Ifosfamide

The recommended dose of ifosfamide varies widely according to the specific condition being treated, the response to therapy, and the other medications being used. The dose is based on body weight or body size. It is available as an intravenous (into the vein) injection. It is injected through a specially prepared site on the skin by the nurse or doctor.

The dosing regimen varies widely. Often the prescribed amount of medication is injected into a vein for a period of at least 30 minutes once a day for 5 days. This treatment is then repeated every 3 to 4 weeks until the total treatment cycle is complete.

Very careful handling of Ifosfamide is required. It is always given by the doctor or someone under direct supervision of the doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to take Ifosfamide exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Ifosfamide is excreted through your urine. Your bladder will become irritated if the urine containing ifosfamide stays inside the bladder for too long. It is therefore important that you drink plenty of fluids (8 to 12 cups a day) on the day of your treatment and the day after your treatment. You should empty your bladder (urinate) every 2 hours while you are awake and at bedtime, and once during the night, for at least 24 hours after your last treatment. This helps to prevent bladder and kidney problems. A medication such as Mesna may also be given to you to help prevent bladder problems.

As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, ifosfamide can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as hair loss and mouth sores. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section "What side effects are possible with Ifosfamide?"

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.