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Sterile Talc Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 30, 2024.

Applies to sterile talc: intrapleural powder, intrapleural spray.

It is very important that your doctor check your closely to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant during treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose of this medicine. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell the doctor right away.

This medicine could cause infertility (unable to have children). Talk with your doctor before receiving this medicine if you plan to have children.

Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Serious side effects of sterile talc

Along with its needed effects, sterile talc 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 sterile talc:

More common side effects

  • fever

Less common side effects

  • chest pain, discomfort, or tightness
  • chills
  • coughing or spitting up blood
  • cough with thick mucous
  • dizziness
  • fainting
  • fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • shortness of breath or troubled breathing

Other side effects of sterile talc

Some side effects of sterile talc 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

  • bleeding, swelling, warmth, or pain on your skin where the spray tube was inserted

Some of the above side effects could be caused by having a tube placed in your chest or other procedures that were done at the time the talc was used, as well as by the talc. Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.

See also:

Further information

Sterile talc 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.