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fludarabine - injection, Fludara

GENERIC NAME: FLUDARABINE - INJECTION (flew-DARE-uh-bean)

BRAND NAME(S): Fludara

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

WARNING: This medication may cause certain severe blood and bone marrow problems (low red blood cells/white blood cells/platelets, hemolytic anemia). These problems can decrease your body's ability to prevent/stop bleeding, fight infection, or carry enough oxygen in your blood. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop easy bleeding/bruising, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat, pale/bluish skin color, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, persistent sore throat).

Fludarabine may rarely cause severe (sometimes fatal) central nervous system problems. Symptoms may not occur until weeks after your last treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any vision changes, seizures, agitation, confusion, or numbness/tingling.

Do not use fludarabine with pentostatin (deoxycoformycin). Use of these 2 medications together has caused fatal lung problems.

USES: This medication is used to treat leukemia and other cancers. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

HOW TO USE: This medication is usually given by injection into a vein by a health care professional over 30 minutes, once a day for 5 days or as directed by your doctor.Dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment. Your doctor will check your blood counts to make sure you can receive your next cycle. Keep all medical/lab appointments.If this medication touches your skin, immediately wash the area well with soap and water. If this medication gets in your eye, open the eyelid and flush with water, then seek immediate medical attention.

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