Chlorambucil tablets

About chlorambucil

Chlorambucil is used to treat some cancers, particularly cancer of white blood cells and cancers of the lymphatic system. It can be prescribed both for adults and for children.

In cancer, certain cells in the body grow and multiply too fast. Anti-cancer medicines (chemotherapy) like chlorambucil work by preventing the growth and division of cells, and this reduces the number of cancer cells your body makes. Chlorambucil can be used as a treatment on its own, or alongside other medicines to help treat your condition.

Before taking chlorambucil

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you (or, if appropriate, your child) start taking chlorambucil it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works.

• If you have a kidney problem called nephrotic syndrome.

• If you have ever had a fit (seizure) or if you have epilepsy.

• If you have an infection or feel unwell.

• If you have a rare inherited blood disorder called porphyria.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take chlorambucil

• Before you start this treatment, read any printed information you have been given by your doctor and the leaflet from inside your pack of tablets. The leaflet will give you more information about chlorambucil and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Chlorambucil will be given to you by a specialist doctor who is experienced in treating your condition. Your doctor will calculate what dose is right for you and will tell you how many tablets to take each day - it is important that you take chlorambucil exactly as you have been told. Your dose will also be printed on the label of your pack. If you are unsure about what to do, or if you have any other concerns, you should contact your doctor or hospital clinic for advice.

• You should take the tablets when your stomach is empty, which means taking them one hour before eating food, or waiting until three hours afterwards. This is because food prevents chlorambucil from being absorbed by your body, which means the medicine is much less effective for you.

• Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Do not break, crush or chew them.

• Try to take chlorambucil at the same time each day, as this will help you to remember to take your doses.

• If you are sick shortly after taking a dose, or if you forget a dose, contact your doctor or clinic for advice on what to do. You will be told whether to take the dose again, or to wait until the next dose is due.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You must try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor or hospital. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. You will need to have regular blood tests and check-ups during your treatment.

• Chlorambucil lowers the number of white cells in your blood, increasing the chance of you getting an infection. You should take certain precautions to reduce the risk of infection - if possible, avoid people with infections and let your doctor know if you think you are getting a sore throat or if you have a high temperature (fever).

• It is important that you do not get pregnant or father a child while you are taking chlorambucil. Make sure you have discussed with your doctor which types of contraception are suitable for you and your partner.

• If you intend to have children in the future, you should ask your doctor for advice about family planning before you begin taking chlorambucil. There is a risk of reduced fertility after treatment with chlorambucil.

• This medicine lowers your natural protection against infections. It is important to protect yourself from serious illness by having any vaccinations your doctor offers you. If you live with other people they can also help protect you by having their vaccinations when invited.

• Some vaccines may not be suitable for people with lowered immune systems. Always let the person vaccinating know that you are taking this medicine.

• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Can chlorambucil cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause side-effects although not everyone experiences them. Before you start treatment with chlorambucil, your doctor will discuss with you the possibility of unwanted side-effects occurring. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with chlorambucil. You will find a full list of side-effects in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your tablets.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store chlorambucil

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store the tablets in a refrigerator.

• Return any unused or unwanted tablets to your pharmacy to destroy. These will need special disposal.

Important information about all medicines