Chlorambucil
Examples
Chlorambucil is available as a pill you can swallow. It is usually given in one of two ways: daily in low doses, or every 2 to 4 weeks in higher doses.
How It Works
Chlorambucil is classified as an alkylating agent. It kills cells
by interfering with the way they multiply.
How Well It Works
Chlorambucil is an effective treatment for CLL.1
Side Effects
Side effects of chlorambucil are common, generally mild, and
may include:
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Loss of
appetite.
- Cough or shortness of breath.
- Skin rash,
which may itch.
- Diarrhea.
- Mouth sores
(stomatitis).
- Changes in the way foods taste.
- Low blood
counts, which may make you tired and more likely to get an infection.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference
is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Chlorambucil should be used only under the supervision of a
medical oncologist or
hematologist.
You may not be able to become pregnant or father a child after
taking chlorambucil. Discuss this with your doctor before starting treatment
with this drug.
Chlorambucil can cause birth defects. Do not use it if you are
pregnant or wish to become pregnant or to father a child while you are taking
it.
Women who take this drug may experience symptoms of menopause,
including hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
References
Citations
-
Johnston JB, et al. (2009). Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In JP Greer et al., eds., Wintrobe's Clinical Hematology, 12th ed., vol. 2, pp. 2214–2255. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
Credits
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology |
|
Last Revised
|
December 17, 2010 |
Last Revised:
December 17, 2010
Johnston JB, et al. (2009). Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In JP Greer et al., eds., Wintrobe's Clinical Hematology, 12th ed., vol. 2, pp. 2214–2255. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
