Indications and Usage

Fludarabine is FDA approved to treat people who have chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) who have not responded to at least one standard alkylting-agent-containing regimen or whose disease has progressed during treatment with such a regimen. This medicine may rarely cause a temporary loss of hair. After treatment with fludarabine has ended, normal hair growth should return.

Side effects needing medical attention

Cough; sore throat; fever; chills; sores or white patches on mouth or lips; unusual bleeding or bruising; fatigue; chest pain; shortness of breath; pain or burning on urination; lower back or side pain; black, tarry stools; blood in urine; pinhead-sized red spots on skin; agitation or confusion; blurred vision; loss of hearing; numbness or tingling in fingers, toes or face; swelling of feet or lower legs; unusual tiredness or weakness; nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; hair loss; aching muscles; general feeling of discomfort or illness; headache; loss of appetite.

Side effects needing medical attention after stopping this medication

Cough or hoarseness; fever or chills; loss of vision; lower back or side pain; painful or difficult urination; shortness of breath or wheezing; weakness; black, tarry stools; blood in urine or stool; back, lower back or side pain; pinhead-sized red spots on skin or rash; itching; sweating; swelling of face or tongue; tightness in throat; loss of appetite; hair loss; nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; unusual tiredness.

For information on how to manage the costs of drug therapy, please see Financial Support, or to speak with an Information Specialist, call (800) 955-4572.