What is Bleomycin Injection ?
Bleomycin is a chemotherapy medication available in injectable form. It is used in the treatment of various types of cancer, particularly Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Bleomycin Injection Uses
- Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Bleomycin is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs to treat Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: It is also used in the treatment of certain types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
- Testicular Cancer: Bleomycin is used as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen to treat testicular cancer.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Bleomycin may be used in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Bleomycin Injection – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Bleomycin is an antitumor antibiotic that works by interfering with DNA replication and causing breaks in the DNA strands. It induces oxidative damage to DNA, leading to inhibition of DNA synthesis and cell death. Bleomycin primarily targets rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, ultimately inhibiting their growth and proliferation.
Bleomycin Injection – Side-effects
- Skin Changes: Bleomycin can cause skin changes, such as skin thickening or darkening, and in some cases, it may cause painful skin ulcers.
- Fever and Chills: Some individuals may experience fever and chills during or after administration.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy drugs, including bleomycin.
