Description

Fludarabine Phosphate is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who have not responded to or whose disease has progressed during treatment with at least one standard alkylating-agent containing regimen. The safety and effectiveness of Fludarabine Phosphate in previously untreated or non-refractory patients with CLL have not been established.

Co-administration with pentostatin may lead to pulmonary toxicity. Reduced metabolic activation of fludarabine with cytarabine. Reduced therapeutic efficacy with dipyridamole and other adenosine uptake inhibitors.

Fever, chills, cough, dyspnoea, pneumonia; GI disturbances, stomatitis; oedema; tumour lysis syndrome; skin rashes; haemolytic anaemia, haemorrhagic cystitis; neurological disturbances including peripheral neuropathy, agitation, confusion, visual disturbances and coma. Progressive encephalopathy and blindness (high doses).

Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Routine monitoring of blood counts and Hb conc. Monitor for signs of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia; elderly. Avoid contact with skin and eyes; avoid inhalation. Myelosuppression may be cumulative and severe increasing risk of opportunistic infections. Increased risk of tumour lysis syndrome in patients with high tumour burden.

Renal Impairment: CrCl 30-70: May reduce the doses by up to 50% Severe impairment: Avoid

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy

Refrigerate at 2-8° C