Bendamustine Hydrochloride
Bendamustine Hydrochloride is an alkylating agent used to treat certain cancers, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which prevents them from multiplying and causes cell death. This medication is typically administered intravenously by healthcare professionals in cycles.
Bendamustine Hydrochloride is a chemotherapy drug that treats certain blood cancers by damaging cancer cell DNA.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1114693
- Generic
- Bendamustine Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Bendeka, Belrapzo, Vivimusta, Treanda
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Bendamustine is FDA-approved for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that has progressed during or within 6 months of treatment with rituximab or a rituximab-containing regimen, and in combination with rituximab for previously treated indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
As an alkylating agent, bendamustine causes cross-linking of DNA strands, which interferes with DNA replication and transcription. This DNA damage triggers apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. The drug has both alkylating properties and some antimetabolite characteristics, giving it a unique mechanism compared to other chemotherapy agents.
Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, low blood cell counts, and fever. Patients should be monitored for infusion reactions, tumor lysis syndrome, and increased risk of infections. Bendamustine may cause fetal harm and should not be used during pregnancy. Blood counts should be regularly checked during treatment, and appropriate infection precautions should be followed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy