How should I use temozolomide?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Temozolomide is given in a 28-day treatment cycle and only on certain days of this cycle.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. The size, color, and number of temozolomide capsules you take may sometimes be different from earlier treatment cycles. Be sure you know the correct number of capsules to take and on which days to take them. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Doses are based on body surface area (height and weight). Your dose may change if you gain or lose weight or if you are still growing.
Temozolomide injection is given by a healthcare provider. The medicine is injected slowly into a vein, over 90 minutes.
Take your entire daily dose of the capsules at the same time on each dosing day of a treatment cycle. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water.
You may take temozolomide capsules with or without food, but take it the same way each time.
You may need to take temozolomide temozolomide capsule at bedtime or on an empty stomach if the medicine upsets your stomach.
If you vomit shortly after taking the medicine, do not take another capsule until your next regularly scheduled dose.
Do not use an open capsule. If the medicine from a broken pill gets in your mouth, eyes, or nose, or on your skin, wash with soap and water (or rinse eyes with water). Ask your pharmacist how to safely dispose of a broken pill.
You may be given medication to prevent nausea or other side effects while you are receiving temozolomide.
Your blood will need to be tested often and your dose or medication schedule may be changed based on the results.
Your liver function may also need to be checked during treatment and for 2 to 4 weeks after you stop using this medicine.
Store temozolomide capsule at room temperature away from moisture and heat.