Medicines
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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Leustatin, Mavenclad
Cladribine is a purine nucleoside analogue prodrug that acts as an antineoplastic antimetabolite. It is used to treat hairy cell leukemia and multiple sclerosis. Cladribine is taken up by actively dividing cells, particularly lymphocytes, where it is phosphorylated intracellularly to its active triphosphate form. This active metabolite interferes with DNA synthesis and repair, ultimately leading to cell death. Cladribine is particularly toxic to lymphocytes, making it effective against certain types of leukemia and in modulating the immune system in multiple sclerosis.
For the treatment of hairy cell leukemia and relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.
Cladribine can cause fetal harm and should not be used during pregnancy. It can also increase the risk of malignancy, particularly skin cancer and lymphoma. Patients should undergo regular skin examinations.
Outcome:
Increased risk of cladribine toxicity
Mechanism:
Inhibition of cladribine metabolism
Outcome:
Increased cladribine levels
Mechanism:
Inhibition of cladribine metabolism
Outcome:
Reduced cladribine absorption
Mechanism:
Chelation or altered gastric pH
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release oral formulation (Year 2026, 80% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial outcomes, there is a 70% likelihood of cladribine expanding its approved indications in the next 5 years, potentially including other autoimmune diseases.
Antineoplastic, Immunomodulator
Purine Analog