Ara-C (Cytarabine)

Ara-C is one of the older chemotherapy drugs which has been around and in use for many years. Ara-C is a clear, colorless liquid given by intravenous route. It is most commonly used in treatment of the following cancers:

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

• Acute Lymphoid Leukemia

• Lymphomas

The type and extent of a cancer will determine the method and schedule of administration of this drug. This decision is made by the medical oncologist. Ara-C is normally given on a daily basis for five to seven days. It can also be given inside the spinal fluid in patients with Leukemias or Lymphomas.

Side effects:

The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Ara-C. Following are some of the most common and important ill effects:

• Low white blood counts

• Low platelet count

• Anemia

• Hair loss

• Soreness of the mouth, difficulty swallowing

• Diarrhea

• Damage to the brain when used in very high doses, causing an imbalance and inability to perform highly coordinated movements, poor handwriting, etc.

It is imperative that a patient relay any side effects or problems to his medical oncologist.