GENERIC NAME: BUSULFAN - INJECTION (byou-SULL-fan)

BRAND NAME(S): Busulfex

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection or cancer, as well as preventing normal blood clotting. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, persistent sore throat; easy bruising/bleeding or unusual tiredness/fatigue.

USES: Busulfan is used in combination with cyclophosphamide in the treatment of leukemia (chronic myelogenous leukemia) before stem cell transplant. It works by stopping cancer cells from multiplying, but also affects some normal cells, such as bone marrow cells.

HOW TO USE: Give this medication by vein (IV) over 2 hours, diluted in a solution (e.g., saline, dextrose), usually 4 times daily for 4 days; or as directed by your doctor. To minimize side effects, you may be given other medications (e.g., anti-nausea, anti-seizure agents) to take in addition to this drug. Follow all directions for the proper use of other medications; consult your doctor or pharmacist. Drink plenty of fluids while using this medication, unless instructed otherwise. Follow all instructions for proper preparation, use, handling, and safe disposal of this medication. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions regarding busulfan. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, diarrhea or constipation, headache, skin darkening, flushing, trouble sleeping, pain or swelling at the injection site, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual tiredness, fast or irregular heartbeat, fever, persistent sore throat, easy bruising/bleeding, mental/mood changes, vomiting, increased thirst, blurred vision, muscle cramps or weakness, chest pain, seizures, sudden weight gain, stomach pain or swelling, change in amount or color of urine, mouth sores. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dizziness, fainting. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: dark urine, yellowing of the eyes/skin, coughing up blood, vision problems. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. Rare, possibly fatal, lung problems may occur months to years after using busulfan. Symptoms include trouble breathing; or persistent cough or congestion. Report any symptoms promptly. Even though this is an anti-cancer drug, busulfan may infrequently cause a new cancer to develop. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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