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 exactly 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. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

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

Take this medicine with meals.

Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

Wear gloves when handling this medicine. Wash your hands after handling the tablets.

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 metastatic colorectal cancer or gastric cancer:
      • Adults—Dose is based on body size and must be determined by your doctor. At first, 35 milligrams (mg) per square meter [m(2)] of body size 2 times a day, taken on Days 1 to 5, and Days 8 to 12 of every 28-day cycle. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 80 mg 2 times a day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

If you vomit after you take a dose, do not take an extra dose. Take your next dose at your 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Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.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.

If you store the tablets outside the original bottle, throw away any unused tablets after 30 days.

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

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