Leukeran: Quick Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

If you’ve been handed a prescription for Leukeran, you probably have a lot of questions. Leukeran (also called chlorambucil) is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain blood cancers. It works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells, giving your body a chance to catch up. Below, we break down the basics you need to know – when it’s used, how to take it, and what side effects to expect.

When Is Leukeran Prescribed?

Doctors typically choose Leukeran for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and some types of non‑Hodgkin lymphoma. It’s also an option for patients who can’t tolerate stronger chemo regimens. Because it’s an oral pill, it’s convenient for people who want to avoid frequent IV visits. Your oncologist will decide if Leukeran fits your specific cancer stage, overall health, and any other medicines you’re taking.

Before starting, your doctor will run blood tests to check kidney and liver function. These organs help process the drug, so good function means fewer surprises. If you have kidney problems, the dose may be lowered.

How to Take Leukeran Safely

Leukeran comes in tablet form, usually 2 mg, 4 mg, or 6 mg. Most patients take one tablet once a day, but some schedules call for a few days on, a few days off. Follow the exact timing your doctor gives you – missing doses can reduce effectiveness, while taking extra can increase side effects.

Take the tablet with a full glass of water. You don’t need food, but if the stomach feels upset, a light snack can help. Keep a medication diary: note the dose, date, and any new symptoms. Bring this list to every appointment so your doctor can adjust the plan quickly.

Because Leukeran can lower white blood cells, watch for signs of infection: fever, chills, sore throat, or a sudden cough. If any of these pop up, call your care team right away – early treatment can prevent serious complications.

Common side effects include nausea, mild hair thinning, and fatigue. These often improve after the first few weeks as your body gets used to the drug. If nausea becomes a problem, try ginger tea or small, frequent meals. For fatigue, short, regular walks can boost energy without overdoing it.

More serious side effects, though less common, are low blood counts, liver issues, and rare lung problems. Your doctor will monitor blood work every few weeks, especially during the first two months. If labs show a significant drop in blood cells, the dose may be paused until levels recover.

Storing Leukeran is simple: keep the bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children and pets – even a single tablet can be dangerous if swallowed unintentionally.

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask about support resources. Many cancer centers offer nutrition counseling, coping groups, and medication management services. Using these can make the treatment journey smoother.

Leukeran isn’t a “quick fix” but it’s a proven tool in the fight against certain blood cancers. By sticking to the prescribed schedule, monitoring side effects, and staying in close touch with your healthcare team, you give yourself the best chance for a positive outcome.