Indications
- Cyclophosphamide is utilized to treat different cancer types.
- It’s a chemotherapy drug that inhibits cell growth.
- Additionally, it reduces the immune system’s response to various diseases.
- In children, it’s employed for a specific kidney disease after other treatments are ineffective.
Dosage and administration
- Take this medication orally as directed by your doctor.
- Dosage depends on your medical condition, weight, response to treatment, and other therapies.
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications and supplements you use.
- Drink more fluids and urinate frequently during treatment to prevent kidney and bladder side effects.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on fluid intake and bladder emptying.
- Swallow tablets/capsules whole; do not chew, crush, or open them.
- Wash hands thoroughly if accidental contact occurs with broken tablets/capsules.
- Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should not handle this medication due to potential harm to the unborn baby.
- Do not adjust dosage or frequency without doctor’s approval; it won’t expedite improvement and may increase the risk of serious side effects.
Side effects
- Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach ache, diarrhea, or darkening of the skin/nails.
- Severe nausea and vomiting may require additional medication.
- Temporary hair loss is possible; hair growth typically returns after treatment, but new hair may have different characteristics.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects such as changes in urine, mouth sores, joint pain, menstrual changes, slow wound healing, black/bloody stools, liver problems, mood changes, or muscle weakness.
- Serious effects on the heart may occur, especially with high doses or in combination with other treatments; seek medical help for symptoms like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or signs of heart failure.
- This medication can decrease bone marrow function, leading to low blood cell counts; notify your doctor of symptoms such as tiredness, pale skin, signs of infection, or easy bruising/bleeding.
- Cyclophosphamide may affect fertility temporarily or permanently; discuss with your doctor.
- Long-term use may increase the risk of developing other forms of cancer; regular monitoring by your doctor is essential.
- Seek immediate medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list doesn’t cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies to cyclophosphamide or other chemotherapy drugs.
- Disclose your medical history, especially bone marrow function, liver or kidney disease, urinary difficulties, or adrenal gland surgery.
- Cyclophosphamide increases susceptibility to infections; avoid contact with individuals with contagious illnesses and consult your doctor if exposed.
- Notify healthcare providers before immunizations/vaccinations and avoid contact with those recently vaccinated with live vaccines.
- Exercise caution to prevent injury and avoid contact sports or sharp objects.
- Inform your doctor or dentist of all medications before surgery.
- Children may be more sensitive to the drug’s side effects, especially infertility risks.
- Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy should not handle cyclophosphamide due to potential harm to the unborn baby; a pregnancy test may be required before starting treatment.
- Reliable contraception is advised during treatment and for a period afterward for both men and women.
- Breastfeeding isn’t recommended while using cyclophosphamide and for a week after the last dose; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.