Cytoxan

Drug Uses

Cytoxan is an antineoplastic that is used for treating certain types of cancers (lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukemia, mycosis fungoides, neuroblastoma, ovarian cancer, eye cancer, and breast cancer). It may be used in combination with other medicines.

How it is taken

Cytoxan must be taken by mouth with food to avoid an upset stomach. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Cytoxan, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

Some of the symptoms of a Cytoxan over dose are back or stomach pain, fast heartbeat, red or bloody urine, weakness. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.
 

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, you are allergic to any ingredient in Cytoxan, if you have an infection, chickenpox, a suppressed immune system, bone marrow suppression or other bone marrow problems, low levels of white blood cells or platelets, or liver or kidney problems, are receiving or have received cytotoxic therapy, x–ray, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, have had an adrenal gland removed (adrenalectomy).

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you are taking tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–blocking medicines (eg, etanercept).

Cytoxan may reduce the number of clot–forming cells (platelets) in your blood and also weaken your immune system. So, avoid situations which may injure or bruise you. Also avoid contact with people with colds or other infections.

Cytoxan may also decrease your body’s ability to heal, may increase the chance of developing a second cancer and may cause permanent infertility.

Inform your dentist about Cytoxan at least 10 days in advance before receiving any emergency dental treatment or care.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using and contact your doctor immediately.

Certain drugs can interact with Cytoxan and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Cytoxan is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
 

Some of the common side effects of are Appetite loss, absence of menstrual periods, color change in skin, diarrhea, general unwell feeling, hair loss, nausea, skin rash, stomach discomfort or pain, texture change in nails, vomiting, and weakness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), blood in urine, bloody or black tarry stools, chest pain, chills, fever, hallucinations, increased or decreased urination, infection, lower back or abdominal pain, pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, painful urination, persistent cough, pneumonia, red, swollen, or blistered skin, seizures, severe stomach pain, shortness of breath, sore throat, sores in the mouth, swelling of the hands or feet, unusual bruising or bleeding, unusual or severe tiredness or weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.