Leuben 100 mg contains bendamustine hydrochloride, a medication used in the treatment of certain types of blood cancers. It belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents, which interfere with the DNA of cancer cells and stop their growth. Bendamustine has both alkylating and antimetabolite properties, making it uniquely effective for specific lymphoid malignancies. It is typically administered as an intravenous infusion under the supervision of a cancer specialist.

Mechanism of Action

Bendamustine works by cross-linking DNA strands, which prevents cancer cells from dividing and replicating. This leads to cell cycle arrest and programmed cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing malignant cells. Its dual action as an alkylating agent and a purine analog allows it to bypass some resistance mechanisms that other chemotherapies face, especially in lymphoid cancers.

Uses

Leuben is mainly used in the treatment of the following cancers:

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

• Indolent non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (iNHL), particularly in patients who have progressed after treatment with rituximab

• Sometimes used off-label in multiple myeloma or mantle cell lymphoma, based on clinical need and judgement

  Adverse Effects

  Common side effects

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fever

  • Low white blood cell count, increasing infection risk

  • Decreased red blood cells and platelets, which may lead to anemia or easy bruising

  Less common but important to watch

  • Infections such as pneumonia

  • Skin reactions, including rash and itching

  • Liver function abnormalities

  • Mouth sores or irritation

  • Infusion-related reactions like chills or flushing