Fludarabine Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Fludarabine is a crucial medication utilized for the treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. It belongs to a group of drugs known as antimetabolites and is available in different dosage forms and strengths. Side effects may occur, with severity varying per individual. Always consult with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine specialists before adjusting dosage or if adverse reactions occur.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Fludara (Fludarabine)

In simple terms, the ‘generic name’ is the official medical name for the active ingredient in the medicine. The name within parentheses is the generic name.

Pharmacologic Category

Fludarabine falls under the Antimetabolites category. Other drugs in this category include Methotrexate, Cytarabine, and Mercaptopurine.

Dosing

Fludarabine is indicated for the treatment of:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): The dose is typically 25 mg/m² administered intravenously over approximately 30 minutes for five consecutive days. Each 5-day course of treatment should commence every 28 days.
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL): The dose is usually 25 mg/m² given intravenously over 30 minutes for three consecutive days. Each 3-day course should start every 28 days.

Always consult with your doctor before adjusting your dosage. Our telemedicine providers are also available to help you manage your treatment plan.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Fludarabine is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Injection: 50 mg (as phosphate)/2 mL (25 mg/mL) single-dose vials
• Tablets: 10 mg

Administration Instructions

Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for Fludarabine administration. Fludarabine is usually administered intravenously by a healthcare provider, but if you are given tablets, take them with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals. Never change your dosing schedule without consulting your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Fatigue: Feeling of tiredness or lack of energy (common)
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick in the stomach or actually being sick (common)
• Myelosuppression: Reduction in the ability of the bone marrow to produce blood cells (very common)

If any side effect becomes serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed here, please consult with your healthcare provider or get in touch with our telemedicine providers right away.

Contraindications

‘Contraindication’ means a specific situation in which a drug should not be used, due to potential harm or ineffectiveness. Fludarabine should not be used if:

• Severe renal impairment: Fludarabine is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. In cases of severe renal impairment, the drug may not be adequately cleared from the body, leading to toxicity.
• Allergy to Fludarabine or any of its components: An allergic reaction could lead to severe or life-threatening effects.

If you are concerned about these contraindications, please consult with one of our telemedicine providers for advice.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Fludarabine may interact with other medications, altering their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. Such drugs include:

• Pentostatin (Nipent)
• Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Our telemedicine specialists can help you manage these interactions.

Fludarabine in Pregnancy

Fludarabine is not recommended during pregnancy. It may cause harm to the developing fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss this with your healthcare provider or a telemedicine specialist.

Fludarabine while Breastfeeding

It is not known if Fludarabine is passed into breast milk. However, due to the potential harm to the nursing infant, it is recommended to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication. Please consult with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine providers for more advice.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Fludarabine, without insurance but with a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $180 – $200. Please note that prices may vary based on location and pharmacy.

Possible Alternatives

For the following diseases, alternative treatments might help. However, always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers before making changes to your treatment plan:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Alternatives may include other chemotherapy drugs, radiation therapy, or bone marrow transplantation. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet and regular exercise can also support overall health.
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Other treatment options may include radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies. Healthy lifestyle habits can also improve general health and wellbeing.

Recent Updates on Fludarabine Research

Recent studies have shown promising results using Fludarabine in combination with other medications for the treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Furthermore, ongoing research is exploring Fludarabine’s role in conditioning regimens for stem cell transplants, with the aim to enhance transplant success and reduce post-transplant complications. For the latest updates on Fludarabine research and its potential impact on your treatment plan, consult with our telemedicine providers.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.