Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before using this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.

If you take a stomach medicine for heartburn or ulcers (such as cimetidine, famotidine Pepcid®, Tagamet®), take the heartburn medicine at least 10 hours before or 2 hours after you take this medicine.

If you take antacids (such as Gaviscon®, Maalox®, Mylanta®, Rolaids®), take the antacid several hours before or after you take this medicine.

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.

If there is a change in your tobacco smoking status, call your doctor. This could result in a change in dose.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For lung cancer:
      • Adults—150 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For pancreas cancer:
      • Adults—100 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken with gemcitabine. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024

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