About busulfan
Alkylating chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
- Preparation for stem cell transplant
Usual adult dose
For CML, dosing is individualized, often starting at 0.06 mg/kg daily. Transplant regimens use specialist-directed dosing.
Usual dose in children
For transplant preparation, specialist-directed dosing is based on weight or body surface area. Not commonly used for childhood CML.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts and infection risk
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth sores
- Liver injury, including veno-occlusive disease
- Lung injury or skin darkening
Important warnings
- Can cause severe, prolonged bone-marrow suppression; blood counts need close monitoring.
- May cause seizures, especially with high-dose treatment; preventive medicine may be prescribed.
- Can cause serious liver injury and lung damage.
- Can cause infertility and harm an unborn baby; use effective contraception.
Pregnancy
Can cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy; contraception is recommended during treatment and for a period afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Interactions
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow increase infection and bleeding risks.
- Itraconazole and metronidazole may increase busulfan exposure.
- Acetaminophen near treatment may affect busulfan clearance; ask the treating team.
- Radiotherapy or other chemotherapy can increase toxicity.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.