Busulfan

Generic Name: busulfan

Alkylating Drug [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Busulfex

Busulfan is a bifunctional alkylating agent indicated for use in combination with cyclophosphamide as a conditioning regimen prior to allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation for chronic myelogenous leukemia.

Overview

Busulfan is a bifunctional alkylating agent indicated for use in combination with cyclophosphamide as a conditioning regimen prior to allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation for chronic myelogenous leukemia.

Uses

Indicated for use in combination with cyclophosphamide as a conditioning regimen prior to allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation for chronic myelogenous leukemia.

Dosage

Standard adult dosing is 0.8 mg per kg of ideal body weight or actual body weight, whichever is lower, administered intravenously via a central venous catheter as a two-hour infusion every six hours for four consecutive days for a total of 16 doses.

Side Effects

Most common (over 60%): myelosuppression, nausea (98%), stomatitis (97%), vomiting (95%), anorexia (85%), diarrhea (84%), fever (80%), insomnia (84%), anxiety (72%), hypomagnesemia (77%), and hyperglycemia (66%).

Interactions

Metronidazole and itraconazole decrease clearance. Phenytoin increases clearance by 15% or more. Acetaminophen use within 72 hours prior may reduce clearance.

Warnings

Busulfan causes severe and prolonged myelosuppression at the recommended dosage. Hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation is required to prevent potentially fatal complications. Risks include seizures, hepatic veno-occlusive disease, embryo-fetal toxicity, cardiac tamponade in pediatric patients, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Pregnancy

Busulfan is teratogenic in animal studies. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. No human pregnancy data available.

Storage

Unopened vials must be stored under refrigerated conditions between 2 to 8 degrees C. Diluted solutions stable at room temperature for up to 8 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Busulfan used for?

Indicated for use in combination with cyclophosphamide as a conditioning regimen prior to allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation for chronic myelogenous leukemia.

What are the side effects of Busulfan?

Most common (over 60%): myelosuppression, nausea (98%), stomatitis (97%), vomiting (95%), anorexia (85%), diarrhea (84%), fever (80%), insomnia (84%), anxiety (72%), hypomagnesemia (77%), and hyperglycemia (66%).

Can I take Busulfan during pregnancy?

Busulfan is teratogenic in animal studies. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. No human pregnancy data available.

What are the important warnings for Busulfan?

Busulfan causes severe and prolonged myelosuppression at the recommended dosage. Hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation is required to prevent potentially fatal complications. Risks include seizures, hepatic veno-occlusive disease, embryo-fetal toxicity, cardiac tamponade in pediatric patients, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.