BLEOCIN-S 15 MG 1 AMP

BLEOCIN-S (Bleomycin) is an injectable chemotherapy medication available in a 15 mg ampoule. It is primarily used in the treatment of various cancers. Bleomycin is classified as an antitumor antibiotic that works by interfering with DNA replication and repair, ultimately leading to cell death.

How BLEOCIN-S Works

Mechanism of Action

1. Antitumor Antibiotic:
   • Bleomycin is derived from the bacterium Streptomyces verticillus. It functions as an antitumor antibiotic, specifically targeting cancer cells.
2. DNA Intercalation:
   • It intercalates with DNA, disrupting the DNA structure and preventing proper replication and transcription. This intercalation leads to the formation of free radicals, which cause DNA strand breaks.
3. Cell Cycle Specific:
   • Bleomycin is more effective in the G2 phase of the cell cycle but can affect cells in other phases as well. It inhibits DNA synthesis and repair, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
4. Selective Toxicity:
   • Although Bleomycin can affect normal cells, it is particularly toxic to rapidly dividing cancer cells, making it useful in cancer treatment.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Fever and Chills:
  • Often experienced as flu-like symptoms following administration.
• Nausea and Vomiting:
  • Common but can often be managed with antiemetics.
• Skin Reactions:
  • Rashes, itching, and changes in skin pigmentation.

Serious Side Effects

• Pulmonary Toxicity:
  • Bleomycin can cause severe lung damage, including pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonitis. Monitoring lung function is critical during treatment.
• Allergic Reactions:
  • Rare but serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur.
• Renal Toxicity:
  • Although less common, there may be renal complications.
• Fever:
  • Prolonged or severe fever may occur and needs medical attention.

Indications

BLEOCIN-S is indicated for:

• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma:
  • Used in combination with other agents for the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma:
  • Effective in treating certain types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Testicular Cancer:
  • Used in combination chemotherapy regimens for testicular cancer.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma:
  • Indicated for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Contraindications

BLEOCIN-S should not be used in the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity:
  • Known hypersensitivity to Bleomycin or any component of the formulation.
• Pulmonary Disease:
  • Contraindicated in patients with pre-existing pulmonary disease due to the risk of exacerbating lung toxicity.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
  • Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harm to the fetus or infant.
• Renal Impairment:
  • Caution is required in patients with renal impairment.

Price in Different Countries

The price of BLEOCIN-S varies by country and location. Below is a table with approximate prices and references for further details.

Country	Price (Per 15 mg Ampoule)	Reference
United States	$300 – $350	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£200 – £250	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $400 – $450	Canada Pharmacy
Australia	AUD $500 – $550	PBS Australia
India	₹25,000 – ₹30,000	1mg

Top 5 Global Brands

While BLEOCIN-S is a primary brand for Bleomycin, several other brands and generics are available worldwide. Here are the top global brands and notable alternatives:

1. BLEOCIN-S (Bleomycin) – EBEWE Pharma:
   • A widely recognized brand of Bleomycin used for its effective antitumor properties.
2. Blenoxane (Bleomycin) – Bristol-Myers Squibb:
   • Another major brand, especially noted for its use in various oncology protocols.
3. Blenoxane (Bleomycin) – Teva Pharmaceuticals:
   • A reputable brand known for its generic options.
4. Blenoxane (Bleomycin) – Pfizer:
   • Provides another variant of the Bleomycin treatment for cancer.
5. Bleomycin (Generic) – Various Manufacturers:
   • Numerous manufacturers produce generic versions of Bleomycin, offering cost-effective alternatives.