Prescription Required
Description
Cytoxan is an oral tablet made up of an alkylating agent, cyclophosphamide. This pill is usually white with blue spots however the appearance can vary. This medication can be bought as the brand choice Cytoxan or as the generic alternative cyclophosphamide, both available in 50mg.
This medication is used for the treatment of various types of cancer (uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells with potential to invade and spread), as well as treating nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disorder where too much protein is passed into the urine).
This chemotherapy medication works by slowing and/or stopping the growth of certain cells as well as decreasing your immune systems response to various diseases.
Directions
Always follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or health care professional, your dose is based on a few different factors and may be different than suggested below. Do not increase or decrease your dose.
Ensure you are drinking lots of fluids (ideally water) during the duration of using this medication. This will help avoid kidney and bladder side effects.
Swallow the capsule whole; do not chew, crush or break the capsules. If a capsule accidently breaks, make sure wash your hands thoroughly. Take one tablet a day, in the morning. It is suggested to wear gloves when touching cyclophosphamide tablets.
Cautions
Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Also be sure to mention any drug allergies you may have.
It is important to tell your doctor if you have decreased bone marrow function (e.g. anemia, leucopenia). Certain medical conditions shouldn’t be used with this medication. You should also mention if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or surgery to remove your adrenal glands, you should mention this to your doctor even if the condition has already been treated.
Cyclophosphamide can allow for easier infections. Make sure to stay on top of good hygiene by washing your hands frequently throughout the day and avoiding contact with people who have infections.
Do not get your vaccinations done while using Cytoxan unless your doctor has directed you to.
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects of this medication.
Cyclophosphamide can harm an unborn baby and pregnancy should be avoided while on Cyclophosphamide. Use birth control methods like condoms to avoid getting pregnant. If you become pregnant while on Cyclophosphamide, inform your doctor as soon as you can.
This medication passes into breast milk and has the potential to harm an unborn baby. Breast feeding is not recommended while on Cyclophosphamide.
Side Effects
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Common side effects of Cytoxan may include:
- Hair loss
- Not hungry
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach or throwing up
- Belly pain
- Change in color of skin
- Change in nails
Serious side effects of Cytoxan may include:
- Cough or hoarseness
- fever or chills
- lower back or side pain
- missing menstrual periods
- painful or difficult urination
Signs to watch for:
Allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Infection: fever, chills, very bad sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, more sputum or change in color of sputum, pain with passing urine, mouth sores, or wound that will not heal.
Internal bleeding: throwing up or coughing up blood; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; blood in the urine; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; abnormal vaginal bleeding; bruises without a cause or that get bigger; or bleeding you cannot stop.
Kidney problems: unable to pass urine, change in how much urine is passed, blood in the urine, or a big weight gain.
Low sodium levels: headache, trouble focusing, memory problems, confusion, weakness, seizures, or change in balance.
FAQs
Will this medication affect my fertility in the future?
Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide) has caused infertility in both males and females. Sometimes it gets reversed, and sometimes it's permanent. Speak with your doctor for more info.
What is Procytox?
Procytox is Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide). Sometimes medications have different names internationally; Procytox is just the international name for Cytoxan.
Will this medication affect my menstrual cycle?
In some cases, Cytoxan has been known to stop menstrual cycles. Sometimes they return, and other times they do not and menopause is experienced at a much younger age than normal. Consult your doctor if this is a concern of yours.
What are some other cautions about this medication?
This medication can cause low sodium levels, lung problems, other types of cancers later on in life, heart problems like heart failure and allergic reactions. These are all rare cases.
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