Carmustine
Carmustine is a nitrosourea chemotherapy medication used to treat various cancers, including brain tumors (such as glioblastoma), Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and melanoma. It works by alkylating DNA and RNA, causing DNA cross-linking that prevents cancer cells from dividing and multiplying. This medication is typically administered intravenously or as an implantable wafer during brain surgery.
Carmustine is a chemotherapy drug that treats certain brain tumors and blood cancers by damaging cancer cell DNA.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01AD01
- RxNorm
- 2105
- Generic
- Carmustine
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Gliadel, BiCNU
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- 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.
Carmustine is used to treat brain tumors (including glioblastoma multiforme and astrocytoma), Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and melanoma. It may be given as an implantable wafer (Gliadel) directly into the brain during surgery for certain tumors.
As a nitrosourea alkylating agent, carmustine penetrates cell membranes and alkylates DNA and RNA, causing DNA cross-linking and strand breaks. It also inhibits key enzymatic processes through carbamoylation of proteins. Unlike some other alkylators, it is not cross-resistant with other chemotherapy agents.
Carmustine is a potent medication that requires close monitoring. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression (low blood counts), nausea, vomiting, and lung or liver toxicity with prolonged use. It should not be used during pregnancy. Blood counts must be monitored regularly during treatment, and doses may need adjustment based on response and side effects.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy