In this article, we will discuss Bleomycin (Dosage Overview). So, let’s get started.
Dosage
Because of the possibility of an anaphylactoid reaction, lymphoma patients should be treated with 2 units or less for the first 2 doses. If no acute reaction occurs, then the regular dosage schedule may be followed.
The following dose schedule is recommended:
Squamous cell carcinoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, testicular carcinoma—0.25 to
0.50 units/kg (10 to 20 units/m²) given intravenously, intramuscularly, or subcutaneously weekly or twice weekly.
Hodgkin’s disease—0.25 to 0.50 units/kg (10 to 20 units/m²) given intravenously,
intramuscularly, or subcutaneously weekly or twice weekly. After a 50% response, a
maintenance dose of 1 unit daily or 5 units weekly intravenously or intramuscularly
should be given.
Pulmonary toxicity of Bleomycin appears to be dose-related with a striking increase
when the total dose is over 400 units. Total doses over 400 units should be given with
great caution.
Note: When Bleomycin is used in combination with other antineoplastic agents, pulmonary toxicities may occur at lower doses.
Improvement of Hodgkin’s disease and testicular tumors is prompt and noted within 2 weeks. If no improvement is seen by this time, improvement is unlikely. Squamous cell cancers respond more slowly, sometimes requiring as long as 3 weeks before any improvement is noted.
Malignant Pleural Effusion—60 units administered as a single dose bolus intrapleural injection.