Generic Name: cyclophosphamide

What is the most important information I should know about cyclophosphamide?

Cyclophosphamide should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.

Serious side effects have been reported with the use of cyclophosphamide including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection such as fever; chills, or sore throat); bladder problems; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with cyclophosphamide.

In some cases, secondary cancers have been reported to occur during and following treatment with cyclophosphamide. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication.

What is cyclophosphamide?

Cyclophosphamide is a cancer (chemotherapeutic) medication. Cyclophosphamide interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.

Cyclophosphamide is used to treat several types of cancer. Cyclophosphamide is also used to treat certain cases of nephrotic syndrome (kidney disease) in children.

Cyclophosphamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking cyclophosphamide?

Before taking cyclophosphamide, tell your doctor if you

• have an infection or have had recent vaccinations;

• have a low level of white blood cells or platelets (detected by blood tests);

• have bone marrow problems;

• have been previously treated with x-ray therapy;

• have been previously treated with other chemotherapy medicines (i.e., Alkeran, CeeNU, Leukeran, Myleran, and others);

• have had your adrenal glands removed;

• need to have surgery;

• have any unhealed wounds;

• have a history of heart disease;

• have liver disease; or
• have kidney disease.

You may not be able to take cyclophosphamide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Do not take cyclophosphamide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Use of cyclophosphamide by the father prior to conception has also been associated with birth defects. Contraceptive measures are recommended during treatment with cyclophosphamide for both men and women. Cyclophosphamide passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Do not take cyclophosphamide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

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