General Health

Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide)

Cytoxan is used for treating certain types of the following cancers: lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukemia, mycosis fungoides, neuroblastoma, ovarian cancer, eye cancer, and breast cancer. It is usually used in combination with other medicines. It may also be used to treat certain kidney problems (nephrotic syndrome) in children or for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Use Cytoxan as directed by your doctor.

• Take Cytoxan tablets by mouth.
• Swallow Cytoxan with a drink of water.
• Take your doses at regular intervals.

Cytoxan is an antineoplastic. It works by stopping or slowing the growth or spread of certain cancer cells.

If you miss a dose of Cytoxan, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Store Cytoxan at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Cytoxan out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Do not use Cytoxan if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Cytoxan or to other similar medicines;
• you are in the first 3 months of pregnancy or you are breast-feeding;
• you are taking tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-blocking medicines (e.g,. etanercept) .

• Cytoxan may reduce the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your blood. To prevent bleeding, avoid situations in which bruising or injury may occur. Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, blood in stools, or dark, tarry stools to your doctor.
• Cytoxan may lower your body's ability to fight infection. Prevent infection by avoiding contact with people with colds or other infections. Notify your doctor of any signs of infection, including fever, sore throat, rashes, or chills.
• Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using Cytoxan . If possible, inform the doctor or dentist at least 10 days before the procedure.
• Cytoxan may decrease your body's ability to heal wounds. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
• Cytoxan may increase your chance of developing a second cancer, sometimes even years after stopping treatment with Cytoxan . Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
• Cytoxan may cause infertility that is sometimes permanent. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
• Check with your doctor before receiving any vaccinations while you are using Cytoxan.
• The use of birth control is recommended while using Cytoxan.
• Lab tests, including complete blood cell counts, platelet counts, and urine tests, may be performed to monitor your progress or to check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Use Cytoxan with caution in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Cytoxan has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. Avoid becoming pregnant while you are using Cytoxan . If you think you may be pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Cytoxan during pregnancy. Cytoxan is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast feed while taking Cytoxan.