Fusilev Side Effects
Generic name: levoleucovorin
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 5, 2025.
Note: This document provides detailed information about Fusilev Side Effects associated with levoleucovorin. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Fusilev.
Applies to levoleucovorin: intravenous powder for solution, intravenous solution.
Precautions
It is very important that your doctor check your closely to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood and urine tests will be needed to check for unwanted effects.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes 5-fluorouracil (Adrucil®) and combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim®, Septra®). Using any of these medicines together with levoleucovorin (the active ingredient contained in Fusilev) increases your risk of serious side effects. .
Serious side effects of Fusilev
Along with its needed effects, levoleucovorin may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking levoleucovorin:
More common side effects
- cloudy urine
- decrease in urine output or decrease in urine-concentrating ability
- difficult or labored breathing
- fever
- general feeling of discomfort or illness
- lack or loss of strength
- shortness of breath
- stomach cramps, tenderness, or pain
- tightness in the chest
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- watery or bloody diarrhea
- wheezing
Incidence not known
- feeling unusually cold
- shivering
Other side effects of Fusilev
Some side effects of levoleucovorin may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common side effects
- acid or sour stomach
- bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
- belching
- blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, reddening, or swelling of the skin
- burning, tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
- change in taste
- cracked, dry, or scaly skin
- decreased appetite
- diarrhea
- hair loss or thinning of the hair
- heartburn
- indigestion
- loss of appetite
- mood or mental changes
- nausea
- sensation of pins and needles
- stabbing pain
- stomach discomfort or upset
- swelling or inflammation of the mouth
- vomiting
- weight loss
Incidence not known
- rash
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For healthcare professionals
Applies to levoleucovorin: intravenous powder for injection, intravenous solution.
Gastrointestinal adverse events
- Very common (10% or more): Stomatitis (37.5%), vomiting (37.5%), nausea (18.8%)
- Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, dyspepsia, typhlitis[Ref]
Respiratory
Dermatologic
- Common (1% to 10%): Dermatitis
- Postmarketing reports: Pruritus, rash[Ref]
Other
- Postmarketing reports: Temperature change, rigors[Ref]
Nervous system
- Common (1% to 10%): Neuropathy, taste perversion[Ref]
Renal
- Common (1% to 10%): Renal function abnormal[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
- Postmarketing reports: Possible allergic reactions
Hematologic
- Frequency not reported: Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia
Psychiatric
- Common (1% to 10%): Confusion
References
1. (2008) "Product Information. Levoleucovorin (levoleucovorin)." Spectrum Chemical
More about Fusilev (levoleucovorin)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- FDA approval history
- Drug class: antidotes
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Further information
Fusilev side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.