What side effect is commonly linked to cyclophosphamide?

Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent commonly used in chemotherapy for various cancers. One significant side effect associated with cyclophosphamide is amenorrhea, which refers to the absence of menstruation. This side effect is particularly relevant because cyclophosphamide can cause ovarian dysfunction and negatively impact reproductive health due to its effects on rapidly dividing cells. It is known to cause gonadal toxicity, leading to potential changes in a woman's menstrual cycle, including amenorrhea.

Other options may not be the primary or direct side effects of cyclophosphamide. For instance, while edema, photosensitivity, and hyperphagia can occur with other medications or medical conditions, they are not specifically linked to the pharmacological action or side effects associated with cyclophosphamide in the same way that amenorrhea is. Understanding the range of side effects is crucial for managing patient care and can help healthcare providers offer informed advice regarding fertility preservation and the management of other potential complications related to chemotherapy.