Celkeran 5mg Tablet

About

Celkeran 5mg Tablet is an alkylating agent, a class of chemotherapy drugs that work by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells. Its primary mechanism involves cross-linking DNA strands and causing DNA damage, which ultimately inhibits DNA replication and transcription. This leads to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (programmed cell death) in rapidly dividing cancer cells. While effective against malignant cells, alkylating agents can also affect healthy rapidly dividing cells, leading to various side effects. Celkeran is particularly noted for its relatively slow action and milder side effect profile compared to some other alkylating agents, making it suitable for chronic conditions.

It is primarily used in the treatment of various hematological malignancies and certain solid tumors, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, and ovarian cancer. The drug is often administered orally, allowing for outpatient treatment. Due to its myelosuppressive effects, regular monitoring of blood counts is essential to manage potential hematological toxicities. Careful consideration of dosage and duration of therapy is crucial to balance efficacy with the risk of adverse events, including secondary malignancies.

Uses

• Treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• Management of Hodgkin's lymphoma
• Treatment of certain non-Hodgkin's lymphomas
• Management of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia

Directions For Use

Take this tablet orally once daily, often on a cyclical schedule, as prescribed by your physician. It can be taken with or without food.

Benefits

• Induces remission in various cancers
• Slows disease progression effectively
• Established efficacy in hematological malignancies
• Oral administration for patient convenience
• Can be used as a palliative care option
• Effective in combination chemotherapy regimens

Side Effects

• Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Oral ulceration (mouth sores)
• Skin rash
• Hair thinning (alopecia)
• Liver toxicity
• Pulmonary fibrosis (rare)
• Secondary malignancies (long-term risk)
• Infertility
• Seizures (rare)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption due to potential for increased gastrointestinal irritation and liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Celkeran is highly teratogenic and fetotoxic; it is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; monitor liver function closely during treatment.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment; dose adjustment may be needed in severe cases.
• Lung - Monitor for signs of pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis and fibrosis, especially with long-term use.

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