Bendamustine

The Basics

What is Bendamustine?

Used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia and a type of non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Brand names for Bendamustine

N/A

How Bendamustine is classified

Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating, Nitrosourea Compounds

Bendamustine During Pregnancy

Bendamustine pregnancy category

Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Bendamustine while pregnant

N/A

Taking Bendamustine While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Bendamustine?

No information is available on the use of bendamustine during breastfeeding. Most sources consider breastfeeding to be contraindicated during maternal antineoplastic drug therapy, especially alkylating agents such as bendamustine.[1] The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during bendamustine therapy. Based on the half-life of the drug and its metabolites, the drug should be eliminated from the milk by 24-48 hours after the last dose.

Maternal / infant drug levels

No information is available on the use of bendamustine during breastfeeding. Most sources consider breastfeeding to be contraindicated during maternal antineoplastic drug therapy, especially alkylating agents such as bendamustine.[1] The manufacturer recommends that breastfeeding be discontinued during bendamustine therapy. Based on the half-life of the drug and its metabolites, the drug should be eliminated from the milk by 24-48 hours after the last dose.

Possible effects of Bendamustine on milk supply

Some evidence indicates that carmustine can increase serum prolactin.[2]

Possible alternatives to Bendamustine

None listed