Question 1

What is Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain used for?

Accepted Answer

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain is a medicine used to treat early stage bladder cancer. It is made from a weakened strain of Mycobacterium bovis, a vaccine for tuberculosis. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells and this stops the cancer from growing as well as spreading to other unaffected parts.

Question 2

What are the side effects of using Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain?

Accepted Answer

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain can cause side effects like difficulty in urination, urinary tract infection, and fever. It also commonly causes a burning feeling in the bladder, the need to urinate often, and even blood in the urine.

Question 3

Are there any serious side effects of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain?

Accepted Answer

Usually, you may have a fever as one of the common side effects of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain. But if the fever is prolonged with a temperature of or above 101 degrees, or if you have chills, rash, prolonged cough, specific joint pain, or if any of these symptoms last longer than 48 hours, then you should contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may prescribe some medications to relieve these side effects and may also suggest ways to cope up with them.

Question 4

Can Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain cause blood in the urine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, causes some irritation to the bladder and may cause bleeding that may give your urine a reddish color. Drink as much fluids as you can to keep your urine clear and to prevent blood clots from forming in the bladder. Usually, this bleeding resolves after sometime. But, if it does not or if it bothers you, consult your doctor.

Question 5

Is it safe to have an intercourse while on treatment with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain?

Accepted Answer

No, one should refrain from having unprotected sexual intercourse while on treatment with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain. In fact, men must wear a condom for the entire six-week treatment and women must avoid any vaginal contact for an additional six weeks after treatment too. This is to ensure safety of the other partner, because Bacillus Calmette-Guerin strain does not contain dead but weakened bacteria. So, it may affect the unaffected individuals and therefore is advised not to indulge in sexual contact.

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