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Introduction of
Lomustine
Lomustine belongs
to the general group of chemotherapy drugs known as alkylating
agents. It is used to treat several types of cancer including
brain cancer and Hodgkin’s disease. Lomustine stops the growth
of cancer cells, which causes them to die.
Possible side effects of Lomustine
Nausea and vomiting
There are now very effective anti-sickness drugs to prevent or
greatly reduce this. If you do feel sick it may begin from a
few hours after the treatment is given and can last for up to
2–3 days. If the sickness is not controlled, or continues,
tell your doctor, who can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs
that may be more effective.
Lowered resistance to infection
Lomustine can reduce the production of white blood cells by
the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This
effect can begin seven days after treatment has been given and
usually reaches its lowest point 14–28 days after
chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and
will usually have returned to normal before your next course
of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your doctor or the hospital straightaway if:
You will have a blood test before having more chemotherapy, to
make sure that your cells have recovered. Occasionally it may
be necessary to delay your treatment if your blood count is
still low.
Bruising or bleeding
Lomustine can reduce the production of platelets (which help
the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have any
unexplained bruising or bleeding.
Anaemia (low number of red blood cells)
While having treatment with lomustine you may become anaemic.
This may make you feel tired and breathless.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness
It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Additional information about Lomustine
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Store the capsules in a cool, dry place.
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Keep the capsules in a safe place where children cannot
reach them, as lomustine could harm them.
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It is important to take your capsules at the right times.
You must take them as directed by your doctor.
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If your doctor decides to stop the treatment, return any
remaining capsules to the pharmacist. Do not flush them down
the toilet or throw them away.
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If you forget to take a capsule do not take a double dose.
Tell your doctor and keep to your regular dose schedule.
Disclaimer:
Information on this page is provided for general
information purposes. You should not make a clinical treatment
decision based on information contained in this page without
consulting other references including the package insert of
the drug, textbooks and where relevant, expert opinion. We
cannot be held responsible for any errors you make in
administering drugs mentioned on this page, nor for use of any
erroneous information contained on this page.
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