Ifosfamide is part of a group of medications called alkylating agents. The medication itself is not active against cancer; however, once it enters the body, the liver converts it into active compounds. These active compounds cause strands of DNA to bond to each other and become linked (known as "cross-linking"). The linked strands are unable to uncoil and separate, which is necessary for the DNA to replicate. Because DNA replication is essential for cells to grow and multiply, ifosfamide prevents cell growth and multiplication and causes the cells to die.
Can Children Use It?
Ifosfamide is not approved for use in children, as it has not been adequately studied in this age group. This medicine may slow down the growth rate in children. It may also interfere with normal sexual development, possibly leading to infertility (the inability to have children). Talk with your child's healthcare provider about the particular benefits and risks of using this medicine in children.
Is It Safe for Older Adults to Use Ifosfamide?
Ifosfamide can be used to treat older adults. In clinical studies, it took older adults longer, on average, to clear ifosfamide from the body than younger age groups. It is generally recommended that doses for older adults be selected cautiously. Older adults may need to be started on lower doses, and may need more careful monitoring, such as kidney monitoring.
What About Off-Label Ifosfamide Uses
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend this medicine for something other than the uses discussed in this article. This is called an "off-label" use. Ifosfamide may be used off-label to treat many other types of cancer, including but not limited to:
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