Temozolomide: how to take it safely
Temodal
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats brain tumours such as glioblastoma and some other cancers.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not open, crush or chew.
- You will need regular blood tests.
When to take it
Take it once a day at the same time, usually at bedtime, for the days your doctor says.
Take it with
On an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
What to avoid
- Opening or chewing the capsules.
- Pregnancy.
- Missing your blood tests.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, constipation, tiredness, headache, low blood counts.
Get help if
Fever, signs of infection, unusual bleeding, severe vomiting, breathlessness or a severe rash: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.