MES-na
Mesna decreases the toxic effects of chemotherapy drugs, like cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan®) or ifosfamide (Ifex®), on your bladder. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and take each dose of mesna.
This medicine may be called by its brand name, Mesnex®.
Mesna is taken by mouth or injected into the veins.
If you take mesna liquid by mouth, mix each dose with 1 to 12 ounces (from 2 tablespoons up to 1 can) of any of the following liquids: Coca Cola, Dr. Pepper, Pepsi Cola, Sprite, 7-Up, ginger ale, apple juice, or orange juice.
Store mesna liquid in the refrigerator to improve its taste and smell.
Store mesna tablets at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Drink extra fluids while you are getting mesna so you will urinate more and your bladder and kidneys will work well. Drink at least 4 cups (1 quart) of fluid daily.
Empty your bladder frequently during the day and at least once at night. This helps the mesna protect your bladder.
Tell your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist right away if you vomit within 2 hours of taking mesna by mouth.
Tell your doctor right away if you skip or forget to take a dose by mouth. You may need to take extra mesna for the dose you missed.
Call your doctor if you are worried about a side effect or have questions about your medical care.
Call the doctor at once if you have any of the following side effects:
These written patient information materials should be used in conjunction with verbal counseling. They are not intended as the sole source of information patients receive about their chemotherapy and other medications. The adverse effects listed are important and common ones that patients might experience; every possible adverse effect is not included. Long-term adverse effects, like secondary malignancy and infertility, are discussed for those drugs whose risk is well defined.