Introduction
Fulvant is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Fulvestrant. It is used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer.
Uses
Fulvant is prescribed for the treatment of hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer in postmenopausal women who have not responded well to other anti-estrogen treatments. It may also be used in combination with other medications for the treatment of advanced breast cancer.
Dosage and Administration
Fulvant is administered as an intramuscular injection into the buttocks. The recommended dose is 500 mg, given on days 1, 15, and 29, and then once every 28 days thereafter. The injection should be given slowly over a period of 1-2 minutes. Follow the dosing schedule as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Mechanism of Action
Fulvestrant, the active ingredient in Fulvant, works by blocking the action of estrogen receptors in the body. It binds to the estrogen receptors, preventing estrogen from attaching to these receptors and stimulating the growth of breast cancer cells. By blocking the estrogen receptors, Fulvant helps slow down the growth and spread of breast cancer.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site. Other common side effects may include hot flashes, headache, nausea, and muscle or joint pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately:
- Severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe or persistent headache
Drug Interactions
inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Fulvant, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Common drug interactions may include medications that affect liver enzymes, such as certain antifungal medications, antibiotics, and HIV protease inhibitors. Discuss all your current medications with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential interactions.
Precautions
Before using Fulvant, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of liver disease or bleeding disorders. Fulvant may not be suitable for everyone, and your healthcare provider will assess your individual situation to determine if it is appropriate for you.
Fulvant is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to Fulvestrant or any of the other ingredients in the medication. It is also contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may cause harm to the fetus or nursing infant.
Storage
Fulvant should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from light. If the medication has been stored at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for a short period of time, it can still be used, but it should be returned to the refrigerator as soon as possible.
Patient Tips
- Follow the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider and do not miss any doses.
- If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, talk to your healthcare provider. They are there to help and provide guidance.
- Keep a record of any side effects you experience and report them to your healthcare provider. They can help manage any side effects and adjust your treatment if necessary.
- attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up.
- Store the medication as directed and keep it out of reach of children.
- Dispose of any unused medication properly, following local regulations or guidelines.
Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.
References
- Faslodex 250 mg solution for injection (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
- Fulvestrant (Drugs.com) [Accessed 9 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- fulvestrant 250 mg/5 ml intramuscular syringe antiestrogen (RX) [Accessed 30 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- Fulvestrant Injection (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 12 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
- Slamon DJ, Neven P, Chia S, Fasching PA, De Laurentiis M, Im SA, Petrakova K, Bianchi GV, Esteva FJ, Martín M, Nusch A, Sonke GS, De la Cruz-Merino L, Beck JT, Pivot X, Vidam G, Wang Y, Rodriguez Lorenc K, Miller M, Taran T, Jerusalem G. Phase III Randomized Study of Ribociclib and Fulvestrant in Hormone Receptor-Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer: MONALEESA-3. J Clin Oncol. 2018 Aug 20;36(24):2465-2472. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2018.78.9909. Epub 2018 Jun 3. [Accessed 26 Jun. 2024] Available at:
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