Info about Cancer

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Cytarabine: A Cancer Fighting Medication

Cytarabine is the treatment for certain kinds of blood cancers or leukemia. It is also used for the treatment for leukemia linked with meningitis.


Cytarabine may be used for treating other diseases than those mentioned here.


• Counter Indications


Never start taking cytarabine without informing your doctor in case you are pregnant. This could be hazardous for the unborn infant. While using this medication, use of effective birth control is advised. Inform your doctor in case of accidental pregnancy during treatment.


On being given cytarabine, let the doctor know of your allergies to drugs if any. Also inform about the history of asthma or breathing problems, or of stomach ulcers.


Cytarabine helps lower infection fighting blood cells. This can cause bleeding after an injury or catching infections common. Avoid the exposure to people with colds, flu or other contagious diseases. Consult your doctor immediately on developing signs of an infection.


Refrain from receiving a live vaccine when taking cytarabine, as it can prove to be useless with this medication. The live vaccine would not work well during treatment, and would fail in protecting you from the disease.







Side Effects of Cytarabine

Common Side Effects:

Consult your doctor if these common side effects persist while using Cytarabine medicine:

Drowsiness or/and weakness.

Serious Side Effects:

Seek immediate medical attention if these serious side effects appear on use:

Severe allergies like rashes; hives; itch; breathing problems;

Chest tightness;

Swollen mouth, lips, face or tongue;

Back ache;

Bowel/ bladder issues;

Fever;

Confusion;

Headaches;

Tiredness;

Hearing problems or deafness;

Nausea;

Neck stiffness or pain;

One-sided weaknesses;

Numbness, tingling sensations or muscle weakness of arms or legs;

Irritation, pain, swelling or redness at the injection site;

Throat soreness;

Unusual bruising/bleeding;

Sight problems or blindness;