Oncotice (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (Bcg), Tice)

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin, the active ingredient in Oncotice, is a live attenuated bacterial vaccine presented as a sterile suspension for intravesical use. It is employed in the treatment of non‑muscle‑invasive bladder cancer, primarily in patients who have undergone transurethral resection of the tumour. GNH USA supplies Oncotice as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres and pharmacies worldwide.

GNH USA supplies Oncotice as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres and pharmacies worldwide.

Oncotice is a bacillus‑based immunotherapy that acts on the urothelial lining of the bladder to stimulate an immune response against malignant cells.

- Non‑muscle‑invasive bladder cancer: reduces recurrence and progression after transurethral resection. - Carcinoma in situ of the bladder: induces local immune‑mediated tumour control. - High‑risk superficial bladder tumours: provides adjuvant therapy to lower the chance of disease recurrence.

Adverse reactions to intravesical BCG are primarily local and systemic, reflecting the immune activation within the bladder and occasional dissemination.

Common Side Effects: - Dysuria and urinary frequency. - Mild haematuria or gross blood in urine. - Low‑grade fever and chills. - Irritative bladder symptoms such as urgency. - Transient fatigue. - Localised cystitis‑like discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Systemic BCG infection (disseminated BCGitis). - Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. - Persistent high‑grade fever. - Hepatitis or hepatic dysfunction. - Sepsis sepsis‑like syndrome. - Granulomatous prostatitis.

When using Oncotice, clinicians should assess patient suitability and monitor for adverse events throughout therapy.

- Contraindication in immunocompromised patients: avoid use in individuals with severe cellular immunity deficits. - Active urinary tract infection: treat and resolve infection before instillation. - Recent bladder instrumentation: postpone BCG until mucosal healing occurs. - Gross haematuria: defer treatment until bleeding subsides. - Pregnancy and lactation: avoid use due to unknown fetal risk. - Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

BCG therapy may be influenced by concomitant medications and conditions that modify immune function.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Systemic chemotherapy agents administered concurrently: may diminish BCG efficacy and increase toxicity. - Live attenuated vaccines given within 4 weeks: risk of additive infection.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., corticosteroids, azathioprine): may reduce therapeutic response. - Antifungal agents such as fluoroquinolids (e.g., ciprofloxacin) that affect bladder mucosa permeability. - Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy: potential alteration of immune activation.