How It Works
Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent
and is related to mustard gas. It causes cell death by interfering with the way
genetic material (DNA) in the cell multiplies.
Cyclophosphamide is
available as an intravenous (IV) medicine and as tablets for oral use in 25 mg
and 50 mg. The type and extent of a disease and your body size determine the
exact dose and schedule of administering this medicine.
Why It Is Used
Cyclophosphamide is used to treat many
forms of cancer, including:
- Breast
cancer.
- Leukemia.
- Lung cancer.
- Multiple
myeloma.
- Neuroblastoma.
- Non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma.
- Ovarian cancer.
- Sarcoma.
Cyclophosphamide is also used to treat other diseases, such
as:
- Arthritis.
- Lupus.
- Myasthenia gravis.
- Nephrotic
syndrome.
- Wegener's granulomatosis.
Cyclophosphamide is often used before a
bone marrow transplant or after another type of
transplant, such as a kidney or liver transplant.
How Well It Works
Cyclophosphamide treats many forms of
cancer. It is usually combined with other chemotherapy medicines but may be
used alone.
Side Effects
Side effects with cyclophosphamide may
include:
- Decreased white blood cell and platelet
counts.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Hair
loss.
- Menstrual changes, early menopause, and decreased sperm
count.
- Blood in the urine because of irritation of the bladder. Be sure
to drink at least 8 full glasses of fluid a day if you are being treated with
cyclophosphamide.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Cyclophosphamide should be given
only under the supervision of a
medical oncologist.
Cyclophosphamide can
affect your ability to have children. You may not be able to become pregnant or
father a child after taking cyclophosphamide. Discuss fertility with your
doctor before starting treatment with this drug.
Cyclophosphamide
can cause birth defects. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or wish
to become pregnant or father a child while you are taking it.
Women who take this medicine may experience menopausal symptoms,
including hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology |
|
Last Revised
|
June 28, 2011 |