Celkeran 5 mg (Chlorambucil): Effective Oral Chemotherapy for Blood Cancer & Lymphoma

What is Celkeran 5 mg?

Celkeran 5 mg is a prescription anticancer medication containing Chlorambucil, a chemotherapy drug from the alkylating agents class. It is primarily used in the treatment of various hematologic (blood-related) cancers such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Chlorambucil works by interfering with the DNA replication process in rapidly dividing cancer cells, effectively slowing or stopping their growth and spread.

💊 Key Product Information

⚙️ Mechanism of Action

Chlorambucil is a nitrogen mustard derivative that belongs to a group of chemotherapy drugs known as alkylating agents. It works by attaching alkyl groups to DNA bases, leading to cross-linking of DNA strands. This damages the DNA and prevents the cancer cells from replicating and growing, eventually leading to cell death.

Unlike some other chemotherapy agents, Chlorambucil is administered orally, making it easier to take at home under medical supervision.

✅ Indications / Uses

Celkeran 5 mg is used for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia
• Ovarian Carcinoma (in some off-label cases)
• Other hematologic malignancies where alkylating agents are indicated

📏 Dosage & Administration

💡 Dosage is always individualized. Follow your oncologist’s prescription exactly.

Typical Dosage for Adults:

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg/day orally for 3 to 6 weeks, followed by maintenance therapy.
• Lymphomas: Given intermittently or daily based on disease stage and physician preference.

Important Notes:

• Take the tablets on an empty stomach, at the same time each day.
• Do not crush or chew; swallow whole with water.
• Dosage may be adjusted based on blood counts and side effects.

⚠️ Side Effects

As with all chemotherapy drugs, Chlorambucil can cause significant side effects. Close monitoring is essential during treatment.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Bone marrow suppression (low white/red blood cell and platelet counts)
• Mouth ulcers
• Fatigue
• Skin rash

Serious Side Effects:

• Increased risk of infections
• Secondary cancers (e.g., leukemia) with long-term use
• Seizures (especially at high doses or in renal impairment)
• Liver function abnormalities
• Pulmonary toxicity (rare)

🚨 Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or persistent fever immediately.

🧪 Monitoring Parameters

During treatment with Celkeran, patients typically require:

• Regular blood tests (CBC with differential)
• Liver and kidney function tests
• Monitoring for signs of bone marrow suppression
• Neurological evaluation if seizures occur

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

• Avoid pregnancy: Chlorambucil is teratogenic. Both men and women should use effective contraception during and for months after treatment.
• Avoid live vaccines: Due to immunosuppression.
• Long-term use can increase the risk of developing secondary malignancies.
• Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
• Not recommended in children unless absolutely necessary and closely monitored.

🤰 Use in Special Populations

💊 Drug Interactions

Celkeran (Chlorambucil) may interact with:

• Other immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine)
• Live vaccines
• Drugs that impact bone marrow function (increased risk of toxicity)
• Allopurinol (may increase risk of rash when used together)

• Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiration date on the label