Nelarabine

Generic name: nelarabine [ nel-AR-a-been ]
Brand name: Arranon
Dosage form: intravenous solution (5 mg/mL)
Drug class:Antimetabolites

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 4, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is nelarabine?

Nelarabine is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Nelarabine is used to treat T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma.

Nelarabine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Nelarabine may cause serious side effects on your central nervous system. Call your doctor right away if you have severe drowsiness, numbness and tingling in your hands or feet, problems with walking, loss of balance or coordination, or trouble using your fingers.

Avoid getting pregnant while using nelarabine and for at least 3 months after your last dose.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with nelarabine if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;

• kidney disease;

• a nervous system disorder; or

• prior chemotherapy or radiation treatment of your head, neck, or spinal cord.

You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Do not use nelarabine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using nelarabine and for at least 3 months after your last dose.

A man receiving nelarabine should use a condom during treatment, and for at least 3 months after treatment ends.

You should not breast-feed while you are receiving nelarabine.

How is nelarabine given?

Nelarabine is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 2 hours to complete.

Nelarabine can lower your blood cell counts. Your blood will need to be tested often. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results.