Uses of undefined

Fludarabine is a chemotherapy medication that is used in treatment of B-Cell chronic lymphocytic Leukemia (blood cancer).

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Fludarabine is given into the vein using an injection and is available in two doses of 10mg and 50 mg. 

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Before starting treatment with fludarabine, inform your doctor if you have bone marrow problems, a depressed immune system or a history of having had serious infections. Report to your doctor immediately if you feel unwell and see any unexplained bleeding or bruising while using this medication as it may be an indication of infections. Upon noticing a reddish brown colored urine, rashes or blisters on the skin, notify your doctor. Your doctor will conduct regular blood tests during treatment with Fludarabine, and closely monitor you.

Precautions

Both men and women are advised to use effective contraception while being treated with Fludarabine and must continue to use it for six months after the last dose. Inform your doctor if you have any kidney conditions as your doctor will conduct regular tests to check your kidney function. Fludarabine may be harmful to the baby, hence inform your doctor if you are pregnant or think that you might be pregnant before starting treatment with this medication. Breastfeeding is not be started or continued while being treated with this medication as it may interfere with the growing and developing of the baby. Avoid driving while using this medication as it may cause tiredness, weakness, confusion, vision disturbances or seizures, making driving unsafe. 

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Fludarabine are, diarrhea, fever, infections, pneumonia, reduced number of blood platelets, brusing and bleeding, lowered red and white blood cells, cough, tiredness, nausea and vomiting.

Word Of Advice

Do not take any vaccinations during and after treatment with fludarabine without informing your doctor, as live medicines are to be avoided. This medication consists of less than 1mmol sodium per dose, hence, it can be taken if you are on a low salt diet as it is essentially sodium free. This medication is not be used in children. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Fludarabine.

Frequently Asked Question

• Is Fludarabine a chemotherapy medication?
• Yes, Fludarabine is a chemotherapy medication that is used in treatment of B-Cell chronic lymphocytic Leukemia (blood cancer).

• Is Fludarabine safe to use during pregnancy?
• Fludarabine may be harmful to the baby, hence inform your doctor if you are pregnant or think that you might be pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

• Can I use Fludarabine while driving?
• Avoid driving or handling heavy machinery while taking this harmful. This is because this medication can cause tiredness, weakness, confusion, vision disturbances or seizures, making driving unsafe. 

• Can Fludarabine be self-administered?
• No Fludarabine should be given only under the supervision of the doctor or nurse and it should not be self-administered.

• Is it okay if to get vaccinated while being treated with Fludarabine?
• Do not take any vaccinations during and after treatment with fludarabine without informing your doctor, as live medicines are to be avoided.

• How long should I use contraception while being treated with Fludarabine?
• Both men and women are advised to use effective contraception while being treated with Fludarabine and must continue to use it for six months after the last dose.