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Side Effects of BCG Treatment

BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) is a drug used for immunization against tuberculosis or bladder cancer. Treatment schedules may range from six weeks to 12 months. Side effects may involve the urinary, digestive, musculoskeletal, neurological and integumentary systems.

  1. Urinary Side Effects

    • The urinary system produces and eliminates urine from the body. BCG urinary side effects may include frequent urination, burning pain during urination or the inability to urinate.

    Digestive Side Effects

    • The digestive system is comprised of internal organs that break down food for energy. BCG digestive side effects may include vomiting, stomach pain and nausea.

    Muscular Side Effects

    • The muscular system helps control body movement and may be experience changes during BCG treatment. Some of these muscular side effects may include joint pain, body aches and tenderness.

    Neurological Side Effects

    • The nervous system acts as the body control center and sends electrochemical impulses via nerves. Some patients may experience neurological side effects. Some of these side effects may include headaches, dizziness and vision changes.

    Integumentary Side Effects

    • The integumentary system helps protect the body from damage and includes the skin, hair and nails. BCG skin side effects may include easy bruising and redness at the injection site.

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