BENDAMUSTINE

Bendamustine is an antineoplastic drug classified as an alkylating agent. It received FDA approval in 2008 for the treatment of certain cancers.

Bendamustine is an alkylating agent used in the treatment of Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia(cancer of blood and bone marrow), Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas(cancer that forms in the lymph system, part of the immune system), and Multiple myeloma(cancer of plasma cells, type of white blood cell).

Bendamustine is a prescription drug available in injection form. This injection will be given intravenously into a vein in your arm or hand by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. Do not self-administer this medicine. Treatment should not be started if your white blood cells (leukocytes) have fallen to counts below determined levels. Your doctor will determine these values at regular intervals. The dose of the injection will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. Bendamustine Injection is usually given about 30 minutes before you receive your anti-cancer medicine (chemotherapy) or right before anaesthesia for surgery. During the infusion, you will be monitored for any side effects or reactions to the medication. The infusion usually takes several hours to complete, and you may need to receive multiple infusions over the course of several weeks.

The common side effects that are likely to occur with this medicine are headache, insomnia, fatigue, loss of appetite and rashes. Other serious side effects also include myelosuppression, tumor lysis syndrome, and hepatotoxicity. Inform your healthcare provider if these side effects concern you or persist for longer than usual.

Bendamustine is not recommended in patients who have hypersensitivity reactions. This medicine may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. Bendamustine is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant during therapy. It may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. This medicine should be avoided in patients with severe immunosuppression due to bone marrow suppression.

Suppressed bone marrow function may lead to low blood cells, which in turn may lead to an increased risk of infection, anaemia or excess bleeding. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts regularly during treatment and may adjust the dosage or frequency of administration if necessary. If you plan to father a child, you should avoid fathering a child during treatment with Bendamustine for infusion and for up to 6 months after treatment has stopped. There may be an increased risk of certain types of skin cancer (non-melanoma skin cancer) with the use of this medicine. Consult your doctor immediately for more advice.

Bendamustine can harm a developing fetus or nursing infant. Discuss contraception options and avoid breastfeeding during treatment. The drug commonly causes fatigue; patients should prioritise adequate rest and self-care during therapy. If dizziness, nausea, or tiredness occurs, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Doses must be taken at scheduled times. If a dose is missed, contact your doctor to reschedule. Store bendamustine injection in the refrigerator at 2°–8°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Bendamustine increases bleeding and bruising risk; exercise caution when handling sharp objects or engaging in activities that may cause injury.

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