Bleomycin Injection (BLEOMYCIN - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Generic Name: Bleomycin, Bleomycin Sulfate

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not use more than 1 dose each week.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

This medicine is associated with a rare but very serious medical condition. Please speak with your doctor about symptoms you should look out for while on this medicine. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop those symptoms.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • hair loss
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea and vomiting
  • darkening of skin or nails
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • coughing
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • fever or chills
  • cold hands or feet
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
  • mood changes
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • rapid heartbeat
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • shortness of breath
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • unusual hardening or thickening of skin
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • yeast infection of mouth
  • dark urine
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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