Leustatin (Cladribine) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Leustatin

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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.
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Leustatin

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Leustatin Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving cladribine (Leustatin)?

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

If you have liver or kidney disease or a bone marrow problem, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely receive cladribine.

FDA pregnancy category D. Cladribine can cause harm to an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Before you receive cladribine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are receiving cladribine.

It is not known whether cladribine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not breast-feed while you are receiving cladribine.

How is cladribine given (Leustatin)?

Cladribine is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

Cladribine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and you will receive it around the clock for 7 days in a row. Your doctor will determine how many 7-day treatments you will receive and how often.

You may receive other medications to help prevent certain side effects of cladribine.

Cladribine can lower the 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. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Contact your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, flu symptoms, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin, loss of appetite, mouth sores, or unusual weakness.

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