Uses

Bendamustine hydrochloride injection is indicated for treatment of adults with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that has progressed during or within six months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen, and for chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to bendamustine or its excipients including polyethylene glycol 400 and monothioglycerol. Contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Side effects

Common adverse effects include myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia), nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Serious risks include severe infections, infusion reactions, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, and tumor lysis syndrome.

Warnings

A hazardous drug requiring special handling and disposal procedures. Monitor blood counts closely; delay or reduce dose based on hematologic recovery. Risk of severe myelosuppression, infections, and infusion reactions. Safe handling and disposal procedures must be followed.

How it works

Bendamustine is a bifunctional alkylating agent with a purine-like benzimidazole ring. It forms interstrand DNA crosslinks via electrophilic alkyl groups, leading to DNA strand breakage and activation of apoptotic pathways. Its unique structure gives it activity against some drug-resistant tumors.

Storage

Store as a hazardous drug; follow institutional guidelines. The concentrate vials should be stored at controlled room temperature; reconstituted solutions have limited stability.