Busulphan Description

Generic Name: BUSULPHAN

Pronunciation: (byoo sul' fan)

Trade Name(s): Mylefan, Myleran, Myran

Why it is prescribed: Your doctor has ordered the drug busulfan to help treat your illness. Busulfan shows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body. In addition to busulfan, 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: It is taken in tablet form. Busulfan shows or stops the growth of cancer cells in your body.

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 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. If you are sick just after taking the tablets let your doctor know as you need to take another one.Do not take another tablet without informing your doctor.
2. Some other medicines can be harmful when you are having chemotherapy.Always tell your doctor about any other medicine you are taking.
3. Blood count will be lowered by chemotherapy.

Side Effects:
1. Busulphan can cause a rash on the skin, which may be itchy.
2. Nausea, vomiting, mouth sores and ulcers are common.
3. Loss of apetite, fever, chills, swelling and tenderness of the breast, cataracts are seen rarely.
4. Your skin may darken.
5. Diarrhea and loss of appetite are seen rarely.

Other Precautions:
1. It is important to take your tablet at a right time.
2. Do not take a double dose, if you forget to take a dose.

Storage Conditions:
1. Store them in refrigerator.
2. Keep the tablets in a safe place, so that children cannot reach them, as this drug is harmful.
3. Do not flush them down the toilet or do not throw them away.