Indications 

CeeNU is a prescribed medication for treating primary and metastatic brain tumors in patients who have undergone suitable surgical and/or radiotherapeutic interventions. 

Moreover, CeeNU may be used alongside other therapeutic agents to manage unresponsive or deteriorating Hodgkin’s disease subsequent to prior medication regimens. 

As an alkylating agent, CeeNU works by slowing down or halting the growth of cancer cells in the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Carefully read the patient information leaflet provided by your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment with CeeNU and with every prescription refill.  

The dosage of this medication is individualized and determined based on factors such as medical condition, treatment response, body size, and laboratory test results. 

Typically, CeeNU is taken once every 6 weeks on an empty stomach as prescribed by the doctor. 

Due to the potentially life-threatening nature of CeeNU overdose, you will receive a single dose every 6 weeks. Achieving the correct dose may require taking multiple capsules of various types and colors. 

Wear disposable rubber gloves when handling a CeeNU capsule and dispose of them after a single use. 

Do not open a CeeNU capsule or take a damaged pill, as the medication from a broken pill can pose a skin hazard. In case of contact, wash with soap and water, and consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on safe handling and disposal of a broken capsule. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of CeeNU. Inform your doctor promptly if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting 
• Delayed infection 
• Mouth sores 
• Hair loss 

Serious Side Effects 

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin 
• Kidney problems symptoms:  
  • Little or no urination 
  • Swelling in the feet or ankles 
  • Fatigue 
  • Shortness of breath 
• Signs of infection: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Sore throat 
  • Blisters or ulcers in the mouth 
  • Red or swollen gums 
  • Difficulty swallowing 
• Late-onset lung damage:  
  • New or worsening cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath (may occur 6 months or later after taking CeeNU) 

Contact your doctor immediately if any of the serious side effects listed above are experienced. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, CeeNU may trigger a serious allergic response. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not cover all side effects of CeeNU. Inform your doctor if other side effects occur while taking this medication. 

Cautions 

Before taking CeeNU, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to lomustine or to any of its initiative ingredients. 

To ensure CeeNU is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Existing infection 
• Blood disorder (e.g., anemia, clotting issues) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Lung disease 

To lower the risk of drug interaction with CeeNU, inform all healthcare providers about any medications you are currently taking or have recently initiated or discontinued, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

CeeNU can impair the immune system, potentially leading to severe and occasionally life-threatening infections within 6 weeks of treatment. Contact your doctor if you experience unexplained bruising, unusual bleeding, or signs of infection such as fever, chills, or body aches. 

CeeNU can increase susceptibility to infections and exacerbate existing ones, so avoid contact with individuals who have highly contagious infections (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu), and consult your doctor if you encounter such infections or need further guidance. 

Prior to receiving any immunizations or vaccinations, inform your healthcare provider of your CeeNU use, and avoid individuals who have recently undergone live vaccinations, such as the nasal flu vaccine. 

CeeNU may have enduring impacts on the health, necessitating weekly blood tests for a minimum of 6 weeks following each dose of the medication. 

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to conceive, as pregnancy should be avoided during CeeNU treatment due to potential harm to the unborn baby. 

Women of childbearing age should inquire about effective contraception methods during treatment and for 2 weeks post-treatment, while men with female partners of childbearing age should also use reliable contraception during therapy and for 4 months afterward. 

Immediate consultation with your doctor is advised if pregnancy occurs or is suspected to discuss the medication’s risks and benefits. 

CeeNU can be absorbed through the skin and respiratory system, posing a risk to an unborn baby. Pregnant women or those at risk of pregnancy should avoid handling this medication or inhaling dust from the capsules. 

Inform your doctor if you are currently breastfeeding or intend to do so, as breastfeeding is not advisable during CeeNU treatment and for two weeks after the last dose.