Cladribine is an antineoplastic drug of the purine group and it is an antimetabolite. It is recommended in the treatment of hairy cell leukemia, which is a type of blood cancer caused by overproduction of B lymphocytes (type of white blood cells). The term "hairy cell" refers to protuberances on the surface of lymphocytes that are similar to hair.
What is Cladribine?
Cladribine is a cytotoxic agent (capable to damage cells and eventually cause their death), analogue of the purines, which are one of the fundamental chemicals in the structure of the DNA. Once inside the body, more precisely in the lymphocytes, Cladribine is converted in a chemical substance able to intervene in the production of new DNA, to prevent cell division and to slow down the progression of leukemia.
How should Cladribine be taken?
Cladribine is administered via intravenous infusion.
Side effects associated with Cladribine
There are several side effects associated with the use of this antineoplastic:
Infection, myelosuppression (decreasing the number of all blood counts), purpura, immunosuppression (weakened immune system), decreased appetite, dizziness, headaches, normal breathing, coughing, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, rash, pain and inflammation at the injection site, fever, fatigue, chills, and weakness.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Cladribine
The administration of Cladribine should not be performed in patients who are hypersensitive to Cladribine; in patients less than 18 years; patients with kidney or liver diseases (moderate to severe); during pregnancy or breastfeeding; in patients that are already being treated with other medicines for reducing the production of blood cells. Finally, in the patients that are over 65 years old, it should be administered with caution along with frequent liver, kidneys and blood monitoring.
