Chlorambucil Description

Generic Name: CHLORAMBUCIL

Pronunciation: (klor am' byoo sil)

Trade Name(s): Leukeran

Why it is prescribed: Your doctor has ordered the drug chlorambucil to help treat your illness. It is taken in tablet form. Chlorambucil slows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. In addition to chlorambucil, your doctor may have ordered other cancer-fighting drugs; this treatment is called combination therapy. Your doctor may measure the effectiveness of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. In general, the length of treatment depends on the types of drugs you are taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer you have.

When it is to be taken: The medication is available in the form of tablets. The tablets should be swallowed with plenty of water.

How it should be taken: The purpose of chemotherapy is to control your illness so that your own body can aid in your recovery. It is important to build up your body's defense system, and a balanced diet is needed to build a healthy body. Ask your doctor for advice on your diet.

Special Instruction:
1. It is especially important to prevent infection and injuries.
2. Avoid people with contagious diseases such as the flu.
3. Keep all cuts and scratches clean.
4. Maintain good personal hygiene, including hand washing and mouth care.
5. To avoid injuries, shave with an electric razor instead of blades and wear protective clothing (such as long pants and gloves) when working in the yard and garden.
6. Do not take any medications, especially those containing aspirin, without your doctor's advice.

Side Effects:
1. Although not everyone experiences side effects during chemotherapy, some people do.
2. If any of the effects becomes intolerable, let your doctor know.
3. The most common side effect of busulfan is decrease in the number of blood cells. These cells include white blood cells that fight infection, red blood cells that carry oxygen and energy, and platelets that help clot blood and promote healing.
4. Temporary reduction in bone marrow function, anemia, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite are rarely seen.

Other Precautions:
1. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.
2. Busulfan may affect your skin. Your skin may darken.
3. Busulfan may interfere with or stop the normal menstrual cycle (period) in women and may stop sperm production in men. However, you should not assume that you cannot get pregnant or get someone else pregnant just because you are on chemotherapy.
4. You should not plan to have children while receiving chemotherapy or for a while after treatments.
5. Use a reliable form of birth control to prevent pregnancy.
6. If you notice any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor as soon possible: breathing discomfort, persistent cough or congestion, fever, chills, sore throat, bruising, unusual bleeding, fatigue, dizziness, sudden weakness, loss of appetite or weight, and nausea and vomiting.
7. Try to maintain your normal activity schedule, but avoid stressful situations and be careful not to overexert yourself. Remember to take a break and rest whenever you feel tired.

Storage Conditions:
1. The tablets should be kept in the refrigerator.
2. Keep the tablets in the safe place where children cannot reach them, as chlorambucil could harm them.