Cytoxan, the trade name for the generic drug cyclophosphamide, is a chemotherapy drug used to kill cancer cells. It can be given intravenously, intramuscularly or orally via pill. It can be used to treat various cancers, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma, lymphoma and lung cancer. The dosage and schedule of Cytoxan you will receive depends on your height and weight, your general health, and the ailment for which you are being treated. There is a dose-response relationship with Cytoxan; the higher the dose you receive, the more severe the side effects.
Precautions
Since Cytoxan may cause birth defects, you should use some sort of birth control to avoid causing harm to a developing fetus. If you are breastfeeding, this medication can pass through breast milk and may harm the baby, according to the American Cancer Society. If you plan to have children in the future, tell your doctor, since this drug may have adverse effects on your fertility. Your doctor can go over any concerns about the medication you may have and discuss options for preserving your fertility.
Typical Side Effects
Many chemotherapy drugs, including Cytoxan, cause low blood cell counts, which means the amount of white and red blood cells is significantly lowered. When white and red blood cell counts are low, you are more susceptible to infection and anemia. This medication also causes temporary hair loss, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, impaired fertility, mouth and lip sores, diarrhea, and changes in your skin and nails. Less common side effects include bladder irritation, acne and fatigue. There is also a slight risk of later developing a blood cancer as a result of being treated with this drug. Talk to your doctor before treatment starts about any concerns or questions you may have.
Serious Complications
You should contact your health care team if you have a fever of 100.5 degrees F or higher, vomiting or diarrhea that occurs more than four to five times in a 24-hour period, black or tarry stools, fatigue that is so extreme you are unable to function in your daily activities, and if you have blood in your urine.
