Precautions and Warnings With Cyclophosphamide

It is important to be aware of the precautions and warnings with cyclophosphamide before you take the drug. For example, cyclophosphamide may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer in the future. The drug may also cause fertility problems or bladder damage. You should not take cyclophosphamide if you are allergic to any components of the medicine or have severe bone marrow depression. Talk with your healthcare provider about any cyclophosphamide precautions and warnings that may apply to you.

 

Cyclophosphamide: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®) if you have:
 
  • A history of low levels of white blood cells in the blood (known medically as neutropenia) or low platelets (thrombocytopenia)
  • Undergone previous radiation treatment
  • Undergone previous chemotherapy treatment
  • A tumor that has spread to bone marrow
  • Any infection
  • Kidney disease, including kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Liver disease, including liver failure or cirrhosis
  • Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
You should also make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Cyclophosphamide Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;