Talc (Around the lungs)
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Prevents fluid build-up in your chest around your lungs.
Drug classes
Sclerosing Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Talc is sprayed through a tube into the area around the lungs. It is given to people who have breathing problems caused by a buildup of fluid in this area. Talc is used after the fluid has been drained out, to prevent the problem from returning.
You may be familiar with talc used as an ingredient in dusting powders (talcum powder). The talc used for preventing fluid buildup in the lungs is a special grade of talc that has been sterilized (made germ-free).
This medicine is to be given only by your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Powder Under Pressure
A doctor will use this medicine during a medical procedure, such as a thoracoscopy or open thoracotomy. This medicine is sprayed through a tube into your chest and around the lungs.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to talc or talcum powder.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other lung problems.
Tell your doctor right away if you develop fever, chest pain or tightness, or trouble breathing. These could be symptoms of a serious lung condition.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Make sure any doctor who treats you knows that this medicine has been used around your lungs.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
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
Chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing up blood
Fast or uneven heartbeat
Fever
Lightheadedness or fainting
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Bleeding, swelling, warmth, or pain on your skin where the spray tube was inserted
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.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Sclerosol Intrapleural
There may be other brand names for this medicine.