Bendamustine: A novel cytotoxic agent for hematologic malignancies

Susan Blumel, Amy Goodrich, Cheryl Martin, Nam H. Dang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

A significant need exists for effective and well-tolerated treatments for patients with hematologic malignancies. Bendamustine hydrochloride is a novel cytotoxic agent that possesses alkylator and purine-like structural groups, which may confer a unique mechanism of action. Bendamustine recently was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and currently is being used in clinical trials for a number of hematologic and solid tumors. Bendamustine has demonstrated promising clinical activity in patients with hematologic malignancies and has manageable toxicities when administered as monotherapy or in combination with other agents. In clinical trials, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, constipation, and headache were the most commonly reported nonhematologic side effects. Reversible myelosuppression also was reported. Nurses need to understand the efficacy and safety profiles of bendamustine to educate patients and their families about its use and expected side effects. Knowledge of specific measures for preventing and managing associated side effects and dose modifications is integral to the provision of optimal care.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)799-806
Number of pages8
JournalClinical journal of oncology nursing
Volume12
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2008

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Oncology(nursing)

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