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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive bendamustine (Treanda)?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to bendamustine or mannitol (Osmitrol).

To make sure you can safely receive bendamustine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• a weak immune system;
• fever or other signs of infection;
• a metabolic disorder or electrolyte imbalance;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease; or
• if you smoke.

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not receive bendamustine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether bendamustine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Some people receiving bendamustine have developed certain types of cancers. It is not known whether this medication causes cancer. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using bendamustine.

How is bendamustine given (Treanda)?

Bendamustine is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Bendamustine must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can take at least 30 minutes to complete.

Bendamustine is usually given for 2 days in a row every 21 to 28 days. You may receive up to 8 treatments total, depending on the condition being treated. Follow your doctor's instructions.

You may be given other medications to help prevent certain side effects of bendamustine.

Tell your caregivers if you feel any burning, pain, or swelling around the IV needle when the medicine is injected.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested often. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

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