3. Mesna

Mesna

  • Mesna helps prevent damage to the bladder, which may be caused by some cancer treatments.
  • It is important that you take mesna at the exact times you have been told.
  • If you are sick shortly after taking a dose, ask your doctor or clinic for further advice.
Type of medicine Uroprotectant
Used for Prevention of damage to the bladder during cancer therapy
Also called Uromitexan®
Available as Tablets or injection

Mesna is used to prevent the side-effects caused by the medicines cyclophosphamide or ifosfamide. These are used to treat a wide range of cancers and can cause damage to the bladder. Mesna works by stopping the damaging action of these medicines and so protects the bladder from harm.

Before taking mesna make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take mesna exactly as directed by your doctor. You will need to take a dose 2 hours before your cancer treatment, then 2 hours afterwards, and then again 6 hours after treatment. It is important that you take your doses at these times.
  • Mesna occasionally causes you to feel or be sick. It is important to keep taking this medicine at regular dosage times even if you begin to feel unwell.
  • If you are sick shortly after taking a dose, or you forget a dose, check with your doctor. You will be told whether to take the dose again, or wait until the next dose is due.
  • If you have been given the injection form to be taken by mouth, mix the contents of the ampoules in a flavoured drink such as orange juice or cola. Once mixed you can store this solution in a fridge for up to 24 hours in a sealed container.
  • It is important that you keep your regular appointments with the doctor or hospital so your progress can be checked.

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick It is important that you keep taking mesna. If you are sick shortly after taking a dose, let your doctor or nurse know
Diarrhoea, tiredness, headache, aches and pains, rash, feeling depressed, fast heartbeat, and feeling dizzy when you stand up Talk with your doctor or nurse if any of these are troublesome

Important: if you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or nurse.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Provide feedback

Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 21/10/2010 Document ID: 3785  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

The Information Standard - certified member

The authors and editors of this article create up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. Learn more

Advertisements