Fomepizole (Injection)

Introduction:

Fomepizole (foe-MEP-i-zole)

Treats accidental poisoning caused by ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) or methanol.

Brand Name(s):

Antizol

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to fomepizole.

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 medicine for seizure such as phenytoin (Dilantin®) or carbamazepine (Tegretol®). Tell your doctor if you use stomach medicine such as cimetidine (Tagamet®), or medicine for fungal infection such as ketoconazole (Nizoral®).
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

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.
  • Decrease in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Fast or slow heartbeat.
  • Fever, sore throat.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Pain, redness, itching, swelling, blistering, or rash where the needle is placed.
  • Speech problems, or inability to stand or walk.
  • Seizure.
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

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

  • Blurred vision, headache, or ringing in your ears.
  • Mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, hiccups, or bad or metallic taste in your mouth.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Trouble sleeping.
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