Cytarabine (pf)

Noah Chung M.D.

Cytarabine, also known as cytosine arabinoside or Ara-C, is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. While effective, it can cause a range of side effects, varying in severity and occurrence among individuals. It's important to be aware of these potential side effects and to communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider.
**Common Side Effects:**
- **Blood Cell Count Changes:** Cytarabine can suppress bone marrow function, leading to decreased levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This suppression increases the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. Regular blood tests are conducted to monitor these levels.
- **Gastrointestinal Issues:** Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth sores are frequently reported. Maintaining hydration and following dietary recommendations can help manage these symptoms.
- **Hair Loss:** Temporary hair loss may occur during treatment. Hair typically regrows after the completion of therapy.
- **Skin Reactions:** Rashes, itching, and skin discoloration have been observed. Using gentle skin care products and protecting the skin from sun exposure can alleviate discomfort.
**Less Common Side Effects:**
- **Neurological Effects:** High doses of cytarabine can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, unsteadiness, coordination problems, speech difficulties, and uncontrollable eye movements. In rare cases, seizures may occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
- **Lung Changes:** Some individuals may develop lung-related issues, including cough, wheezing, fever, or breathlessness. These symptoms can arise suddenly, especially with high-dose treatments. Promptly report any new or worsening respiratory symptoms to your doctor.
- **Heart Issues:** Cytarabine can impact heart function, potentially causing breathlessness, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or swelling in the feet and ankles. Notify your healthcare team if you experience any of these symptoms.
- **Hand-Foot Syndrome:** This condition affects the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, causing redness, pain, tingling, swelling, peeling, cracking, or blistering. Keeping hands and feet cool, moisturizing regularly, and avoiding tight-fitting shoes and gloves can help manage this side effect.
**Rare Side Effects:**
- **Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS):** TLS occurs when a large number of cancer cells die rapidly, releasing substances into the bloodstream that can affect the kidneys and heart. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, decreased urination, irregular heartbeat, confusion, seizures, or delirium. Preventative measures, such as increased fluid intake and medications like allopurinol, may be recommended.
- **Eye Problems:** High doses of cytarabine can lead to eye issues, including blurred vision, sore, red, itchy, or dry eyes. Your healthcare team may prescribe eye drops to prevent or treat these symptoms.
- **Liver Changes:** Liver function abnormalities may occur, typically detected through blood tests. These changes are usually mild and resolve after treatment ends.
It's crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare team throughout your treatment with cytarabine. Reporting any side effects promptly allows for timely management and support, ensuring the best possible outcome during your therapy.

Cytarabine is used to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping cancer cell growth.

Cytarabine is a chemotherapy medication designed to treat several forms of cancer. It functions by inhibiting or halting the growth of cancer cells.

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5ML of 20MG/ML	2 Vials	$4.13	$2.06
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20ML of 100MG/ML	3 Vials	$20.67	$6.89

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