Skip to main content

Zinecard Side Effects

Generic name: dexrazoxane

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 14, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Zinecard.

Applies to dexrazoxane: intravenous powder for solution Side Effects associated with dexrazoxane. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Zinecard.

Applies to dexrazoxane: intravenous powder for solution.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood tests are needed to check for unwanted effects.

Receiving this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. It may also cause birth defects if the father is receiving it when his sexual partner becomes pregnant. Female patients should use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Male patients who have female partners should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose. If you think you have become pregnant while receiving this medicine, tell your doctor right away.

If you plan to have children, talk with your doctor before using this medicine. Some men receiving this medicine have become infertile (unable to have children).

Dexrazoxane can temporarily lower the number of white blood cells in your blood, increasing the chance of getting an infection. It can also lower the number of platelets, which are necessary for proper blood clotting. If this occurs, there are certain precautions you can take, especially when your blood count is low, to reduce the risk of infection or bleeding:

If you are also taking doxorubicin: This medicine may not protect your heart completely. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any symptoms of heart problems, including trouble breathing, chest pain, lightheadedness, dizziness, or a fast or uneven heartbeat.

This medicine may increase your risk for certain cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

This medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis and angioedema. These can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, hoarseness, trouble breathing or swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving this medicine.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of Zinecard

Along with its needed effects, dexrazoxane (the active ingredient contained in Zinecard) 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 dexrazoxane:

More common side effects

  • bluish color
  • changes in skin color
  • chest pain or tightness
  • chills
  • cold hands and feet
  • cough
  • fever
  • hoarseness
  • lower back or side pain
  • pain, redness, or swelling in the arm or leg
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pale skin
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • swelling of the hands, ankles, feet, or lower legs
  • tenderness
  • trouble breathing
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common side effects

  • black, tarry stools
  • chest discomfort
  • fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
  • pain at the injection site
  • ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth

Other side effects of Zinecard

Some side effects of dexrazoxane 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

  • blurred or double vision
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty having a bowel movement
  • difficulty in swallowing
  • difficulty in walking
  • discouragement
  • dizziness
  • drooping eyelids
  • fainting
  • feeling sad or empty
  • hair loss
  • headache
  • heartburn
  • irritability
  • jaw pain
  • lack or loss of appetite
  • lightheadedness
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • muscle pain, spasms, cramps, or stiffness
  • nausea
  • numbness or tingling in the fingers and toes
  • pain in the fingers and toes
  • pain in the testicles
  • pain or burning in the throat
  • pain or redness at the site of injection
  • pale skin at the site of injection
  • rapid, shallow breathing
  • stomach pain
  • swelling or inflammation of the mouth
  • thinning of the hair
  • trouble concentrating
  • trouble sleeping
  • vomiting
  • weight loss

Less common side effects

  • hives, welts, itching
  • redness of the skin

For healthcare professionals

Applies to dexrazoxane: intravenous powder for injection.

General adverse events

Adverse events reported are from clinical trials where patients were also receiving chemotherapy while on this drug, and reflect the combination of this drug, already administered chemotherapy, and the patients underlying condition.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Hematologic

Dermatologic

Local

Hepatic

Nervous system

Metabolic

Immunologic

Other

Renal

Cardiovascular

Psychiatric

Respiratory

See also:

References

1. (2008) "Product Information. Totect (dexrazoxane)." Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc

2. (2001) "Product Information. Zinecard (dexrazoxane)." Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group

Further information

Zinecard 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.