Vorinostat (By mouth)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Do not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to vorinostat, if you are pregnant, or if you have severe liver disease.

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.
Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, break, or chew it.
Drink at least 68 ounces (2 liters) of fluids every day to prevent dehydration.
You may also receive medicines to help prevent nausea and vomiting.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
If you vomit after taking your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Make sure your doctor knows if you use valproic acid (Depakene®) or a blood thinner (such as warfarin, Coumadin®).

It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, anemia, diabetes, stomach or bowel problems, a mineral imbalance (such as low potassium, calcium, or magnesium in your blood), or a history of blood clots.
This medicine may increase your risk for blood clots. Tell your doctor right away if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, or pain in your lower leg (calf) or if you cough up blood.
This medicine may make you bleed, bruise, or get infections more easily. Take precautions to prevent illness and injury. Wash your hands often.
This medicine may increase blood sugar levels. Tell your doctor if you have increased hunger or thirst, changes in how much you urinate, or unusual weight loss. Check with your doctor if you notice a change in the results of your blood or urine sugar tests.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Cancer medicines can cause diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Make sure to drink enough liquids so you do not get dehydrated. Ask your doctor about ways to control these side effects.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Changes in how much or how often you urinate, increased thirst or hunger, or muscle cramps
Chest pain, trouble breathing, or coughing up blood
Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches
Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body
Pain in your lower leg (calf)
Red or black stools
Severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
Sudden or severe headache, or problems with vision, speech, or walking
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or tiredness

Last Updated: 1/27/2017