Why is Cytoxan used for lupus?
Cytoxan is in a class of drugs known as alkylating agents. This means it slows or stops the growth of malignant cells or other rapidly dividing cells, such as white blood cells that attack your body during a lupus flare.
Is Cytoxan used to treat lupus?
Cytoxan is a cytotoxic medication usually reserved for lupus patients with serious kidney problems who have not responded to other medications. The dosage of Cytoxan varies from person to person. It can be taken in tablet form, but more often it is given intravenously (IV) at the doctor’s office.
How long does it take for Cytoxan to work?
It takes 6 to 12 weeks for the Cytoxan to start working. It is important for patients starting this medicine to keep taking it as prescribed.
What are long-term side effects of Cytoxan?
The long-term side effects of cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) are damage to the bladder and the bone marrow. Bladder cancer is a well-known risk and continues to arise at least 10-15 years after the drug was given.
Is leflunomide an immunosuppressant?
Leflunomide is a novel immunosuppressive compound that is effective in the treatment of animal models of autoimmune disease and human rheumatoid arthritis.
What is the best infusion for lupus?
But right now there is only one available drug made specifically for lupus: Benlysta. Approved by the FDA in 2011, Benlysta (belimumab), is a biologic therapy and immunosuppressant. It’s made from living tissues and must be administered by infusion or injection.
What is Cytoxan used to treat?
Generic Name: cyclophosphamide Cyclophosphamide is used to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping cell growth. Cyclophosphamide also works by decreasing your immune system’s response to various diseases.
How long is Cytoxan treatment?
An oral dose of 2 mg per kg daily for 8 to 12 weeks (maximum cumulative dose 168 mg per kg) is recommended. Treatment beyond 90 days increases the probability of sterility in males [see  Use In Specific Populations].
What instruction should be given to a patient taking Cytoxan?
If you are taking Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide injection) once a day, take it in the morning. Do not take it at night unless told to do so by your doctor. Pass urine often. You need to empty your bladder often.
Is Cytoxan a steroid?
In this regard, cyclophosphamide is sometimes referred to as a “steroid–sparing agent“. For the most part, the potential side–effects of cyclophosphamide differ from those of prednisone.
Is Cytoxan bad?
Cyclophosphamide, also called Cytoxan, is classified as a “cytotoxic agent”, because it has a toxic effect on many types of cells (“good” cells as well as “bad”). Cyclophosphamide is one of a number of medications first developed as a chemotherapy drug (a medication used in the treatment of cancer).
Is Cytoxan hard on kidneys?
Kidney stones, history of—Cyclophosphamide may increase levels of uric acid in the body, which can cause gout or kidney stones.