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Ifosfamide

Prescription
Nitrogen Mustard Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Oxazaphosphorine prodrug activated by hepatic CYP3A4 to isophosphoramide mustard and acrolein. Alkylates DNA causing crosslinks and strand breaks. Cell-cycle non-specific. Requires mesna co-administration to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis.

At a glance

Class
Nitrogen Mustard Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature; reconstituted stable 24h at room temperature; chemotherapy precautions

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and transitional c
Dose
350–375 mg/m²
Route
IV
Frequency
q3 weeks
🐈

Cat

Very limited feline data
Dose
—
Route
IV
Frequency
Per protocol

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature; reconstituted stable 24h at room temperature; chemotherapy precautions

Safety

Monitoring parameters

CBC at nadirUrinalysis (hematuria — cystitis)Renal functionNeurological status (encephalopathy)Mesna compliance

Interactions

Major — 1

Meloxicam
major
Both are potentially nephrotoxic. NSAID reduces renal prostaglandin-mediated blood flow + ifosfamide has direct tubular toxicity.
Management: Avoid NSAIDs during ifosfamide cycles. Use opioids for pain management.

Brands

Other markets

Ifex

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Ifosfamide?
Ifosfamide is a nitrogen mustard alkylating agent (chemotherapy) used in pets. Oxazaphosphorine prodrug activated by hepatic CYP3A4 to isophosphoramide mustard and acrolein. Alkylates DNA causing crosslinks and strand breaks. Cell-cycle non-specific. Requires mesna co-administration to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis.
›What is Ifosfamide used for in pets?
Ifosfamide is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and transitional c; Very limited feline data.
›What is the Ifosfamide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Ifosfamide is typically dosed as follows — Used for soft tissue sarcomas, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and transitional c: 350–375 mg/m² IV q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Ifosfamide dose for cats?
For cats, Ifosfamide is typically dosed as follows — Very limited feline data: undefined undefined IV Per protocol. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Ifosfamide need a prescription?
Yes. Ifosfamide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

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