Understanding VIDAZA
Treatment Information for VIDAZA
Important Safety Information
Understanding Side Effects
What else you need to know
FAQs about VIDAZA
Important Safety Information
Prescribing Information
Treatment Tracker
Patient Guide
My Notepad
Educational Materials
FAQs
Side Effects
Treatment with VIDAZA
How is VIDAZA given?

VIDAZA can be given as a subcutaneous injection. It can also be given as an intravenous or IV infusion. You are likely to be given medication to prevent nausea and vomiting.

Subcutaneous injection

A subcutaneous injection is similar to the way people with diabetes take their insulin each day. Injection sites, or areas where the injection can be given, include the thigh, stomach, or upper arm.

Using a small needle, the nurse injects VIDAZA into the layer of fat just under the skin. It is not a deep injection.
It should not go into a muscle or vein.

Syringe

A subcutaneous injection into the fatty layer of tissue under the skin

When you are treated with VIDAZA, you may need to receive more than 1 injection daily (usually 2). Your doctor or nurse will use a different site for each injection. VIDAZA should be given by a trained nurse or doctor in a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital.

IV infusion

When you receive VIDAZA through an IV infusion, it is injected into a bag. Then it is delivered into your vein through a tube, which is usually attached to your lower arm. The word intravenous means "within a vein." An IV infusion is a fast way to deliver medication directly to your bloodstream. The bloodstream then carries the medication throughout your body immediately.

To give you an IV infusion of VIDAZA, your nurse or doctor will insert a needle into your vein. The VIDAZA solution will infuse (run in) for 10 to 40 minutes.

Can I give myself VIDAZA at home?

No. It should be given by a trained nurse or doctor in a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital. The doctor or nurse will monitor you before treatment and watch for any reaction you may have to the treatment.

How often will I receive VIDAZA?

You will visit your doctor's office daily for 7 days to receive VIDAZA through a subcutaneous injection or an IV infusion. An injection can be given in a few minutes each day. An IV infusion can take from 10 to 40 minutes each day. Then you will have 21 days without treatment. Each 28-day period (the 7 days you receive VIDAZA plus the 21 days you do not) is called a "cycle" of treatment. Your doctor will look at your blood counts and other factors as you receive treatment with VIDAZA. If your doctor decides it is necessary, he or she may extend your treatment cycle to longer than 28 days.

Please see Important Safety Information and full Prescribing Information.