About cyclophosphamide
Alkylating chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Treats several cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, and breast cancer
- Treats some severe autoimmune diseases
Usual adult dose
Varies widely by cancer or condition and treatment schedule; specialist-prescribed, often daily by mouth or in cycles.
Usual dose in children
Varies by cancer, body size, and treatment schedule; prescribed and monitored by a specialist.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts and increased infection risk
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Hair loss
- Bladder irritation or bleeding
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression, serious infections, and bleeding.
- May cause bladder damage; prescribed fluid intake and regular urination help reduce risk.
- Can harm fertility and cause birth defects; effective contraception is needed during treatment.
- Requires specialist monitoring, including blood counts and urine checks.
Pregnancy
Can harm an unborn baby. Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist determines treatment is essential.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may harm the infant.
Interactions
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow can increase infection and bleeding risks.
- Live vaccines may cause infection; vaccine effectiveness may also be reduced.
- Some medicines affect cyclophosphamide processing, changing its effects or side-effect risks.
- Grapefruit may affect how the body processes cyclophosphamide.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.