Also Known As: Cytoxan-Intravenous , CTX, Neosar®
Cyclophosphamide (sy-klo-FASS-fa-mide) may stop cancer cells from growing by attacking and interfering with DNA, the genetic material in cells.
How It Is Given:
Intravenously (by vein)
Immediate Side Effects (beginning within 24 hours):
- Nasal stuffiness, light-headedness, watery eyes, runny nose, or sneezing may occur as the drug is being given.
- A metallic taste may occur while you are receiving the drug.
- Nausea or vomiting may occur four to six hours after receiving the drug and last 24 hours.
Early Side Effect (beginning within the first week):
- Bladder irritation in the form of burning on urination or blood in the urine may occur three to seven days after you have received the drug.
Late Side Effects (beginning after one week):
- A temporary decrease in white blood cell count may occur ten to fourteen days after treatment. A decrease in platelets count may also occur.
- In women, menstrual periods can become irregular or stop and fertility may be decreased. Please discuss these side effects with your doctor or nurse before you start treatment.
- In men, sperm production can decrease or be absent. This effect begins six to seven months after treatment. Please discuss it with your doctor or nurse before beginning treatment.
- Temporary thinning or loss of hair may begin three or more weeks after you have received the drug.
Special Points:
- Sucking hard candy during treatment may lessen the metallic taste.
- Cyclophosphamide can irritate the lining of the urinary bladder and it is important that it be given with a large amount of fluids through the vein.
- Drink at least two quarts of fluid every day for two to three days after treatment.
- Urinate every three to four hours and before bedtime for 24 hours following treatment.
- Take your antinausea medication as instructed.
- Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin®, Advil®), or products containing them unless your doctor prescribes them.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter preparations that do not require a prescription, herbal remedies, vitamins, or dietary supplements. Some of these may interfere with your chemotherapy.
Call Your Doctor or Nurse If You:
- Are unable to drink fluids the day after treatment.
- Have excessive vomiting lasting more than 24 hours.
- Have pain while you urinate or blood in your urine.
- Have a fever of 100.5º F (38º C) or higher.
- Have any unexpected or unexplained problems.
- Have any questions or concerns.
