Introduction
Cycloph 200 mg (Cyclophosphamide) is a powerful antineoplastic medication used in the treatment of various malignancies and certain non-malignant conditions. As a trusted cytotoxic chemotherapy agent, Cycloph works by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing their replication and growth. Manufactured by Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a leading pharmaceutical company with over 31 years of excellence, and supplied by Orio Pharma, this injection offers healthcare providers a reliable option in their oncological arsenal.
Therapeutic Applications
Malignant Conditions
Cycloph 200 mg demonstrates effectiveness in treating multiple malignancies, including:
- Malignant Lymphomas (Stages III and IV): Hodgkin’s disease, lymphocytic lymphoma (nodular or diffuse), mixed-cell type lymphoma, histiocytic lymphoma, and Burkitt’s lymphoma
- Multiple Myeloma
- Leukemias: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic granulocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous and monocytic leukemia, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children
- Advanced Mycosis Fungoides
- Neuroblastoma (disseminated disease)
- Ovarian Adenocarcinoma
- Retinoblastoma
- Breast Carcinoma
Non-Malignant Conditions
Cycloph may be prescribed for biopsy-proven “minimal change” nephrotic syndrome in children who don’t respond adequately to corticosteroid therapy or experience intolerable side effects from such treatment. It is not recommended as primary therapy and is not indicated for nephrotic syndrome in adults or other renal diseases.
Mechanism of Action
Cyclophosphamide undergoes biotransformation primarily in the liver through a mixed function microsomal oxidase system, converting it to active alkylating metabolites. These metabolites interfere with the DNA of rapidly proliferating cancer cells by cross-linking tumor cell DNA, thereby inhibiting cell division and leading to cell death. The medication demonstrates excellent bioavailability (>75%) when administered orally, with an elimination half-life of 3-12 hours. While primarily eliminated as metabolites, 5-25% is excreted unchanged in urine.
Dosage and Administration
For Malignant Diseases:
- Initial course (adults and children): 40-50 mg/kg intravenously in divided doses over 2-5 days
- Alternative intravenous regimens: 10-15 mg/kg every 7-10 days or 3-5 mg/kg twice weekly
- Oral dosing: 1-5 mg/kg/day for both initial and maintenance therapy
Dosage adjustments should be made based on evidence of antitumor activity and/or leukopenia. The total leukocyte count serves as an effective guide for regulating dosage, with transient decreases to 2000 cells/mm³ or more persistent reduction to 3000 cells/mm³ generally tolerated without serious infection risk in the absence of marked granulocytopenia.
When used in combination with other cytotoxic agents, dose reduction may be necessary for Cycloph and other medications in the regimen.
For Non-Malignant Diseases:
- Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: 2.5-3 mg/kg orally daily for 60-90 days
Drug Interactions
Healthcare providers should be aware of potential interactions with:
- Phenobarbital: Chronic administration of high doses may increase metabolism and leukopenic activity of Cycloph
- Succinylcholine chloride: Cycloph potentiates its effect due to marked inhibition of cholinesterase activity
- Other cytotoxic drugs: Monitor for combined actions, both desirable and undesirable
Anesthesiologists should be alerted if a patient has received Cycloph within 10 days of general anesthesia.
Contraindications
Cycloph is contraindicated in:
- Patients with severely depressed bone marrow function
- Patients with previous hypersensitivity to cyclophosphamide
Adverse Effects
Digestive System:
- Common: Nausea, vomiting, anorexia
- Less frequent: Abdominal discomfort, pain, diarrhea
- Rare: Hemorrhagic colitis, oral mucosal ulceration, jaundice
Skin and Associated Structures:
- Common: Alopecia (hair typically regrows, possibly with different texture/color)
- Occasional: Skin rash
- Rare: Pigmentation changes, nail changes, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis
Hematopoietic System:
- Common: Leukopenia
- Occasional: Thrombocytopenia, anemia
- Other: Fever without documented infection in neutropenic patients
Urinary System:
- Hemorrhagic ureteritis
- Renal tubular necrosis
Respiratory System:
- Interstitial pneumonitis
- Pulmonary fibrosis (with high doses over prolonged periods)
Other:
- Anaphylactic reactions
- SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion)
- Malaise and asthenia
Special Populations
Pregnancy and Lactation:
- Pregnancy Category D: Potential for fetal harm exists
- Breastfeeding: Cyclophosphamide is excreted in breast milk; discontinuation of nursing or the medication should be considered
Pediatric Use:
- Safety profile similar to adult population
Geriatric Use:
- Elderly patients may be more susceptible to Cycloph toxicities
- Cautious dosing recommended, starting at lower end of dosing range with adjustments based on response
Precautions
Special attention required for patients with:
- Leukopenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Bone marrow infiltration by tumor cells
- Previous radiation therapy
- Previous cytotoxic agent therapy
- Impaired hepatic function
- Impaired renal function
Overdose Management
No specific antidote exists. Treatment involves supportive measures, including appropriate management of infections, myelosuppression, and cardiac toxicity if they occur.
Storage Conditions
Store at temperatures not exceeding 25°C in a dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
Conclusion
Cycloph 200 mg (Cyclophosphamide) Injection represents a cornerstone in cancer therapy, offering effective treatment for multiple malignancies while requiring careful monitoring for adverse effects. With proper administration and vigilant patient care, this medication provides healthcare providers with a valuable tool in their fight against cancer.
Manufactured by Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and supplied by Orio Pharma, ensuring worldwide delivery within 3-7 working days, Cycloph maintains the highest standards of quality and efficacy in oncology treatment.