Indications
Myleran (generically known as busulfan) is an oral chemotherapy drug used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Myleran contains the active ingredient busulfan, which is an alkylating agent that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells and is typically used in combination with other chemotherapy medications.
Myleran is often used as a part of chemotherapy to treat several types of cancer, including chronic myelogenous leukemia and ovarian cancer. It is a potent drug and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. It is taken orally, typically once every six hours, and is used to control the disease and improve the quality of life of those with CML.
Use and Dosage
Myleran is available in the form of tablets that can be taken by mouth with or without food. The typical dosage is once daily or as advised by your doctor, and it may vary based on factors such as your weight, medical condition, lab tests, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend temporary discontinuation of treatment if your blood counts are too low. Attend all medical and laboratory appointments.
Do not exceed your prescribed dose of Myleran tablets or take them more frequently than recommended, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects without improving your condition any faster.
It should be noted that Myleran can be absorbed through the skin and lungs. Therefore, pregnant, or potentially pregnant, women should avoid handling this medication or inhaling the dust from the tablets.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Myleran (Busulfan):
- Anxiety
- Blisters or ulcers in your mouth
- Breast swelling
- Changes in your menstrual periods
- Chills
- Dark or thinning skin
- Darkened skin color
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth nose or throat
- Dry or thinning skin
- Fast heartbeats
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Pain
- Red or swollen gums
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Stomach pain
- Trouble swallowing
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Myleran (Busulfan):
- Breathing problems that occur several months or years after using the medication
- Burning eyes
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Cold hands and feet
- Congestion
- Cough
- Coughing with bloody mucus
- Difficulty breathing
- Easy bruising
- Fever
- Fluttering in your chest
- Hives
- Increased thirst or urination and
- Irregular heartbeats
- Leg cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle contractions
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Pale skin
- Persistent cough
- Purple or red sports under your skin
- Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling
- Seizure
- Severe weakness
- Sharp chest pain
- Skin pain
- Sore throat
- Stomach pain
- Stomach swelling or tenderness
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Tiredness
- Unusual bleeding
- Vision problems
- Weight gain
- Weight loss
- Wheezing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Forms and Strength
Myleran (Busulfan) is available in the following forms and strength:
Myleran: Tablet
- 2mg
Cautions
- Leukemia: Myleran can increase the risk of developing leukemia (a type of blood cancer) in patients who use the drug for extended periods of time.
- Pre-existing medical conditions: Patients with significant bone marrow suppression, infections, or liver or kidney problems should use Myleran with caution.
- Risk of infertility: Myleran may cause infertility in both men and women.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Myleran can harm a developing fetus and may be excreted in breast milk, so it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Bone marrow toxicity: Myleran may cause bone marrow toxicity, which can result in low blood cell counts and increased risk of infection.
- Skin toxicity: Myleran may cause skin toxicity, including rash, erythema, and blistering.
- Neurological toxicity: Myleran may cause neurological toxicity, which can result in confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and other symptoms.
- Risk of secondary malignancies: Myleran may increase the risk of developing secondary malignancies, such as solid tumors.
- Increased risk of infections: Myleran may increase the risk of infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
- Interactions with other medications: Myleran may interact with other medications, including chemotherapy drugs and other medications that affect blood cell counts.
- Hemorrhagic cystitis: Myleran may cause hemorrhagic cystitis (bleeding and inflammation of the bladder), especially at high doses or with prolonged use.
- Cardiac toxicity: Myleran may cause cardiac toxicity, including irregular heartbeats and decreased heart function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Myleran cause infertility?
Yes, Myleran may cause infertility in both men and women.
Is it safe to use Myleran during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No, Myleran can harm a developing fetus and may be excreted in breast milk, so it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Can Myleran cause infertility?
Yes, Myleran may cause infertility in both men and women.
Is it safe to use Myleran during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No, Myleran can harm a developing fetus and may be excreted in breast milk, so it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
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