Mesnex (Mesna)

Also Known as Mesna

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  Description

  Mesnex, also known as Mesna, is a medication used to protect patients from a side effect called hemorrhagic cystitis, which can occur after receiving the chemotherapy drug ifosfamide. Hemorrhagic cystitis is a condition that causes bleeding and inflammation in the bladder. Mesna is a synthetic compound that helps detoxify harmful substances in the urine. Doctors give Mesna along with ifosfamide to help it bind with a toxic substance called acrolein and other harmful byproducts created by the chemotherapy. By doing this, Mesna reduces the damaging effects these substances can have on the bladder.

  Fact Table
  Formula	C2H5NaO3S2
  License	US FDA
  Bioavailability	58% (oral)
  Legal status	Prescription only (Rx)
  Chemical Name	Sodium 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate
  Elimination half-life	0.36-1.17 hours
  Dosage (Strength)	400 mg, 600 mg tablets; 100 mg/mL injection
  Pregnancy	Consult a doctor (Category B)
  Brands	Mesnex
  Protein binding	69-75%
  PubChem CID	5193
  MedlinePlus	a682071
  ChEBI	50677
  ATC code	V03AF01
  DrugBank	DB06782
  KEGG	D02497
  Routes of administration	Oral, intravenous (IV)

  Directions

  When administering Mesnex, it is important for healthcare professionals to follow specific guidelines for safety and effectiveness. Mesnex can be given in two main ways: as multiple IV injections or as a combination of an IV injection followed by oral tablets. The schedule for these doses should be repeated on each day that ifosfamide is given. If the dose of ifosfamide changes, the amount of Mesna should also be adjusted accordingly.

  Ingredients

  Mesna is the active ingredient in Mesnex.

  Contraindications

  Avoid taking or using Mesnex if any of the following apply:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Mesna or any of its components
  • Allergies to thiol compounds, as Mesna is a synthetic sulfhydryl compound

  Cautions

  • Before starting treatment with Mesnex, be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any medical conditions you currently have
  • Any allergies
  • All medications you are currently taking
  • Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Mesnex can cause serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis. Symptoms could range from fever and rash to more severe conditions like respiratory distress and acute renal impairment. These reactions can occur upon first exposure or after months of treatment. If you experience any related symptoms, stop using Mesnex immediately and seek medical care.
  • There have been cases where Mesnex caused severe skin reactions, such as rashes that resemble Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. These reactions can be accompanied by symptoms like urticaria (hives), pruritus (itching), and angioedema. Should any skin reactions occur, discontinue Mesnex and seek urgent medical attention.
  • Mesnex contains benzyl alcohol, which can be toxic and potentially fatal to premature babies and low-birth weight infants, causing symptoms like respiratory distress and "gasping syndrome." Avoid using Mesnex injections in these vulnerable populations. Mesnex tablets, which do not contain benzyl alcohol, are a safer alternative for these groups.
  • Mesnex can interfere with certain laboratory tests. It may cause false-positive results in urine tests for ketone bodies and ascorbic acid, and falsely low results in tests measuring creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activity. Be aware of these potential interferences when undergoing laboratory evaluations.
  • If you have a history of reactions to thiol compounds, use Mesnex with caution. Hypersensitivity reactions have been noted, although it’s unclear if previous adverse reactions to thiols increase the risk with Mesnex.

  Side Effects

  Mesnex tablets may cause several side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Patients might also experience fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Other possible effects are headache, hair loss, sleepiness, and reductions in white and red blood cell counts, as well as platelets, which can increase the risk of infections and bleeding.

  Serious allergic reactions can occur with Mesnex, potentially as soon as the first dose or after multiple treatments. Emergency medical attention is important if you experience symptoms such as fever, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, blisters, peeling, joint or muscle aches, or if you feel faint or have a rapid heartbeat. In addition, Mesnex administered intravenously contains benzyl alcohol, which can be harmful or fatal to premature newborns and low-birth weight babies; thus, its use is advised against in these populations.

  References

  1. Mesnex (Mesna) Product Monograph. Deerfield, IL: Baxter Healthcare Corporation; 2018.
  2. Mesnex (Mesna) Drug Label Information. Deerfield, IL: Baxter Healthcare Corporation; 2019.

  
  
  

  

  About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

  
  Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....

  
  

  IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.

  Product Code : 14961

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