Belustine 40

Uses
Belustine 40 (Lomustine) is a chemotherapy drug indicated for the treatment of brain tumours or Hodgkin's disease (lymphoma). It works by targeting the cancer cells. Doctors may recommend the use of this medicine on its own or in combination with radiotherapy or other drugs. Additional indications include malignant melanoma, lung tumours (such as oat-cell carcinoma), myelomatosis and various other types of cancer as deemed necessary by the doctor in charge of treatment.

The main ingredient in these capsules is in a class of medicines referred to as alkylating agents, and the mode of action is thought to be related to its ability to block some of the steps in the synthesis of nucleic acid. It can also affect the DNA of the cancer cells, which prevents them from spreading and growing. Treatment may therefore help to reduce the level of cancer in the body over each course of chemotherapy.

Dosage and Administration
Belustine 40 (Lomustine) capsules each contain 40mg of the main active ingredient. The dosage will need to be carefully calculated by your doctor, who will need to take into consideration various factors, including the type of cancer being treated, your medical history and other details relating to your individual circumstances. In some situations, the patient may need to be given a reduced dosage, depending on what other medicines are being taken as part of the regimen. Patients treating Hodgkin's disease may sometimes be directed to take it as a single dose, given at 6 week intervals. Close supervision from a doctor will be needed, and medical tests may be required before treatment commences, and during treatment, sometimes on a weekly basis.

Side effects
Patients who are taking Belustine 40 (Lomustine) for chemotherapy should note that it can cause a considerable amount of side effects, many of which are due to it affecting healthy cells in the body. Examples of reactions can include:

• Pale coloured skin
• Nausea and sickness
• Weakness or fatigue
• Hair loss (temporary)
• Reduction in appetite

Report all side effects that occur to your doctor. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice fever, bruising, bleeding, white sores around the mouth, reduced urination or any other serious side effects which are not listed here.

Precautions
This medicine may affect the fertility of patients treated with it. Ensure that you discuss this in full with your doctor before commencing treatment.

You must not break, chew or open the capsules. If any of the medicine from inside a capsule that is broken gets on the skin, this could be dangerous.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Belustine 40 (Lomustine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.