Carmustine Waymade

Carmustine Waymade is a cancer medicine that contains carmustine and works by slowing down the growth of cancer cells.

Form
kuiva-aine ja liuotin välikonsentraatiksi infuusionestettä varten, liuos
Strength
100 mg
Active Ingredient
Carmustine
Manufacturer
Waymade B.V.

How to Use

Dosage

The typical dose is 150-200 mg per square meter of body surface, given every 6 weeks.

Method

This medicine is given as a drip into a vein (intravenous infusion) by a healthcare professional, usually over 1 to 2 hours.

Important

If given over two consecutive days, the maximum daily dose is 75-100 mg per square meter of body surface.

Possible Side Effects

COMMON
  • Low blood cell counts (e.g., white cells, red cells, platelets), which can make you tired, more prone to infections, or cause bleeding.
  • Difficulty coordinating movements (ataxia).
  • Dizziness.
  • Headache.
  • Temporary eye redness or blurry vision due to bleeding in the retina.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Inflammation of a vein (phlebitis) with pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness.
  • Breathing problems or lung issues, which can include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, chest pain, or feeling very tired.
  • Severe nausea and vomiting.
  • Skin inflammation (dermatitis) when applied to the skin.
  • Temporary skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) if the medicine accidentally touches your skin or nails.
  • Acute leukemia or abnormal bone marrow development (myelodysplasia); symptoms may include bleeding from gums, bone pain, fever, frequent infections, frequent or severe nosebleeds, swollen lymph nodes in neck, armpits, abdomen or groin, pale skin, shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue or general low energy.
  • Anemia (low red blood cell count in the blood).
  • Brain disorder (encephalopathy); symptoms can include muscle weakness in one area, difficulty making decisions or concentrating, involuntary twitching, trembling, difficulty speaking or swallowing, or seizures.
  • Loss of appetite (anorexia).
  • Constipation.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Inflammation of the mouth and lips.
  • Reversible liver toxicity with high doses, which can cause higher levels of liver enzymes and bilirubin (seen in blood tests).
  • Hair loss (alopecia).
  • Skin redness.
  • Reactions at the injection site.
RARE
  • Veno-occlusive disease (a condition where very small veins in the liver get blocked); symptoms can include fluid build-up in the abdomen, an enlarged spleen, severe bleeding from the esophagus, and yellow skin or eyes.
  • Breathing difficulties caused by lung scarring (interstitial fibrosis) at lower doses.
  • Kidney problems.
  • Gynecomastia (breast growth in men).
  • Muscle pain.
  • Seizures, including prolonged seizures (status epilepticus).
  • Tissue damage at the injection site if the medicine leaks out of the vein.
  • Infertility.
  • Electrolyte imbalances (abnormal levels of salts in the blood, like low potassium, magnesium, or phosphate).

Important Warnings

  • Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to carmustine or any other ingredient.
  • Do not use if you have very low blood cell counts or severe kidney problems.
  • Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • This medicine should not be used in children or teenagers under 18 years old.
  • This medicine can affect your bone marrow, leading to low blood cell counts. Your doctor will check your blood weekly for at least six weeks after your dose.
Show 2 more warnings
  • Carmustine Waymade can cause serious lung damage, even years later. Your doctor will check your lungs before and during treatment. Tell your doctor right away if you have shortness of breath, a cough, chest pain, or feel very tired.
  • Tell your doctor or nurse right away if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as sudden wheezing, trouble breathing, swelling of your eyelids, face or lips, rash or itching (especially all over your body), or feeling faint.