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Busulfex Side Effects

Generic name: busulfan

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 16, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Busulfex Side Effects associated with busulfan. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Busulfex.

Applies to busulfan: intravenous solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Intravenous route (solution)

Busulfan causes severe or prolonged myelosuppression at recommended doses.

Hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation is required to prevent life-threatening or fatal complications of severe or prolonged myelosuppression.

Serious side effects of Busulfex

Along with its needed effects, busulfan (the active ingredient contained in Busulfex) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking busulfan:

More common side effects

  • black, tarry stools
  • bloated abdomen or stomach
  • blood in the urine or stools
  • blurred vision
  • chest pain
  • cough or hoarseness
  • dizziness
  • fast or irregular breathing
  • fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
  • fever or chills
  • headache
  • lower back or side pain
  • nervousness
  • pain and fullness in the upper abdominal or stomach
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pinpoint red spots on the skin
  • pounding in the ears
  • skin rash or itching
  • slow heartbeat
  • swelling of the eyes or eyelids
  • tightness in the chest
  • trouble breathing
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • weight gain
  • yellow eyes and skin

Incidence not known

  • seizures

Other side effects of Busulfex

Some side effects of busulfan may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • acid or sour stomach
  • back pain
  • belching
  • bloody nose
  • depression
  • diarrhea
  • difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)
  • fear
  • heartburn
  • indigestion
  • loss of appetite
  • lack or loss of strength
  • sneezing
  • stomach discomfort or upset
  • stuffy nose or runny nose
  • swelling or inflammation of the mouth
  • tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and prominent superficial veins over affected area
  • trouble sleeping

For healthcare professionals

Applies to busulfan: intravenous solution, oral tablet.

Hematologic adverse events

Respiratory

Cardiovascular

Ocular

Dermatologic

Metabolic

Hepatic

Nervous system

Oncologic

Genitourinary

Gastrointestinal

Musculoskeletal

Immunologic

Hypersensitivity

Local

Renal

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Myleran (busulfan)." Prasco Laboratories

2. (2004) "Product Information. Busulfex (busulfan)." ESP Pharma Inc

3. (2018) "Product Information. Busulfan (busulfan)." Amneal Pharmaceuticals

Further information

Busulfex side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.