Gallium nitrate is a drug to lower high calcium levels due to cancer. The growth of cancer cells can cause changes in calcium metabolism and the process of breaking calcium from bones.
Gallium nitrate works by inhibiting the re-absorption of calcium from the bones, so it can lower calcium levels in the blood. Gallium nitrate is available as an injectable that is given by infusion.
Trademarks of gallium nitrate: -
What is Gallium Nitrate
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Lowering calcium in the blood |
| Benefit | Lowering blood calcium levels in cancer patients |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Gallium nitrate for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.
It is not known whether gallium nitrate is absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Inject |
Warning Before Using Gallium Nitrate
There are several things that you should pay attention to before using gallium nitrate, including:
- Do not use gallium nitrate if you are allergic to gallium nitrate. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease , electrolyte disturbances, or heart and blood vessel disease. Gallium nitrate should not be given to patients with renal failure.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products,
- Immediately see a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction, overdose, or serious side effects after using gallium nitrate.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Gallium Nitrate
The doctor will give gallium nitrate according to the condition and response of the patient's body. In general, the dose of gallium nitrate to treat hypercalcemia in adult cancer patients is 100–200 mg/m² body surface area per day.
Treatment is generally carried out for 5 days. However, if the patient's condition has improved, treatment can be stopped sooner.
How to Use Gallium Nitrate Properly
Gallium nitrate is available in liquid form which will be dissolved into intravenous fluids and given through a vein. Gallium nitrate should only be given by a doctor or medical personnel under the supervision of a doctor.
While undergoing treatment with gallium nitrate, patients are advised to drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of kidney problems. Blood and urine tests will be carried out routinely to assess the patient's body response.
Gallium Nitrate Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are interaction effects that can occur if gallium nitrate is used together with other medicines:
- Increased risk of kidney damage when used with aminoglycoside or amphotericin B antibiotics
- Increased risk of shortness of breath due to pneumonia when used with cyclophosphamide
Gallium Nitrate Side Effects and Dangers
The following are some of the side effects that can occur after using gallium nitrate:
- Nauseous
- Vomit
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Weak
- Fever or chills
- Fast heart rate
- Swollen feet or ankles
- Numbness or tingling
Tell your doctor if these side effects do not improve or get worse. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following allergic reactions or serious side effects:
- Nausea or vomiting that doesn't stop
- Pale skin, easy bruising , or bleeding easily
- Blurred vision, dizziness , or pain behind the eyes
- Hallucinations or confusion
- Cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Kidney disorders, which can be marked by pain when urinating, fatigue, or reduced amount of urine