High-dose ifosfamide and mesna therapy in the outpatient setting

Ifosfamide and mesna as a chemotherapeutic and protective combination has increased oncologists' choice of agents in the treatment of various forms of cancer today. Additional responsibility is placed on both patient and caregiver when high doses of these drugs are administered in an outpatient setting. Of utmost importance is the education of the patient and the caregiver in their immediate responsibilities, as well as required procedures after the course of the drug has been completed. In this article, areas of concern to the patient and caregiver are described in detail. Initial therapy and any subsequent side effects are managed on an outpatient basis except in rare circumstances.