Carmustine is used to treat certain forms of cancer in the brain, and multiple myeloma (in combination with PREDNISONE) and (in combination with other drugs) Hodgkin lymphoma as well as non-Hodgkin lymphoma that have not shown signs of improvement and/or have actually worsened after the initially selected therapies.
What is Carmustine?
Carmustine is an alkylating agent. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
How should Carmustine be taken?
Carmustine is administered by injection directly into a vein. The administration takes at least two hours and it is usually repeated once every six weeks. Alternatively, it can always be administered every six weeks, but in smaller doses divided into two consecutive days. In case of side effects, your doctor may decide to postpone the treatment or change the dose of the drug.
Side effects associated with Carmustine
Treatment with Carmustine may increase the risk of developing other cancers.
In addition, other possible adverse effects may also include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Pallor
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Chest pains
- Skin that becomes darker
It is important to contact your doctor if the treatment triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Swelling, pain, redness or burning at the area level where the drug is injected
- Stomach problems
- Fatigue or very strong weakness
- Loss of energy
- Lack of appetite
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Jaundice
- Decreased urination
- Swelling in hands, feet, ankles or calves
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Carmustine
Prior to starting treatment with Carmustine it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drug;
- You are taking other medications, the herbal remedies and supplements, especially cimetidine and phenytoin;
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from kidney or liver disease;
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
