Fludarabine

Fludarabine is a prescription cancer medicine used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a type of cancer that affects your white blood cells. This medicine is designed to target and slow down the growth of these abnormal blood cells. It is given as an injection or slow drip into a vein, typically in a clinical setting under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

This medicine is usually given in cycles, meaning you will receive it daily for several days, followed by a rest period of a few weeks. Because it is injected directly into your bloodstream by a healthcare provider, you do not need to worry about taking it with or without food. To support your body during this treatment, your doctor may suggest simple lifestyle adjustments, such as drinking plenty of fluids and eating well-cooked, sterile meals to protect your digestive system.

Some of the common side effects you might experience include feeling very tired, mild nausea, and a temporary drop in your blood cell counts. If you experience severe side effects, such as signs of a serious infection like a high fever, severe breathing difficulties, or unusual bleeding, you must contact your doctor immediately.

Talk to your doctor before starting this treatment if you have a history of kidney disease or a weakened immune system. Do not receive this medicine if you have severe kidney damage or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to this medication in the past.

This medicine can interact with other treatments, including live vaccinations and drugs that suppress your immune system, which can increase your risk of severe infections. You should avoid drinking alcohol during treatment to prevent putting extra strain on your liver. If you are pregnant, planning a family, breastfeeding, or are an older adult, consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits of this medicine.

When treatment is effective, Fludarabine may help reduce problems caused by the buildup of abnormal blood cells.

• May ease disease-related symptoms: As the number of abnormal cells decreases, symptoms such as tiredness, night sweats, or unintentional weight loss may improve.
• May reduce discomfort from enlarged lymph nodes or spleen: Treatment may shrink enlarged lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen, helping relieve swelling, fullness, or abdominal discomfort.
• May help you feel and function better: Improvement in disease-related symptoms may make everyday activities more manageable and improve overall well-being.
• May provide a period of remission: Some people respond well enough that the signs and symptoms of their cancer become significantly reduced for a period of time. The response and duration of benefit vary between individuals.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication to ensure safety.
• Fludarabine will be administered by the doctor or healthcare professional.
• Do not self-administer.

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

• Feeling tired or weak
• Nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite
• Fever or chills
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
• Mild skin rash

Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor right away):

• Signs of a serious infection, such as fever, chills, severe sore throat, or persistent cough
• Unusual bruising or bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or small red or purple spots on the skin
• Severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or a persistent cough
• Severe confusion, seizures, vision changes, or unusual numbness or weakness
• Signs of tumour lysis syndrome, such as muscle cramps or weakness, an irregular heartbeat, reduced urine output, or severe nausea or vomiting
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives, or difficulty breathing