What is cytosar used for?

Cytarabine is used to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that works by slowing or stopping cancer cell growth.

Is it worth giving a dog chemo for lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a disease that can be wonderfully responsive to treatment, but for veterinary patients, it is not cured. In most cases, chemotherapy is the recommended treatment. Without treatment, the average lifespan of a dog with lymphoma is very short, usually 1-2 months.

What happens after a dog’s first chemo treatment?

That being said, dogs may experience some mild, moderate, or severe appetite loss, vomiting, or diarrhea. Decreased white and red blood cell counts may lead to a greater risk of infection. Lastly, some dogs may experience lethargy due to the treatments.

How fast does cytosar work?

Nadir: White blood cells: 7-10 days, platelets: 12-15 days. Nausea and vomiting. Mouth sores (usually occur 7-10 days after therapy). Increases in blood tests measuring liver function.

What is cytosar used for in dogs?

Cytarabine (brand names: Cytosar-U®, DepoCyt®) is a systemic antineoplastic (anti-cancer) medication used primarily to treat blood cell cancers in dogs and cats. It has also been used to treat inflammation of the brain in dogs.

What is the life expectancy for a dog with lymphoma?

The life expectancy with most types of lymphoma in dogs is limited to only a few months. With chemotherapy protocols, this is increased to an average of 6½ to 12 months depending on the treatment plan. A diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs is usually made on examination of a pathological specimen.

How well do dogs tolerate chemotherapy?

Will chemotherapy make my pet sick? Chemotherapy is very well tolerated in most dogs and cats. Most patients experience no side effects. Around 15% will have mild side effects that will last for a few days and many will improve on their own.

How will my dog feel after chemo?

LOW WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT Infections may occur between 7-21 days after the drug is given. If this happens, symptoms may include a fever (temperature >103°F), lethargy (tiredness), vomiting, diarrhea, and a poor appetite.

Is it cruel to give a dog chemo?

Veterinary experts say chemotherapy for dogs and cats is much milder than it is for humans. 75 to 80 percent of dogs experience no side effects from chemo. The goal of chemotherapy in animals is different than for humans, which is why treatment is less aggressive.

What are the side effects of cytosar?

Side effects include: IV, sub-Q, or IM administration of conventional cytarabine (the active ingredient contained in Cytosar) Myelosuppression, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, oral and anal inflammation or ulceration, hepatic dysfunction, fever, rash, thrombophlebitis, bleeding (all sites).

How does cytosar work in dogs?

Cytosar works specifically to inactivate DNA when it is being synthesized (S phase) during cell replication. Because this medication is specific to a certain cycle in cell division it is best given as a continuous infusion into the vein. Alternatively, it may be given under the skin in a veterinary office or at home.

Where can I give cytosar to my Pet?

Alternatively, it may be given under the skin in a veterinary office or at home. If Cytosar is going to be given at your primary care veterinarian’s office or at your home, we will provide dosing instructions prior to discharge.

What are the side effects of cytarabine in dogs?

Other possible side effects include hair loss, mouth ulcers, neurological and liver disease, lethargy, and fever. Rarely, calcification at the injection site may occur if cytarabine is given under the skin. The effects of this medication may last for a few days, and possibly longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.