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Health and Nutrition > Medicines > E



How does it work?

Cyclophosphamide is one of a group of anti-cancer medicines called 'alkylating agents'. Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Cyclophosphamide acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by damaging the DNA (the genetic material within the cells) and preventing them from dividing. Cyclophosphamide is used in the treatment of a wide variety of cancers including cancer of the lymph nodes (lymphoma) and blood cells (leukaemias). It is usually used in combination with other anti-cancer medicines. Unfortunately, cyclophosphamide also affects normal, healthy cells and therefore it produces serious side-effects during long-term treatment. The most important side effect is in the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Regular blood tests are therefore needed to monitor the bone marrow and prevent the damage from becoming permanent. Cyclophosphamide can be taken either by mouth as tablets or is given by slow infusion in to the veins (intravenously). In some cases a medicine called Mesna (Uromitexan) is also given to reduce the adverse effects of cyclophosphamide on the bladder (urinary tract). Drinking plenty of fluids when taking cyclophosphamide also helps to reduce the severity of adverse effects on the bladder.

What is it used for?

- Cancer of the lymph nodes
- Other cancers

Warning!

- For use only under specialist medical supervision
- Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.
- Handle this medicine with care; avoid direct contact with bare skin

Use with caution in

- Decreased kidney function
- Decreased liver function
- Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)
- Low white blood cell count (leucopenia)
- People with decreased defences against disease or infection (impaired immune response) due to disease or treatment
- Reduced platelet count in the blood

Not to be used in