Cytarabine

Uses

Cytarabine is used in the treatment of blood cancer.

How it Works

Cytarabine works by interfering with the growth of DNA and RNA in cancer cells by substituting their building blocks. This action prevents the cancer cells from growing and multiplying.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Cytarabine include skin ulcers, low blood platelets, sepsis, vomiting, nausea, infections, pneumonia, anal ulcers, hair loss, fever, abnormal liver function, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), diarrhea, bone marrow failure, megaloblastic anemia, decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), decreased reticulocyte count, bone marrow disorders, Cytarabine syndrome, corneal disorders, necrotizing enterocolitis, cerebral disorders, cerebellar disorders, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and skin exfoliation.

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