Treosulfan

About treosulfan

Cancers can be caused when certain cells in the body grow and multiply too fast. Treosulfan works by preventing the growth and division of cancer cells and therefore stops them increasing in numbers.

Before taking treosulfan

Before taking treosulfan make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If your bone marrow does not function properly.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take treosulfan

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Make sure that you understand which weeks you need to take your capsules.
• Treosulfan occasionally causes you to feel or be sick. It is important to keep taking this medicine at regular dosage times even if you begin to feel unwell.
• If you are sick shortly after taking a dose or if you forget to take a dose, check with your doctor. You will be told whether to take the dose again or wait until the next dose is due.
• Swallow treosulfan capsules whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the capsules as this may cause ulcers to develop in your mouth.
• It is important that you drink plenty of fluids after taking treosulfan. This will help prevent a serious type of cystitis sometimes caused by this medicine.

Getting the most from your treatment

• While you are taking treosulfan, do not have any immunisations (vaccinations) without talking to your doctor first. This is because treosulfan lowers your body's resistance to infection and there is a chance that you may get an infection from the vaccine.
• It is important that you do not become pregnant while you are taking treosulfan. Discuss contraception with your doctor if this could affect you.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can treosulfan cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store treosulfan

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines