Indications 

Temodar is a prescribed medication used to treat certain brain tumors, such as: 

• Newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme in adults, administered alongside radiotherapy and continued for maintenance. 
• Refractory anaplastic astrocytoma in patients with progressive disease despite nitrosourea and procarbazine treatment. 

As an alkylating agent, Temodar works by disrupting the growth and spread of cancerous cells within the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Temodar and with every prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. In case of any concerns, seek guidance from your physician or pharmacist. 

The dosage and treatment schedule of this medication is determined based on the patient’s medical condition, height, weight, and response to the treatment. 

Typically, Temodar is taken once daily in the evening on an empty stomach, following a treatment schedule. The capsules must be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and should not be crushed, chewed, or opened. 

If any capsules are damaged or leaking, avoid direct contact and inhalation of the powder. Always wear rubber or latex gloves when handling broken or opened capsules to prevent skin contact. If capsule contents come into contact with your skin, promptly wash the affected area with water. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed at around the same time each day, ideally in relation to a meal (e.g., 1 hour before or 3 hours after eating). 

If vomiting occurs after taking the medication, promptly inform your doctor. Do not take an additional dose of Temodar on the same day. Instead, wait and take your next scheduled dose at the usual time. 

Refrain from increasing the dosage or frequency of this medication beyond what has been prescribed. Doing so will not expedite your progress and may heighten the potential for serious adverse reactions. 

Seek medical advice before ceasing the use of Temodar. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Temodar. Immediately report to your doctor if any of them last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation 
• Headache, fatigue 
• Seizures 
• Bruising, purple spots 
• Hair loss 

Serious Side Effects 

• Seizures (convulsions) 
• Sudden chest pain or discomfort, wheezing, dry cough 
• Low blood cell counts: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Mouth sores 
  • Skin sores 
  • Easy bruising 
  • Unusual bleeding 
  • Pale skin 
  • Cold extremities 
  • Dizziness 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Liver problems: 
  • Nausea 
  • Upper abdominal pain 
  • Itching 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Pale stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) 

Inform your doctor right away if any of the serious side effects above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Temodar may occur. Prompt medical help must be sought in case of any signs of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Trouble breathing 
• Face/tongue/throat itching or swelling 

Not all side effects of Temodar are included in this list. Inform your doctor If any unlisted symptoms are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Temodar, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to temozolomide or other medications. 

Seek advice from your pharmacist about Temodar to learn more about its inactive ingredients and possible allergic reactions or complications. 

To ensure Temodar is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Bleeding or blood problems 

Inform all healthcare providers of any current or recently started or stopped medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to prevent the risk of drug interaction with Temodar. 

The use of Temodar may elevate the likelihood of developing specific forms of bone marrow cancer. Consult your doctor regarding your risk. 

Temodar heightens the risk of acquiring infections and aggravating pre-existing ones. Exercise caution around individuals with contagious diseases such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu. Seek medical advice if exposed to an infection or for additional details. 

Inform your healthcare provider about your Temodar usage prior to receiving any immunizations. Refrain from interacting with individuals who have recently been administered live vaccines, such as the nasal flu vaccine. 

Refrain from activities that could heighten the risk of bleeding or injury. Exercise caution when shaving, cutting nails, or brushing teeth. 

Temodar carries a risk of fetal harm if used by either the mother or father. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, inform your doctor promptly. 

For women, a pregnancy test may be necessary to confirm non-pregnancy. Ensure contraceptive use during treatment and for a minimum of 6 months after the last dose. 

For men, use contraception if your partner can become pregnant, and continue for at least 3 months after the final dose. 

Men using Temodar should refrain from donating semen during treatment and for at least 90 days after completing the medication. 

The transfer of temozolomide into breast milk remains uncertain. Due to potential harm to the nursing baby, breastfeeding while taking this medication is not recommended and for at least one week after the final dose. Consult with your physician before initiating breastfeeding.