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Brand Names: Ceenu

Generic Name: lomustine (Pronunciation: LOE mus teen)

• What is lomustine (CeeNU)?
• What are the possible side effects of lomustine (CeeNU)?
• What is the most important information I should know about lomustine (CeeNU)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking lomustine (CeeNU)?
• How should I take lomustine (CeeNU)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (CeeNU)?
• What happens if I overdose (CeeNU)?
• What should I avoid while taking lomustine (CeeNU)?
• What other drugs will affect lomustine (CeeNU)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is lomustine (CeeNU)?

Lomustine is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their spread in the body.

Lomustine is used to treat brain tumors and Hodgkin's disease.

Lomustine is sometimes given with other cancer medications.

Lomustine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of lomustine (CeeNU)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding;
• wheezing, rapid breathing, feeling short of breath;
• chest pain, dry cough, fever, feeling ill;
• urinating less than usual or not at all;
• confusion, mood changes, increased thirst;
• swelling in your ankles or feet;
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips.

Less serious side effects may include:

• loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting;
• temporary hair loss;
• vision problems; or
• feeling weak or tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about lomustine (CeeNU)?

Do not use lomustine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to lomustine.

Before taking lomustine, tell your doctor if you have bone marrow suppression, liver or kidney disease, or a history of lung or breathing problems.

Lomustine is usually taken once every 6 weeks. To get the correct dose, you may need to take 2 or more capsules that are different types and colors. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Lomustine can cause nausea and vomiting or loss of appetite. Taking lomustine on an empty stomach may reduce nausea and vomiting. Call your doctor if you vomit right after taking a lomustine capsule.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested weekly for at least 6 weeks after you take lomustine. Your kidneys, liver, and lung function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Wear disposable rubber gloves when you handle a lomustine capsule. Throw the gloves away after one use.

Do not use a lomustine capsule that has been accidentally opened or broken. The medicine from inside the capsule can be dangerous if it gets on your skin. If skin contact occurs, wash the area with soap and water or rinse the eyes thoroughly with plain water.