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Generic Name: Ifosfamide
Brand Name(s): Ifex®
IUPAC: N,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1,3,2-oxazaphosphinan-2-amide-2-oxide
FDA Approval: yes
Manufacturer Link
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Usage: Ifosfamide (Ifex®) is an
alkylating agent used mainly to treat germ cell testicular cancer. Other malignancies for which ifosfamide is used include acute lymphocytic
leukemia, bladder cancer, bone cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer,
endometrial cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, neuroblastoma,
lymphoma, Wilms' tumor. Ifosfamide is usually administered in injection form.
Mechanism: Ifosfamide binds with nucleic acids by cross-linking of
DNA and
RNA which leads to inhibition of
protein synthesis.
Side Effects: Common side effects include alopecia (hair loss), temporary ridging of the nails, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, depression of blood cell counts. Less common side effects include: temporary toxicities, changes in liver function, skin rashes or darkening, confusion, lethargy, sleepiness, and loss of balance. A very serious problem that may result with treatment is hemorrhagic cystitis, which is prevented by administering ifosfamide in combination with a compound called Mesna (Uromitexan, Mesnex), which inactivates the toxic compounds, minimizing the problem. Patients considering ifosfamide as cancer therapy should talk to their doctor about the drug's effects on fertility, potential or current pregnancy, breast-feeding, chickenpox status, shingles status, kidney disease, liver disease, and all other medications currently taken.
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