Mesna (By injection)

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 injection is used to reduce the harmful effects of some cancer medicines (eg, ifosfamide) on the bladder.

This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.

Other uses (PubMed Health)

How To Use

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.

A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

Drink extra fluids so you will urinate more often and help prevent kidney problems.

Missed dose: Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

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. You should not receive 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 an 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.

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

Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

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, NovaPlus Mesna, PremierPro RX Mesna

There may be other brand names for this medicine.