This medicine is given by IV infusion (through a needle into a large vein) to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (a form of skin cancer).

Proper Use

You will receive these infusions for 5 days in a row every 21 days. The number of 21-day cycles you need depends on your response to this medicine.

This medicine is given by health care providers trained in its use. You may need to stay in a hospital for the first cycle so that you can be monitored for any allergic reactions (itching, rash, or tightness or pain in your chest). Be sure that you tell your doctor about any allergic reactions you have had to medicines in the past.

Your doctor may tell you to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for any flulike symptoms that may occur when you receive this medicine. You can buy these products without a prescription.

Please Note

Your doctor will order blood tests and will check your weight and blood pressure for any drastic changes. If you are not staying in the hospital, keep all your appointment for checkups and tests.

This medicine may make you dizzy. Do not drive or operate machinery unless you are fully alert.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while receiving this medicine. Breast- feeding an infant is not recommended while you are receiving this medicine.

Possible Side Effects

Serious (report these to your doctor right away): Allergic reactions (itching, rash, tightness or pain in your chest), rapid or abnormal heartbeat, infection, wheezing, shortness of breath.

Other: Dizziness, nervousness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, fever, chills, rash, hives, swelling in your feet or ankles.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Possible Drug Interactions

No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Be sure that you tell all doctors who treat you about all medicines you are taking, including nonprescription products.

This educational document includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Other Names For This Medication:

denileukin diftitox, injection; Ontak (denileukin diftitox, injection)