Carmustine

Chemotherapy

What is carmustine?

Carmustine (also known as BCNU, BiCNU®, or Gliadel®) is an anticancer medicine. It is available as a clear liquid given into a vein (IV) or as an off-white, round wafer that is put directly into the surgical site during brain surgery.

Carmustine can pose a health hazard to caregivers. All caregivers should take safety precautions while giving this drug. For 48 hours after this drug is given, the patient’s body fluids can contain the drug. During that 48-hour period, caregivers should follow safety guidelines when handling the patient’s vomit, blood, urine, and bowel movements, including diapers. These guidelines include wearing gloves when cleaning up body fluids. For a complete list of safety precautions, see “Do you know… Protecting caregivers from drug hazards.”

Possible side effects

Pain or burning at the site of injection
Change in blood pressure after the wafers are placed
Nausea
Vomiting

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take carmustine will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

Possible late effects

Low blood counts
Seizures (with wafer)
Change in electrolytes in the blood
Decrease in kidney and liver function
Change in eyesight
Change in lung function

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Carmustine may cause nausea and vomiting. The doctor may prescribe medicine to keep you from feeling sick and throwing up after you receive carmustine.
It may be easier for you to get infections while you are receiving carmustine. Stay away from crowds and people with colds, flu, or other infections.
Tell the nurse right away if you have pain or redness at the IV site.
Blood will be drawn regularly to check for changes in kidney or liver function and to check blood counts.

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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency.

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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