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 only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet and patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not chew, crush, or open it. You may take this medicine with or without food.

Measure the oral liquid with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. The average household teaspoon may not hold the right amount of liquid.

To use the oral liquid:

  • Open the bottle by pushing down firmly on the child-resistant cap and turn it in the direction of the arrow.
  • Insert the bottle adaptor by pressing it into the bottle neck and make sure it is secure.
  • Use one hand to hold the bottle upright. Using your other hand, push the air out of the syringe by pushing the plunger down. Then, insert the tip of the syringe into the bottle adaptor at the top of the bottle.
  • Use one hand to hold the syringe in place. Turn the bottle upside down using your other hand. Pull back on the plunger until the top of the plunger lines up with the marking on the barrel of the syringe that matches the needed dose.
  • Check for air bubbles in the syringe. If you see air bubbles, push up gently on the plunger to push any large air bubbles back in to the bottle.
  • Place the tip of the syringe into your child's mouth against the inside of the cheek. Slowly squirt the oral liquid into the mouth by pressing down on the plunger and allow your child to swallow.
  • Make sure your child is in an upright position for a few minutes right after giving the dose. If your child spits up a dose or you are not sure the entire dose was given, do not give another dose. Wait for the next scheduled dose.

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

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 forms (capsule, solution):
    • For solid tumors:
      • Adults and children with a body surface area of 1 meter squared (m2) or more—Dose is based on body surface area and must be determined by your doctor. The dose is usually 100 milligrams (mg) 2 times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed and tolerated.
      • Children with a body surface area of less than 1 m2—Dose is based on body surface area and must be determined by your doctor. The dose is usually 100 milligrams per meter squared (mg/m2) 2 times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed and tolerated.

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.

If your next regular dose is in 6 hours or less, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.

If you vomit after taking a dose, take the next dose at the regular time.

Storage

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.

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

Store the oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused oral liquid in bottle of 100 milliliters (mL) after 90 days and oral liquid in bottle of 50 mL after 31 days of first opening the bottle.

Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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