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Fludarabine

Chemotherapy

Brand names:

Fludara®

Other names:

Fludarabine phosphate

Often used for:

Leukemia, Lymphoma

About Fludarabine

Fludarabine is a type of chemotherapy. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cells. It is also used to help prepare patients for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant.

Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function.

May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV

May be taken as a tablet by mouth (not available in the U.S.)

Possible Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Chills
Infections
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Mouth sores
Sweating
Muscle pain
Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia, and/or fatigue)
Cough
Trouble breathing

Weakness
Headache
Vision changes
Confusion
Rash
Diarrhea
Bleeding (in urine or stool)
Tingling in the hands or feet
Swelling of feet or legs

Not all patients who take fludarabine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible Late Effects

Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects include:

Neurologic disorder called ‘leukoencephalopathy’. Signs may include confusion, weakness, difficulty speaking, vision changes, or seizures.
Skin cancer
Fertility problems in males

Tips for Families

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

Sexually active patients should take steps to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 6 months after completion of therapy.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Caregivers should follow instructions to avoid contact with patient body fluids, which can contain the drug for 48 hours after it is given.

Fludarabine resources

Learn More About Fludarabine

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency.

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.