Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Leucovorin calcium injection

Leucovorin calcium injection Drug Category LEUCOVORIN - INJECTION

Leucovorin calcium injection Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. LEUCOVORIN - INJECTION (lew-ko-VORE-in) USES: Leucovorin is a faster acting and more potent form of folic acid. It is used as a "rescue" after high dose methotrexate therapy to lessen and counteract the effects of methotrexate toxicity and other folic acid antagonists. It is also used to treat anemia when oral therapy with folic acid is not possible. HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein over 2 to 6 minutes. To be most effective, it is important to follow the dosing schedule closely. Do not skip any doses or take this more often than directed. SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated. If you experience itching, a skin rash or have difficulty breathing while taking this medication, notify your doctor. It may indicate an allergy. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: anemia (low blood counts), blood disorders, allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Consult your doctor before using any medication while breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially: seizure medication (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. NOTES: Blood tests and other lab tests may be performed during therapy to monitor the effects of this medication. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).