Streptozocin: Uses & Sides Effects

Streptozocin is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Streptozocin is used to treat pancreatic cancer.

How is streptozocin given?

Streptozocin is injected into a vein through an IV. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Streptozocin can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests.

Precautions

You should not use streptozocin if you are allergic to it.

To make sure streptozocin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • kidney disease;
  • liver disease;
  • a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;
  • bone marrow suppression.

Using streptozocin may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer, such as stomach cancer. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Do not use streptozocin if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether streptozocin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using streptozocin.

Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • little or no urinating, swelling, rapid weight gain;
  • confusion, loss of appetite, vomiting, pain in your side or lower back;
  • easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin;
  • fever, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, cough, trouble breathing.

Common side effects may include:

  • mild nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea;
  • drowsiness;
  • depression;
  • swelling, redness, burning, or tenderness where the medicine was injected.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Keywords: streptozocin

* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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