A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Leukeran, known by its generic name Chlorambucil, is a potent medication primarily used to treat certain types of cancer, including Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia. As an alkylating agent, Leukeran works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, which are then destroyed by the body. Despite its effectiveness, it is essential to use this medication under strict medical supervision due to its potential side effects and interactions with other drugs.
Before you buy Leukeran, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and the price of Leukeran 2 mg.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C14H19Cl2NO2 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Well absorbed (approximately 70-80%) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Chlorambucil |
Elimination half-life | Approximately 1.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 2 mg tablets |
Pregnancy | Not recommended; can cause fetal harm |
Brands | Leukeran |
Protein binding | Highly bound to plasma proteins (approximately 99%) |
PubChem CID | 2708 |
MedlinePlus | a682899 |
ChEBI | 28832 |
ATC code | L01AA02 |
DrugBank | DB00291 |
KEGG | D00266 |
Routes of administration | Oral |
Leukeran should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. The dosage and length of treatment depend on several factors, including the type and severity of the condition being treated, the patient's overall health, and response to therapy. It is usually taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Patients should swallow the tablets whole with water without crushing or breaking them. Regular monitoring through blood tests is crucial to adjust the dose appropriately and to monitor for side effects.
Active Ingredient: Chlorambucil
Leukeran is a powerful medication that requires careful handling and usage. It is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to Chlorambucil or any other ingredients in the formulation.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using this medication due to the risk of harm to the fetus or newborn.
Patients with a history of severe bone marrow suppression may also be at increased risk of serious complications.
Before starting Leukeran, inform your healthcare provider of all medical conditions, including kidney or liver disease, a history of seizures, or any infections. This information can help your doctor determine your condition's safest and most effective dosage regimen.
Leukeran 2 mg can interact with a variety of medications and substances, which can alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all your medications, supplements, and herbs. Particular caution should be observed with:
Like all medications, Leukeran can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, oral ulcers, and decreased appetite. These are generally mild and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication. More severe side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. These include:
Long-term use of Leukeran can lead to an increased risk of secondary cancers, particularly of the skin and other organs. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is essential to promptly detect and manage any side effects or complications.
What is Leukeran used for?
Leukeran is FDA-approved for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia and malignant lymphomas, including lymphosarcoma, giant follicular lymphoma, and Hodgkin's disease.
How does Leukeran work?
Chlorambucil, the active ingredient in Leukeran, belongs to a group of drugs called alkylating agents. It produces anti-cancer effects by causing a chemical reaction that damages the DNA in a cell.
How is Leukeran administered?
Leukeran is a coated tablet that is given by mouth.
What are the common side effects of Leukeran?
Low white blood cell levels, low red blood cell levels, low platelet levels, nausea, and vomiting are common side effects.
Can Leukeran be taken with other medications?
It's important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you're taking, as Leukeran can interact with certain other drugs.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Leukeran?
If you miss a dose of Leukeran, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Refrain from doubling your dose to make up for a missed one.
What precautions should I take while using Leukeran?
While using Leukeran, regular blood tests are required to monitor your response to treatment and check for side effects.
Who should not take Leukeran?
People allergic to chlorambucil or any of the medication's ingredients should not take Leukeran.
Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take Leukeran?
Leukeran may harm an unborn baby, so it should not be used during pregnancy. Women who are breastfeeding should also avoid this medication as it can pass into breast milk.
Who makes Leukeran, and where is it made?
Waylis Therapeutics makes Leukeran.