Bleomycin
Bleomycin is a cell cycle-phase specific drug from the antibiotic class of antineoplastic drugs. its mechanism of action and spectrum of activity differentiate it from the other drugs in this class such as doxorubicin and etoposide. Bleomycin is produced by Streptomyces verticillus. The mixture of glycopeptides found in this extract are collectively reffered as it. A mixture of 11 different glycopeptide is used in therapy with the major components being it A2 and it B2.it exerts its chemotherapeutic effects by causing scission of single- and double-stranded DNA. Bleomycin is used in combination of different types of anticancerous drugs to obtain better therapeutic results and to reduce the side effects or toxicity.
Primary Characteristics
Bleomycin is also known as Bleomycin HCl, , .
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Glycopeptide.
It belongs to DNA Strand Breakage pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antineoplastic Agent, Antibiotic pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 1500 · Solubility in Water: very soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Bleomycin.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Bleomycin has an oral bioavailability is 5% (±5%).
Distribution: Bleomycin has a volume of distribution is 17.5 l/sq.meter.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 2-4 hr, renal excretion is 70%.
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Indications
Bleomycin is primarily indicated in conditions like Germ cell tumors, Hodgkin's disease, Intracavitary malignant effusions, Metastatic germ cell cancer, Squamous cell carcinoma, Squamous cell carcinoma of cervix, Squamous cell carcinoma of head.
Bleomycin is also indicated for secondary conditions like Brain tumors, Warts.
Contraindications
Bleomycin is contraindicated in conditions like Pulmonary infection, Pregnancy, Breast feeding.
Dosage
Bleomycin's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 15 USP units | 15 USP units | — | IV Inf | 3 times a week |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 15 IU/sq.meter | 15 IU/sq.meter | — | IV Infusion | Once weekly for 3 Weeks |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Bleomycin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Myelosuppressive effect , Mucocutaneous toxicity .
Bleomycin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pulmonary toxicity, Respiratory Failure . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Bleomycin are Tachycardia , Hypotension, Fever.
Bleomycin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anorexia , Chills, Fever, Headache, Hyperthermia , Hypotension , Mental confusion, Mucositis, Nausea, Pruritis, Rashes , Stomatitis, SweatingX, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.8.2 — Cytotoxic (anti-neoplastic) drugs
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Bleomycin in Pakistan: