Warning against contamination of BiCNU

6 Jan 2010

A spokesman for the Department of Health said today (January 6) that Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada initiated a voluntary recall of cancer drug BiCNU (carmustine for injection) Combo kit Lot number 8K4218A as a precautionary measure due to sterility assurance concern.

A vial of BiCNU has been found to be contaminated with microorganism Bacillus Circulans.

In Hong Kong, this product is registered by Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharma (HK) Ltd and is a prescription medication.

According to the importer, the affected lot has not been imported to Hong Kong.

The spokesman said that use of a contaminated vial of BiCNU could cause life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients.

He reminded physicians to be mindful and remain vigilant against the possibility of infection in patients receiving BiCNU.

"The DH is liaising with Health Canada to obtain further information.

“We will closely monitor the situation," the spokesman said.