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Fusilev Side Effects

Generic name: levoleucovorin

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 4, 2021.

Note: This document contains side effect information about levoleucovorin. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Fusilev.

In Summary

More frequent side effects include: diarrhea. See below for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

For the Consumer

Applies to levoleucovorin: intravenous powder for solution, intravenous solution

Side effects requiring immediate medical attention

Along with its needed effects, levoleucovorin (the active ingredient contained in Fusilev) 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

  • 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

Side effects not requiring immediate medical attention

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

  • 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

Managing side effects (general information)

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to levoleucovorin: intravenous powder for injection, intravenous solution

Gastrointestinal

Very common (10% or more): Stomatitis (37.5%), vomiting (37.5%), nausea (18.8%)

Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, dyspepsia, typhlitis[Ref]

Respiratory

Common (1% to 10%): Dyspnea[Ref]

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. "Product Information. Levoleucovorin (levoleucovorin)." Spectrum Chemical, Gardena, CA.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer