How it is administered

Chlorambucil is taken by mouth in tablet form. Each tablet typically contains 2 mg of chlorambucil. The medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and it is important to follow the dosing instructions carefully. Taking chlorambucil after food may reduce its absorption, so it is usually recommended to take it on an empty stomach unless your doctor advises otherwise.

How it works

Chlorambucil is a type of chemotherapy known as an alkylating agent. It works by interfering with the DNA in cancer cells, which prevents them from multiplying and causes them to die. Specifically, chlorambucil attaches to the DNA and forms cross-links, which block the cell's ability to replicate its genetic material. This triggers a process called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, particularly in cells that are rapidly dividing, such as cancer cells.

Because it targets DNA, chlorambucil can also affect normal cells, especially those that divide quickly, like blood cells. This is why it is important to monitor blood counts regularly during treatment. The medication is mainly used for blood cancers, where it helps to reduce the number of abnormal blood cells and control the disease.

Who Should take it

Chlorambucil is prescribed for people with certain blood cancers, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and some types of lymphoma, such as Hodgkin’s disease and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. It is used to help control the disease and relieve symptoms, but it is not considered a cure.

Your doctor may recommend chlorambucil if other treatments have not worked or if your condition requires chemotherapy to reduce the number of cancerous cells. It is important to have regular check-ups and blood tests while taking this medication to ensure it is working effectively and to monitor for side effects.

Who should not take it

You should not take chlorambucil if you have previously shown resistance to this medication or if you have had an allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to chlorambucil or similar alkylating agents. Signs of an allergic reaction can include skin rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Chlorambucil should be used with caution in people with significant bone marrow suppression, liver problems, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can cause harm to the fetus or nursing infant. It is also not recommended for people who are not being treated for blood cancers, due to its potential to cause secondary cancers and other serious side effects.

Commonly used with

Chlorambucil may be used alone or in combination with other chemotherapy drugs or treatments, depending on the type and stage of blood cancer. Sometimes, it is given alongside corticosteroids or other agents to enhance its effect or manage side effects.

Your doctor will decide the best combination of medications based on your specific diagnosis and health needs.

Commonly tested with

Chlorambucil has been tested in clinical studies with other chemotherapy agents, radiation therapy, and sometimes with newer targeted therapies for blood cancers. The specific combinations depend on the type of cancer being treated and the goals of therapy.

It is important to discuss with your healthcare team about any other medications or treatments you are receiving, as this can affect how chlorambucil works and its side effect profile.