Chlorambucil

Chlorambucil

What condition does Chlorambucil treat?

Chlorambucil is used to treat a certain type of cancer of the blood and lymph nodes. These types include:

  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia – a type of cancer of the white blood cells
  • Hodgkin’s disease – this begins in certain white blood cells that normally fight infection

This belongs to the class of drugs known as alkylating agents. This helps to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells. Chlorambucil is an aromatic nitrogen mustard derivative. This is available in tablet form for oral use. This is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This medication is not curative in any of these disorders but this will help relieve its symptoms.

How does Chlorambucil work?

Chlorambucil works in three different actions:

  • Attachment of alkyl groups to DNA bases resulting in the DNA being fragmented by repair enzymes in their attempts to replace the alkylated bases. It also prevents DNA synthesis and RNA transcription from the affected DNA.
  • DNA impairment through the formation of cross-links stops DNA from being detached for transcription or synthesis.
  • The stimulation of mispairing of the nucleotides that leads to mutations.

What is the recommended dosage for Chlorambucil?

The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition and response. You must take this medicine exactly as it is prescribed. Do not take it more or less than it is given by your doctor.

Chlorambucil is to be taken by mouth. Swallow the tablet as a whole with a full glass of water. Usually, this is taken once a day. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent side effects. For the best result, take it regularly. If you missed a dose, take it right away if you remember. If you often miss a dose, call your health care provider. Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse.

What are the side effects of Chlorambucil?

  • Mouth sores
  • Vomiting
  • Shaking or tremors
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Pain or burning
  • Numbness
  • Tingling feeling

What are the precautions in taking Chlorambucil?

  • Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to it. This drug may contain an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
  • Let your doctor know if you have any medical history.
  • While having this medication and after you stop the treatment, do not receive any vaccinations or immunizations without the approval of your doctor.
  • Do not use this to treat any other conditions without the prescription of a doctor.
  • Chlorambucil should not be used in individuals younger than 18 years of age.
  • You should not share this with others even if they have the same symptoms as yours.
  • Do not have vaccinations or immunizations while taking this medication without the consent of your doctor.
  • This medicine sometimes causes vomiting and nausea. If you vomit after taking a dose of this medicine, check with your doctor right away.
  • Manage all your medications carefully to help prevent interactions. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. Be sure to let your doctor know about the medications you are taking.
  • Keep this at a dry and clean place away from the heat and moisture.