Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Lomustine is employed in the treatment of specific types of brain tumors. It is additionally utilized in combination with other medications to address Hodgkin’s lymphoma (Hodgkin’s disease) that either has not responded to previous treatments or has deteriorated despite prior medication regimens. Lomustine falls under the category of medications known as alkylating agents. Its mechanism of action involves slowing down or halting the growth of cancer cells within the body.
Uses and Dosage
Lomustine is administered in capsule form to be taken orally. Typically, it is taken once every 6 weeks on an empty stomach. A complete dose may consist of capsules with various types and colors. The prescribed quantity will provide enough capsules for a single dose.
Consume all the capsules from the prescription bottle simultaneously.
Take lomustine precisely as directed, avoiding deviations such as taking more or less than prescribed or increasing the frequency beyond the doctor’s instructions.
When handling the capsules, you should wear rubber or latex gloves to prevent direct contact with your skin. In case the capsule contents come into contact with your skin, promptly wash the affected area with soap and water.
Swallow the capsules whole without splitting, chewing, or crushing them.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- sores in the mouth and throat
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- pale skin
- fainting
- hair loss
- unsteady walk
- slurred speech
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing
- shortness of breath
- dry cough
- chest pain
- wheezing
- decreased urination;
- swelling of the face, arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
- yellowing or eyes and skin
- confusion
- sudden change or loss of vision
Caution
- Before taking lomustine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as the product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a current infection, blood disorder, kidney disease, liver disease, or lung disease.
- Lomustine may increase your susceptibility to infections or worsen existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious infections like chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu. Consult your doctor if you’ve been exposed to an infection or for more information.
- Notify your healthcare professional that you are using lomustine before undergoing any immunizations/vaccinations. Steer clear of contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines (such as the flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
- To minimize the risk of cuts, bruises, or injuries, exercise caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and refrain from engaging in activities such as contact sports.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not advisable to become pregnant while using lomustine, as it may harm an unborn baby. Women using this medication should inquire about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for 2 weeks after the last dose. Men using this medication should ask about reliable forms of birth control during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor promptly about the risks and benefits of this medication.
- As this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should avoid handling this medication or inhaling the dust from the capsules.
- The passage of this drug into breast milk is unknown. Due to potential risks to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
Form and Strength
CeeNU is available in the following forms and strengths:
- CeeNU capsule:
- 10 mg
- 40 mg
FAQ
Is CeeNU a chemotherapy drug?
Yes, CeeNU is a chemotherapy formulated to eliminate cancer cells in your body.
Do you lose your hair while taking CeeNU?
Along with its needed effects, medicines like CeeNU can sometimes cause unwanted effects such as blood problems and loss of hair.
