Side effects with TRISENOX
Three potentially serious side effects have occurred in patients using TRISENOX
® (arsenic
trioxide) injection, although they rarely required therapy to be stopped.
APL differentiation syndrome: Symptoms include fever, sudden weight gain, labored breathing,
and accumulation of fluid in the lungs, heart, and chest. This syndrome is managed by immediate
treatment with high-dose corticosteroids and diuretics.
Hyperleukocytosis: An unusual increase in the number of white blood cells (disease-fighting
cells) in the blood. Your physician will continue to monitor you should you develop this condition.
QT interval prolongation: An increase in the time it takes the heart to relax between beats.
If extreme, this prolongation has the potential to cause fainting or more serious side effects.
In general, side effects associated with TRISENOX cease after treatment is stopped. If they do
occur, typically no interruption of therapy is needed. Side effects are manageable if properly
monitored and treated.
In addition to QT interval prolongation, the most common drug-related side effects included
leukocytosis, gastrointestinal events (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain), fatigue,
swelling, hyperglycemia (an abnormal increased content of sugar in the blood), shortness of breath,
cough, rash or itching, headaches, and dizziness. Have your doctor review side effects with you.
Monitoring for side effects
Your team of nurses and physicians will be monitoring you during your treatment with TRISENOX.
- You may be asked to weigh yourself every day during the first few weeks of TRISENOX therapy and to report any increases in weight right away. You may also be asked to report any fever, shortness of breath, or fainting
- Your medical team will perform tests called electrocardiograms (ECGs) during treatment to monitor any changes in heart rhythm
- Your doctor will also check your blood frequently and may prescribe daily doses of magnesium or potassium if your blood shows that you have low levels of electrolytes
Remember, your medical team will perform frequent laboratory tests to be certain that TRISENOX
can be continued safely, to look for side effects, and to monitor the effects that cancer is
having on your body.
>> Click here for frequently asked questions about therapy with TRISENOX.