This medication is an antineoplastic agent, prescribed for sickle cell anemia, several types of cancer (such as melanoma, chronic myelogenous leukemia, squamous cell carcinomas), as an adjunct to antiretroviral therapy for AIDS. It is also used for psoriasis.  

Contraindicated in patients with severe bone marrow depression, abnormal decrease in blood cell counts and hypersensitivity.

Intermittent Therapy
80 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose every third day.
Continuous Therapy
20 to 30 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose daily.
Concomitant Therapy with Irradiation
Carcinoma of the head and neck—80 mg/kg administered orally as a single dose every third day.

It comes as a capsule and tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of AIDS, who have undergone radiation therapy, liver or kidney disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.

• It may be harmful if it gets on the skin; avoid direct contact with hands.

• Avoid vaccination while taking this medication.

•   Most common : Bone marrow depression.
•   Gastrointestinal : Mouth ulcer, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.
•   Skin : Rash, skin ulceration, skin changes and redness.

Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and citrus juices.
Avoid excess dosage.

Keep it out of reach of children in a safe place.