Fluosol DA
Trade Name:
(Investigational)
Type of Drug:
Fluosol DA belongs to a general group of drugs known as hypoxic radiosensitizers. These are drugs that increase the effect of radiation on cancer cells by pretending to be oxygen, which the hypoxic (without oxygen) cancer cells need.
How Drug Works:
Cancer cells are injured more effectively when they have adequate oxygen. Fluosol DA acts as an artificial oxygen carrier, thus increasing the damaging effects of radiation therapy. This drug also makes it harder for cancer cells to repair themselves, so they die.
How Drug Is Given:
Fluosol DA (20%) is given as an injection in a vein before radiation therapy. You will be asked to breathe 100% oxygen before, during, and after treatment. The dose depends on the investigational treatment protocol.
Read the following information. If you do not understand it or if any of it causes you special concern, check with your doctor.

Before taking this drug, tell your doctor:

  • If you are trying to become pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. This drug may cause birth defects if either the male or female is taking it at the time of conception or during pregnancy. Men and women who are taking this drug need to use some kind of birth control. However, do not use oral contraceptives ("the pill") without checking with your doctor.

  • If you think you may want to have children in the future. Many chemotherapy drugs can cause sterility.

  • If you have any of the following medical problems: chickenpox or exposure to chickenpox, gout, heart disease, congestive heart failure, shingles, kidney stones, liver disease, or other forms of cancer.

  • If you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbals.
Should I avoid any other medicines, foods, alcohol, and/or activities?
Your prescription and nonprescription medicines may interact with other drugs, causing harm. Certain foods or alcohol can also interact with drug products. Never begin taking a new medicine"prescription or nonprescription"without asking your doctor or nurse if it will interact with alcohol, food, or other medicines. Some drug products can cause drowsiness and affect activities such as driving.
Precautions:
Allergic reactions can occur during the first treatment. Tell your nurse or doctor right away if you feel your face flush, or you have chills, fever, or chest pressure.
Tell all the doctors, dentists, and pharmacists you visit that you are taking this drug.
  • Most of the following side effects probably will not occur.
  • Your doctor or nurse will want to discuss specific care instructions with you.
  • They can help you understand these side effects and help you deal with them.
Side Effects:
More Common Side Effects
  • Facial flushing immediately after first dose
  • Chest pressure immediately after first dose
  • Chills immediately after first dose
  • Fever immediately after first dose
Less Common Side Effects
  • Abnormal blood liver function tests
Other side effects not listed above can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop any problems.
FDA Approval: This drug is being studied for cancer treatment.