VALSTAR

Drug Name: VALSTAR

VALSTAR DESCRIPTION:
VALRUBICIN - INTRAVESICAL (val-REWB-eh-sin)

COMMON VALSTAR BRAND NAME(S):
Valstar

VALSTAR SIDE EFFECTS:
For the first 24 hours of treatment, common side effects may occur such as red-colored urine and/or irritable bladder symptoms (painful urination, bladder spasm, urinary urgency and/or frequency). If any of these effects persist after 24 hours, contact your doctor immediately. Nausea, abdominal/stomach pain, diarrhea, headaches, weakness, malaise, dizziness, rash, chest pain, or back pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these very unlikely but serious side effects occur: bloody urine, unusual fatigue, fever, persistent sore throat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE VALSTAR:
VALSTAR: VALSTAR is placed in the bladder through a catheter, held in the bladder for two hours, and then released by urinating. Usually VALSTAR is given once a week for six weeks, or use as directed by your doctor. VALSTAR should be a clear red color. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. VALSTAR may not cure your cancer. Delaying surgery could lead to a more serious illness (metastatic cancer). Discuss the risks and benefits of VALSTAR with your doctor. Drink plenty of clear liquids (e.g., water, juice) after using VALSTAR. Use effective forms of birth control while using this medication. It is also recommended that men should not have sex during the time they are being treated with VALSTAR. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

VALSTAR USES:
Valrubicin is used to treat bladder cancer when surgery is not yet indicated. If the cancer does not completely respond to treatment after 3 months, surgery may be recommended.

VALSTAR PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history especially of irritable bladder, bladder spasms, small bladder size or other bladder problems (e.g., perforation, trauma); urinary tract infections; and of any allergies you may have, especially to anthracyclines (e.g., daunorubicin, doxorubicin), or polyoxyethyleneglycol ("Cremophor EL"). VALSTAR is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details. It is not known whether VALSTAR passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using VALSTAR is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

VALSTAR DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of other anti- cancer drugs. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

VALSTAR OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

VALSTAR NOTES:
Do not share VALSTAR with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., biopsy, cystoscopy, urine cytology) will be performed to monitor your progress.

MISSED VALSTAR DOSE:
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist to establish a new dosing schedule.

VALSTAR STORAGE:
Before mixing, store the solution between 36 and 45 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze or heat the vials. After dilution in IV fluids, valrubicin is stable for 12 hours at temperatures up to 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert (TM) at 1-800-854- 1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.