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cladribine - injection, Leustatin

GENERIC NAME: CLADRIBINE - INJECTION (KLAD-rib-een)

BRAND NAME(S): Leustatin

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

WARNING: This medication may cause very serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as white cells, red cells, and platelets). This effect can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, cause anemia, or cause your body to bruise or bleed easier. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: signs of infection (fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.

When used in high doses, cladribine may cause very serious kidney or nerve disorders. Nerve disorders may also rarely occur in patients taking the normal dose of cladribine. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: change in the amount of urine, weakness/numbness/tingling in your hands/feet, inability to move your arms/legs.

USES: Cladribine is used to treat a certain type of cancer (hairy cell leukemia). It works by stopping the growth of cancer cells.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This medication may also be used to treat other types of cancer (certain lymphomas).

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your weight and response to treatment. This medication is usually given continuously for 7 days in a row or as directed by your doctor.Avoid getting the medication on the skin or in the eyes, mouth, or nose. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor immediately.

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