For the treatment of brain tumors, multiple myeloma, Hodgkin's disease and Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Carmustine causes cross-links in DNA and RNA, leading to the inhibition of DNA synthesis, RNA production and RNA translation (protein synthesis). Carmustine also binds to and modifies (carbamoylates) glutathione reductase. This leads to cell death.
The oral LD<sub>50</sub>s in rat and mouse are 20 mg/kg and 45 mg/kg, respectively. Side effects include leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, nausea. Toxic effects include pulmonary fibrosis (20-0%) and bone marrow toxicity.
5 to 28% bioavailability
15-30 minutes
Approximately 60% to 70% of a total dose is excreted in the urine in 96 hours and about 10% as respiratory CO2.