Cytarabine
Uses of Cytarabine
Cytarabine is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain blood cancers.
It is commonly used for:
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML): Treats this type of blood cancer.
- Acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL): Manages this cancer of white blood cells.
- Chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML): Used as part of treatment for this blood cancer.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and meningeal leukaemia: Treats these cancers affecting the lymphatic system or the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, as part of a chemotherapy plan prescribed by your oncologist.
Side effects of Cytarabine
Nausea and Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Loss of Appetite
Mouth Sores
Hair Loss
How Cytarabine works
- Cytarabine is a chemotherapy medicine that mimics one of the natural building blocks of DNA.
- When a cell tries to divide and copy its DNA, it can mistakenly use Cytarabine instead of the correct building block. This stops the DNA from being copied properly, which prevents the cell from dividing.
- Because cancer cells divide rapidly, this effect particularly disrupts their growth. Cytarabine also blocks enzymes needed for DNA production, further slowing or stopping the spread of cancer.
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Reviewed By
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Expert Advice
Dosage forms available
- Cytarabine is administered by injection.
- It is available as a solution for injection in vials of varying strengths.
- It can also be found as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution before injection.
Age and dose restrictions
- Cytarabine is typically used in adults and in children, but the age range can vary based on the type of cancer being managed.
- The exact dosage and schedule depend on the type of cancer, the patient's body size, and combinations with other chemotherapy medicines.
Contraindications
- This medicine is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to Cytarabine.
- It should not be used in patients with active meningitis.
Other medications to avoid with this medicine
- Cytarabine may interact with heart medicines (such as Digoxin), antifungal medicines (like Flucytosine), and antibiotics (such as Gentamicin).
Overdose and missed dose
- In case of overdose, severe bone marrow suppression, gastrointestinal toxicity, and neurological problems may occur. Medical care in a hospital setting is necessary. There is no specific antidote for a Cytarabine overdose.
- If you miss a dose of this medicine, you should inform your doctor immediately.
Management of side effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.
- Drinking plenty of fluids can help manage nausea and vomiting.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene can help manage mouth sores.
- Resting or pacing your activities can alleviate fatigue.
Use in driving and operating machinery
- Cytarabine can cause dizziness or drowsiness, therefore it may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
- Cytarabine can cause harm to a developing foetus and should not be used during pregnancy.
- Cytarabine can pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Caution in other conditions
- Cytarabine should be used cautiously in patients with pre-existing bone marrow suppression.
- It should also be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.
Special dietary and lifestyle recommendation
- It is advisable to maintain a balanced diet to maintain overall health while receiving this medicine.
- Regular rest periods are recommended to allow the body to recover.
- Practise good hygiene to lower the risk of infections.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections or colds.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cytarabine a painkiller medication?
No, Cytarabine is not a painkiller. It is a chemotherapy medicine used primarily to manage several types of cancer, particularly leukaemia and lymphoma.
Does taking Cytarabine cause drowsiness or sleepiness?
Yes, it is possible for Cytarabine to cause drowsiness or sleepiness in some patients. Therefore, patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Can Cytarabine potentially affect fertility?
Yes, Cytarabine can have an impact on fertility in both men and women. It is recommended that patients concerned about fertility consult with their doctor to discuss options such as sperm banking or egg freezing prior to starting treatment.
Do I need to follow any specific dietary restrictions while on Cytarabine?
No specific dietary restrictions are mentioned while taking Cytarabine. However, it is always advisable to maintain a healthy diet and stay well hydrated during any cancer treatment.
Is Cytarabine safe for long-term use?
The duration of use for Cytarabine should be determined by the doctor based on the type of cancer being managed and the patient's response to the medication.
How long does it take for Cytarabine to start working?
The time taken for Cytarabine to start working can vary depending on the type of cancer being managed and individual patient factors. The doctor will monitor the patient's progress to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
Is Cytarabine available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
Cytarabine is a strong chemotherapy medication and hence, it is not available over the counter. A valid prescription from a doctor is required to obtain this medicine.
List of medicines for Cytarabine
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