Cytoxan
Brand name: Cytoxan
Chemical name: Cyclophosphamide
Class: Alkylating agent chemotherapy. Thiotepa is another alkylating agent.
How it works: Alkylating agents weaken or destroy breast cancer cells by damaging the cells’ genetic material.
Uses: Cytoxan usually is given in combination with other chemotherapy medicines. It's typically used:
- after surgery and other treatments to reduce the risk of early-stage breast cancer coming back
- before surgery to shrink large advanced-stage breast cancer tumors
- after surgery and other treatments to treat advanced-stage breast cancer
How it's given: Cytoxan can be taken orally as a pill or given intravenously.
Side effects:
- low white blood cell count
- hair loss
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- sores in mouth or on lips
- diarrhea
- irregular periods — this can include temporary cessation (usually resume after medication is completed) or permanent cessation of menstrual periods depending on your age and other factors
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