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Chlorambucil

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Alkylating Agent Leukeran® Cancer-related

Chlorambucil - What is it for

​Chlorambucil is an anticancer medicine used in the treatment of various types of cancers such as lymphomas and leukemias.

Chlorambucil - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Chlorambucil cause?

  • Nausea and vomiting (rare)
  • Decrease in the white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets
    To minimize infection, wash your hands after using the toilet and before handling food and take precaution when visiting crowded places or being around sick people.
  • Tiredness and lack of energy may occur
    If tiredness is a problem, do not drive a car or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol as it may make you feel more tired and drowsy.
  • Changes in the menstrual cycle for women
  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Fever of 38 ˚C or higher
  • Severe mouth ulcers, sores in the mouth and throat
  • Unexplained bruises, blood spots, bleeding upon urination, black and sticky stools
  • Cough and shortness of breath
  • Pain with difficulty in urination
  • Hypersensitivity reactions like rashes, swelling of eyelids and face
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness
  • Yellowing of the eyes and skin or dark urine

Before taking Chlorambucil, what precautions must I follow?

  • Contraceptive (birth control) measures are recommended for both men and women while taking this medicine. Inform your doctor if you have intentions of getting pregnant.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Chlorambucil?

Chlorambucil - Dosage and How to Use

How should Chlorambucil be used?

​It is a tablet that you take by mouth preferably on an empty stomach, at the same time each day. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

​If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing time. Do not take double dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

​If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.

Chlorambucil - Handling and Storage

How should I handle Chlorambucil safely?

​Do not break or crush the tablet.​​

How should I store Chlorambucil?

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.;#

How should I dispose of Chlorambucil safely?

Chlorambucil - Additional Information

Updated on Wednesday, March 6, 2019

This article is contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore

    The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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