Fludarabine (injection)
Generic name: fludarabine (injection) [ floo-DAR-a-been ]
Dosage forms: intravenous powder for injection (50 mg); intravenous solution (25 mg/mL)
Drug class:Antimetabolites
What is fludarabine?
Fludarabine is used to treat B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Fludarabine is usually given after other treatments have failed.
Fludarabine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
In rare cases, fludarabine may cause serious side effects on your nervous system. Seek medical attention right away if you have any numbness or tingling, burning pain, or vision problems.
Fludarabine may also cause serious side effects on your red blood cells. Call your doctor right away if you feel weak or confused, or if you have pale or yellowed skin, or dark urine.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with fludarabine if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
bone marrow problems or a weak immune system;
an infection;
skin cancer; or
a viral infection such as herpes zoster (shingles), Epstein-Barr, or a virus affecting the central nervous system.
Fludarabine may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while you are receiving fludarabine.
How is fludarabine given?
Fludarabine is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Fludarabine is given in a 28-day treatment cycle. You may need to use the medicine only during the first 5 days of each cycle. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with fludarabine.
This medicine must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 30 minutes to complete.
Fludarabine can be harmful if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. If skin contact occurs, wash the area with soap and water or rinse the eyes thoroughly with plain water.
Fludarabine can increase your risk of bleeding or infection. You will need frequent medical tests. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results.
If you need to have a blood transfusion, tell your caregivers ahead of time that you are being treated with fludarabine.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you m...
