Cytarabine (sye-TARE-a-been) or Ara-C is a drug that is used to treat many types of cancer. It is a clear liquid that is injected into a vein, muscle or under the skin.
Common Side Effects
Fever may commonly occur shortly after treatment with cytarbine. Fever should last no longer than 24 hours.
Mouth sores on the tongue, the sides of the mouth or in the throat may occur a few days after treatment. Follow good oral hygiene to prevent infection.
Confusion, memory loss and/or abnormal speech or body movements may sometimes occur. These usually go away on their own in 5-10 days.
Hair loss is rare with cytarabine. Colour and texture may change. If hair loss does occur, it will grow back once you stop the treatment.
