Valstar Side Effects

Generic name: valrubicin

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 18, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Valstar Side Effects associated with valrubicin. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Valstar.

Applies to valrubicin: intravesical solution.

Common side effects of Valstar

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:

More common

• blood in urine
• loss of bladder control
• painful or difficult urination
• red color in urine
• strong urge to urinate
• unusually frequent urination

Less common

• increased urination at night
• local burning sensation

Rare

• frequent urge to defecate
• itching
• loss of sense of taste

Serious side effects of Valstar

Along with its needed effects, valrubicin (the active ingredient contained in Valstar) 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

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

Further information

Valstar 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.

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

Medical Disclaimer