Indications & Uses
Bleonix is indicated for:
Pharmacology
Nobody knows exactly how bleomycin works. The main action is thought to be single and double-strand breaks in DNA, which stop cells from dividing and growing and also stop DNA synthesis in those cells. Bleomycin probably works best on cells in the M and G2 (premitotic) phase of the cell cycle.
In vitro, bleomycin has not been shown to suppress the immune system, and patients treated with it show no significant inhibition of immune response.
An enzyme that inactivates bleomycin has been found in both normal and malignant cells, and it is particularly prominent in the liver. It is not found in the lung or the skin, which are two normal tissues sensitive to the action of bleomycin.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Give total doses of over 300,000 IU with great caution. The usual dose is 10,000 to 20,000 IU/m2 of body surface area, given weekly or twice weekly. Another option is 15,000 IU daily for 7 days, then three weeks off treatment, and then the same cycle repeated twice, so that the total dose comes to approximately 300,000 IU.
Improvement in lymphomas and testicular tumours is prompt, within two weeks, while the response in squamous cell cancers may take as long as three weeks. A therapeutic response should be seen as the total dose approaches 150,000 IU. If it isn't, consider other therapy.
Bleomycin may be given by the intramuscular, intravenous, subcutaneous or intra-arterial route. Because an anaphylactoid reaction is possible, lymphoma patients should receive test doses of between 1 to 5 units for the first two treatments. If no acute allergic reaction occurs within 4 to 6 hours, the balance of the dose may be given. After that, the regular dosage schedule may be followed, as long as no reaction occurs.
Side Effects
Bleomycin Sulfate commonly causes reactions at the injection site, such as pain, redness, warmth, itching or swelling. Other common side effects are fever, chills, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss. Some people notice darkening or discoloration of the skin, or changes in the fingernails or toenails. Itching and pain near the tumor can also happen.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Bleomycin Sulfate should be given under the supervision of a qualified physician who has experience with cancer chemotherapy medicines. The therapy and any complications can be managed properly only when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are close at hand. Patients on bleomycin need to be watched carefully and often, both during and after treatment. After injection, bleomycin is quickly absorbed and spreads through the body, especially into the skin, the lungs and any susceptible tumour tissue. This is why it can cause skin and pulmonary toxicity as well as work against the tumour. If pulmonary changes are noticed, stop the treatment until it is clear whether the drug is the cause.
Contraindications
Bleomycin should not be given to anyone with a known allergy or idiosyncrasy to the drug. It is also contraindicated in patients who have an acute pulmonary infection or greatly reduced lung function. A repeat course must not be given to any patient who has shown signs of pneumonitis or decreased pulmonary function.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Bleomycin Sulfate is Pregnancy Category D. Nobody knows yet whether the medicine passes into human milk. Many drugs do pass into breast milk, and a nursing infant could have serious adverse reactions, so women who are receiving Bleomycin Sulfate therapy should stop nursing.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Storage
Keep Bleomycin Sulfate between 2 and 8°C and protect it from light. Don't use it once the expiration date has passed.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Bleonix 15,000 IU
What is Bleonix 15,000 IU Injection?
Bleonix 15,000 IU Injection is a medicine that contains Bleomycin Sulfate. It is made by Beacon Pharmaceuticals PLC. It belongs to the Cytotoxic Chemotherapy group of medicines.
What is Bleonix used for?
Bleonix is used for: Cancer.
What are the side effects of Bleonix?
Bleomycin Sulfate commonly causes reactions at the injection site, such as pain, redness, warmth, itching or swelling. Other common side effects are fever, chills, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Can I take Bleonix during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Bleomycin Sulfate is Pregnancy Category D. Nobody knows yet whether the medicine passes into human milk. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Bleonix?
Keep Bleomycin Sulfate between 2 and 8°C and protect it from light. Don't use it once the expiration date has passed.
Can I take other medicines with Bleonix?
Some medicines can interact with Bleomycin Sulfate, for example: Clozapine, Phenytoin, Calcium Lactate Gluconate + Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin C, Vitamin C [Ascorbic acid], Cisplatin, Vitamin C + Vitamin E. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Bleonix?
Bleonix is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.