Introduction

Levoleucovorin (lee-voe-loo-koe-VOE-rin)

Given to prevent the harmful effects of methotrexate (a cancer medicine) in patients with bone cancer (osteosarcoma). Also given to patients who receive too much methotrexate for other conditions. This medicine acts in the body like folic acid (vitamin B9).

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Fusilev

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to levoleucovorin or similar medicines such as folic acid (Folvite®) and folinic acid. This medicine should not be used if you have certain blood problems such as anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B12.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

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

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using 5-fluorouracil (Adrucil®) or a combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim® or Septra®). Tell your doctor if you are also using medicine to treat seizures (such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, Luminal®, Dilantin®, or Mysoline®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease.

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.
• Change in how much or how often you urinate.
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
• Shakiness or shivering.
• Shortness of breath.
• Stomach pain, bloody or watery diarrhea.

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

• Change in taste.
• Confusion.
• Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach.
• Skin rash or itching.
• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat.

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