Why is this medication prescribed?

Belinostat injection is prescribed to treat peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is typically used when other treatments have not been effective or have stopped working.

Belinostat is a type of medication called a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. It works by blocking enzymes called histone deacetylases, which can help stop cancer cells from growing and dividing.

How should this medicine be used?

Belinostat is administered as an injection into a vein (intravenous infusion) by a healthcare professional. The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on various factors such as the patient’s overall health, the type and stage of cancer being treated, and any other medications they may be taking. It’s important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to attend all scheduled appointments for their Belinostat treatments.

Other uses for this medicine

Belinostat injection is primarily used for the treatment of peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), but it may also be investigated for other types of cancer in clinical trials or off-label uses. Off-label use refers to the use of a medication for a purpose other than what it is approved for by regulatory agencies. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before considering any off-label use of Belinostat, as they can provide guidance on its safety and efficacy for specific conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Belinostat injection, it’s important to follow certain precautions to ensure its safe and effective use:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, pre-existing conditions, and current medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Belinostat may cause harm to an unborn baby. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid becoming pregnant while receiving treatment with Belinostat. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of Belinostat with your healthcare provider. Additionally, it is not recommended to breastfeed while receiving Belinostat treatment, as it may harm the nursing infant.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Belinostat may affect liver and kidney function. Your healthcare provider may perform tests to monitor your liver and kidney function regularly during treatment.
• Blood Cell Counts: Belinostat may cause a decrease in blood cell counts, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts during treatment.
• Potential Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as Belinostat may interact with certain medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
• Infusion Reactions: Belinostat infusion may cause infusion reactions, such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs or symptoms of an infusion reaction during treatment.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Belinostat may cause dizziness or fatigue, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how Belinostat affects you.

It’s essential to discuss any questions or concerns about Belinostat injection and its precautions with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual health status and treatment needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Belinostat injection. However, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet can support overall health and well-being during cancer treatment. Stay hydrated and consume a variety of foods rich in nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Belinostat, contact your healthcare provider or treatment facility immediately for guidance. Do not attempt to administer the missed dose yourself or adjust your treatment schedule without consulting a healthcare professional. They will provide instructions on how to proceed based on the specific circumstances of your treatment plan. It’s essential to adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule to optimize the effectiveness of Belinostat treatment.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Belinostat injection, like many medications, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not all people will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some common side effects of Belinostat injection may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and occasionally vomiting are common side effects of Belinostat.
• Fatigue: Belinostat may cause fatigue or weakness, which can affect your daily activities.
• Fever: Some people may experience a fever or elevated body temperature during or after receiving Belinostat infusion.
• Decreased blood cell counts: Belinostat can lead to a decrease in various types of blood cells, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This can increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding.
• Diarrhea: Belinostat may cause diarrhea or changes in bowel habits.
• Loss of appetite: Some individuals may experience a decreased appetite while receiving Belinostat treatment.
• Headache: Headaches or migraines may occur as a side effect of Belinostat.
• Infusion reactions: Belinostat infusion may lead to infusion reactions, which can include symptoms such as fever, chills, flushing, rash, itching, shortness of breath, and low blood pressure.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Belinostat may cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels (hypokalemia) or low calcium levels (hypocalcemia), which can lead to various symptoms.
• Liver and kidney function abnormalities: Belinostat may affect liver and kidney function, leading to abnormal laboratory test results.

It’s essential to report any side effects or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe or concerning side effects while receiving Belinostat injection.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Belinostat injection:

Storage:

• Belinostat injection should be stored in its original packaging and kept at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Do not freeze Belinostat injection.
• Keep Belinostat injection out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Unused Belinostat injection or empty vials should be disposed of properly according to local regulations or guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not dispose of Belinostat injection in household trash or wastewater. Follow specific instructions for medication disposal, which may include returning unused medication to a pharmacy or healthcare facility for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Belinostat injection, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. Be sure to bring the medication packaging or information with you to assist healthcare providers in treating the overdose appropriately.

What other information should I know?

• Administration: Belinostat Injection is administered by a healthcare professional, typically in a clinical setting such as a hospital or outpatient infusion center. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and schedule of Belinostat Injection.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely during and after treatment with Belinostat Injection to assess for any side effects or adverse reactions. Regular blood tests may be conducted to monitor your response to treatment and check for any potential complications.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. Avoid close contact with people who have infections while receiving Belinostat Injection, as it may lower your body’s ability to fight infections. Use effective contraception during treatment with Belinostat Injection if you are of childbearing potential, as it may harm an unborn baby.
• Side Effects: Common side effects of Belinostat Injection may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, fever, decreased appetite, and anemia. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations regarding the storage, disposal, and usage of Belinostat Injection, as individual circumstances may vary.