What serious consequences may result from overdose of lomustine capsules?

Lomustine capsules (Lomustine), as a chemotherapy drug, have strong cytotoxicity. Excessive use may cause serious side effects and health problems. Due to the slow metabolism and excretion of lomustine in the body, drug accumulation may lead to toxic reactions in multiple systems. The following are some possible serious consequences:

1. Myelosuppression: One of the main side effects of lomustine is bone marrow suppression, especially the reduction of white blood cells, platelets and red blood cells. Excessive use of lomustine can lead to more severe bone marrow suppression, which may lead to severe anemia, leukopenia (susceptibility to infection), and thrombocytopenia (susceptibility to bleeding). This situation may lead to serious consequences such as bleeding tendencies, low immune function, frequent infections, and even life-threatening consequences.

2. Liver damage: Lomustine is mainly metabolized by the liver. Therefore, excessive use may cause acute damage to the liver. Symptoms of impaired liver function may include jaundice, elevated transaminases (such as AST, ALT), and increased bilirubin, which may lead to acute liver failure in severe cases. Patients may experience symptoms such as pain in the liver area, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, and require emergency treatment.

3. Kidney damage: Although lomustine is mainly metabolized by the liver, excessive use may still cause damage to the kidneys, leading to acute renal failure. Manifestations of kidney damage usually include hematuria, decreased urine output, and elevated serum creatinine. If left untreated, kidney failure may worsen and even require dialysis.

4. Nervous system toxicity: Lomustine has certain toxic effects on the central nervous system. Excessive dosage may aggravate this effect and lead to neurological symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, convulsions, etc. In severe cases, it may lead to coma or other more serious neurological damage.

5. Gastrointestinal reactions

Excessive use of lomustine may worsen gastrointestinal adverse effects, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. If these symptoms are severe, they may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or malnutrition.

To sum up, excessive use of lomustine may cause severe damage to multiple organs, including bone marrow suppression, liver and kidney function damage, neurotoxicity, etc. Patients need to strictly follow the doctor's instructions during treatment and undergo regular examinations to avoid overdose or improper use of drugs. In the event of overdose, seek medical help as soon as possible for prompt treatment and supportive care.