Thiotepa

How does it work?

Thiotepa is one of a group of anti-cancer medicines called 'alkylating agents'. Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Thiotepa acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by damaging the DNA (the genetic material inside the cells) and stopping them from dividing. Thiotepa has been used in the treatment of a wide range of cancers including breast cancer and cancer of the ovaries (ovarian carcinoma) and has also been used in the treatment of genital warts (Condyloma Acuminata). It is most commonly used in the management of bladder cancer. Unfortunately, thiotepa also affects normal, healthy cells and therefore it produces serious side-effects during long-term treatment. The most important side effect is in the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Regular blood tests may therefore be needed to prevent the damage becoming permanent. Thiotepa can be given either as an injection or be instilled directly into the bladder or other body cavities.

What is it used for?

Bladder cancer

Warning!

For use only under specialist medical supervision

Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.

Handle this medicine with care; avoid direct contact with bare skin

Use with caution in

Decreased blood cell production by the bone marrow

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Not to be used in

Children

Low levels of a type of white blood cell (neutrophils) in the blood (neutropenia)

Previous allergic reaction to the medicine

Reduced platelet count in the blood

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Abdominal pain

Blurred vision

Vomiting

Fatigue

Decreased production of blood cells by the bone marrow (bone marrow suppression)

Local irritation following instillation into the bladder

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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