What it means
A protective agent given with ifosfamide and high-dose cyclophosphamide. These drugs make a toxic substance, acrolein, that collects in the bladder and can cause bleeding (hemorrhagic cystitis). Mesna binds acrolein in the urine so it does no harm.
For the nurse
Give it on schedule with the chemotherapy. Encourage plenty of fluids and frequent emptying of the bladder, and check the urine for blood.
At a glance
| Drug class | chemoprotectant (uroprotective agent) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Mesnex |
| Also written | Mesnex |
Related terms
antineoplastic
A drug used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing.
bladder
The hollow, stretchy organ in the lower belly that stores urine until it leaves the body.