Chlorambucil

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
Alkylating Agent	Leukeran®	Cancer-related

Chlorambucil - What is it for

Chlorambucil is an oral chemotherapy medication used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and certain types of lymphomas.

Chlorambucil - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Chlorambucil cause?

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Mouth sores
Changes in menstrual cycle (for women)
Decreased white and red blood cells, platelets
Tiredness and lack of energy may occur
Do not drive a car or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol as it may make you feel more tired and drowsy.
Changes in the menstrual cycle for women
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Fever of 38 ˚C or higher
Severe ulcers or sores in the mouth and throat
Unusual bruising, bleeding or black sticky stools
Sudden or gradual onset of cough, shortness of breath
Pain or difficulty in urinating
Seizures
Yellowing of the eye whites and skin or dark tea-coloured urine
Allergic reaction e.g. rash, swelling of eyelids and face

Before taking Chlorambucil , what precautions must I follow?

Effective birth control should be used while taking Chlorambucil. Inform your doctor if you or your partner plan for or suspect pregnancy.
To minimize infection risk, wash your hands after using the toilet and before handling food, and take precaution when visiting crowded places or being around sick people.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Chlorambucil ?

Chlorambucil - Dosage and How to Use

How should Chlorambucil be used?

It is a tablet to be taken by mouth daily on an empty stomach i.e. at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after food.

The dose given is based on your body weight and height. Take the exact number of tablets instructed by your doctor.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can within 12 hours of the missed dose. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time. Do not double dose.