Common Use

Leukeran is a medication prescribed to treat various types of cancer and other medical conditions. These include Hodgkin's disease (a form of lymphoma), malignant lymphoma (such as lymphosarcoma), clasmocytoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, giant follicular lymphoma, hairy cell leukemia (a subtype of chronic lymphoid leukemia), myeloma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma), Letterer-Siwe disease (a genetic histiocyte proliferation disorder), chorionepithelioma of the uterus, glomerular nephritis, Behcet disease (a type of vasculitis), dermatomyositis, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, uveitis, and nephrotic syndrome. The active ingredient in Leukeran is chlorambucil, a bifunctional alkylating agent.

Dosage and Direction

Take Leukeran exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all instructions carefully. The recommended initial dosage for a short course of treatment is 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg of body weight (4-10 mg for an average patient) taken daily for 3-6 weeks. The daily dose can be taken as a single dose. If there is a sudden drop in white blood cell count or poor patient tolerance, the dosage should be adjusted carefully. A supporting course of treatment is administered based on individual needs.

Precautions

Exercise caution when using Leukeran in patients with impaired bone marrow function (such as leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia, including those related to malignant processes or previous radiotherapy or chemotherapy), severe liver disease, kidney failure, acute gastrointestinal conditions, and in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Regular blood cell count, leukocyte count, platelet count, and hemoglobin examinations should be performed at least once a week.

Contraindications

Leukeran should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to its components, including other alkylating agents.

Possible Side Effects

The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and changes in menstrual periods. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following adverse reactions:

• Painful or difficult urination
• Fever or chills
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Blood in urine
• Swollen extremities
• Sores in the mouth or on the lips
• Small red spots on the skin
• Jaundice
• Cough
• Lower back or side pain
• Joint or abdominal pain
• Confusion, hallucinations, or agitation
• Muscle twitching
• Trouble walking, weakness, or paralysis

Drug Interaction

Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbal products, and food supplements you are using.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In this case, skip the missed dose. Do not take an extra dose to compensate for the missed one.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor immediately and seek urgent medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, seizures, and loss of balance or coordination.

Storage

Store Leukeran at room temperature, between 59-77°F (15-25°C), away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use the medication after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of the medication and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. The content on this site should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim responsibility for the accuracy of this information and any errors it may contain. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or the consequences of self-treatment.