Cyclophosphamide

Generic Name: cyclophosphamide

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide is a synthetic antineoplastic agent chemically related to nitrogen mustards. Available as a sterile white powder in single-dose vials containing 500 mg, 1 g, or 2 g of cyclophosphamide monohydrate.

Overview

Cyclophosphamide is a synthetic antineoplastic agent chemically related to nitrogen mustards. Available as a sterile white powder in single-dose vials containing 500 mg, 1 g, or 2 g of cyclophosphamide monohydrate.

Uses

Indicated for treating adults and pediatric patients with malignant diseases including lymphomas, leukemias, multiple myeloma, and solid tumors. Also approved for minimal change nephrotic syndrome in pediatric patients who failed or cannot tolerate adrenocorticosteroid therapy.

Dosage

During or immediately after administration, administer adequate amounts of fluid to reduce the risk of urinary tract toxicity. IV doses: 40-50 mg/kg over 2-5 days or 10-15 mg/kg every 7-10 days. Oral: 1-5 mg/kg daily.

Side Effects

Most common include neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, fever, alopecia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious reactions span cardiac, pulmonary, renal, hepatic, reproductive, and hematologic systems.

Interactions

Protease inhibitors may increase cytotoxic metabolites. Radiation and other chemotherapy potentiate toxicities. Notable interactions include metronidazole, tamoxifen, warfarin, and depolarizing muscle relaxants.

Warnings

Seven major categories: myelosuppression and infections, urinary tract toxicity, cardiotoxicity, pulmonary toxicity, secondary malignancies, veno-occlusive liver disease, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity reactions to cyclophosphamide and in those with urinary outflow obstruction.

Pregnancy

Cyclophosphamide can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Documented malformations include skeletal, palatal, and limb defects, plus miscarriage and growth retardation.

Storage

Store vials at or below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Cyclophosphamide is a hazardous product requiring special handling and disposal procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cyclophosphamide used for?

Indicated for treating adults and pediatric patients with malignant diseases including lymphomas, leukemias, multiple myeloma, and solid tumors. Also approved for minimal change nephrotic syndrome in pediatric patients who failed or cannot tolerate adrenocorticosteroid therapy.

What are the side effects of Cyclophosphamide?

Most common include neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, fever, alopecia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Serious reactions span cardiac, pulmonary, renal, hepatic, reproductive, and hematologic systems.

Can I take Cyclophosphamide during pregnancy?

Cyclophosphamide can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Documented malformations include skeletal, palatal, and limb defects, plus miscarriage and growth retardation.

What are the important warnings for Cyclophosphamide?

Seven major categories: myelosuppression and infections, urinary tract toxicity, cardiotoxicity, pulmonary toxicity, secondary malignancies, veno-occlusive liver disease, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with severe hypersensitivity reactions to cyclophosphamide and in those with urinary outflow obstruction.

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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.