Bendamustine Hydrochloride

Generic Name: bendamustine hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Bendamustine Hydrochloride

Bendamustine hydrochloride is an alkylating agent, a bifunctional mechlorethamine derivative containing a purine-like benzimidazole ring. It is administered as an intravenous infusion for the treatment of certain cancers.

Overview

Bendamustine hydrochloride is an alkylating agent, a bifunctional mechlorethamine derivative containing a purine-like benzimidazole ring. It is administered as an intravenous infusion for the treatment of certain cancers.

Uses

Indicated for the treatment of adult patients with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that has progressed during or within six months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen.

Dosage

120 mg/m2 infused intravenously over 60 minutes on Days 1 and 2 of a 21-day cycle, up to 8 cycles.

Side Effects

Most common adverse reactions (15% or greater): lymphopenia, leukopenia, anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and pyrexia.

Interactions

Consider alternative therapies that are not CYP1A2 inducers or inhibitors during treatment with bendamustine.

Warnings

Risk of myelosuppression, infections, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, anaphylaxis, tumor lysis syndrome, skin reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatotoxicity, secondary malignancies, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bendamustine.

Pregnancy

Animal studies showed embryo-fetal and/or infant mortality, structural abnormalities, and alterations to growth. Can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

Storage

Store in refrigerator, 2C to 8C (36F to 46F).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bendamustine Hydrochloride used for?

Indicated for the treatment of adult patients with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that has progressed during or within six months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen.

What are the side effects of Bendamustine Hydrochloride?

Most common adverse reactions (15% or greater): lymphopenia, leukopenia, anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and pyrexia.

Can I take Bendamustine Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Animal studies showed embryo-fetal and/or infant mortality, structural abnormalities, and alterations to growth. Can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

What are the important warnings for Bendamustine Hydrochloride?

Risk of myelosuppression, infections, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, anaphylaxis, tumor lysis syndrome, skin reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatotoxicity, secondary malignancies, and embryo-fetal toxicity. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to bendamustine.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.