Generic
Lomustine
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Lomustine is used in the treatment of various types of cancers, particularly brain tumors, lung cancer, Hodgkin's disease, and malignant melanoma.
Description
Lomustine is an anti-cancer medication that alkylates DNA and RNA and causes carbamoylation and modification of cellular proteins, stopping cancer cell growth and division.
Indications
- Brain tumors
- Lung cancer
- Hodgkin's disease (resistant or relapsed)
- Malignant melanoma
Therapeutic class
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy
Pharmacological class
Alkylating Agent
Pharmacology
Lomustine alkylates DNA and RNA and causes carbamoylation and modification of cellular proteins, preventing cancer cell growth and division.
Mechanism of action
Damages the genetic material of cancer cells to stop their growth and multiplication.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- 100-130 mg/m² as a single dose every 6 weeks
- Compromised marrow function: 100 mg/m² every 6 weeks
- Adjust dose based on platelet and leukocyte counts
Child Dose: 75-150 mg/m² as a single dose every 6 weeks
Renal Impairment: CrCl 10-50: 75% of normal dose; CrCl <10: 25-50%
Administration
- Do not chew, crush or break capsules
- Take on an empty stomach
- Take at the same time each day
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomatitis
- Hair loss
- Decreased white blood cell count
- Decreased platelets (risk of infection and bleeding)
Precautions & warnings
- Regular blood tests (kidney, liver, heart function) required
- Inform doctor if signs of infection (fever, chills, body ache) or unusual bruising/bleeding occur
- Do not receive live vaccines
- Use disposable gloves when handling capsules
- Men advised not to father children during treatment and for 6 months afterwards
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug interactions
- Increased levels/effects with CYP2D6 inhibitors
Food interactions
Alcohol consumption with Lomustine is unsafe.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Lomustine is unsafe during pregnancy; definite evidence of risk to the fetus. Use only in life-threatening situations with doctor's advice.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Information regarding use during breastfeeding is not available; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Pediatric doses are established (weight-based).
Geriatric use
Use with caution in elderly; dose adjustment may be needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment needed; regular kidney function tests; not recommended in severe kidney disease.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; regular liver function tests recommended.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; symptomatic and supportive measures should be employed.
Storage conditions
Store in a dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Lomustine