What it is used for

Bleomycin is used for palliative treatment and/or adjuvant treatment to surgery and/or radiation therapy in the management of the following neoplasms: The primary indication is the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, head and neck and oesophagus. Tumour response has also been obtained in a number of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the penis, larynx and uterine cervix. Squamous cell carcinoma of the bronchus has shown infrequent response. Bleomycin is also indicated in the treatment of choriocarcinoma and embryonal cell carcinoma of the testis. It has been used effectively in advanced Hodgkin's disease and in some cases of other lymphomas such as Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and in mycosis fungoides. Bleomycin is bone-marrow sparing and may therefore be of use when other cytotoxic Agents are contraindicated. It should be noted that treatment of patients with bleomycin after radiation therapy is less successful than treatment prior to radiation therapy. Bleomycin is effective as a sclerosing agent for the treatment of malignant pleural effusion. It should be given as a single instillation only, as studies have not assessed the efficacy or safety of multiple intrapleural dosing.

How to take it

The way to take this medicine is: Intravenous. This medicine or fluids is given through a needle or tube (catheter) inserted into a vein.

• Store at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius
• Protect from Light
• Shelf lifetime is 3 Years.

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Visual appearance

Cake of white powder in a vial

Do I need a prescription?

This medicine is available from a pharmacist and requires a prescription. It is Schedule 4 : Prescription Only Medicine. open tool tip to find out more

Pregnant or planning a pregnancy?

For the active ingredient bleomycin

You should seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist about taking this medicine. They can help you balance the risks and the benefits of this medicine during pregnancy.