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Leukeran
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Leukeran exhibits antitumor and cytostatic activity.
Indications Leikeran
It is used for the following pathologies:
- lymphogranulomatosis;
- chronic lymphocytic leukemia;
- lymphomas that have a malignant form (for example, lymphosarcoma);
- primary macroglobulinemia.
Release form
The therapeutic agent is released in tablet form, in the amount of 25 pieces inside a glass bottle; there is 1 such bottle in a pack.
Pharmacodynamics
Chlorambucil is an aromatic derivative of nitrogen mustard gas that exerts a bifunctional alkylating effect during therapy.
Alkylation occurs when highly active ethylenemonium radicals are formed. During this process, cross-synthesis occurs between these radicals and the DNA helix, causing its replication to be disrupted.
Pharmacokinetics
Good absorption of the drug from the gastrointestinal tract is observed. Cmax values of the active ingredient are recorded after 0.5-2 hours after administration. Intraplasmic protein synthesis is 99%. Excretion of chlorambucil from blood plasma occurs after approximately 90 minutes.
Metabolic processes develop inside the liver, fully and at high speed. The substance is excreted mainly through the kidneys in the form of metabolic products. The component does not overcome the BBB, but is able to penetrate the placenta.
Dosing and administration
The tablets must be taken whole, orally. The medication is usually part of a complex treatment, which is why only an experienced medical specialist should select the application scheme and dosage regimen.
In lymphogranulomatosis, Leukeran is used as monotherapy. On average, 0.2 mg/kg of the substance is required per day. The entire treatment cycle usually lasts 1-2 months.
In other situations, the dosage is calculated taking into account the individual characteristics and weight of the patient. The duration of therapy should be selected by a doctor.
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Use Leikeran during pregnancy
It is prohibited to prescribe to pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Contraindications
The use of the medication is contraindicated in individuals with severe intolerance to it.
It is used with great caution in the following situations:
- severe stage of leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, as well as suppression of bone marrow activity;
- recently suffered from or currently diagnosed with chickenpox;
- herpes zoster;
- infections that are acute and of fungal, viral or bacterial origin;
- bone marrow infiltration by tumor cells;
- gout;
- urate nephrolithiasis;
- epilepsy or head injury;
- diseases affecting the kidneys or liver to a severe degree.
Side effects Leikeran
When administering Leukeran, the following disorders may be observed:
- jaundice, myelosuppression, liver dysfunction and gastrointestinal disorders;
- convulsions, fever, epidermal rashes;
- aseptic cystitis, amenorrhea;
- polyneuropathy or pneumonia.
Overdose
In case of intoxication, ataxia, increased excitability, treatable pancytopenia and relapses of epileptoid seizures are observed.
The drug has no antidote. Gastric lavage is performed, and in addition, vital functions of the body are monitored and supported. It is necessary to monitor blood tests and perform all necessary measures taking into account developing negative signs.
Interactions with other drugs
Combining the drug with substances that have the ability to suppress hematopoietic processes can lead to potentiation of myelotoxicity.
When used together with anti-gout drugs, their dosage must be changed, because chlorambucil increases blood uric acid levels.
Combination with haloperidol, MAOIs, maprotiline, and also with phenothiazines, tricyclics and thioxanthenes often reduces the seizure threshold, and at the same time increases the likelihood of developing seizures.
Simultaneous use with inactivated virus vaccines reduces antibody production as a reaction to the vaccine used. When using live virus vaccines, it is possible to potentiate negative symptoms, weaken antibody production and develop other negative manifestations.
Storage conditions
Leukeran should be stored in a place closed to children and sunlight. Temperature values are in the range of 2-8°C.
Shelf life
Leukeran can be used for a period of 3 years from the date of manufacture of the drug.
Analogues
Analogues of the substance are the drugs Chlorbutin and Chlorambucil.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Leukeran" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.