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Flucytosine

Warning

This medication should be used with increased caution if you have kidney problems. Flucytosine may cause decreased kidney function and liver problems. In addition, this medication may decrease bone marrow function. This serious, possibly life-threatening side effect may lead to a low number of blood cells such as red cells, white cells, and platelets. This effect can cause anemia, decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, and cause bleeding problems. Your doctor will check the results of your kidney, liver, and blood tests and adjust your treatment to reduce your risk for these side effects. See also Side Effects section.

Precautions

Before taking flucytosine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, decreased bone marrow function (low white, red or platelet blood counts), a certain metabolic disorder (DPD enzyme deficiency), radiation treatment, mineral imbalance (such as low level of potassium in the blood).

Flucytosine can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.

Tell your health care professional that you are using flucytosine before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).

To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. This medication is not recommended for use during the first 3 months of pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may occur. See the How to Use section about how to reduce stomach upset. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), signs of liver problems (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin), signs of anemia (such as unusual tiredness, fast breathing, pale skin, fast heartbeat), signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills, cough), signs of bleeding (such as easy bruising/bleeding, nose bleeds, bleeding gums, bloody/black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds), muscle weakness/cramping.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.