Ethyol (Amifostine)

ETHYOL is used to lower the rate of moderate to severe xerostomia (dry mouth).

It is used in patients receiving radiation therapy following surgery for head and neck cancer when the radiation area includes a large part of the parotid glands (the largest of the salivary glands).

Some severe reactions have been fatal or have required hospitalization and/or stopping ETHYOL.

Severe skin reactions can develop weeks after starting ETHYOL treatment. Minor skin reactions have also been commonly reported.

Nausea and/or vomiting occur frequently after ETHYOL is given, and may be severe.

Your health care team should monitor you carefully before, during, and after ETHYOL therapy.