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Hexaminolevulinate (Inside the bladder)

Hexaminolevulinate (hex-a-mee-noe-LEV-ue-lin-ate)

Used in a procedure to check the bladder for cancer cells.

Brand Name(s):

Cysview

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to hexaminolevulinate or similar medicines, or if you have porphyria (an enzyme problem) or blood in the urine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. This medicine is given through a catheter (tube) that is placed into your bladder.
  • The tube will be taken out and the medicine must be held in the bladder for at least 1 hour. You may stand, sit, or move during this time. If you feel you cannot hold the medicine in your bladder for 1 hour, tell your doctor or nurse right away.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any other problems in your bladder. Tell your doctor if you have received a recent BCG treatment or cancer medicines directly into your bladder.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Bladder pain or pain when urinating
  • Bladder spasm (may have to urinate more often)
  • Red, pink, or brown urine

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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