GENERIC NAME: CHLORAMBUCIL - ORAL (klor-AM-byou-sill)
BRAND NAME(S): Leukeran
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Chlorambucil can cause cancer or weaken your bone marrow. Bone marrow is where blood cells are made that protect you against infections/illness. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection (persistent sore throat or fever), easy bruising or bleeding, or unusual fatigue. Chlorambucil may damage chromosomes (genes); has left men and women sterile (inability to have children); and has caused birth defects.
USES: Chlorambucil is one of a group of drugs known as alkylating agents"; these drugs are also known as cancer drugs, chemotherapy, antineoplastics or "chemo". They are used in the treatment of various cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. A combination of different types of cancer drugs will often be used to achieve better results and minimize side effects.
HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, or if you miss a dose, contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, or changes in menstrual period are common side effects. Taking the medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limited activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Contact your doctor, without delay, if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, easy bruising or bleeding, black, tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, small red spots on the skin, joint pain, swollen feet or lower legs, sores in mouth or on lips, yellow eyes or skin, cough, lower back or side pain, stomach pain, trouble walking, muscle twitching, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, weakness, paralysis. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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