Biology Disease
Drugs and Medicines

Drug Name Lomustine oral

Lomustine oral Drug Category LOMUSTINE - ORAL

Lomustine oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. LOMUSTINE - ORAL (low-MUSS-teen) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ceenu WARNING: Lomustine has caused serious blood disorders (e.g., bone marrow suppression, thrombocytopenia). These problems have an increased chance of occurring as more doses are used. Notify your doctor immediately if you have symptoms of an infection such as persistent fever or sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, or unusual fatigue. Your doctor will monitor you and perform blood tests weekly for at least 6 weeks after each dose. Your dose may be adjusted accordingly. USES: Lomustine is used to treat various types of cancer. HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Take on an empty stomach to reduce nausea. Because the amount you take is determined by your body size, one dose may consist of two or more different types of capsules. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, or if you miss a dose, contact your doctor. SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, rash, itching or darkening of the skin are common side effects. Nausea and vomiting usually last for less than 24 hours, though loss of appetite can last for several days. Taking the medication on an empty stomach with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Temporary hair loss is another common side effect; normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, confusion, slurred speech, weakness or tiredness, easy bruising or bleeding, black tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, small red spots on the skin, lower back or side pain, swollen feet or lower legs, sores in mouth or on lips, yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, cough, shortness of breath. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: a blood disorder, liver problems, allergies. This medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, sore throat, rash, or chills. Avoid touching your eyes or inside your nose without first washing your hands. Use caution with sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Lomustine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Because this is a powerful drug and may affect a nursing infant, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Because this medication can affect the production of sperm in men, a reliable form of birth control is recommended while taking this medication. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription). OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. NOTES: Regular doctor visits are important. Keep all medical appointments. Blood tests will be done to monitor your progress. MISSED DOSE: It is important to take each scheduled dose of this medication. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).