Bleomycin

Features

Although the exact mechanism of action of bleomycin is unknown, available evidence indicates that the main mode of action is the inhibition of DNA synthesis with some evidence of lesser inhibition of RNA and protein synthesis. Bleomycin is known to cause single, and to a lesser extent, double-stranded breaks in DNA. Bleomycin causes cell cycle arrest in G2 and in mitosis. When administered into the pleural cavity in the treatment of malignant pleural effusion, bleomycin acts as a sclerosing agent.

Dosage

Squamous cell carcinoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular carcinoma: 0.25 to 0.50 units/kg (10 to 20 units/m2) given intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously weekly or twice weekly.

Hodgkin's Disease: 0.25 to 0.50 units/kg (10 to 20 units/m2) given intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously weekly or twice weekly. After a 50% response, a maintenance dose of 1 unit daily or 5 units weekly intravenously or intramuscularly should be given.

Malignant Pleural Effusion: 60 units administered as a single dose bolus intrapleural injection.

Indications

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck (including mouth, tongue, tonsil, nasopharynx, oropharynx, sinus, palate, lip, buccal mucosa, gingivae, epiglottis, skin, larynx), penis, cervix, and vulva. The response to Bleomycin is poorer in patients with previously irradiated head and neck cancer.

Lymphomas

Hodgkin’s Disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Testicular Carcinoma

Embryonal cell, choriocarcinoma, and teratocarcinoma.

Malignant Pleural Effusion

Bleomycin is effective as a sclerosing agent for the treatment of malignant pleural effusion and prevention of recurrent pleural effusions.

Product Information

Bleomycin Injection is available in a vial containing Bleomycin sulphate I.P. Equivalent to Bleomycin 15 IU.

 

For the use only of a Registered Medical Practitioner or a Hospital or a Laboratory