Description

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Bendamustine is indicated for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Efficacy relative to first line therapies other than chlorambucil has not been established. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Bendamustineis indicated for the treatment of patients with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that has progressed during or within six months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen. Also indicated in Multiple myeloma.

May increase plasma levels with CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g. ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine). May reduce plasma levels with CYP1A2 inducers (e.g. omeprazole and tobacco smoking).

Malignant and pre-malignant disease; pyrexia, nausea, vomiting, cough, headache, fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, anorexia, wt decrease, rash, stomatitis, lymphopenia, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, neutropenia.

Pregnancy category D. There is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).

Mild to moderate hepatic and renal impairment. Pregnancy and lactation.

Hepatic Impairment: Moderate: Reduce dose by 30%.

Symptoms: Cardiotoxicity, thrombocytopenia. Management: May perform bone marrow transplantation and transfusions to control haematological effects. It is dialysable to a small extent.

Cytotoxic Chemotherapy