Ifosfamide: how to take it safely
Holoxan, Ifex
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats sarcoma, testicular cancer, lymphoma and some other cancers.
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
- Not drinking enough fluids. Drink plenty to protect the bladder.
- Missing the mesna dose that protects the bladder.
- Tell your team if you have kidney or nerve problems.
- 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, hair loss, tiredness, low blood counts.
Get help if
Blood in the urine, confusion, drowsiness, hallucinations, seizures, very little urine, fever or signs of infection: 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.