Cytoxan

Brand name: Cytoxan

Chemical name: Cyclophosphamide

Class: Alkylating agent chemotherapy. Thiotepa is another alkylating agent.

How it works: Alkylating agents weaken or destroy breast cancer cells by damaging the cells’ genetic material.

Uses: Cytoxan usually is given in combination with other chemotherapy medicines. It's typically used:

• after surgery and other treatments to reduce the risk of early-stage breast cancer coming back
• before surgery to shrink large advanced-stage breast cancer tumors
• after surgery and other treatments to treat advanced-stage breast cancer

How it's given: Cytoxan can be taken orally as a pill or given intravenously.

Side effects:

• low white blood cell count
• hair loss
• nausea
• vomiting
• loss of appetite
• sores in mouth or on lips
• diarrhea
• irregular periods -- this can include temporary cessation (usually resume after medication is completed) or permanent cessation of menstrual periods depending on your age and other factors