Introduction

Bendamustine (ben-da-MUS-teen)

Treats chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Brand Name(s)

Treanda

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to bendamustine or mannitol, or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using ciprofloxacin (Cipro®), fluvoxamine (Luvox®), or omeprazole (Prilosec®).
• Avoid smoking while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, a bone marrow disorder, or any kind of infection.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.
• This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash; itching; swelling of the face, tongue, and throat; trouble breathing; or chest pain after you get the injection.
• This medicine may make you feel unusually weak or tired. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• Cancer medicines can cause diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting in most people, sometimes even after receiving medicines to prevent it. Ask your doctor or nurse about other ways to control these side effects.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling.
• Lower back or side pain.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
• Painful cold sores or blisters on lips, nose, eyes, or genitals.
• Painful or difficult urination.
• Shortness of breath.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Decreased weight.
• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• Mild skin rash or itching.