What is the most important information I should know about bleomycin?
Bleomycin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare
provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Serious side effects have been reported with the use of bleomycin including: allergic
reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); a
severe reaction consisting of low blood pressure, mental confusion, fever, chills, and wheezing;
pulmonary fibrosis (a lung condition); and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects
from treatment with bleomycin.
What is bleomycin?
Bleomycin is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Bleomycin interferes with the growth of
cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.
Bleomycin is used to treat squamous cell carcinoma (skin cancer) of the head and neck,
penis, cervix, and vulva; lymphomas; and testicular cancer. Bleomycin is also used in the treatment
of malignant pleural effusion.
Bleomycin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using bleomycin?
Do not use bleomycin without first talking to your doctor if you have:
The use of bleomycin may be dangerous if you have any of the
conditions listed above.
Bleomycin is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that bleomycin is known to
be harmful to an unborn baby.
Do not use bleomycin without first talking to your
doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the
appropriate use of
birth control during treatment with bleomycin.
It is not know whether bleomycin passes into breast milk. Breast feeding should be
avoided during treatment with bleomycin.
How should I use bleomycin?
Bleomycin should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare
provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with bleomycin
depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have
any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.
Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other
medical evaluations during treatment with bleomycin to monitor progress and side effects.
Your healthcare provider will store bleomycin as directed by the manufacturer. If you are
storing bleomycin at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of bleomycin.
What happens if I overdose?
If, for any reason, an overdose of bleomycin is suspected, seek emergency medical
attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Symptoms of a bleomycin overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the
medication, although often more severe.
What should I avoid while using bleomycin?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while using bleomycin unless
otherwise directed by your doctor.
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