Mesna (Injection)

Mesna (MES-na)

Protects the bladder from damage that may be caused by some cancer medicines.

Brand Name(s):

Mesnex
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mesna or related medicines (such as thimerosal, spironolactone, Purinethol®, Tapazole®, Aldactone®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins. Your doctor may also want you to use Mesnex® tablets 2 hours before and 6 hours after your injection.
• Drink at least 1 quart (32 ounces) of liquid every day to pass more urine while you are using this medicine. This will keep your kidneys and bladder working well and help prevent problems.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Only store it up to 8 days. This medicine needs to be mixed with another liquid before using. You may store this mixture at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets. Follow any special instructions about how to throw away empty medicine bottles, tubes, or bags.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine and used IV bags, vials, or tubing. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from 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.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an autoimmune disorder (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus).
• You may still have bladder problems while using this medicine. Your doctor will need to test your morning urine before you receive your cancer treatments. If you have pink or red urine, tell your doctor right away.
• This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

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

• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite
• Pain, redness, or swelling where the IV needle is placed
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest

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