Cancer medication IFOSFAMIDE is a type of chemotherapy for treating cancer. It is an intravenously administered drug which requires metabolic activation by microsomal liver enzymes to produce biologically active metabolites. Urinary metabolites of ifosfamide are cytotoxic and alkylated metabolites of ifosfamide have been shown to interact with DNA which result in the formation of DNA-DNA cross links. It is extensively metabolised in humans and the metabolic pathway appear to be saturated at high doses. Ifosfamide is changed by the liver into a substance that interferes with the growth of rapidly dividing cells, like cancer cells, and eventually causes these cells to die. Ifosfamide is used in combination with other chemotherapy agents to treat cancer of the testes and other cancers. Ifosfamide may also be given as part of regimen prior to stem cell transplantation.

Uses :

• This injection is often used in combination with other medications to treat various cancers.
• Helps in reducing kidney and bladder problems.

How to use \ dosage :
This medication is given by a health care professional as an injection into a vein. It is important to drink large amounts of fluids while taking this medication. If you have difficulty drinking large amounts of water, fluid will be given by this medication as well. It is used for over 30 mins. or more administered intravenously at a dose of 1.2 gm/m² day for five consecutive days.

Safety tips
Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following while taking this medication such as :

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Breathing difficulties
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellow discoloration of the eyes or skin
• Blood in the urine
• Painful urination
• Severe stomach ache
• Muscle pain.

This Ifosfamide injection affects your blood cells. It is important to have your blood checked frequently while taking this medication to monitor the medications effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects :
This medication causes

Diarrhea Nausea Vomiting Constipation Hair loss Dizziness

Depression Muscle ache Headache Skin rash Mouth sores Low blood counts

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