This medication is an implant used to treat certain
types of brain tumors (such as malignant glioma). The implant is a
combination product (wafer) made of carmustine and polifeprosan 20.
Carmustine belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents. It works
by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Polifeprosan 20 helps
control the release of carmustine in the brain.
This implant is placed in the space left after surgery
to remove a brain tumor. The implant will slowly dissolve and release the
medication in your brain.
The number of implants (wafers) placed is based on the
amount of space in the brain. Usually, up to 8 wafers may be placed at one
time during surgery.
Nausea, vomiting, constipation, or abdominal/back pain
may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
People using this medication may have serious side
effects. However, you have been prescribed this drug because your doctor
has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side
effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your
risk.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- swelling/redness/warmth or poor healing at surgery site
- signs of infection (such as fever, stiff neck)
- chest pain
- mental/mood changes (such as depression, anxiety)
- weakness
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious
side effects, including:
- seizure
- signs of increased pressure around the brain (such as severe
headache, confusion, vision changes)
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before receiving carmustine/polifeprosan 20, tell your
doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other
allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause
allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using carmustine. Carmustine
may harm an unborn baby. Women should ask about reliable forms of birth
control for at least 6 months after the implant is placed. Men should ask
about reliable forms of birth control for at least 3 months after the
implant is placed. If you or your partner becomes pregnant, talk to your
doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this
medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not
recommended for at least 7 days after the implant is placed. Consult your
doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medication may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has swallowed it and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests should be done while you are
using this medication. Keep all medical and lab
appointments.
Not applicable. This product is used in a hospital and
will not be stored at home.