CYTARABINE (CYTARINE) 1000mg INJ

Cytarabine 1000mg injection is a chemotherapy medicine used in combination with other anticancer drugs to treat certain types of leukaemia. It works by suppressing bone marrow activity and is given by a healthcare professional via injection or infusion. This medicine requires a prescription.

What it is

Cytarabine is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of leukaemia (blood cell cancers). It belongs to a class of drugs that interfere with the growth of cancer cells.

What it's used for

Cytarabine injection, together with other approved anticancer medicines, is used to bring about remission (improvement) in acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia in adults and children. It is also used for acute lymphocytic leukaemia and the blast phase of chronic myelocytic leukaemia. When given into the spinal fluid (intrathecally), it is used to prevent or treat leukaemia that has spread to the brain or spinal cord (meningeal leukaemia).

Common side effects

Because cytarabine suppresses bone marrow activity, common side effects include anaemia (low red blood cells), leukopenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets). These can lead to increased risk of infection, bleeding, and tiredness. The severity depends on the dose and schedule. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts regularly.

Important cautions

Cytarabine should not be used in people who are allergic to it. Use with caution in patients who already have bone marrow suppression from other treatments. Close medical supervision, daily blood cell counts, and frequent bone marrow examinations are needed during therapy.

This is a prescription-only medicine. You can upload your prescription when you order it on Drugstore.ng.

Frequently asked questions

What is cytarabine used for?

Cytarabine is used together with other anticancer medicines to treat certain leukaemias, such as acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia, acute lymphocytic leukaemia, and the blast phase of chronic myelocytic leukaemia. When given into the spinal fluid, it is used for meningeal leukaemia.

What are the side effects of cytarabine?

The most common side effects are due to bone marrow suppression: low red blood cells (anaemia), low white blood cells (leukopenia), and low platelets (thrombocytopenia). This raises the risk of infection, bleeding, and fatigue. Other side effects may include changes in blood cell appearance.

Can I buy cytarabine without a prescription in Nigeria?

No, cytarabine is a prescription-only medicine. You need a valid prescription from a doctor to purchase it. You can upload your prescription when ordering on Drugstore.ng.

How is cytarabine given?

Cytarabine is given as an injection by a healthcare professional. It can be given into a vein (by infusion or direct injection), under the skin, or into the spinal fluid. It is not taken by mouth.

Is cytarabine a chemotherapy drug?

Yes, cytarabine is a chemotherapy medicine. It works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, particularly in leukaemias.

This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.