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Carmustine ( KAR-mus-teen ) (BCNU, BiCNU®) What is this medication used for? Carmustine is used to destroy cancer cells. It interferes with their growth cycle.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given? • In the vein (IV) or venous access device • Surgical implant (wafer) What are the common side effects? • Nausea or vomiting • Pain or burning at the injection site • Low blood counts 4–6 weeks after treatment
What are the less common side effects? • Changes in liver and kidney function tests • Feeling tired or weak (fatigue, malaise) • Dizziness • Scarring or stiffening of the lungs (can occur as a late effect) Special instructions: • Call a healthcare provider if any problems with breathing occur (for example, cough or shortness of breath). • Blood pressure and the infusion site will be monitored during infusion. • Lung function will be tested before this medicine is given and at certain times during treatment. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Infusion reaction (for example, shortness of breath, lowered blood pressure, and facial flushing or redness) • Headache • Constipation • Impaired wound healing • Fever
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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