Cytarabine: how to take it safely
Cytosar, Ara-C
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats acute leukaemias and some lymphomas.
How to take it
It is given by a cancer nurse or doctor, by drip into a vein. Your blood tests are checked before each cycle.
When to take it
Given by drip into a vein by a cancer nurse or doctor, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Tell your team if you have liver or kidney problems.
- Missing your steroid eye drops if you were given them.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Nausea, vomiting, fever, rash, mouth sores, low blood counts.
Get help if
Fever, signs of infection, unusual bleeding, trouble walking, unsteadiness, confusion or eye pain: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.