Mesna, Injection

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: cytoprotective agent

Generic and brand names: mesna, injection; Mesnex

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is given by injection (shots) to help protect the urinary system during cancer chemotherapy. It helps prevent a condition called hemorrhagic cystitis that may be caused by some chemotherapy drugs.

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any medicine
• an autoimmune disorder such as such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment with this medicine.

How do I use it?

This medicine is given by your healthcare provider. You must have 3 or more shots of this medicine every time you have chemotherapy. Keep all your appointments for these shots.

What should I watch out for?

Drink extra water (at least 4 glasses per day) while you are receiving this medicine.

You need regular urine tests to find low levels of blood in the urine that you cannot see just by looking at it. If you notice that your urine has turned a pink or red color, call your healthcare provider right away.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Because this medicine is given with more potent cancer chemotherapy drugs, any side effects may be due to the anticancer drugs rather than this one. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away. If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).

Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Urinating very often; blood in your urine; pain or burning when urinating.

Other: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, headache, leg pain.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

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This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.

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