Thyrotropin Alfa injection

What is this medication?

THYROTROPIN ALFA (thahy ruh TROH pin AL fa) is a man-made protein. It is used to diagnose any remaining thyroid cancer after treatment. It is also used to help treat thyroid cancer.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Thyrogen

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•cancer that has spread to other parts of the body

•have thyroid tissue remaining

•heart disease

•kidney disease

•smoke tobacco

•an unusual or allergic reaction to thyrotropin, thyroid products, other hormones, medicines, foods, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your doctor or health care professional regularly. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•breathing problems

•chest pain

•signs and symptoms of a stroke like changes in vision; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding; severe headaches; sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg; trouble walking; dizziness; loss of balance or coordination

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•dizziness

•flu-like symptoms

•headache

•nausea, vomiting

•weak or tired

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.