Bleomycin

Bleomycin is an approved anti-cancer drug which appears to work by fragmenting DNA. It is active, alone or in combination, against a wide spectrum of tumours. It is given by intravenous or intramuscular injection.

In AIDS research it is being tested as a treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma. The most serious potential side-effect is lung toxicity, which is a particular risk in elderly people or those who receive cumulative doses higher than 300 units (i.e. approximately 20 doses, or nine months to a year's treatment at two-weekly intervals). The most frequent side-effects are skin discolouration and inflammation of mucous membranes. There is also a risk of an influenza-like allergic reaction that causes fever and chills a few hours after injection, but this can be prevented by an injection of corticosteroids at the same time as the bleomycin.

Bleomycin is manufactured by Lundbeck. In the United States it is also known by the tradename Blenoxane .

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Community Consensus Statement on Access to HIV Treatment and its Use for Prevention

Together, we can make it happen

We can end HIV soon if people have equal access to HIV drugs as treatment and as PrEP, and have free choice over whether to take them.

Launched today, the Community Consensus Statement is a basic set of principles aimed at making sure that happens.

The Community Consensus Statement is a joint initiative of AVAC, EATG, MSMGF, GNP+, HIV i-Base, the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, ITPC and NAM/aidsmap
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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.

NAM’s information is intended to support, rather than replace, consultation with a healthcare professional. Talk to your doctor or another member of your healthcare team for advice tailored to your situation.