Mesna (By mouth)
MES-na
Helps protect the bladder from damage caused by cancer medicines.
Drug classes
Hemorrhagic Cystitis Inhibitor (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Mesna is used to reduce the harmful effects of some cancer medicines (eg, ifosfamide) on the bladder.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Tablet
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Drink extra fluids so you will urinate more often and help prevent kidney problems.
Call your doctor if you vomit within 2 hours after you take this medicine.
Missed dose: You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to mesna.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a history of allergic reaction to thiol compounds.
This medicine may cause serious skin reactions.
Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
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
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Chest pain, trouble breathing, fast or uneven heartbeat
Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
Red or pink urine
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain
Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting
Unusual drowsiness or tiredness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Mesnex
There may be other brand names for this medicine.