Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Busulfan is prescribed to treat a specific type of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), which is a form of cancer affecting white blood cells. Classified as an alkylating agent, busulfan operates by impeding the growth of cancer cells in the body, thereby slowing down or halting the progression of the disease.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, either with or without food, as instructed by your doctor, usually once daily.
The prescribed dosage is determined based on factors such as your weight, medical condition, laboratory test results, and response to the treatment. If your blood counts drop too low, your treatment may be temporarily halted. Ensure you attend all medical and laboratory appointments.
Avoid increasing your dosage or taking this medication more frequently than prescribed. Doing so will not expedite the improvement of your condition, and it may elevate the risk of serious side effects.
Given that this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant must refrain from handling the medication or inhaling dust from the tablets.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not show improvement or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite or weight
- constipation
- sores in the mouth and throat
- dry mouth
- headache
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- feeling unusually anxious or worried
- dizziness
- swelling of the face, arms, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs
- chest pain
- joint, muscle or back pain
- skin rash
- itching and dry skin
- darkened skin
- hair loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- black, tarry stools
- red urine
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- difficulty breathing
- changes in vision
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- seizures
Caution
- Before taking busulfan, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies.
- This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have blood/bone marrow disorders (such as bone marrow suppression, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia) or brain disorders.
- Busulfan may increase your susceptibility to infections or worsen existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious infections (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Notify your doctor if you’ve been exposed to an infection or for further guidance.
- Inform your healthcare professional about your use of busulfan before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines (such as the flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
- Exercise caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports to minimize the risk of cuts, bruises, or injuries.
- In female children, busulfan may hinder the onset of puberty. Contact the doctor for more information.
- This medication can impact fertility in both males and females. Consult your doctor for additional details.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Avoid pregnancy while using busulfan, as it may harm an unborn baby. Women using this medication should inquire about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose.
- Men using this medication should inquire about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for at least 3 months after the last dose. If you or your partner becomes pregnant, promptly consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication.
- It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug.
Form and Strength
Myleran is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Myleran tablet:
- 2 mg
FAQ
What other conditions has Myleran been used for?
Myleran is only FDA approved for use in CML. Although it’s not approved for any other purpose, some providers might consider using Myleran to treat two rare blood conditions that haven’t responded to first-choice options. These conditions include essential thrombocythemia (where your body produces too many platelets) and polycythemia vera (where your body produces too many red blood cells).
Are there any serious risks if I take Myleran?
Yes, taking Myleran can have serious risks. Most commonly, Myleran can cause your red blood cell, white blood cell, and platelet counts to drop, especially with higher doses of this medication.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/myleran/what-is#faqs
- https://news.cancerconnect.com/treatment-care/frequently-asked-questions-about-busulfex-busulfan
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/myleran#google_vignette
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14020/myleran-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682248.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/myleran.html
