Bleocin 15 Units Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Bleomycin Sulphate. It is supplied as a lyophilized powder that must be reconstituted with sterile saline or water for injection before administration. The route of administration depends on the specific cancer and treatment protocol.

Bleocin is clinically indicated for the treatment of:

• Testicular Tumors: A key component of curative regimens (e.g., BEP regimen).
• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: Used in various combination chemotherapy protocols (e.g., ABVD for Hodgkin’s).
• Squamous Cell Carcinomas: Of the head, neck, cervix, and skin.
• Pleurodesis: Used to prevent fluid recurrence in malignant pleural effusions (often via intrapleural instillation).

How Does Bleocin Work?

Bleomycin acts as a cell cycle phase-nonspecific agent, although it is most active in the G2 and M phases of the cycle. Its cytotoxic mechanism is highly damaging to the cancer cell’s genetic material:

1. Metal Chelation: Bleomycin chelates (binds) to metal ions, particularly Fe²⁺ (ferrous iron).
2. DNA Oxidation: This Bleomycin-iron complex interacts with molecular oxygen (O₂), leading to the formation of highly reactive free radicals (superoxide and hydroxyl radicals).
3. DNA Strand Breaks: These free radicals cleave the phosphate backbone of the DNA strands, causing single and double-strand breaks. This damage inhibits DNA synthesis and repair, resulting in chromosomal aberrations and fragmentation, ultimately leading to the death of the cancer cell.

Bleocin Side Effects and Warnings

Bleomycin is associated with a distinct and severe toxicity profile, requiring careful monitoring, particularly of the respiratory system.

Black Box Warnings and Critical Precautions:

1. Pulmonary Toxicity (Lung Damage): This is the most serious and dose-limiting toxicity. Bleomycin can cause Pulmonary Fibrosis (lung scarring) and Pneumonitis (inflammation). The risk increases with cumulative dose (>400 units), advanced age, pre-existing lung disease, and high oxygen concentrations. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and chest X-rays must be monitored frequently.
2. Anaphylaxis/Idiosyncratic Reactions: Severe, acute, and potentially fatal idiosyncratic reactions (similar to anaphylaxis) can occur, particularly in lymphoma patients. A test dose is often administered first.
3. Skin Toxicity: Severe skin reactions are common, including hyperpigmentation (darkening), thickening of the skin, stretch marks, and hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin layer) over pressure areas.
4. Fever and Chills: Fever and chills often occur several hours after injection, especially with the first few doses, and usually require pre-medication (e.g., paracetamol).

Bleocin 15 Units Storage Conditions

Bleocin Injection requires controlled storage and handling due to its cytotoxic nature:

• Store the unopened vials (lyophilized powder) in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F).
• Handling: It must be prepared and administered by qualified personnel trained in handling cytotoxic agents, using proper protective equipment.
• Reconstitution: The reconstituted solution should be used promptly. Stability depends on the chosen diluent and temperature.
• Inspection: The reconstituted solution should be clear.