Arranon

Generic name:nelarabine [ nel-AR-a-been ]
Drug class:Antimetabolites

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on May 23, 2022.

What is Arranon?

Arranon is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Arranon injection is used to treat T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma.

Arranon can be used to treat both adults and children.

Warnings

Arranon may cause serious side effects of the central nervous system, such as problems with balance, coordination, or fine motor skills. These symptoms may not go away even after you stop receiving Arranon. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about any possible long-term side effects.

Do not use Arranon if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using nelarabine.

Before you receive this medicine, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, a nerve disorder, a history of chemotherapy or radiation treatment of your head, neck, or spinal cord.

Arranon can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Your blood may need to be tested often. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding injury. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection. Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with Arranon. This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Arranon if you are allergic to nelarabine.

To make sure Arranon is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;

• kidney disease;

• a nervous system disorder; or

• prior chemotherapy or radiation treatment of your head, neck, or spinal cord.

You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Do not use Arranon if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 3 months after your last dose.

A man receiving Arranon should use a condom during treatment, and for at least 3 months after treatment ends.

You should not breast-feed while you are receiving Arranon.

How is Arranon given?

Arranon is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This medication is usually given every day or every other day for 5 days in a row every 3 weeks. Your treatment schedule may be different. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Arranon injection must be given slowly, and the infusion can take up to 2 hours to complete.

Nelarabin...