Mesna (By Mouth)

Mesna (MES-na)

Protects the bladder from damage that may be caused by some cancer medicines.

Brand Name(s):

Mesnex
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to mesna or related medicines (such as thimerosal, spironolactone, Purinethol®, Tapazole®, Aldactone®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Drink at least 1 quart (32 ounces) of liquid every day to pass more urine while you are using this medicine. This will keep your kidneys and bladder working well and help prevent problems.
• If you vomit within 2 hours after you take this medicine, call your doctor.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can, then call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an autoimmune disorder (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus).
• You may still have bladder problems while taking this medicine. Your doctor will need to test your morning urine before you receive your cancer treatments. If you have pink or red urine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back pain
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, gas
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.