Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
Pharmaceutical name: Cyclophosphamide
Pack: 10 pills (50 mg)
Endoxan is classified as a cancer treatment drug with cytotoxic properties. Its active ingredient, Cyclophosphamide, is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 into two active compounds, acrolein and phosphoramide. These active substances inhibit the growth of cancer cells by interfering with their proliferation and metabolism. This primarily affects cells that are growing uncontrollably, but it can also harm other cells in the body, leading to significant side effects.
Endoxan is also considered an immunosuppressive agent. It is utilized in the treatment of various cancers such as malignant lymphoma (including lymphocytic and histiocytic lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis, Burkitt lymphoma, and mixed subtype lymphoma), multiple myeloma, different forms of leukemia (lymphocytic, granulocytic, myelocytic, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children), neuroblastoma, ovarian adenocarcinoma, retinoblastoma, and breast carcinoma.
Patients with myelosuppression, liver or kidney issues, or those who have previously undergone radiation and chemotherapy should use Endoxan with caution. Regular monitoring of blood and urine tests (to check for red blood cell levels) is necessary during treatment. Women of childbearing age are advised to use reliable contraception while taking Endoxan.
Potential side effects of Endoxan include increased susceptibility to infections and the risk of developing secondary cancers, usually affecting the bladder, lymph nodes, or bone marrow. These secondary cancers may arise several years after treatment.
It is important to inform your doctor before taking other anticancer medications such as doxorubicin, allopurinol, or phenobarbital alongside Endoxan. Adjustments to steroid hormone dosage may be necessary for patients with removed adrenal glands who are also taking Endoxan.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule; do not double up. Symptoms of Endoxan overdose are not typically anticipated, but if you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.