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Chlorambucil (Leukeran)
Available: 2 mg
tablets
Dose: Variable, up
to 8-10 mg/day
Cost: 2 mg, #30 =
$57.74
Indications:
Treating serious complications of vasculitis or myositis
Side effects:
Anemia, low white blood cell or platelet counts, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and mouth sores are more common side
effects. Patients taking this drug are more susceptible to
infection. Less commonly, an increase in liver enzymes,
impaired fertility (males and females), nerve damage,
seizures, agitation, and lung impairment have been reported.
Monitoring: Baseline
blood counts, kidney and liver function studies should be
obtained. Blood counts can be repeated every 2-4 weeks
initially and every 1-3 months thereafter while taking this
medication.
Important points to know:
While mild nausea may resolve or improve with
continued use of this medication, report any persistent nausea
or vomiting to your provider. Watch for signs and symptoms of
infection, rashes, or other skin reactions. While lung damage
is rare, report any new difficulty breathing to your health
care provider.
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