Lomustine (By Mouth)

Lomustine (loe-MUS-teen)

Treats Hodgkin's disease, brain tumors, and other kinds of cancers, often in combination with other medicines. Also called CCNU.

Brand Name(s):

Ceenu
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to lomustine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

• This medicine, like all medicines used to treat cancer, is very strong. Make sure you understand why you are getting it and what the risks and benefits of treatment are. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often you should take it. Make sure you understand your doctor's instructions.
• You may have two or more different capsules that make up your one dose. If so, you can take all of the capsules at once. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this before you take the medicine.
• Take the medicine on an empty stomach. Your doctor may tell you to take the medicine at bedtime to keep you from having nausea.
• After you take your dose of lomustine, you will not take any more of the medicine for at least 6 weeks.
• If you vomit right after you take the medicine, call your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you get more than one dose of the medicine at one time, store the medicine at room temperature. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines may become harmful when taken with lomustine. You should not use any other medicines without asking your doctor.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking cimetidine (Tagamet®) or phenobarbital.
• You should not use aspirin or any product that has aspirin in it (such as some cold medicines) unless you have talked to your doctor.
• Avoid drinking alcohol.
• Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines (such as flu shots).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Do not breastfeed while you are getting this medicine.
• You may get infections more easily while you are taking lomustine. Stay away from crowds or people with colds, flu, or other infections.
• This medicine may make your mouth sore and irritated. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush or mouth swab.
• This medicine can cause nausea and vomiting. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to keep you from feeling sick and throwing up. If the medicine does not help (you can't keep liquids down), call your doctor.
• Do not get pregnant while you or your sexual partner are taking lomustine. Use an effective form of birth control while you are being treated with this medicine.
• If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before you start your treatments.
• Some cancer drugs may make you sterile (unable to have children), whether you are a man or woman. If you plan to have children someday, talk with your doctor before you start your treatments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fever, chills, or sore throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Painful mouth sores that keep you from drinking liquids
• Trouble breathing, swelling in legs and feet
• Severe diarrhea
• Blood in urine or stools
• Confusion

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Loss of appetite
• Hair loss

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.