Drug Notes

Iodine I 131 tositumomab (Injection)

Iodine I 131 Tositumomab (EYE-oh-din I 131 tos-IT-too-moe-mab)

Treats non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using aspirin, warfarin, or Coumadin®.
• This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant.
• This medicine could cause infertility. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease or thyroid disease.
• This medicine may increase your risk of certain types of cancer. Talk with your doctor about this risk.
• You will be exposed to dangers of radiation while using this medicine. Talk to your doctor about this risk and the precautions that you might need to take.
• Cancer medicines can cause nausea and/or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
• Rapid weight gain.
• Swelling in your face, hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or body aches.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or loss of appetite.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Sweating or muscle weakness.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2015