What is carmustine?
Carmustine is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Carmustine is used to treat brain tumors, Hodgkin's disease, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Carmustine is sometimes given with other cancer medications.
Carmustine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about carmustine?
Do not use carmustine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby.
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to carmustine.
Before receiving carmustine, tell your doctor if you have bone marrow suppression, liver or kidney disease, or a history of lung or breathing problems.
Carmustine is usually given once every 6 weeks. You may be given either a single injection or multiple injections over a 2-day period. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.
Carmustine can cause nausea and vomiting that may last up to 6 hours after your injection.
Carmustine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. Your blood will need to be tested weekly for at least 6 weeks after you receive a dose of carmustine. Your kidneys, liver, and lung function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving carmustine?
You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to it.
To make sure you can safely receive carmustine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use carmustine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether carmustine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are being treated with carmustine.