Ifosfamide

How do I say this name?

eye-FOS-fa-mide

What is this medicine used for?

Ifosfamide kills cancer cells.

This medicine may be called by its brand name, Ifex^®.

How do I take this medicine?

Ifosfamide is injected into the veins. Another medicine, called mesna, may be given at the same time to prevent ifosfamide from causing bladder problems.

Are there any special things I should do while on this medicine?

Ifosfamide can decrease the number of white blood cells in your body, cells that usually help you fight infections. It can also decrease the number of cells in your blood that help your blood clot (platelets). Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to reduce your risk of infection or excessive bleeding.

Drink extra fluids so you will urinate more and your bladder and kidneys will work well while you are getting ifosfamide. Drink 7-12 cups (3 quarts) of fluid a day.

Empty your bladder frequently during the day and at least once at night. This keeps the medicine from damaging your kidneys and bladder.

What side effects are common with this medicine?

• Reversible bladder irritation
• Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Increased risk of infection for 7-14 days after therapy
• Reversible hair loss

When should I call my doctor?

Call your doctor if you are worried about a side effect or have questions about your medical care. Ifosfamide might change how you think, feel, or act. Call the doctor if you or your family are worried about the way you are feeling or acting.

Call the doctor at once if you have any of these side effects:

• Symptoms of infection:

  Cough, hoarseness, or sore throat

  Fever above 100.5° Fahrenheit, or chills

  Pain in lower back or side

  Painful or difficult urination

  Urinating more often than normal

• Symptoms of bladder irritation:

  Blood in urine

  Painful or difficult urination

  Urinating more often than normal

Call the doctor as soon as you can if you have any of these side effects:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there)
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

Are there side effects of this medicine after I finish my chemotherapy?

Ifosfamide may cause side effects that do not occur for months or years after you finish chemotherapy, including leukemia. Discuss long-term effects with your doctor if you are concerned.

These written patient information materials should be used in conjunction with verbal counseling. They are not intended as the sole source of information patients receive about their chemotherapy and other medications. The adverse effects listed are important and common ones that patients might experience; every possible adverse effect is not included. Long-term adverse effects, like secondary malignancy and infertility, are discussed for those drugs whose risk is well defined.