CHILDHOOD NEPHROTIC SYNDROME
A guide to the treatment of Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome
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WARNING – Review of this information is overdue. It may be out of date.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE?
The course of treatment with Cyclophosphamide is usually 8-12 weeks and this will be discussed with you by the children’s kidney specialist before commencing the drug.
There are usually no serious or permanent side effects from Cyclophosphamide. However we have listed the side effects which may occur.
- Thinning of the hair - this is usually only slight and the hair will regrow after the course of treatment.
- Irritation of the bladder - sometimes Cyclophosphamide can irritate the bladder and give rise to blood in the urine. By giving the drug first thing in the morning with plenty of fluids this should not occur.
- Cyclophosphamide can affect the number of white cells in the blood which help to fight infection. Your child may therefore be more susceptible to catching infections. A weekly blood test will be done to check the white cells are not low and the dose of Cyclophosphamide can be lowered if need be.
- Future fertility - the short course of Cyclophosphamide that we now use should not have any long term effects on your child’s future fertility. However, this point will be discussed fully with you by the specialist.
NKF Controlled Document No. 140, CHILDHOOD NEPHROTIC SYNDROME — A guide to the treatment of Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome — Are there any side effects from Cyclophosphamide?, written 10 September 2004.
Content compiled by members of the Children’s Renal & Urology Unit, QMC, Nottingham.
The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.
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and awarded charitable status (Charity Number 1106735).
Give as You Earn contributions No. CAF GY511.
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Page created: 10 September 2004
Last updated: 6 August 2007
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