Bleomycin: how to take it safely
Blenoxane
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats Hodgkin lymphoma, testicular cancer and some other cancers.
How to take it
It is given by a cancer nurse or doctor, by drip into a vein. Your blood tests are checked before each cycle.
When to take it
Given by drip into a vein by a cancer nurse or doctor, as your specialist plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Tell your team if you have lung disease or kidney problems.
- Oxygen at high concentration unless the team advises. It can raise the risk of lung damage.
- Strong sunlight.
- Pregnancy and fathering a child during treatment. Use reliable contraception and ask your team how long to continue it.
- Live vaccines unless your cancer team says so.
- Contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or flu.
- Alcohol, unless your team says it is safe.
Possible side effects
Fever and chills after the dose, skin darkening, nausea, loss of appetite, mouth sores.
Get help if
A dry cough, breathlessness or chest tightness: get urgent help. Trouble breathing or a rash during the dose: tell the staff straight away.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.