I
Insight Horizon Media

What is the drug cyclophosphamide used for?

Author

Christopher Anderson

Published Mar 19, 2026

What is the drug cyclophosphamide used for?

Cyclophosphamide is used to treat cancer of the ovaries, breast, blood and lymph system, and nerves (mainly in children). Cyclophosphamide is also used for retinoblastoma (a type of eye cancer mainly in children), multiple myeloma (cancer in the bone marrow), and mycosis fungoides (tumors on the skin).

What are the side effects of cyclophosphamide?

Cyclophosphamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

  • nausea.
  • vomiting.
  • loss of appetite or weight.
  • abdominal pain.
  • diarrhea.
  • hair loss.
  • sores on the mouth or tongue.
  • changes in skin color.

How effective is cyclophosphamide?

It was discovered that — in addition to its usefulness in cancer — cyclophosphamide also has a significant ability to suppress the immune system. Thus, the medicine is very effective in the treatment of immunologically–mediated diseases, including some forms of vasculitis.

What is the cost of cyclophosphamide?

Cyclophosphamide is used to treat various types of cancer. Learn more about this drug here. This is a generic drug. The average cost for 4 Capsule(s), 50mg each, is $125.26.

Will I lose my hair on cyclophosphamide?

Hair loss: Temporary – usually begins 3-6 weeks after the start of therapy. Hair will grow back after treatment is completed although the color and/or texture may be different. Nausea and vomiting: more common with larger doses, usually beginning 6-10 hours after therapy.

Is cyclophosphamide a chemo drug?

Cyclophosphamide (pronounced sigh-clo-fos-fah-mide) is a type of chemotherapy. It is a treatment for a number of different types of cancer. You can have cyclophosphamide on its own, or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.

How long can you take cyclophosphamide?

The dose itself is based on your height and weight. Most patients are NOT on cyclophosphamide indefinitely. Most physicians will discuss with their patients a time line of how long they will require cyclophosphamide (E.g. 3, 6, or 12 months).

What is the best food to eat after chemo?

What do I eat after chemotherapy and for the next few days?

  • Apple and grape juice.
  • Fruit nectars.
  • Low-salt broth.
  • Clear soups.
  • Gatorade.
  • Popsicles and sherbert.
  • Gelatin.
  • Herbal teas, such as ginger and mint.

How much water should I drink with cyclophosphamide?

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully about how much fluid to drink every day. Some patients may have to drink up to 7 to 12 cups (3 quarts) of fluid a day. Usually it is best to take cyclophosphamide first thing in the morning, to reduce the risk of bladder problems.

Can I drink coffee during chemo?

Avoid caffeine as it acts as a diuretic and draws water out of your cells, causing you to urinate more fluid than you are consuming. Stay away from strong smelling foods to avoid aggravating any disorders of taste. Avoid fatty fried, spicy and overly sweet foods, as they may induce nausea.

What are the signs that chemo is working?

Complete response – all of the cancer or tumor disappears; there is no evidence of disease. A tumor marker (if applicable) may fall within the normal range. Partial response – the cancer has shrunk by a percentage but disease remains. A tumor marker (if applicable) may have fallen but evidence of disease remains.

How long do you have to take cyclophosphamide?

General. Cyclophosphamide is typically given in divided doses over a period of 2–5 days.