Valrubicin Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 19, 2024.

Applies to valrubicin: intravesical solution.

Precautions

Valrubicin commonly causes the urine to turn red for about 24 hours after it is given. This is normal and is no cause for concern. However, tell your doctor if you continue to pass red urine for longer than 24 hours.

Common side effects of valrubicin

Some side effects of valrubicin 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:

Serious side effects of valrubicin

Along with its needed effects, valrubicin may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to valrubicin: intravesical solution.

General adverse events

The most common side effects were local bladder symptoms, including urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and dysuria.^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Very common (10% or more): Urinary frequency (61%), urinary urgency (57%), dysuria (56%), bladder spasm (31%), hematuria (29%), bladder pain (28%), urinary incontinence (22%), urinary tract infection (15%), cystitis (15%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Nocturia, urinary retention, microscopic hematuria, urethral pain, pelvic pain, gross hematuria
• Frequency not reported: Poor urine flow, urethritis^[Ref]

Local

• Very common (10% or more): Any local bladder symptom (88%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Procedure related local burning symptoms^[Ref]

Local adverse reactions associated with valrubicin usually occurred during or shortly after instillate and resolve within one to seven days after the instillation is removed from the bladder.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence
• Frequency not reported: Tenesmus^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache, dizziness
• Frequency not reported: Taste loss^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Rash
• Frequency not reported: Pruritus, local skin irritation^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Vasodilation^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Anemia^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Common (1% to 10%): Hyperglycemia, peripheral edema
• Frequency not reported: Nonprotein nitrogen increased^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Back pain, myalgia^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Pneumonia^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Asthenia, malaise, chest pain, fever

See also:

Further information

Valrubicin 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.

Medical Disclaimer