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Generic Name: Carmustine
Brand Name(s): BiCNU®
IUPAC: 1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea
FDA Approval: yes
Manufacturer Link
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Usage: Carmustine (BiCNU®) is an
alkylating agent used to treat several types of cancer.
Malignancies for which carmustine is used include:
Multiple myeloma, Brain tumors, Hodgkin's disease, Non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma. Carmustine is administered intravenously or as an implanted wafer.
Mechanism: Carmustine creates fragmented
DNA, prevents DNA synthesis via cross-linking of DNA, and creates mutations in nucleotides.
Side Effects: Common side effects include pain around the area of injection, birth defects, myelosupression, excessive bleeding, nausea, vomiting. It is important to note that birth defects are common, therefore, women who are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant should not take this drug. Because of the increased tendency to bleed, patient's should not take aspirin as it 'thins' the blood, further increasing bleeding. Carmustine may have a negative effects on the the immune system. Because of this, patients should not receive immunizations while being treated. Carmustine may also interact with cimetidine, amphotericin B, digoxin, and phenytoin. Because of these interactions and others, patients should consult their physician before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs.
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