Cyclophosphamide Dosing

Among the factors that can affect the cyclophosphamide dosage your healthcare provider recommends are the type of cancer being treated, your height and weight, and whether you are taking the injection or tablet form. For the treatment of nephrotic syndrome in children, cyclophosphamide should be taken for only 60 days to 90 days. For the medication to work properly, cyclophosphamide dosing guidelines must be followed exactly.

 

An Introduction to Cyclophosphamide Dosage

The dose of cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®) that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Whether you are taking cyclophosphamide tablets or the injection form of the medicine
  • The type of cancer being treated
  • Your height and weight
  • Other medications you may be taking
  • Other medical conditions you may have.
     
As always, do not adjust your cyclophosphamide dosage unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
Cyclophosphamide Dosing for Cancer
Your healthcare provider will base your cyclophosphamide dose on your body surface area (which is calculated using your height and weight). Your cyclophosphamide dose will vary depending on the type of cancer, the other chemotherapy medications you are taking, and whether you develop bothersome or dangerous cyclophosphamide side effects. Some people will take cyclophosphamide tablets, while others will need to get their doses through an IV. Sometimes cyclophosphamide is taken every day, and sometimes it is taken intermittently (such as twice a week or once every 10 days).
 
Cyclophosphamide Dosing for Nephrotic Syndrome
For treating nephrotic syndrome in children, cyclophosphamide is usually limited to 60 days to 90 days of use. In boys, taking cyclophosphamide for more than 60 days increases the risk of low sperm count, and taking the drug for more than 90 days increases the risk of sterility (complete infertility).
 
(Cyclophosphamide Dosing Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;