What it means
An alkylating agent that damages the DNA of fast-dividing cells. It treats lymphomas, leukemias, breast cancer and other cancers, and in lower doses it calms the immune system in diseases such as lupus kidney disease and vasculitis. It lowers blood counts, causes nausea and hair loss, can cause infertility, and its breakdown products can irritate the bladder and cause bleeding (hemorrhagic cystitis).
For the nurse
Encourage plenty of fluids and frequent voiding, and give it early in the day so the drug does not sit in the bladder overnight; report blood in the urine. Check blood counts and teach infection prevention. Handle and dispose of it as a hazardous drug.
At a glance
| Drug class | antineoplastic (alkylating agent); immunosuppressant |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Cytoxan (older brand); most is now generic |
| Spanish | ciclofosfamida |
| Also written | Cytoxan |
Related terms
antineoplastic
A drug used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing.
azathioprine
An immunosuppressant taken by mouth to prevent transplant rejection and to calm autoimmune diseases.