InjectionClinical Overview
Bleomycin Injection (15 IU) is a cytotoxic glycopeptide antibiotic on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It binds to intracellular ferrous iron (Fe2+) and molecular oxygen to form an activated pseudoperoxidase complex that cleaves single- and double-stranded DNA via free radical generation, arresting cells primarily in the G2 and M phases. Unlike most antineoplastics, it causes virtually no bone marrow suppression. Indicated for curative combination chemotherapy of testicular carcinoma (BEP regimen), Hodgkin lymphoma (ABVD regimen), non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix and head and neck.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Administer intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously (10 to 20 units/m² per dose) once or twice weekly. For IV use, infuse slowly over at least 10 minutes. Cumulative lifetime dose must strictly not exceed 400 units (or 250 units/m²) to prevent fatal pulmonary fibrosis. Premedicate lymphoma patients with paracetamol and antihistamines for test-dose anaphylactoid reactions.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Hyperpigmentation of skin, flagellate erythema, hyperkeratosis, alopecia, stomatitis, fevers and chills within hours of infusion. Rare/Severe: Irreversible dose-dependent pulmonary fibrosis / pneumonitis, and fatal idiosyncratic anaphylactoid reactions in lymphoma patients.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black Box Warning: Dose-dependent pulmonary toxicity (interstitial pneumonitis progressing to fatal pulmonary fibrosis); monitor chest X-rays, DLCO, and pulmonary function tests regularly. Discontinue immediately if rales, dyspnea, or DLCO declines by >30-35%. High inspired oxygen fractions (FiO2 > 30% during anesthesia) can trigger lethal pulmonary toxicity. Minimal myelosuppression.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, oncological diagnosis, or chemotherapy protocol guidance. Cancer therapies require specialized administration under the direct supervision of a registered medical oncologist in an accredited healthcare facility.