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carmustine - injection, BiCNU

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GENERIC NAME: CARMUSTINE - INJECTION (kar-MUST-een)

BRAND NAME(S): BiCNU

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: This medication may cause very serious blood disorders (decreased bone marrow function leading to low number of blood cells such as red cells, white cells, and platelets). These effects can cause anemia, decrease your body's ability to fight an infection, or cause your body to bruise or bleed more easily. If these effects occur, it is usually 4 to 6 weeks after the medication is given. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts for at least 6 weeks after your dose of the medication. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, fast/pounding heartbeat.

This medication may also cause very serious (possibly fatal) lung problems. The lung problems can occur years after treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms: shortness of breath, persistent cough, chest pain, persistent weakness/tiredness.

USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of cancer (e.g., multiple myeloma, brain tumor, Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma). Carmustine belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. Dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment. This medication is usually given every 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section.Nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing, or pain at injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, your doctor has prescribed this drug because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, severe stomach/abdominal pain, change in the amount of urine, vision changes, fast heartbeat, dizziness.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.