Cyclophosphamide Tablets

Category: Alkylating agent / Anticancer drug
Form: Oral tablets

Uses:

• Treatment of various cancers, including:

  • Lymphomas (Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin)

  • Leukemias

  • Breast cancer and ovarian cancer

  • Multiple myeloma

• Used in immunosuppressive therapy for certain autoimmune disorders, such as severe systemic lupus erythematosus or vasculitis.

Mechanism of Action:

• Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent that cross-links DNA, preventing cancer cells from dividing and leading to cell death.

• It affects rapidly dividing cells, which is why it targets cancer but can also affect bone marrow and gastrointestinal cells.

Administration:

• Taken orally, usually once daily or as prescribed based on body weight and disease.

• Dose is individualized according to cancer type, severity, and patient tolerance.

• Often combined with other chemotherapy drugs in a regimen.

Side Effects:

• Common: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, fatigue.

• Other: low blood cell counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), mouth sores, bladder irritation.

• Serious:

  • Increased risk of infection due to immune suppression

  • Hemorrhagic cystitis (bladder bleeding)

  • Long-term use can increase risk of secondary cancers

  • Severe allergic reactions

Precautions:

• Adequate hydration is important to prevent bladder toxicity.

• Regular blood tests to monitor white and red blood cell counts.

• Use cautiously in patients with liver or kidney impairment.

• Avoid pregnancy; use effective contraception during and after treatment.

• Not recommended for breastfeeding.

Summary:
Cyclophosphamide Tablets are an oral chemotherapy and immunosuppressive drug used for cancer treatment and certain autoimmune disorders. They work by cross-linking DNA in rapidly dividing cells, inhibiting cell growth. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue, while serious risks such as bone marrow suppression, bladder toxicity, and secondary cancers require careful medical supervision.