Cytarabine

Cytarabine is an injectable chemotherapy drug that is commonly used to treat acute myeloid leukemia. It may also be used to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and other leukemias. Cytarabine, which is marketed under the brand name "Cytosar-U," works by interfering with the growth and function of cancer cells.

Cytarabine's Effect on the Cell

Cytarabine attacks cells (both cancerous and non-cancerous) as they undergo DNA synthesis. Specifically, it inhibits DNA replication during the synthesis or "S stage" of cellular division. During the S stage DNA is duplicated and divided in preparation for cellular mitosis. The mechanism through which cytarabine targets the S stage and interferes with DNA replication is not yet fully understood.

Side Effects of Cytarabine

Because cytarabine's effects are not limited to cancerous cells, patients experience the results of damage to other, normally dividing cells in their bodies. Cytarabine most frequently causes damage to bone marrow, tissue that lines the mouth and stomach, and hair follicles. Patients experience this damage in the following ways:

Reduction of blood cells: To stop the spread of leukemia or lymphoma, cytarabine is directed at blood cells, particularly cancerous white blood cells. Because bone marrow produces white blood cells as well as red blood cells and platelets, it is normally affected by cytarabine. Blood will not clot correctly and bruising and bleeding may result.

Stomach upset: The rapidly dividing cells that line the mouth, stomach, and digestive tract are often damaged by cytarabine. Food may taste strange, and patients may undergo periods of nausea and diarrhea.

Hair loss: Cytarabine can temporarily damage hair follicles, causing hair loss. Hair regrows after chemotherapy treatment has been completed.

Other risks associated with cytarabine include a potential loss of fertility, nerve damage, liver damage, and physical weakness. Before beginning any chemotherapy treatment, it is important for a patient to be knowledgeable about all possible risks. A patient's oncologist will be his or her best source for information.

Cytarabine Success Rates

Twenty-five to forty percent of patients who have used cytarabine alone have experienced complete remission. Under most circumstances, however, cytarabine is used with other drugs such as daunorubicin, idarubicin, or vincristine . Combined, cytarabine and daunorubicin are roughly 65 percent successful at bringing about complete remission for acute myeloid leukemia patients.

For more information about cytarabine, its effect on cancer cells, and its potential risks, visit an oncologist. Keep in mind that when chemotherapy drugs are used in combination with one another (as they often are), their side effects and ways of working may change. For information specific to your treatment plan, speak with your oncologist.

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