Ara-C is a drug used in the treatment of cancer. It interferes with the multiplication of cancer cells and slows or stops their growth and spread in the body.

Nausea & Vomiting:Ara-C usually does not cause nausea or vomiting. You will be offered medication to control these side effects if they occur.

Decreased blood counts (Bone Marrow Depression):Your bone marrow produces your blood cells. Ara-C can lower the number of white blood cells which guard against infections and platelets which prevent bleeding. See the handout on Bone Marrow Depression.

Sores in the mouth (stomatitis): Patients experience this in varying degrees, some have fever-blister like sores. You should report this to your doctor or nurse. It is important that you maintain good mouth care both to make you feel better and to prevent infections. See the handout on Mouth Care.