Mitomycin
Say it: my-toh-MY-sin · Brand names: Jelmyto, Zusduri
Mitomycin is a chemotherapy medicine that links the genes of cancer cells together so they cannot grow.
What it is
Mitomycin is an antibiotic made by bacteria, but it is used to treat cancer. It sticks the two strands of the genetic code (DNA) together. The cell cannot copy its DNA and dies.
Often used for
- stomach cancer
- pancreas cancer
- some early bladder cancers
- some cancers of the lining of the kidney and ureter
- and some other cancers, such as anal cancer
How you get it
Mitomycin can be given through a vein (IV) in a clinic, often once every 6 to 8 weeks. Some forms are put right into the bladder or kidney through a thin tube. Your team will tell you which way you will get it. Your schedule may be different.
Common side effects and what helps
- Low blood counts that can show up several weeks after a dose. Your team will check your blood.
- Feeling tired. Rest and short walks can help.
- Upset stomach. Eat small meals and take nausea medicine as your team tells you.
- Mouth sores. Rinse often with a mild salt water or baking soda rinse.
- Hair thinning. Use a gentle shampoo.
- When put in the bladder or kidney: burning, needing to pee often, or blood in the pee. Drink fluids as your team tells you.
Call your care team right away if you have
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher
- Chills, a sore throat, a cough, or burning when you pee (signs of infection)
- Bleeding or bruising that is unusual for you
- Pain, redness, swelling, or burning where the IV went in
- New cough or shortness of breath
- Peeing much less than normal, swelling, or very dark pee
- Side or back pain, or not being able to pee
Before you start, tell your team
- If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you have kidney problems
- If you have lung problems
- All the medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you take
Good to know
- Blood counts can drop late, about 4 to 8 weeks after a dose given in a vein. You will have regular blood tests.
- Rarely, it can damage the kidneys and blood cells (a condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome). Your team will check your kidney tests.
- It can badly hurt the skin if it leaks out of the vein.
- When put in the kidney or ureter, it can cause narrowing that blocks urine. Your team will watch for this.
At home
- If you get mitomycin in your bladder or kidney, your pee may contain the medicine for a while. Ask your team how to use the toilet safely, such as sitting down to pee and flushing twice.
- Wash your hands and genital skin with soap and water after peeing for as long as your team tells you.
Questions to ask
- How will I get mitomycin, through a vein or into my bladder or kidney?
- How often will I get it?
- How should I handle my pee at home?
- What blood tests will I need?
Side effect guides
Sources
Quick answers
- What is Mitomycin?
- Mitomycin is a chemotherapy medicine that links the genes of cancer cells together so they cannot grow. Brand names: Jelmyto, Zusduri.
- What is Mitomycin used for?
- stomach cancer; pancreas cancer; some early bladder cancers; some cancers of the lining of the kidney and ureter; and some other cancers, such as anal cancer.
- How is Mitomycin given?
- Mitomycin can be given through a vein (IV) in a clinic, often once every 6 to 8 weeks. Some forms are put right into the bladder or kidney through a thin tube. Your team will tell you which way you will get it. Your schedule may be different.
- What are the common side effects of Mitomycin?
- Low blood counts that can show up several weeks after a dose. Feeling tired. Upset stomach. Mouth sores. Hair thinning. When put in the bladder or kidney: burning, needing to pee often, or blood in the pee.
- When should I call my care team while taking Mitomycin?
- A fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher; Chills, a sore throat, a cough, or burning when you pee (signs of infection); Bleeding or bruising that is unusual for you; Pain, redness, swelling, or burning where the IV went in; New cough or shortness of breath; Peeing much less than normal, swelling, or very dark pee; Side or back pain, or not being able to pee.
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.