Ixabepilone
Generic name: ixabepilone [ IX-ab-EP-i-lone ]
Brand name: Ixempra
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (15 mg; 45 mg)
Drug class:Mitotic inhibitors
What is ixabepilone?
Ixabepilone is used to treat advanced breast cancer.
Ixabepilone is usually given after other treatments have failed.
Ixabepilone may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use ixabepilone along with capecitabine if you have liver problems.
Ixabepilone can increase your risk of bleeding or infection. Call your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding, or new signs of infection (fever, chills, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, burning when you urinate).
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with ixabepilone if you are allergic to Cremophor (synthetic castor oil).
You may not be able to receive ixabepilone if you have:
liver problems and are also taking capecitabine; or
low platelets or white blood cell counts.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart disease;
nerve problems (especially in your hands or feet);
diabetes; or
bone marrow suppression or a weak immune system.
Ixabepilone 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 ixabepilone.
How is ixabepilone given?
Ixabepilone is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Ixabepilone is usually given every 3 weeks.
Ixabepilone must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 3 hours to complete.
About 1 hour before you receive ixabepilone, you may be given other medications to help prevent certain side effects.
Ixabepilone 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 ixabepilone injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Since ixabepilone is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while receiving ixabepilone?
Avoid drinking alcohol.
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine ...
