Biknu: application, side effects, prospects
Biknu (international name - Carmustine) is a drug that is used in oncology to treat various types of tumors, including brain tumors, lymphomas and leukemia. The drug is part of the pharmaceutical group of cytostatics - nitrosoureas and triazenes.
Biknu is produced by Bristol-Myers Squibb companies in the United States of America and Italy. The dosage form of Biknu is lyophilized powder for the preparation of an infusion solution of 100 mg. The active ingredient is carmustine.
Indications for use of Biknu include the treatment of brain tumors, including glioblastoma, brain stem glioma, medulloblastoma, astrocytoma, ependymoma, brain metastases; multiple myeloma, lymphogranulomatosis, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic leukemia (nonspecific therapy), melanoma, liver cancer, malignant neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract.
However, Biknu also has contraindications for use. It should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to the active substance, severe impairment of liver and kidney function, severe myelosuppression, pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is also necessary to evaluate the risk-benefit ratio in case of chickenpox, herpes zoster and other systemic infections, impaired liver, kidney, lung function (including history), bone marrow suppression, previous cytotoxic or radiation therapy, smoking, as well as in the elderly and childhood.
Side effects of Biknu may include dysfunction of the digestive system, nervous system and sensory organs, cardiovascular system and blood, respiratory system, genitourinary system and skin. Swallowing disturbances, difficulty moving, pain, flushing and redness of the facial skin, development of infections, hyperthermia, increased levels of transaminases, alkaline phosphatase, urea nitrogen, pain, redness and burning sensation at the injection site, and changes in skin color along the vein may also be observed.
It is also necessary to take into account the interaction of Biknu with other drugs. It may reduce the effectiveness of immunization with inactivated vaccines and enhance the toxicity of other cytotoxic drugs. In addition, Biknu may enhance the effect of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, which can lead to bleeding.
Despite the side effects and contraindications, Biknu remains an important drug in oncology. Its effectiveness in the treatment of brain tumors has been proven in a number of clinical studies. In addition, the drug may be effective in treating other tumors.
Much attention is paid to the development of new drugs in oncology, and Biknu is no exception. Several studies are underway to develop new forms of Biknu with the aim of improving its effectiveness and reducing side effects.
Thus, Biknu is an important drug in oncology, which can be effective in treating various types of tumors. Despite the contraindications and side effects, the drug remains an important tool in the fight against cancer.