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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Fludara, Oforta
Fludarabine phosphate is a purine analog antimetabolite used to treat certain types of cancers, particularly chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It works by interfering with DNA synthesis and repair in rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Fludarabine is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.
For treating B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Severe bone marrow suppression, including fatal infections, has been reported. Immunosuppression and opportunistic infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and reactivation of infections such as herpes zoster, have been reported. Tumor lysis syndrome has been reported. Pulmonary toxicity has been reported; some cases have been fatal. Neurotoxicity, including blindness, coma, and death, has been reported, especially with doses above recommended levels or in patients with impaired renal function. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, autoimmune thrombocytopenia, and other autoimmune phenomena, some with fatal outcome, have been reported.
Outcome:
Increased risk of life-threatening neurotoxicity
Mechanism:
Reduced clearance of fludarabine.
Outcome:
Increased risk of bleeding
Mechanism:
Additive effects on platelet function.
Outcome:
Reduced fludarabine absorption
Mechanism:
Changes in gastric pH.
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal fludarabine for improved efficacy and reduced toxicity (Year: 2026, 60% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial data, fludarabine is likely to remain a key treatment option for CLL with a 70% probability of continued FDA approval for this indication over the next 5 years.
Antineoplastic, Antimetabolite, Purine Analog
Purine nucleoside analogue