Bleomycin
Information about Bleomycin
Bleomycin uses
Bleomycin is used in the treatment of cervical cancer, cancer of mouth, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, larynx, oesophagus and skin cancer.
How bleomycin works
Bleomycin is an anti-cancer medication. It works by damaging the genetic material (DNA) of the cancer cells and stops their growth and multiplication.
Common side effects of bleomycin
Fever, Hair loss, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Vomiting, Weight loss, Bleeding, Chills, Decreased appetite, Erythema (skin redness), Liver toxicity, Nail disorder, Rash, Ulcer, Skin hyperpigmentation, Skin thickening, Hyperkeratosis, Vesiculation, Tenderness, Itching, Hyperesthesia (increased sensitivity), Skin peeling, Stretch marks, Idiosyncratic drug reaction, Pneumonitis, Breathlessness, Fine rales, Myocardial infarction, Cerebrovascular accident, Thrombotic microangiopathy, Cerebral vasculitis, Renal toxicity, CNS toxicity, Tumor pain, Phlebitis, Local reactions, Raynaud's phenomenon
Available Medicine for Bleomycin
Expert advice for Bleomycin
- Bleomycin is given as an injection into the veins, muscles or under the skin by the healthcare provider.
- Do not skip any dose and complete the course as suggested by your doctor.
- Use an effective method of birth control to avoid pregnancy while taking this medication.
- You may need to have blood tests to monitor your blood cells, liver function and kidney function during treatment.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience coughing, shortness of breath and cracking sound while breathing.
Frequently asked questions for Bleomycin
Bleomycin
Q. What does Bleomycin treat?
Bleomycin is used to treat squamous cell cancers, certain types of blood cancers, skin cancers and cancer of the thyroid, bladder, lungs, abdomen or genitals.
Q. Does Bleomycin cause pulmonary fibrosis, nausea or hair loss?
Yes. Bleomycin may cause pulmonary fibrosis, nausea and hair loss. If you notice any such symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Q. How does Bleomycin cause pulmonary fibrosis?
Pulmonary fibrosis (scarring of the tissue of the lungs) is one of the side effects of Bleomycin. It is reportedly caused by lack of an enzyme that metabolises Bleomycin in the lungs.