Cyclophosphamide is also known as cytophosphane. This belongs to the group of medicines called the oxazophorines group. It is a nitrogen mustard alkylating agent, which interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth in the body. It is a "prodrug" which is transformed to some active forms that have chemotherapeutic activity in the liver, which treats various types of cancer and some autoimmune disorders.

Uses

• Cyclophosphamide is used with other chemotherapy agents to treat lymphomas, some forms of leukemia.
• It is used to treat some solid tumors.
• It is also used to treat certain cases of nephrotic syndrome such as kidney disease in children.
• Cyclophosphamide is also used to treat Minimal Change Disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
• It is still used for Wegener's granulomatosis, under the brand name Endoxan.

Safety tips

• Before taking cyclophosphamide, tell your doctor if you
  • have an infection
  • have a low level of white blood cells
  • have had recent vaccinations
  • have bone marrow problems
  • have been earlier treated with x-ray therapy or other chemotherapy medicines
  • need to have surgery
  • have any unhealed wounds
  • have had your adrenal glands removed
  • have heart, liver or kidney disease
• Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Side effects
Some side effects are common while taking anti cancer medicines for which no medical attention is required such as hair loss, difficulty breathing, tiredness, mouth ulcers, numbness etc. However, you should immediately consult your doctor if you have the following serious side effects:

• An allergic reaction
• Blood in the urine or Difficult urination
• Black stools
• Signs of infection like fever, chills
• Jaundice
• Chest pain
• Unusual bleeding
• Changes in bone marrow function etc.

Brands