CARMUSTINE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): BiCNU

GENERIC NAME(S): CARMUSTINE

 

Description: Carmustine is an alkylating agent belonging to the nitrosourea group that inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis.

This alkylating agent treats certain types of cancer (e.g., multiple myeloma, brain tumor, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

How to use carmustine intravenous

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment. This medication is usually given every 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor.

This medication may cause very serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as red cells, white cells, and platelets). These effects can cause anemia, decrease your body’s ability to fight an infection, or cause your body to bruise or bleed more easily.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of these effects persist or worsen:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • headache
  • flushing
  • pain at injection site

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

  • dark urine
  • yellowing eyes/skin
  • severe stomach/abdominal pain
  • change in the amount of urine
  • vision changes
  • fast heartbeat
  • dizziness

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

  • Allergic reaction to this medication.
  • Patients with medical history of:
    • a certain blood disorder (acute intermittent porphyria)
    • kidney disease
    • liver disease
    • seizure
    • personal or family history of regular use/abuse of drugs/alcohol
  • Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
  • Tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before having surgery.
  • Older adults may be more sensitive to drowsiness, or confusion.
  • This medication is not recommended for use during the first 3 months of pregnancy.
  • Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Consult your doctor regarding the precautions mentioned above.

 

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.

Some products that may interact with this drug include:

  • digoxin
  • drugs that may decrease bone marrow function (e.g., azathioprine, cimetidine)
  • nalidixic acid
  • phenytoin

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness/dizziness, seizures, slow/shallow breathing, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), inability to move your legs/arms, shaky/unsteady movement, vision changes (such as blurred vision).

Notes: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood count, liver/kidney/lung function) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Missed Dose: For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage: Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

 

Brands

Also marketed as

  • Bicnu [ Bristol-Myers Squibb ]

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