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Treanda (Bendamustine) Information

Treanda, which contains the active ingredient bendamustine, is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, specifically chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It is typically prescribed when other treatments have not been effective or if the cancer has progressed. By targeting and interfering with the growth of cancer cells, Treanda helps slow or stop the spread of the disease. The medication is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. The treatment schedule usually involves cycles, where the drug is given over two consecutive days, followed by a rest period of several weeks to allow the body to recover. Your doctor will determine the exact dosage and number of cycles based on your specific diagnosis and overall health.

The mechanism of action of bendamustine involves two distinct mechanisms of action against cancer cells. It acts as both an alkylating agent and an antimetabolite. It works by damaging the DNA in cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and multiplying. Because cancer cells typically divide faster than healthy cells, they are more sensitive to this DNA damage, which eventually leads to the death of the malignant cells.

Treanda Side Effects

Treanda is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and a headache. You may also experience a mild skin rash, loss of appetite, or mouth sores. Because it can lower blood cell counts, feeling unusually weak or tired is also frequent during treatment.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Infection signs: Fever, chills, persistent sore throat, or cough, which may indicate a dangerously low white blood cell count.
• Infusion reactions: Chills, fever, or a rash occurring during or shortly after the injection.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; hives; or significant difficulty breathing.
• Severe skin reactions: Blistering, peeling, or a painful, spreading red rash.
• Tumour Lysis Syndrome (TLS): Confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, or decreased urination caused by the rapid breakdown of cancer cells.
• Unusual bleeding: Easy bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in the stool or urine, which may indicate low platelet levels.

Treanda Precautions

Do not use Treanda if you have a known severe allergic reaction to bendamustine. It is also generally avoided in patients with severe kidney disease or significant liver impairment. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart disease, lung problems, or a weakened immune system.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements. Treanda can interact with certain medications that affect liver enzymes, potentially altering how your body processes the drug.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Treanda can cause serious harm to a developing fetus. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Both men and women should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the final dose as directed by their doctor. It is unknown if bendamustine passes into breastmilk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed while using Treanda.

Treanda must be administered exactly as scheduled by your doctor. If you miss an infusion appointment, contact the clinic immediately to reschedule. To help manage side effects, your doctor may give you other medications before the infusion to prevent nausea or allergic reactions. Drink plenty of fluids during treatment to help your kidneys flush out the toxins from dying cancer cells. Because this is a specialized chemotherapy drug, it is stored and handled only by trained medical staff in the hospital or clinic to ensure safety.

Do I need a prescription to order Treanda?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Treanda.