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Bleomycin

This page contains brief details about the drug bleomycin, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Bleomycin consists of the active ingredient Bleomycin. It belongs to a group of drugs known as antineoplastic antibiotics. It is commonly used in cancer treatment to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. It treats lymph node cancers (Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma), head and neck cancer, and cancer in external genitalia. It either be used alone or with radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment. This injection is also beneficial to prevent and treat the fluid accumulation in the lungs due to cancer.
Bleomycin was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1973 for the treatment of several types of cancer, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and testicular cancer. It is also used off-label for treating other types of cancers, such as cervical cancer and melanoma. Bleomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that was first isolated from a bacteria named Streptomyces verticillus in 1966.

AVAILABLE BRANDS

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Bleochem 15IU Injection
ZYDUS CADILA ₹535.00
Bleocin 15IU Injection
KHANDELWAL LABORATORIES PVT LTD ₹538.00
Metbleo 15IU Injection
METTA LIFE SCIENCES PVT LTD ₹527.00
Bleosted 15IU Injection
HALSTED PHARMA PVT. LTD ₹574.00

Mechanism of Action of Bleomycin

Bleomycin inhibits the growth and proliferation of cancer cells by interfering with DNA replication and transcription. This action can slow or stop cancer cell growth, ultimately leading to their destruction. This effect is particularly significant in the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular cancer, and certain types of lung cancer, which are characterized by rapid cell growth and division. Overall, bleomycin can help shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms in cancer patients.

Uses of Bleomycin

Bleomycin is primarily used to treat various cancers, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and testicular cancer. It is also used off-label for other cancers, such as cervical cancer and melanoma. Often, it is part of a chemotherapy regimen combined with other drugs to enhance its effectiveness, though it may sometimes be used alone for specific cancers. Bleomycin is particularly effective in treating testicular cancer.

Bleomycin Drug administaration and Dosage available

Bleomycin is administered by injection in a hospital or clinical setting by a healthcare provider. The dosage and frequency depend on the type of cancer being treated, as well as the patient’s age, weight, and other factors. It should not be taken orally, as it is poorly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and may cause serious side effects if ingested. Patients should closely follow their healthcare provider’s instructions during treatment and attend all scheduled appointments to monitor their condition and response to the therapy. If a dose is missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately for guidance on when to take the next dose. It is important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Bleomycin

Warnings

Bleomycin can cause lung damage, including interstitial pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis, which can be fatal. Patients with pre-existing lung diseases, such as emphysema or lung cancer, may be at higher risk for developing pulmonary toxicity. It can cause allergic reactions, including hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Patients with a history of allergic reactions or other medications should not take it. It can cause liver and kidney damage, leading to liver or kidney failure. Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney disease may be at higher risk for developing these side effects. It can cause a decrease in white blood cell counts, which can increase the risk of infections. It can harm the developing fetus and should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Precautions

When using bleomycin, there are several precautions that should be taken to ensure patient safety. Firstly, it should be used cautiously in patients with pre-existing lung disease, as it can cause pulmonary toxicity. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of lung toxicity, such as cough, shortness of breath, and fever. In addition, bleomycin should be avoided in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity reactions to the drug. Patients should be monitored regularly for signs of bone marrow suppression; dose adjustments may be necessary if severe suppression occurs. Patients should be advised to avoid sun exposure and wear protective clothing outdoors to reduce the risk of skin damage.

Side Effects

Bleomycin can cause both common and serious side effects. Common side effects of Bleomycin include fever, chills, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, skin rash, itching, hair loss, cough, and shortness of breath. These side effects are usually temporary and go away once treatment with Bleomycin is completed. However, patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider.

Word Of Advice

If you are prescribed Bleomycin or any other medication, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Take the medication exactly as prescribed and promptly report any side effects or symptoms to your healthcare provider. Discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider and inform them of any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as these may interact with Bleomycin and increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, maintain your overall health by eating a balanced diet, getting enough rest, and exercising regularly, as these measures can support your body’s ability to tolerate medication and recover from treatment. Women should avoid conception and breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes, Bleomycin can cause hair loss, although it is not a common side effect. Hair loss typically occurs only in the area where the drug is administered (for example, in the case of intravenous infusion, hair loss may occur only on the scalp). Hair loss is usually temporary, and hair will grow back once treatment is completed.
Bleomycin is rarely used alone to treat cancer. It is typically used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The specific treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of cancer being treated.
Yes, Bleomycin can cause fertility problems in both men and women. Men may experience decreased sperm count and quality, while women may experience irregular menstrual cycles or early menopause.
Yes, Bleomycin can cause skin reactions such as rash or redness at the injection site. In rare cases, it may also cause more severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Patients should monitor their skin closely while receiving treatment and report any unusual or severe reactions to their healthcare provider.
A healthcare professional typically administers bleomycin in a hospital or clinic setting. However, in some cases, it may be possible for patients to receive Bleomycin at home through a home health agency.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.