Cladribine is a chemotherapeutic substance that prevents the production of new DNA and therefore eliminates dividing cells to multiply and grow, as with cancer cells. That way, this medicine is used to treat cancer, especially leukemia.
Although it has a great effect on slowing the development of cancer, this remedy also eliminates other healthy cells that multiply frequently, such as hair cells and some blood cells, which causes some side effects such as hair loss or anemia, for example.
Price and where to buy
This medicine can only be used in the hospital as a chemotherapy drug for cancer and, therefore, can not be bought in conventional pharmacies.
What is it for
Cladribine is indicated for the treatment of hairy cell leukemia, also known as tricholeukemia.
How to use
The use of cladribine can only be done in the hospital by a team of doctors and nurses specializing in the treatment of cancer.
However, most of the time, treatment is done with a single cycle of cladribine, made by continuous injection into the vein, for 7 days in a row at a dose of 0.09 mg / kg / day. That way, during this time, you need to be admitted to the hospital.
Cladribine doses may be adjusted, but only after rigorous evaluation by an oncologist.
Possible side effects
Some of the most common side effects of cladribine include anemia, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, headache, increased heart rate, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, purple spots on the skin, pain in muscles and joints, excessive tiredness and chills.
Who should not use
Cladribine is contraindicated for pregnant women, women who are breast-feeding, and people who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the formula.
