Leustatin (Cladribine) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

Pill Identifier Search

May 27, 2012

Leustatin

Leukemia »

Leukemia facts

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells.
While the exact cause(s) of leukemia is not known, risk factors have been identified.
Leukemias are grouped by how quickly the disease develops (acute or chronic) as well as by the type of blood cell that is affected (lymphocytes or myelocytes). The four main types of leukemia include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), and chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML).
People with leukemia are at significantly increased risk for developing infections, anemia, and bleeding. Other symptoms and signs include easy bruising, weight loss, night sweats, and unexplained fevers.
The diagnosis of leukemia is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, and examining blood and bone marrow samples under a microscope.
Tre...

Read the Leukemia article »

« Previous
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Next »

Leustatin

font size

Leustatin Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

CLADRIBINE - INJECTION

(KLAD-rib-een)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Leustatin

WARNING: This medication may cause very serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as white cells, red cells, and platelets). This effect can decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, cause anemia, or cause your body to bruise or bleed easier. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: signs of infection (fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.

When used in high doses, cladribine may cause very serious kidney or nerve disorders. Nerve disorders may also rarely occur in patients taking the normal dose of cladribine. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: change in the amount of urine, weakness/numbness/tingling in your hands/feet, inability to move your arms/legs.

USES: Cladribine is used to treat a certain type of cancer (hairy cell leukemia). It works by stopping the growth of cancer cells.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used to treat other types of cancer (certain lymphomas).

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your weight and response to treatment. This medication is usually given continuously for 7 days in a row or as directed by your doctor.

Avoid getting the medication on the skin or in the eyes, mouth, or nose. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water and tell your doctor immediately.