Ifosfamide

Dosage Forms Available

• Ifosfamide is available as a powder for injection which needs to be reconstituted before use.
• It is administered via the intravenous route, meaning that it is delivered directly into the veins.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Ifosfamide is primarily used in adult patients. It can also be used in children, but dose adjustments may be necessary based on the child's weight and overall health condition.

Contraindications

• Ifosfamide should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to it.
• It is contraindicated in patients with urinary outflow obstruction and severe bone marrow suppression.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ifosfamide can interact with blood pressure lowering medications (such as enalapril, amlodipine), anticoagulants (such as warfarin, heparin), and other anticancer agents (such as doxorubicin, cisplatin). It may also interact with medications affecting liver enzymes (such as ketoconazole, rifampin) and drugs with potential nephrotoxic effects (such as aminoglycosides, ibuprofen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Ifosfamide can lead to severe side effects such as confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and coma. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
• If a dose of Ifosfamide is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule should be continued.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
• Resting or taking short naps may help manage fatigue or weakness.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ifosfamide may cause side effects such as dizziness or confusion that may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Use of Ifosfamide during pregnancy can harm the foetus. Therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• It is not known whether Ifosfamide passes into breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding while using this medication is not recommended.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Ifosfamide should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment as dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Additionally, due to its immunosuppressive effects, patients with immune disorders should use this medication cautiously.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Patients undergoing chemotherapy with Ifosfamide should maintain a healthy diet to combat possible weight loss and maintain their strength.
• Staying well hydrated can help manage side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
• Regular light exercise, as tolerated, can help improve energy levels and overall well-being.