Fludarabine

Uses of Fludarabine

Fludarabine is commonly used to treat Blood Cancer, Blood Cancer Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, Non Hodgkin Lymphoma Nhl

How Fludarabine Works

Fludarabine is a purine antagonist. It works by inhibiting alpha-DNA polymerase, ribonucleotide reductase and DNA primase in DNA synthesis hence leading to cell death.

Side Effects of Fludarabine

Skin cancer, Confusion, Seizure, Chest pain, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Cough, Shortness of breath, Painful urinating

Warnings

Kidney High Risk

Dosage adjustment is needed in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment and is contraindicated to be used in patients with severe renal impairment.

Alcohol Limited Data

There is no clear contraindication of the consumption of alcohol when taking Fludarabine

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies clearly showed teratogenicity and harmful effects on the fetal development. Fludarabine should not be used during pregnancy regardless of which trimester stage unless there is no other form of treatment besides Fludarabine.

Driving Not advisable

Fludarabine is generally safe to be used before driving but caution should be taken if the user feels fatigued or having visual disturbance after taking Fludarabine.

Liver Use With Care

Although there is no clear contraindication nor dosage adjustment needed for hepatic impaired patients, caution should still be taken since the patient may take any other medications as well.

Lactation Not Advisable

It is not known fully whether Fludarabine or its metabolites pass into breastmilk or not. Due to its potential toxicity and effects on the breastfeeding infant, breastfeeding is contraindicated during the treatment course.

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).