Fludarabine Phosphate

General Information

Fludarabine Phosphate is used to treat a type of cancer of white blood cells called chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This is for people who have enough healthy cells remaining in their bone marrow. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor the levels of blood cells.

On most chemotherapy regimens, doses are administered in courses at various intervals. It is to allow normal cells to recover from the adverse effects of anticancer medicine between doses. However, throughout this period, cancer cells will also recover and start to replicate again. This medication helps you to slow or stop the growth and spread of the cancer cells.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a disease characterized by an increased number of lymphocytes. In which this is one of the main types of white cells in the blood. Despite their increased number, these lymphocytes are functionally deficient and the immune system of the person is compromised. Patients with this condition have an increased risk of infection and malignancy. Here are some symptoms of CLL:

  • Bruising easily (often without having any fall or blow)
  • Tiredness due to anemia
  • Repeated infections
  • Night sweats
  • Weight loss
  • Fever

Fludarabine Phosphate is a type of medicine for cancer known as a cytotoxic antimetabolite. It kills the abnormal blood cells that cause the disease. This medication is supplied as tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains Fludarabine Phosphate as an active ingredient. This is available in the dosage form of 10 mg tablet. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.

How does Fludarabine Phosphate work?

Fludarabine Phosphate works by stopping the abnormal blood cells from multiplying. It does this by inhibiting the production of the cells genetic material, RNA, and DNA. Both RNA and DNA are needed for growth and multiplication of cells. This drug causes a deficiency of RNA and DNA in the cancerous cells. This causes them to grow in an unbalanced way. That it results in the death of the cells.

This medication can also affect normal and healthy cells. It is particularly those that multiply quickly such as healthy blood cells. Even though the aim of treating leukemia with Fludarabine Phosphate is to kill the cancerous blood cells, the most important side effect is on the bone marrow. It is where blood cells are made. This drug also decreases the production of normal blood cells. Wherein, it can leave people susceptible to infection.

The bone marrow creates cells called stem cells. These usually progress into different types of blood cells (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets). In leukemia, the bone marrow produces too many immature white blood cells. These abnormal cells take up space in the bone marrow and result in less room for the production of normal healthy blood cells.

How to use Fludarabine Phosphate?

The recommended dosage will depend on your medical condition, age, and response to the treatment. You must take this medication exactly as it is prescribed. You should not take more or less or more often than it is given by your doctor. For the best benefit from this product, take it regularly. Do not stop taking this medication without the consent of your doctor. It may cause another complication or may worsen your current condition.

Fludarabine Phosphate is to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 5 days in a row or as directed by your doctor. This 5-day cycle may be repeated after 28 days, usually for up to 6 cycles. You may take each dose with or without a meal. Swallow the drug as a whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets. Remember to take it at the same time and in the same way each day. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule. Inform your doctor if your condition gets worse or does not improve. Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve.

What are the side effects of Fludarabine Phosphate?

Common side effects:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Tiredness
  • Diarrhea
  • Pain or sores in the mouth or throat
  • Muscle pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Swelling in your legs
  • Skin rash
  • Sweating or mild itching
  • Cold symptoms (stuffy or runny nose and sneezing)

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

  • Persistent cough
  • Bloody, black, or tarry stools
  • Chest pain
  • Pain or difficulty breathing

If there are any signs of an allergic reaction occur, call your doctor right away:

  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling especially of the throat, face, or tongue

If there are side effects that persist or get worse, call your doctor for instructions.

Warnings and Precautions

  • Fludarabine Phosphate should be used with caution in people aged 75 years, with decreased kidney and liver function.
  • This is not prescribed for use in people with a condition called hemolytic anemia. It is where there are decreased numbers of red blood cells in the bloodstream.
  • This is also not recommended for use in children and breastfeeding women.
  • Do not use this drug if you are allergic to it. Tell your doctor if you have any allergies. This drug may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
  • If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor first before using. If you get pregnant while using this treatment, call your doctor immediately.
  • You should not share this or any of your prescriptions with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
  • Inform your doctor about the medical history that you had. Tell also if you are taking current medications such as vitamins or herbal supplements.
  • Do not have vaccinations or immunizations without the consent of your doctor while taking this drug.
  • Keep this medication at room temperature far from heat, moisture, and far from the reach of children.