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In this Article

• What is cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• What are the possible side effects of cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• What is the most important information I should know about cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• How is cytarabine given (Cytarabine)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Cytarabine)?
• What happens if I overdose (Cytarabine)?
• What should I avoid while receiving cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• What other drugs will affect cytarabine (Cytarabine)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving cytarabine (Cytarabine)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cytarabine.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use cytarabine:

• asthma or other breathing disorder; or
• a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not receive cytarabine without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether cytarabine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is cytarabine given (Cytarabine)?

Cytarabine is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein, under the skin, or into the space around the spinal cord. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when the medicine is injected.

Cytarabine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.