Ifosfamide
An excerpt from an ESUN article
Ifosfamide is an alkylator agent, meaning it has a molecular structure that binds to DNA and creates a "cross-link" that blocks replication of the DNA. It is not available orally, so is given IV over 1-24 hours. Ifosfamide is usually used in alternating cycles with etoposide.
Ifosfamide has all the potential side effects of cyclophosphamide and a few other unique side effects. It can cause kidney damage, either resulting in poor function (as measured by a blood creatinine level or a functional study such as a nuclear glomerular filtration rate) or a problem called Fanconi’s syndrome, in which the kidneys do not properly regulate electrolytes. This is diagnosed by looking at the level of electrolytes (magnesium, phosphorus, bicarbonate, potassium, glucose). It can be temporary or permanent; oral replacement of “washed-out” electrolytes may be necessary.
Because some of ifosfamide’s breakdown products cross into the brain, it can cause neurologic symptoms: encephalopathy (confusion, sleepiness, hallucination), or rarely seizure and coma. These symptoms almost always resolve with discontinuation of the drug. Patients who have mild to moderate symptoms can usually continue to receive the drug; symptoms are lessened if the Ifosfamide is given slower (over 24 hours) and other sedating drugs are avoided.
Dr. Karen Albritton
V1N3 ESUN Copyright © 2004 Liddy Shriver Sarcoma Initiative.