Amifostine (Ethyol®)

How to Take Amifostine

Amifostine is given by intravenous (into a vein) infusion. The treatment is given before radiation or chemotherapy starts. Patients are given the infusion while lying down and their blood pressure is monitored frequently. Patients may be asked to increase their fluid intake for 24 hours before the infusion. If you take anti-hypertensive (blood pressure) medication, this may be stopped 24 hours prior to the infusion. Speak with your care provider if you take anti-hypertensive medications.

Possible Side Effects

These are some of the most common or most serious side effects of this medication. Talk with your provider about the side effects you are having and how they can be managed

Hypotension (low blood pressure)

This medication can cause a drop in your blood pressure (hypotension). Your blood pressure will be monitored by your healthcare team before, during (if the infusion lasts for more than 5 minutes), and after treatment with this medication.

Severe Skin Reactions

A serious allergic reaction to this medication can cause skin and mucous membrane (inside of your mouth, nose, throat, and other body parts) problems that can also affect other organs in your body. These reactions are called severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs).

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are types of serious skin reactions that need treatment right away. If you have a new rash or blisters, flu-like symptoms, or lesions (sores) on mucous membranes, call your provider right away.  

Allergic Reactions

Some people may have an allergic reaction to this medication. Signs of an allergic reaction are:

• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing.
• Chest pain.
• Rash.
• Itching.
• Flushing (reddening of the skin, often on the face, neck, or chest).
• A drop in blood pressure (you may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or weak).

If you have any of these signs while you are getting an infusion, tell your provider right away. The infusion will be slowed down or stopped. Depending on your reaction, you may still be able to get the medication if you are given medicine to prevent a reaction or if the medication is given at a slower rate.

Nausea and/or Vomiting

Talk to your providers if you have nausea and/or vomiting. They can prescribe medications to help you. Making changes to your diet can also help. Avoid things that make your symptoms worse, like heavy or greasy/fatty, spicy, or acidic foods like tomatoes, lemons, and oranges. Try saltines or ginger ale to help your symptoms.

Call your providers if you cannot keep fluids down for more than 12 hours or if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

Hypocalcemia (Low Blood Calcium)

This medication can cause a low level of calcium in your blood. Symptoms of low blood calcium include muscle spasms and/or twitching, numbness or tingling of fingers, toes, or around the mouth. If this occurs, your provider may ask you to take calcium supplements (like Tums) to correct this problem. Do not take supplements without first talking with your provider.

Reproductive Concerns

Amifostine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Exposure of an unborn child to this medication could cause birth defects. It is also recommended not to breastfeed during treatment with this medication.