General information

Cytoxan is part of a group of medications called alkylating agents. It is used to treat different types of cancer, such as lymphomas, leukemia, multiple myeloma, mycosis fungoides, neuroblastoma, ovarian cancer, retinoblastoma, breast cancer. Its main component is cyclophosphamide. It works by slowing or stopping cell growth. Cytoxan is also used to treat certain kidney problems (nephrotic syndrome) in children.

Directions

Precautions

Before taking Cytoxan you should talk with your doctor if you have low levels of white blood cells in the blood (neutropenia) or low platelets (thrombocytopenia), previous radiation or chemotherapy treatment, any infection, heart disease, kidney disease, kidney failure, liver disease, liver failure, cirrhosis, any allergies. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections. Do not have immunizations or vaccinations.

Contraindications

You should not take Cytoxan if you are allergic to it, cyclophosphamide, or any inactive components of this medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have severe bone marrow depression (a decreased ability of your bone marrow to make blood cells).

Possible side effect

Get emergency medical help if you have fever, sore throat, chills, blood in the urine, nausea, black or tarry stools, vomiting, painful or difficult urination, chest pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), rash, temporary hair loss, difficulty breathing, changes in bone marrow function, unusual bleeding, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, changes in skin color, swelling of your lips, face, or tongue, hives. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially: thiazide diuretics (chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide, metolazone, indapamide), blood thinners (warfarin), digoxin, anthracycline chemotherapy medications (idarubicin valrubicin, epirubicin), anticonvulsants (fosphenytoin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, pentobarbital, phenobarbital), rifamycin antibiotics (rifampin, rifapentine, rifabutin). Interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. Skip the missed dose if it is time for your next scheduled dose. Don't take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

If you think you have overdosed the medicine seek emergency medical help at once. The overdose symptoms are decreased bone marrow function, infection, and heart problems.

Storage

Store the medicine at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light, heat, and moisture. Do not store the drugs in the bathroom. Keep all drugs away from reach of children and pets.

Note

The information presented at the site has a general character. Note please this information cannot be used for self-treatment and self diagnosis. You should consult with your doctor or health care adviser regarding any specific instructions of your condition. The information is reliable, but we concede it could contain mistakes. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other damage caused by use of this information on the site and also for consequences of self-treatment.