Streptozocin
Generic name: streptozocin [ STREP-toe-zoe-sin ]
Brand name: Zanosar
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (1 g)
Drug class:Alkylating agents
What is streptozocin?
Streptozocin is used to treat pancreatic cancer.
Streptozocin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Streptozocin can harm your liver or kidneys, and may also cause severe vomiting or diarrhea.
While receiving streptozocin, you should be able to get to a hospital or emergency room quickly in case you have a serious side effect. You may need frequent blood tests to make sure streptozocin is not causing harmful effects.
Before taking this medicine
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; or
bone marrow suppression.
Using streptozocin may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer, such as stomach cancer. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.
Streptozocin may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while using streptozocin.
How is streptozocin given?
Streptozocin is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Streptozocin can increase your risk of bleeding or infection. You will need frequent medical tests. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your streptozocin injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while receiving streptozocin?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how streptozocin will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection.
Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using streptozocin, and avoid coming into contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus could be passed on to you. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), zoster (shingles)...
