Leukeran

Generic Name: Chlorambucil
Product Name: Leukeran

Indication

Chlorambucil is used in the treatment of:

• Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
• Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia
• Advanced ovarian adenocarcinoma
• Breast cancer
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Lupus nephritis
• Immune-related ocular disease
• Multiple myeloma.

Action

Chlorambucil acts by preventing replication of tumour cells by forming cross-linkages between DNA strands.

Dose advice

Specialist protocols should be consulted.For the treatment of neoplasms initial doses of 100-200 micrograms/kg per day orally have been used if Chlorambucil is used as a single agent.

Further courses and doses depend on the individual patient’s response and side effects.

If Chlorambucil is used as an immunosuppressant 100-200 micrograms/kg is given once daily orally. Renal impairment: Doses should be reduced in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. If creatinine clearance is less than 20 ml/minute, doses should be halved.

Pregnancy: Chlorambucil can cause spontaneous abortion, foetal loss and birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy. It should also be avoided during breastfeeding.

Schedule

S4

Common side effects

• Bone marrow suppression.
• Hair loss.
• Increased sensitivity of skin to light.

Uncommon side effects

• Abdominal discomfort.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Mouthy ulceration.
• Hallucinations.

For further information talk to your doctor.