CMF is the initials of three different drugs used in CMF chemotherapy namely:

1. Cyclophosphamide

2. Methotrexate
3. Fluorouracil or 5FU

CMF by and large is given as a day patient. The doctor may perhaps seek a blood test before commencing the treatment. CMF drug could be given by two routes:

1. Inserting a thin cannula in the arm of the patient

2. Introducing a thin tube inside the vein at Collarbone Line near collarbone or PICC Line in the patient’s arm

Schedule of CMF Chemotherapy

The schedule of CMF Chemotherapy is often termed as a CMF Regimen by medical experts seeing that this treatment requires a stringent time plan. The drugs in CMF Chemotherapy could be given in any order. Alongside some anti emetic or anti sickness drug is given either orally or by an infusion into the vein. There are four different schedules categorized for CMF treatment viz.

1. Schedule A: On the initial day of Schedule A the patient gets Methotrexate and 5FU (Fluorouracil) in conjunction with two weeks course of Cyclophosphamide. On the 8th day from the beginning of the treatment Methotrexate and 5FU (Fluorouracil) are repeated, following the remaining one week course of Cyclophosphamide. A rest period of two weeks is given after the course of Cyclophosphamide is done. This completes one cycle of Schedule A

2. Schedule B: In schedule B the doctor injects all the three drugs on the very first day of treatment. Methotrexate and 5FU (Fluorouracil) are repeated on the 8th day from the beginning of treatment which is then followed by a rest period of two weeks

3. Schedule C: All the three drugs are given on the first day of treatment followed by a rest period of three weeks which closes the first cycle of dose

4. Schedule D: All the three drugs are given on the first day of treatment. This is further repeated on 8th day followed by a rest period of two weeks

Side Effects of CMF Chemotherapy

Different people show different reactions to chemotherapy. Some might experience no discomfort while others face severe after effects. Some usual side effects of CMF Chemotherapy outlined below:

1. Lowered resistance to infection (Neutropenia)

2. Bruising and bleeding caused by less number of platelets in blood
3. Anemia
4. Hair loss
5. Nausea and vomiting
6. Sore mouth ulcers
7. Diarrhea caused by damaged intestinal cells
8. Tiredness and fatigue

Points to Remember:

1. One must consume the drugs at the right time as prescribed by their doctor

2. The medicine must be kept in original packaging at the room temperature
3. One should not compensate a dose skipped or missed with a double dose
4. The drug must be kept out of children’s reach
5. Inform your consultant immediately if you have been using some other drugs during the course of treatment