Cladribine
Clolar (clofarabine) is a brand-name chemotherapy medication used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and young adults (ages 1-21) who have relapsed or not responded to at least two other treatments. It is a purine nucleoside analog that works by interfering with DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cancer cells, leading to cell death.
A chemotherapy drug for pediatric leukemia that inhibits cancer cell DNA synthesis in patients who have failed other treatments.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 493622
- Generic
- Clolar
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Clolar is indicated for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pediatric and young adult patients (ages 1-21) with relapsed or refractory disease who have not responded to at least two prior treatment regimens.
As a purine nucleoside analog, clofarabine inhibits DNA polymerase and ribonucleotide reductase, disrupting DNA synthesis. It also induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in rapidly dividing leukemic cells.
Clolar is administered by intravenous infusion. Common side effects include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. Serious risks include bone marrow suppression, liver toxicity, kidney toxicity, and capillary leak syndrome. Close monitoring of blood counts and organ function is required during treatment. It should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney impairment.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy