৳ 1,121.75/unit
Pack: ৳ 1,121.75
৳ 1,121.75/unit
Pack: ৳ 1,121.75
At a glance
Bleomycin is an anti-cancer medication used in the treatment of cervical cancer, cancer of the mouth, nasopharynx, paranasal sinuses, larynx, esophagus, and skin cancer. It damages the genetic material (DNA) of cancer cells and stops their growth and multiplication.
Indications
- Cervical cancer
- Cancer of the mouth
- Nasopharynx cancer
- Paranasal sinuses cancer
- Larynx cancer
- Esophagus cancer
- Skin cancer
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Testicular carcinoma
- Hodgkin's disease
- Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Pharmacology
Bleomycin is a cytotoxic antibiotic that binds to DNA and causes single- and double-stranded DNA breakage, inhibiting DNA synthesis. To a lesser extent, it also inhibits RNA and protein synthesis. It generates oxygen free radicals that cause DNA strand breakage. It causes very little bone marrow suppression, which is an advantage over other chemotherapy agents.
Dosage
Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Testicular Carcinoma: 0.25-0.5 unit/kg (10-20 unit/m²) IV/IM/SC every 1-2 weeks.
Hodgkin's Disease and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Administer test dose of 1-2 units before the first 1-2 doses; monitor vital signs every 15 minutes; wait at least 1 hour before administering remainder of dose; 0.25-0.5 unit/kg (10-20 unit/m²) IV/IM/SC every 1-2 weeks; after 50% response, reduce to maintenance dose of 1 unit daily or 5 units weekly IV/IM.
Children: Not recommended.
Hepatic impairment: Dose adjustment not necessary.
Renal impairment:
CrCl >50 mL/min: No adjustment
CrCl 40-50 mL/min: 70% of normal dose
CrCl 30-40 mL/min: 60% of normal dose
CrCl 20-30 mL/min: 55% of normal dose
CrCl 10-20 mL/min: 45% of normal dose
CrCl 5-10 mL/min: 40% of normal dose
Side effects
Common side effects:
Fever, loss of appetite, hair loss, weight loss, nausea, nail discoloration, skin pigmentation, stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), vomiting, rigors, scratch dermatitis, low blood platelets.
Pulmonary: Interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, shortness of breath, cough.
Bone marrow suppression is very minimal compared to other chemotherapy agents.
Use in pregnancy
Unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). Definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. May be prescribed rarely in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Pulmonary toxicity: Seek immediate medical advice if you develop dry cough, breathlessness, rapid breathing, or any other lung problems.
- Inform your doctor if you have severe heart disease, kidney problems, lung problems requiring oxygen use, impaired liver function, chicken pox, or if you are about to undergo surgery.
- May cause weakness or tiredness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Avoid alcohol consumption (increases risk of liver damage).
- Do not use during pregnancy and lactation.
- Regular blood tests, X-rays, and physical examinations are required.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause increased pulmonary toxicity, severe pulmonary fibrosis, anaphylactic reactions, severe fever, and skin reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.