Mesna is used to help reduce or prevent the risk of inflammation or bleeding in the bladder that is caused by ifosfamide or cyclophophamide (medicine for certain types of cancer) treatment. This medicine protects the lining of the bladder from damage caused by these two drugs.
Mesna injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- autoimmune disorder (a condition where your body’s immune system attacks itself)
- bladder problems
- hypersensitivity to thiol containing medicines (e.g. captopril)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are going for certain laboratory tests, inform your doctor that you are being treated with this medicine.
Ensure adequate fluid intake during Mesna therapy.
You may need to have certain urine tests (e.g. presence of blood in urine, urine output) to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you will need to have these tests.
Mesna may cause dizziness, drowsiness or some problems with your eyesight. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, flushing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, excessive physical sensitivity, fever, coughing, flu-like symptoms, tiredness, pain in the back, joint or muscle, and injection site irritation, pain, redness, or swelling.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following: rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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