SAFETY WITH XOFIGO
There are certain things you should be aware of when being treated with Xofigo.
- It is not known if Xofigo is safe and effective in women. Xofigo can harm unborn babies when given to a pregnant woman. Men should use condoms and make sure female partners who may become pregnant use birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 6 months after completing treatment with Xofigo. People who are handling fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit of a man taking Xofigo should wear gloves and wash their hands as precaution
- If you suffer from bone marrow problems (a decrease in blood cell production in the bone marrow), your healthcare provider will decide if treatment is appropriate. In a clinical trial, some patients had to permanently discontinue therapy because of bone marrow problems. In addition, there were some deaths and blood transfusions that occurred due to severe bone marrow problems
Tell your healthcare provider if you:
- Are receiving any chemotherapy or any extensive radiation therapy. The use of chemotherapy while taking Xofigo is not recommended
- Are taking Zytiga® (also known as abiraterone) with prednisone/prednisolone, as this may increase the risk of bone fractures (breaks) and death
- Have any other medical conditions
The most common side effects of Xofigo include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Swelling of the arms or legs (peripheral edema)
- Low blood cell counts
It's also important that you—and those who care for you—talk to your healthcare provider about any side effects you may have while receiving your treatment that bother you or do not go away. If you have any questions about your care, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
While you are on Xofigo:
- Make sure you keep your blood cell count monitoring appointments and tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms or signs of low blood cell counts. Report symptoms or signs of shortness of breath, tiredness, bleeding (such as bruising), or infection (such as fever)
- Stay well hydrated and report any signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth and increased thirst), or urinary or kidney problems (such as burning when urinating)
- There are no restrictions regarding personal contact (visual or physical proximity) with other people after receiving Xofigo
- People who are handling fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit of a man taking Xofigo should wear gloves and wash their hands as precaution
- Follow good hygiene practices in order to minimize radiation exposure from spills of bodily fluids to household members and caregivers for a period of one week after each injection
For additional considerations to keep in mind following treatment with Xofigo, click here.