Levamisole is a drug used to treat colon cancer. It works by interfering with the growth and spread of cancer cells. It is sometimes also used to treat cancers of the neck and head. It is not considered a chemotherapy drug but a drug that helps chemotherapy drugs work more effectively.
Dosage
Follow your doctor's orders for taking this drug. Your doctor will customize the amount and frequency of levamisole. The dosage will vary from patient to patient depending upon the type of cancer and other drug interactions. Your exact dosage will be calculated according to blood test results. If you miss a dose, do not double your next dose and do not take your dose off schedule. If you vomit after taking levamisole consult your doctor for instructions on whether to take another dose or wait until your next scheduled dose. Levamisole is supplied in tablet form and should be taken with a full glass of water.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have an infection because levamisole can weaken the immune system and make it difficult for your body to fight the infection. Inform your doctor about any other medications and supplements you are taking, especially Coumadin and Dilantin, to avoid an interaction with levamisole. The safety of this drug has not been determined for use in pregnant women, breastfeeding women or children. While taking levamisole, be sure to have frequent regular check ups to monitor any side effects which may occur.
Since levamisole can impair your immune system, avoid being around people who are ill while you are taking the drug. Do not take vaccines that contain a live virus and avoid other people who have recently been vaccinated. Do not drink alcohol while taking levamisole because this combination can cause nausea, headache, rashes, vomiting and flushing.
Tell your doctor if you have a liver disorder, a history of seizures, bone marrow disease or a bleeding disorder as you may not be a candidate for levamisole treatment.
Side Effects
Call your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms while taking levamisole. These symptoms include chills, fever, weakness, black stools, bloody urine, cough, pain in the back or side, red spots on your skin, unexplained bruising or bleeding. Other side effects which may require medical treatment include confusion, seizures, numbness, paranoia, trembling and trouble walking. Levamisole may also have unpleasant side effects that are not of serious concern like nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping, and temporary hair loss.
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