Fludarabine (Fludara)

Fludarabine is one of the newer chemotherapy drugs which has been around and in use for a few years. Fludarabine is a white powder and when prepared for use, it becomes a clear and colorless liquid and is given by intravenous route only. It is most commonly used in treatment of the following cancers:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

• Low Grade 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. Fludarabine is normally given daily for 3-5 days and repeated every 4 weeks.

Side effects:

The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Fludarabine. 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

• Lung damage

• Tumor Lysis Syndrome

It is imperative that patients would relay any side effects or problems to their medical oncologist.