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Ifosfamide

Chemotherapy

Brand names:

Ifex®

Other names:

Ifos

Often used for:

Brain tumors, Lymphoma, Sarcomas, Neuroblastoma, Germ cell tumors

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About Ifosfamide

Ifosfamide is a type of chemotherapy. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cells.

Ifosfamide can harm the kidneys and bladder. Patients receiving ifosfamide should drink plenty of fluids. They will receive IV fluids and a medicine called mesna to reduce the risk of bladder damage.

Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function. Urine samples will be taken to check for blood in the urine.

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May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV

 
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Possible Side Effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Decrease in blood levels of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, or sodium
  • Kidney or bladder problems
  • Blood in the urine or burning while urinating
  • Feeling drowsy, sleepy, or confused
  • Hallucinations (seeing things that are not there) or seizures
  • Hair loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Low blood counts (may cause increased risk of infection, bleeding, anemia and/or fatigue)
  • Slowed wound healing
  • Bad taste in the mouth
  • Diarrhea
  • Mouth sores

Not all patients who take ifosfamide 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.

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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 due to ifosfamide include:

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Tips for Families

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

  • While taking ifosfamide, it is important to drink plenty of fluids and urinate often to flush the kidneys and bladder. Patients should follow the care team’s instructions for appropriate fluid intake.
  • This medicine may cause a bad taste in the mouth. Gum or candy may help hide the taste.
  • While taking this medicine, do not eat grapefruit or Seville (bitter) oranges or drink juice or beverages containing grapefruit or Seville orange.
  • 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.

Ifosfamide resources

Learn More About Ifosfamide

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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.