Cytarabine - Cytarabine Drug Information

Indroduction and Uses of Cytarabine

Cytarabine is chemotherapy that is given as a treatment for some types of cancer. It is sometimes called Ara C. Cytarabine is most commonly used to treat acute myeloid leukaemia.

Cytarabine prevents cells from making DNA and RNA by interfering with the synthesis of nucleic acids, thus stopping the growth of cancer cells.

Possible Side effects of Cytarabine

Each person's reaction to chemotherapy is unique. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this information will not affect everyone who is given cytarabine, and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lack of energy
• Decreased white blood cell count with increased risk of infection
• Skin changes
• Decreased platelet count with increased risk of bleeding
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Effects on the nervous system
• Sores in mouth or on lips

Dosage and dosing of Cytarabine

The doses of these medicines will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of these medicines. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Warning and Precautions of Cytarabine

• While cytarabine is being given, it can cause pain at the place where the injection is given, or along the vein. If you feel pain tell the doctor or nurse. They can slow the drip down to reduce the feeling.

• If you think you may want to have children in the future. Many chemotherapy drugs can cause sterility.

• Cytarabine can decrease your white blood cell count, especially 7 to 9 days after the drug is given. This can increase your risk of getting an infection. Report fever of 100.5°F or higher, or signs of infection such as pain in passing your urine, coughing, and bringing up sputum.

Storage conditions of Cytarabine

Keep nitulamide in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light and excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Cancer Tip In order to receive the best possible benefit from your cancer therapy, it is important to follow your treatment as your doctor has prescribed. Even if you're not able to visit your regular treatment facility, chances are good that you can still maintain your schedule; many other doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers are able to safely administer your treatment.

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Health Tip To help relieve a blocked nose, try a steam inhalation of a teaspoon of peppermint or menthol oil added to a bowl of hot water for at least ten minutes three times a day.

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