Drug Notes

Bleomycin (By injection)

Bleomycin (blee-oh-MYE-sin)

Treats cancer.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed while you are getting this medicine.
• Tell your doctor if you have lung, liver, or kidney disease.
• Before you have any kind of surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are receiving bleomycin.
• Your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by bleomycin. If the medicine does not help, call your doctor.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches
• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat
• Unusual or painful skin changes or rash

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dark patches on skin or nails
• Hair loss
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
• Weight loss

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017