Amifostine (Ethyol)

How does this medicine work?

Amifostine (am-i-fos-tine) protects the kidneys and bladder from the effects of the chemotherapy medicines cisplatin and carboplatin, and the salivary glands from the effects of radiation. It may also protect the hearing system, bone marrow, and other body functions.

How is it given?

Amifostine is given in one of two ways:

IV over 15 minutes, right before chemotherapy.
IV over 3 minutes before radiation treatment.

Are there any precautions about food or other medications?

Blood pressure medicines should not be given for 24 hours before the amifostine.

What are the side effects?

Common

low blood pressure
severe nausea
vomiting
flushing sensation

Occasional

dizziness
sleepiness
sneezing
low calcium in the blood
low magnesium in the blood

Rare

hiccups
fever
rash

When should I call the clinic?

fever higher than 101.5º F (38.6º C)
dizziness
sleepiness
rash
trouble breathing - call 911

What else do I need to know?

Before the amifostine, IV fluids are given to prevent or decrease low blood pressure. Medicines are also given, to prevent or decrease nausea and vomiting.

It is important to lie flat and still during the infusion, to help prevent the side effects of low blood pressure, nausea, and vomiting. These side effects go away within minutes after the infusion. It is helpful to stay flat with eyes closed for up to 30 minutes after the infusion, until the side effects go away.

Blood pressure will be watched closely. More IV fluids will be given if blood pressure is low.

Blood tests will be needed to check calcium and magnesium levels. If the levels are low, the doctor or nurse practitioner will
prescribe some to take by mouth.

Icing or using anesthetic cream at the injection site is not recommended due to the chance of decreased drug absorption.

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the oncology clinic or pharmacy.

This page is not specific to your child, but provides general information on the topic above. If you have any questions, please call your clinic. For more reading material about this and other health topics, please call or visit Children's Minnesota Family Resource Center library, or visit www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials.