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Cytarabine ( sy-TAH-rah-been ) (Cytosine Arabinoside, Ara-C, Arabinosylcytosine, Cytosar-U®) What is this medication used for? Cytarabine destroys cancer cells by interfering with their growth cycle.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
What are the less common side effects? • Hair loss (alopecia) • Abnormal liver function tests • Diarrhea • Eye irritation and redness (with higher doses) • Slurred speech, clumsy movements, seizures, memory issues (when given into spinal fluid) Special instructions: • High-dose infusions may cause fever, rash, eye irritation, peeling of the skin on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, and central nervous system side effects, including dizziness, headache, and nerve pain. • Eye irritation may be prevented by taking prescribed eye drops. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device • Under the skin (subcutaneous or subq) • Into the spinal fluid What are the common side effects? • Nausea or vomiting • Loss of appetite • Flu-like symptoms (for example, fever, aches, and tiredness) • Mouth sores • Low blood counts 1–3 weeks after treatment
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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