Cytarabine Liposome
Cytarabine Liposome is a slow-release formulation of the chemotherapy drug cytarabine, encapsulated within liposomes to allow for sustained drug delivery. It is primarily administered intrathecally (into the cerebrospinal fluid) for the treatment of lymphomatous meningitis, a serious complication where lymphoma cells spread to the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The liposomal delivery system allows for less frequent dosing compared to conventional cytarabine.
A liposomal formulation of cytarabine used intrathecally to treat lymphomatous meningitis by delivering sustained chemotherapy directly to the central nervous system.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 968804
- Generic
- Cytarabine Liposome
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Vyxeos
- 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.
Primarily used for lymphomatous meningitis (carcinomatous meningitis from lymphoma). May also be used for neoplastic meningitis from other malignancies. Administered via intrathecal injection into the cerebrospinal fluid.
Contains cytarabine, a pyrimidine analog antimetabolite. Once inside cells, it is converted to its active triphosphate form, which inhibits DNA polymerase and disrupts DNA synthesis, leading to cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells. The liposomal formulation provides extended release over approximately 2 weeks.
Should only be administered by healthcare professionals experienced in intrathecal chemotherapy. Requires pretreatment with dexamethasone to manage chemical arachnoiditis (inflammation of the arachnoid membrane). Patients should be monitored for neurotoxicity and myelosuppression. Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to cytarabine or any liposomal product components.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy