Apply for Gleostine (Lomustine) Copay  Assistance, Copay Card & Financial Help

Gleostine (lomustine) is a vital chemotherapy medication for treating brain tumors and certain types of lymphoma, but affording this life-saving treatment shouldn’t add stress to an already difficult diagnosis.

Our specialty pharmacy team handles everything: patient assistance program applications, insurance coordination, prior authorization support, and convenient home delivery. We work with commercially insured, Medicare, Medicaid, and uninsured patients to find savings solutions.

Most QuickRx patients pay significantly less for Gleostine (lomustine) with our copay assistance coordination. Let us do the legwork so you can focus on your health.

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How Gleostine (lomustine) Copay Assistance & Patient Savings Cards Work

How Gleostine (lomustine) Copay Assistance Works

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy helps brain tumor and lymphoma patients access Gleostine (lomustine) copay cards and patient assistance programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs for chemotherapy treatment.

Our Gleostine (lomustine) copay help includes:
• Manufacturer copay card applications for Gleostine
• Patient assistance program enrollment
• Foundation grant coordination for cancer treatment
• Insurance navigation support and prior authorization assistance

Whether you have commercial insurance, Medicare, or are uninsured, we’ll find the right lomustine financial assistance program for your situation.

Many patients worry about the high cost of chemotherapy medications. With QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy, you can access personalized support and resources designed to lower your expenses for Gleostine (lomustine). Our goal is to make treatment more affordable, so you can focus on fighting cancer and improving your quality of life.

 

How to Apply for Gleostine (lomustine) Copay Assistance

Get FREE help with Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance programs.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy connects patients to copay cards, manufacturer savings programs, and patient assistance to lower out-of-pocket costs for  Gleostine (lomustine) treatment.

✓ Gleostine (lomustine) Copay Card Enrollment

✓ Patient Assistance Programs

✓ Foundation Grant Support

✓ Free Application Help

Thiola copay card
Manufacturer Copay Card

Eligible patients with commercial insurance may qualify for the Gleostine (lomustine) copay card.

Patient Assistance Programs
Patient Assistance Programs

Eligible patients with Medicare/Government insurance may qualify for patient assistance programs.

Thiola enrollment form
Simple Enrollment Process

Fast approval for most commercial insurance plans. QuickRx handles all paperwork and applies discounts directly at the pharmacy. Most patients receive approval within 24-48 hours.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides completely free support to help patients enroll in Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance programs. We never charge service fees for copay card enrollment, patient assistance applications, or insurance verification.

Apply for Gleostine (lomustine) Copay Assistance Today

Please fill out the form below to get started on your Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance and we’ll be in touch within 1 business day with next steps.

Call Us for Immediate Assistance: (917) 830-2525

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FAQs

Get answers to common questions about Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance, patient savings programs, and how QuickRx can help you afford your brain tumor or lymphoma medication.

1. Is the Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance program free?

Yes, completely free. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides free enrollment and support for all Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance programs including manufacturer copay cards and patient assistance programs. We never charge service fees for helping patients access medication savings.

What’s included at no cost:

  • Application assistance for Gleostine (lomustine) manufacturer copay cards
  • Insurance verification and benefit checks for chemotherapy medications
  • Prior authorization support when needed
  • Foundation grant applications for brain tumor and lymphoma treatment
  • Ongoing monitoring to ensure continuous savings
  • Prescription coordination and specialty medication delivery

Gleostine (lomustine) savings programs available:

For patients with commercial insurance, manufacturer copay cards for Lomustine can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for Gleostine treatment. The amount of savings depends on your insurance plan’s copay or coinsurance amount and the specific program benefit limits.

For Medicare and Medicaid patients, foundation-based assistance programs provide grants that help cover oncology medication expenses. These programs are also free to apply for with QuickRx’s help. Our team specializes in finding solutions for Medicare patients with chemotherapy medications.

For uninsured patients, manufacturer patient assistance programs may provide Gleostine (lomustine) at no cost or significantly reduced prices based on financial need. We’ve helped many uninsured patients successfully access their cancer medications, and we’ll work just as hard for you.

Our team’s only goal is to make Gleostine (lomustine) more affordable so you can focus on your cancer treatment without financial stress. Contact QuickRx at (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to get started today.

2. How do I qualify for Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance?

Eligibility for Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance depends on your insurance type and your financial situation. QuickRx helps determine which programs you qualify for at no cost.

Eligibility criteria for Gleostine (lomustine) copay cards:

Commercial insurance patients with coverage for Gleostine (lomustine) typically qualify for manufacturer copay cards. Requirements usually include:

  • Active commercial (private) health insurance that covers Gleostine
  • Valid prescription for Gleostine (lomustine)
  • Treatment for an FDA-approved indication (brain tumors or Hodgkin lymphoma)
  • US residency

Alternative assistance for other insurance types:

Medicare and Medicaid patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards due to federal regulations, but may qualify for foundation grants and other patient assistance programs specifically designed for government insurance beneficiaries. Our team has extensive experience navigating these programs for oncology patients.

Uninsured patients may qualify for manufacturer patient assistance programs that provide free or low-cost Gleostine (lomustine) based on household income and financial need. Don’t assume you can’t afford treatment before talking to us—many uninsured patients receive their chemotherapy medications at little to no cost.

How QuickRx determines your eligibility:

When you contact QuickRx, we review your insurance coverage, prescription details, and financial situation to identify every Gleostine (lomustine) assistance program you qualify for. We then handle all applications and enrollment paperwork on your behalf. You never have to navigate confusing websites, fill out complicated forms, or make phone calls to insurance companies on your own.

Call (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to speak with a copay assistance specialist who can verify your eligibility for Gleostine (lomustine) savings programs today. You can also contact us online for assistance.

3. How much can I save with Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance?

Savings vary by insurance type and the assistance programs you qualify for. QuickRx works to maximize your savings through all available programs.

Potential Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance savings:

With commercial insurance, manufacturer copay cards can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for Gleostine. The amount of savings depends on your insurance plan’s copay or coinsurance amount and the specific program benefit limits.

With Medicare or Medicaid, foundation grants and patient assistance programs help cover medication costs that Medicare doesn’t pay. Savings vary based on the foundation’s annual benefit caps and your specific financial situation. Our team knows which foundations support oncology patients and how to maximize your benefits.

For uninsured patients, manufacturer patient assistance programs may provide Gleostine (lomustine) at no cost if you meet income requirements. We’ve helped many uninsured cancer patients access their chemotherapy medications completely free of charge.

Why savings amounts vary:

The cost of Gleostine (lomustine) can be substantial without assistance. Your actual savings depend on:

  • Your insurance plan’s coverage and cost-sharing structure
  • Whether your medication requires specialty pharmacy dispensing
  • Annual benefit caps on copay assistance programs
  • Foundation funding availability at the time of application
  • Your household income (for patient assistance programs)

Why choose QuickRx for Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance:

QuickRx doesn’t stop at finding one savings program—we identify every program you qualify for and stack benefits when possible. We also provide ongoing support to ensure your savings continue year after year. Our team monitors your benefit balances and handles annual renewals automatically so you never experience a gap in assistance.

Contact QuickRx at (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to learn exactly how much you can save on Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance based on your specific situation.

4. Can I use a Gleostine (lomustine) copay card if I have Medicare?

No, federal law prohibits Medicare beneficiaries from using manufacturer copay cards. However, QuickRx connects Medicare patients to alternative financial assistance programs specifically designed for government insurance beneficiaries.

Why Medicare patients can’t use copay cards:

The Anti-Kickback Statute prevents drug manufacturers from offering copay cards to Medicare patients because these programs could be considered illegal inducements to use specific medications. This regulation applies to all Medicare Part D plans, Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans, and any federal healthcare program.

Financial assistance alternatives for Medicare patients:

Independent foundation grants: Nonprofit patient assistance foundations provide grants to help Medicare beneficiaries pay for brain tumor and lymphoma treatments including Lomustine (Gleostine). These foundations operate independently from pharmaceutical manufacturers and comply with federal regulations.

Manufacturer patient assistance programs: Some pharmaceutical companies offer income-based patient assistance programs that provide free or low-cost medication to eligible Medicare patients who meet financial criteria.

State pharmaceutical assistance programs (SPAPs): Some states offer additional assistance programs that can help Medicare patients afford their medications.

Medicare Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy: If you qualify, this federal program can significantly reduce your Part D costs including premiums, deductibles, and copays.

How QuickRx helps Medicare patients with Gleostine (lomustine):

Our team specializes in navigating Medicare coverage for specialty oncology medications. We identify all available foundation grants, coordinate applications, and monitor grant availability throughout the year. We also help with Medicare Part D plan selection during annual enrollment to find the most affordable coverage for your chemotherapy treatment.

Call (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 to speak with a Medicare specialist about Gleostine (lomustine) financial assistance options, or contact us online.

5. How long does it take to get approved for Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance?

Approval times vary by program type, but QuickRx works to expedite your Gleostine (lomustine) copay assistance enrollment as quickly as possible so you can start your cancer treatment without delay.

Typical approval timeframes:

Manufacturer copay cards (commercial insurance): Often approved within 24-48 hours. Many programs provide instant approval online, and QuickRx can typically apply your copay card benefits to your first prescription immediately.

Foundation grants (Medicare/Medicaid patients): Usually take 1-3 weeks for approval, depending on the foundation’s application review process and funding availability. Some foundations process applications within days during periods of strong funding.

Patient assistance programs (uninsured patients): Typically require 2-4 weeks for approval as manufacturers verify income eligibility and prescription details. Rush processing may be available for urgent medication needs.

How QuickRx accelerates your approval:

Our specialty pharmacy team knows which programs have the fastest approval processes and submits complete, accurate applications the first time to avoid delays. We follow up proactively with programs to expedite processing when possible. For urgent situations, we can often arrange temporary supplies while your assistance applications are pending.

What to expect during the process:

  • QuickRx handles all paperwork and communications with assistance programs
  • We keep you informed of application status throughout the process
  • If additional documentation is needed, we’ll help you gather it quickly
  • Once approved, savings are applied automatically to your prescriptions
6. What is Gleostine (lomustine) used for?

Gleostine (lomustine) is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of brain tumors and Hodgkin lymphoma. It belongs to a class of drugs called alkylating agents, which work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells to stop them from growing and dividing.

FDA-approved uses for Gleostine (lomustine):

Gleostine (lomustine) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of:

  • Brain tumors: Including glioblastoma, astrocytoma, and other primary brain tumors
  • Hodgkin lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, typically used as part of combination chemotherapy regimens

How Gleostine (lomustine) works:

Gleostine (lomustine) is an alkylating agent that damages DNA inside cancer cells. When cancer cell DNA is damaged, the cells cannot divide and grow properly, which helps slow or stop the progression of cancer. One important property of Gleostine (lomustine) is its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier—a protective layer that prevents many medications from reaching the brain. This makes Gleostine (lomustine) particularly effective for treating brain tumors where other chemotherapy drugs may not be able to reach.

Gleostine (lomustine) dosing schedule:

Unlike most medications that are taken daily, Gleostine (lomustine) is typically given as a single dose once every 6 weeks. This unique dosing schedule is essential for safety because Gleostine (lomustine) affects bone marrow function and your body needs time to recover between doses. Your oncologist will determine the exact dose based on your body size, blood counts, and how you respond to treatment.

Who prescribes Gleostine (lomustine):

Gleostine (lomustine) is prescribed by oncologists who specialize in treating brain tumors or blood cancers. Your doctor will determine if Lomustine is the right treatment for your specific type and stage of cancer based on your medical history, prior treatments, and overall health.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy works closely with your oncology team to coordinate Gleostine (lomustine) prescriptions, insurance coverage, and copay assistance programs.

7. Why is Gleostine (lomustine) only taken once every 6 weeks?

The 6-week dosing schedule is essential for your safety. Gleostine (lomustine) significantly affects your bone marrow, which produces blood cells, and your body needs adequate time to recover between doses.

How Gleostine (lomustine) affects bone marrow:

Gleostine (lomustine) suppresses bone marrow function, which means your body temporarily produces fewer blood cells after each dose:

  • White blood cells: Fight infection—when low, you’re at higher risk for infections
  • Red blood cells: Carry oxygen—when low, you may experience fatigue and weakness (anemia)
  • Platelets: Help blood clot—when low, you’re at higher risk for bleeding

Understanding the “nadir”:

Your blood cell counts typically reach their lowest point (called the “nadir”) about 4-6 weeks after taking a Gleostine (lomustine) dose. After the nadir, your bone marrow begins to recover and blood cell production gradually returns to safer levels. The 6-week dosing schedule allows your bone marrow to recover before receiving another dose.

Why the 6-week schedule is critical:

Taking Gleostine (lomustine) more frequently than every 6 weeks is dangerous. If you receive another dose before your bone marrow has recovered, the cumulative effect can cause:

  • Severe, life-threatening infections due to extremely low white blood cells
  • Dangerous bleeding due to extremely low platelets
  • Severe anemia requiring blood transfusions
  • Potentially fatal bone marrow failure

Blood monitoring between doses:

Your doctor will order regular blood tests (complete blood count or CBC) for at least 6 weeks after each Gleostine (lomustine) dose to monitor your blood cell recovery. You will only receive your next dose when your blood counts have recovered to safe levels. If your counts are still too low at the 6-week mark, your doctor may delay your next dose until recovery is complete.

Important safety reminder:

Never take Gleostine (lomustine) more frequently than prescribed. Even if you feel fine, taking an extra dose or taking doses too close together can cause severe, potentially life-threatening complications. If you have questions about your dosing schedule, contact your oncology team immediately.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy coordinates with your oncology team to ensure proper timing of your Gleostine (lomustine) refills.

8. What are the common side effects of Gleostine (lomustine)?

Like all chemotherapy medications, Gleostine (lomustine) can cause side effects. Understanding what to expect helps you know what to monitor and when to contact your healthcare provider.

Most common side effects:

The most frequently reported side effects of Lomustine include:

  • Nausea and vomiting: Often occurs within hours after taking the medication and may last 24-48 hours. Your oncology team can prescribe anti-nausea medications (antiemetics) to help manage this.
  • Loss of appetite (anorexia): You may not feel like eating, especially in the days following your dose. Try eating small, frequent meals.
  • Hair loss (alopecia): Varies from person to person; hair typically grows back after treatment ends.

Effects on blood cells (myelosuppression):

Lomustine’s effect on bone marrow is not technically a “side effect” but an expected result of treatment that requires careful monitoring:

  • Low white blood cells (neutropenia): Increases infection risk
  • Low red blood cells (anemia): Causes fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath
  • Low platelets (thrombocytopenia): Increases bleeding and bruising risk

Blood counts typically reach their lowest point 4-6 weeks after a dose. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts regularly.

Tips for managing common side effects:

  • Taking Lomustine on an empty stomach may help reduce nausea
  • Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medications to take before and after your dose
  • Stay well-hydrated, especially if you experience vomiting or diarrhea
  • Eat small, bland meals if you have appetite loss
  • Rest when you need to, especially during the weeks when blood counts are low

When to call your doctor:

Contact your oncology team if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent nausea and vomiting that prevents you from keeping down fluids
  • Signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness)
  • Side effects that significantly impact your daily activities
  • Any new or worsening symptoms

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides ongoing support for patients taking Gleostine (lomustine). Our pharmacists can answer questions about side effects, medication management, and when to seek medical attention. Call (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111 for support.

9. What are the serious side effects of Gleostine (lomustine) I should watch for?

Lomustine can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Knowing the warning signs helps you get prompt treatment when needed.

Signs of infection (due to low white blood cells):

Contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher—even a low-grade fever can indicate serious infection
  • Chills or shaking
  • Severe sore throat, ear pain, or sinus pain
  • Cough, especially with colored sputum
  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Mouth sores or white patches in your mouth
  • Wounds that won’t heal or appear infected (red, swollen, draining pus)

Signs of bleeding (due to low platelets):

Seek medical care immediately if you notice:

  • Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Coughing up blood
  • Blood in your urine (pink, red, or brown color)
  • Black, red, or tarry stools
  • Bleeding from your gums that doesn’t stop
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Bruises that appear without cause or that keep getting larger
  • Bleeding that you cannot stop with pressure

Signs of liver problems:

Contact your doctor if you develop:

  • Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark urine (amber or brown color)
  • Light-colored or clay-colored stools
  • Severe fatigue or weakness
  • Loss of appetite lasting several days
  • Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain in the upper right area

Signs of kidney problems:

Contact your doctor if you notice:

  • Unable to pass urine or significant decrease in urination
  • Blood in your urine
  • Sudden, significant weight gain or swelling

Signs of lung problems:

Lomustine can rarely cause lung toxicity. Seek medical attention for:

  • New or worsening shortness of breath
  • Persistent cough
  • Fever with breathing problems

Other serious symptoms requiring immediate attention:

  • Signs of allergic reaction: rash, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Severe confusion or changes in mental status
  • Trouble speaking or change in balance
  • Changes in vision or loss of eyesight
  • Severe mouth irritation or mouth sores

If you experience any of these serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or call 911.

QuickRx pharmacists are available to answer questions about Lomustine side effects and when to seek medical attention.

10. How do I take Gleostine (lomustine)?

Gleostine (lomustine) is taken by mouth as capsules. Following your doctor’s instructions exactly is essential for safe and effective treatment.

Standard Lomustine dosing:

Lomustine is typically taken as a single dose once every 6 weeks. Your oncologist calculates your exact dose based on your body size (height and weight) and adjusts it based on your blood counts and how you respond to treatment.

Important administration instructions:

Taking on an empty stomach: Lomustine may be better tolerated when taken on an empty stomach, as this can help reduce nausea and vomiting. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions for your situation.

Swallow capsules whole: Take the capsules with a full glass of water. Do not open, crush, or chew the capsules.

Multiple capsule colors are normal: Your prescribed dose may consist of 2 or more capsules in different strengths and colors. This is completely normal—different colored capsules contain different doses of the medication, and combining them allows your doctor to prescribe your exact dose. Take ALL the capsules together as directed.

Safe handling of Gleostine (lomustine) capsules:

Gleostine (lomustine) is a chemotherapy medication that requires careful handling:

  • Wear gloves when touching the capsules
  • Do not handle broken capsules—if a capsule breaks, avoid touching the powder inside
  • If you touch the medication inside a capsule, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water
  • Caregivers who are pregnant or may become pregnant should use extra caution and consider having someone else handle the medication

If you miss a dose:

Because Gleostine (lomustine) is taken only once every 6 weeks, missing a dose is unlikely. However, if there is any confusion about whether you took your dose, call your doctor immediately to find out what to do. Never take an extra dose without specific instructions from your oncology team.

Storage instructions:

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place
  • Protect from heat
  • Do not store in the bathroom
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets

Disposal of unused medication:

Do not flush unused Lomustine down the toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist about medication take-back programs in your area, or follow FDA guidelines for safe household disposal of chemotherapy drugs.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides detailed medication counseling when you start Gleostine (lomustine) and ongoing support throughout your treatment.

11. Why does my Lomustine prescription have different colored capsules?

It’s completely normal for your Lomustine (Gleostine) prescription to include capsules of different colors and sizes. This is how the medication is designed to be dispensed.

Why different colors?

Lomustine capsules come in different strengths, and each strength has a distinct color to help differentiate them:

  • Different colored capsules contain different doses of the medication
  • The color coding helps prevent medication errors
  • Pharmacists and patients can easily verify the correct capsules are dispensed

Why you may receive multiple capsules:

Your oncologist calculates your exact Lomustine dose based on your body surface area (determined by your height and weight). To achieve your precise prescribed dose, the pharmacy may need to combine capsules of different strengths. For example:

  • You might receive one larger strength capsule plus one smaller strength capsule
  • Or you might receive several capsules of the same strength
  • The combination adds up to your total prescribed dose

Important instructions for taking multiple capsules:

  • Take ALL the capsules given to you for each dose
  • Take them all at the same time as directed
  • Do not separate the capsules or take them at different times
  • Together, they provide your complete prescribed chemotherapy dose

What to do if something seems wrong:

If you notice something different about your capsules compared to previous doses, or if you have any concerns, contact your pharmacy before taking your medication. QuickRx will verify your prescription and answer any questions you have.

12. How does Gleostine (lomustine) affect my immune system?

Lomustine weakens your immune system by lowering your white blood cell count, which makes you more vulnerable to infections. Understanding this effect helps you take precautions to protect yourself during treatment.

Why Gleostine (lomustine) affects your immune system:

White blood cells are your body’s primary defense against bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Gleostine (lomustine) affects your bone marrow’s ability to produce white blood cells, causing your counts to drop after each dose. When white blood cell counts are low (called neutropenia), even minor infections can become serious or life-threatening.

When your infection risk is highest:

Your white blood cell count typically reaches its lowest point (nadir) about 4-6 weeks after taking a Gleostine (lomustine) dose. During this time, your infection risk is highest, and you need to take extra precautions. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts regularly to track your immune system recovery.

Precautions to reduce infection risk:

Practice good hand hygiene:

  • Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water
  • Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available
  • Wash hands before eating, after using the bathroom, and after touching common surfaces

Avoid exposure to illness:

  • Stay away from people who are sick, especially those with colds, flu, or other infections
  • Avoid crowded places during cold and flu season when possible
  • Ask visitors to wash their hands before close contact
  • Avoid contact with anyone who has recently received a live vaccine

Food safety:

  • Avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs
  • Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
  • Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and juices
  • Practice safe food handling and storage

Protect yourself from injury:

  • Use a soft toothbrush to prevent gum bleeding
  • Use an electric razor instead of a blade
  • Be careful with sharp objects
  • Wear gloves when gardening

Know the signs of infection:

Contact your doctor immediately if you develop:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
  • Chills or sweating
  • Sore throat, cough, or congestion
  • Burning or pain with urination
  • Redness, swelling, or pain around wounds or IV sites

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy provides education and support for managing your health during chemotherapy.

13. Can I get vaccinated while taking Gleostine (lomustine)?

Vaccination during chemotherapy requires careful consideration. You should talk to your doctor before receiving any vaccines while taking Gleostine (lomustine).

Why vaccines may work differently during chemotherapy:

Lomustine weakens your immune system, which affects how your body responds to vaccines in two important ways:

  • Reduced effectiveness: Some vaccines may not work as well when your immune system is suppressed, meaning you might not develop full protection even after vaccination.
  • Safety concerns with live vaccines: Live vaccines contain weakened but living viruses. In people with suppressed immune systems, these weakened viruses can potentially cause serious infections.

Live vaccines to avoid:

Patients on chemotherapy typically should NOT receive live vaccines, including:

  • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
  • Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
  • Zoster/shingles vaccine (Zostavax—note: Shingrix is NOT a live vaccine)
  • Nasal spray flu vaccine (FluMist)—the injectable flu shot is usually safe
  • Yellow fever vaccine
  • Oral polio vaccine
  • Oral typhoid vaccine

Vaccines that may be recommended:

Inactivated (non-live) vaccines are generally safer during chemotherapy, though effectiveness may be reduced. Your doctor may recommend:

  • Flu shot (injectable, not nasal spray)
  • COVID-19 vaccines
  • Pneumonia vaccines
  • Other inactivated vaccines based on your individual needs

Timing considerations:

Your oncologist may recommend scheduling vaccines at specific times in relation to your chemotherapy cycles when your immune system is strongest. They may also recommend checking antibody levels after vaccination to ensure you developed adequate protection.

Protect yourself through others:

Household members and close contacts should stay up-to-date on their vaccinations to help protect you. They should generally avoid live vaccines or take precautions after receiving them. Discuss this with your healthcare team.

Before receiving any vaccine, always tell the healthcare provider administering it that you are on chemotherapy with Gleostine (lomustine). QuickRx can help coordinate communication between your oncologist and other healthcare providers.

14. Does Gleostine (lomustine) affect fertility?

Lomustine may affect fertility in both men and women. If you plan to have children in the future, it’s important to discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before starting treatment.

Effects on female fertility:

Chemotherapy medications like Lomustine can damage eggs and affect ovarian function, potentially causing:

  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Early menopause (premature ovarian failure)
  • Temporary or permanent infertility

The extent of these effects varies depending on factors like age at treatment, total chemotherapy doses received, and individual differences in how the body responds.

Effects on male fertility:

Lomustine can affect sperm production and quality in men, potentially causing:

  • Reduced sperm count
  • Decreased sperm motility
  • Temporary or permanent infertility

Fertility preservation options:

If preserving fertility is important to you, discuss options with your doctor before beginning chemotherapy:

For women:

  • Egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation)
  • Embryo freezing (if you have a partner or are using donor sperm)
  • Ovarian tissue freezing (investigational)

For men:

  • Sperm banking (sperm cryopreservation)

Fertility preservation procedures need to be completed before starting chemotherapy, so it’s important to have this conversation early.

Contraception during treatment:

Lomustine can cause serious harm to a developing fetus. Both men and women must use effective birth control during treatment and for a period of time afterward:

  • Women should use reliable contraception during treatment and ask their doctor how long to continue after the last dose
  • Men should use contraception during treatment and for several months after the last dose
  • If you or your partner becomes pregnant during treatment, contact your doctor immediately

Breastfeeding:

Do not breastfeed while taking Lomustine and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose. Lomustine may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy can provide confidential counseling about fertility, contraception, and family planning during Lomustine treatment.

15. What long-term effects should I know about with Gleostine (lomustine)?

While Gleostine (lomustine) is an important treatment for brain tumors and lymphoma, there are some potential long-term effects you should be aware of. Your oncology team will monitor you for these throughout and after treatment.

Cumulative bone marrow effects:

With repeated doses of Gleostine (lomustine) over time, bone marrow suppression can become more pronounced and may take longer to recover. Your doctor monitors your blood counts carefully and may adjust your dose or extend the time between doses if recovery is slower.

Risk of secondary cancers:

Long-term use of alkylating chemotherapy agents like Gleostine (lomustine) may slightly increase the risk of developing other cancers later in life, particularly:

  • Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
  • Acute leukemia

While this risk exists, it must be weighed against the benefit of treating your current cancer. Your oncology team considers this when developing your treatment plan.

Lung effects (pulmonary toxicity):

In some cases, Gleostine (lomustine) can cause lung damage that may develop months or years after treatment. Your doctor may monitor your lung function periodically. Report any new or worsening breathing problems, chronic cough, or chest discomfort.

Kidney effects:

Gleostine (lomustine) can occasionally affect kidney function over time. Your doctor will monitor your kidney function through blood tests and may adjust treatment if needed.

Long-term monitoring recommendations:

After completing Gleostine (lomustine) treatment, your healthcare team may recommend ongoing monitoring including:

  • Regular blood counts to check bone marrow recovery
  • Kidney and liver function tests
  • Lung function tests if you have symptoms
  • Long-term cancer surveillance

Living well after treatment:

Many patients complete Gleostine (lomustine) treatment and go on to live healthy lives. Maintaining regular follow-up appointments with your oncology team, reporting any new symptoms promptly, and living a healthy lifestyle all contribute to the best possible outcomes.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy supports patients throughout their cancer journey, from treatment through survivorship.

16. What should I do if I accidentally take too much Gleostine (lomustine)?

If you believe you have taken too much Lomustine, this is a medical emergency. Contact your doctor immediately or call Poison Control. Because Lomustine is typically taken as a single dose every 6 weeks, an overdose situation would likely involve taking an extra dose or taking doses too close together.

What constitutes a Gleostine (lomustine) overdose:

  • Taking more capsules than prescribed for a single dose
  • Taking a dose when you’ve already taken one recently
  • Taking doses less than 6 weeks apart without your doctor’s explicit instruction

Potential effects of overdose:

Taking too much Gleostine (lomustine) can cause severe, potentially life-threatening bone marrow suppression:

  • Dangerously low white blood cells (severe neutropenia)—high risk of serious infections
  • Dangerously low platelets (severe thrombocytopenia)—high risk of bleeding
  • Severe anemia requiring transfusions
  • Intensified nausea, vomiting, and other side effects

What to do immediately:

Step 1: Call for help

  • Call your oncologist immediately
  • OR call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222
  • OR go to the nearest emergency room

Step 2: Provide information

  • Tell them exactly what medication you took (Lomustine/Gleostine)
  • Tell them how much you took
  • Tell them when you took it
  • Have your prescription bottle available for reference

Preventing accidental overdose:

  • Only take Gleostine (lomustine) exactly as prescribed by your oncologist
  • Keep a calendar or medication log to track when you take each dose
  • Never take an extra dose to “make up” for a missed dose without calling your doctor
  • Store Gleostine (lomustine) in its original labeled container
  • Keep medication out of reach of children and others who might accidentally take it

If you’re confused about whether you took your dose:

If you can’t remember whether you took your Gleostine (lomustine) dose, do NOT take another dose. Instead, call your oncology team immediately for guidance. They can advise you based on your specific situation and may be able to check records of when your prescription was last filled.

QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy tracks your refill schedule and can help confirm when your last Gleostine (lomustine) supply was dispensed. For any medication emergencies, call (917) 830-2525 or (800) 496-6111. For suspected overdose, call Poison Control or 911 first.

Medical References for Bosulif (Bosutinib) Information

The medical information on this page is sourced from peer-reviewed clinical references and authoritative medical databases to ensure accuracy and reliability. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy is committed to providing evidence-based information about lomustine (Gleostine) copay assistance and cancer treatment.

REFERENCES:
1. Lomustine (Lexi-Drugs) – UpToDate, Lexidrug. Last reviewed March 2024.
2. Gleostine (lomustine) prescribing information. NextSource Biotechnology.
3. National Cancer Institute. Lomustine. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov
4. American Cancer Society. Chemotherapy for Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors. Available at: https://www.cancer.org
5. MedlinePlus. Lomustine. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov

DISCLAIMER:
This page provides general information about Lomustine (Gleostine) copay assistance programs and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical guidance specific to your condition. QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Last reviewed: November 2025

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