A to Z of MS Cyclophosphamide
Product name
Endoxana
Cyclophosphamide is a potent immunosuppressive drug that is frequently used in combination chemotherapy regimens to treat leukaemia and other forms of cancer.
Cyclophosphamide has been used for many years in people with MS who have failed to respond to other therapies and are experiencing frequent relapses with rapid progression. Research has shown only limited benefit at best from the treatment and the side effects mean that it is rarely used.
The NICE Guideline states that this treatment should not be used in MS as research evidence does not show any beneficial effect on the course of the condition.
How cyclophosphamide is given
Cyclophosphamide can be taken orally as tablets, as an injection into a vein (intravenously), or by drip (intravenous infusion).
Side effects and contraindications
In the short-term, side effects can include hair loss, nausea, infertility, bladder irritation and risk of infection.
Reference
La Mantia L, et al.
Cyclophosphamide for multiple sclerosis.
Cochrane database of systematic reviews 2007 Jan 24;(1):CD002819.