Fludarabine is an antimetabolite that inhibits DNA synthesis by inhibiting ribonucleic reductase, DNA polymerase, and DNA primase.

Used in patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) whose disease is refractory to treatment or whose disease has not progressed during treatment with at least one standard alkylating agent. Low grade lymphoma; mycosis fungoides.

Converted to its active metabolite, 2-fluoro-ara-A, in the liver; primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Half-life: 10 hours.