Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide) from Maple Leaf Medications.

What is Cytoxan?

Cytoxan, with the generic name cyclophosphamide, is an oral medication indicated to treat malignant diseases or lymphomas, such as Hodgkin’s disease, leukemia, multiple myeloma, neuroblastoma, breast carcinoma, and multiple myeloma, among others. It is also used to manage kidney disease or nephrotic syndrome among pediatric patients.

This alkylating drug is an activated form of cyclophosphamide. It binds to DNA and produces a cytotoxic effect through cross-linking of strands of DNA and RNA. It also inhibits protein synthesis. This medication also decreases the immune response to certain diseases. However, these actions are not cell-specific.

This is available in Cytoxan 50 mg and 25 mg tablet forms.

How to use Cytoxan

Make sure you read the medication information leaflet that comes with the product. Never take this type of medication if you have not yet fully understood the drug information and instructions written in the guide. In case you need more medical advice or have queries on how to use this oral medication, you can ask your physician or pharmacist.

Take this tablet orally. It is best to take this drug with a meal to avoid stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole and drink a lot of fluids in order to pass urine frequently and avoid kidney or bladder problems. Do not split or crush the tablet because this type of medication could be absorbed by the skin and lungs.

Remember to take this prescription drug regularly and exactly as directed. To avoid missing your dose, create a dosing schedule. Do not alter your Cytoxan dosage as it depends on your age, weight, medical condition, response to medication, and other treatments you are receiving. Also, do not stop taking this drug abruptly unless advised by your doctor.

Cytoxan Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Darkening of the skin and nails
• Temporary hair loss

Mostly, the side effects caused by this prescription drug are mild and will resolve even without intervention. If the adverse reactions become worse or persist, you should hold the medication and talk to your doctor or any healthcare professional. Also, you must report severe side effects, such as:

• Joint pain
• Mouth sores
• Poor wound healing
• Black or bloody stool
• Severe abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Yellowish eyes and skin
• Muscle spasm
• Mental or mood changes
• Signs of bladder problems (changes in urine output, blood in the urine)
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Sudden weight gain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Swelling of the ankles and feet
• Infection signs (fever, chills, persistent sore throat)
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Night sweats
• Unusual lumps

This is not a full or complete list of the side effects of Cytoxan.

Precautions when using Cytoxan

Before starting to use this prescription drug, you must fully disclose your medical history to your physician, including kidney disease, bladder problems, liver disease, and decreased bone marrow function. Some conditions may impact how your body will respond to treatment. In addition, you should also talk about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking because of possible drug interactions.

Always be watchful for an allergic reaction while taking this drug. Do not take this oral medication if you have a known allergy to cyclophosphamide, busulfan, chlorambucil, other chemotherapy drugs, or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. Immediately discontinue medication and call your medical emergency line once you notice signs of hypersensitivity, such as breathing trouble, skin rashes, swelling of the face and neck, hives, and severe dizziness.

This type of medication could decrease your immune system response and make you more likely to get an infection or experience severe symptoms of infection. Always practice personal hygiene and wash your hands thoroughly. Contact with infected people should be avoided. You should also avoid getting vaccination or immunization while having this drug.

Practice safety caution when using sharp objects like knives, razors, and nail cutters. You should also avoid all contact sports or any activities that could make you more prone to injury and bleeding.

Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must avoid taking this medication because it could cause harm to unborn babies and nursing infants. Always keep in mind that the possible advantages must outweigh the potential hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) a chemotherapy drug?

Yes, this medication is a chemotherapy agent. This is also available in Cytoxan infusion therapy.

Does Cytoxan cause hair loss?

This drug may cause temporary hair loss.

What are some of the long-term effects of Cytoxan?

This drug may cause bladder problems and bone marrow failure.

How much does Cytoxan cost?

You may check for Cytoxan price from this page.

Can I buy Cytoxan online?

You may purchase this oral drug if you have a doctor’s prescription at hand.