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Introduction of Ifosfamide
Ifosfamide is a
clear fluid after being dissolved from powder with sterile
water.
Side effects of
Ifosfamide
Each person’s reaction to chemotherapy is
unique. Some people have very few side effects, while others
may experience more. The side effects described in this
information will not affect everyone who is given ifosfamide,
and may be different if you are having more than one
chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common and less
common side effects, so you can be aware of them if they
occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare
and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you notice
any effects which you think may be due to the drug, but which
are not listed in this information, please discuss them with
your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Lowered resistance to infection
Ifosfamide can reduce the production of white blood cells by
the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This
effect can begin seven days after treatment has been given and
usually reaches its lowest point 10–14 days after
chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and
will usually have returned to normal before your next course
of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your
doctor or the hospital straightaway if:
- Your
temperature goes above 38°C (100.5°F)
- You suddenly
feel unwell (even with a normal temperature)
You will have a blood test before having more
chemotherapy, to make sure that your cells have recovered.
Occasionally it may be necessary to delay your treatment if
your blood count is still low.
Bruising or bleeding
Ifosfamide can reduce the production of platelets (which help
the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have any
unexplained bruising or bleeding.
Anaemia (low number of red blood cells)
While having treatment with ifosfamide you may become anaemic.
This may make you feel tired and breathless.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting
There are now very effective anti-sickness drugs to prevent or
greatly reduce nausea and vomiting. If you do feel sick, it
may begin a couple of hours after the treatment is given and
last for up to a couple of weeks. If the sickness is not
controlled or continues tell your doctor, who can prescribe
other drugs which may be more effective.
Hair loss
usually starts 3–4 weeks after the first dose of ifosfamide,
although it may happen earlier. Hair may be lost completely or
may just thin. You may also have thinning and loss of
eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. This is temporary and
the hair will regrow once the treatment ends.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness
It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Irritation of the bladder
It is important to try to drink plenty of fluids to prevent
any irritation. You will usually be given fluids into your
vein before and after the chemotherapy is given. You may also
be given a drug called mesna to protect the bladder and
kidneys.
While you are having the chemotherapy you will
be encouraged to pass urine every 3–4 hours during the day,
and last thing at night. Your urine may be measured and tested
for the presence of blood. If blood is present in the urine,
further doses of mesna will be given.
Changes to nails
Your nails may become ridged, but this change grows out over a
few months once the treatment has finished.
Disclaimer:
Information on this page is provided for general
information purposes. You should not make a clinical treatment
decision based on information contained in this page without
consulting other references including the package insert of
the drug, textbooks and where relevant, expert opinion. We
cannot be held responsible for any errors you make in
administering drugs mentioned on this page, nor for use of any
erroneous information contained on this page.
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