur, but is will regrow. The texture of the hair may change.
Call Your Health Care Provider if
- You become confused or agitated.
- You are not able to take your medicine because of an upset stomach.
- You develop a rash.
Special Concerns
- Blood and urine tests will be done to check your liver and kidney function.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/16/2012
Reproduced with permission from the 1989-2006 United States Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. Printed in 3/2006 by the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority, Department of Nursing, Madison WI. UWH #5537
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