Doxorubicin 2mg/ml Inj, 25ml

Manufacturer PFIZER U.S. Active Ingredient Doxorubicin (Conventional)(doks oh ROO bi sin con VEN sha nal) Pronunciation doks oh ROO bi sin kon VEN sha nal
WARNING: This drug may cause severe heart problems like heart failure. This can happen during treatment or years after your last dose. Sometimes, this may not go away or may be deadly. The chance may be higher if you have ever had heart problems or chest area radiation. The chance may also be higher if you have ever used this drug, or a drug like this one, or other drugs that may cause heart problems. Ask your doctor if you are not sure if any of your drugs may cause heart problems.The chance of heart problems depends on the dose of this drug and your health problem. In children, the chance of heart problems later in life is higher. Heart problems may happen even without any risk factors. Call your doctor right away if you have cough; chest pain; fast, slow, or abnormal heartbeat; swelling in the arms or legs, shortness of breath; sudden weight gain; or feeling very tired or weak.You will need to have heart function tests while taking this drug. Talk with the doctor. This drug may lower the ability of your bone marrow to make blood cells that your body needs. This can lead to a blood transfusion. Severe and sometimes deadly bleeding problems or infections can also happen. Tell your doctor right away if you have signs of infection like fever, chills, or sore throat; any bruising or bleeding; or if you feel very tired or weak.The risk of a certain bone marrow problem and second cancer (type of leukemia) may be raised after treatment with this drug. If you have questions, talk with the doctor.This drug may cause tissue damage if the drug leaks from the vein. Tell your nurse if you have any redness, burning, pain, swelling, blisters, skin sores, or leaking of fluid where the drug is going into your body. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat cancer.
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Drug Class
Antineoplastic agent
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Pharmacologic Class
Anthracycline antibiotic
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Pregnancy Category
Category D
FDA Approved
Sep 1974
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Doxorubicin is a powerful chemotherapy medicine used to treat many types of cancer. It works by stopping cancer cells from growing and multiplying. It is given by injection into a vein.
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How to Use This Medicine

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and carefully read all the information provided. Administration of this drug involves an infusion into a vein over a specified period of time.

For proper storage and disposal, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the best approach if you need to store this medication at home.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Report any signs of infection (fever, chills) immediately.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick or have infections.
  • Practice good hand hygiene.
  • Avoid activities that could cause cuts or bruises.
  • Use a soft toothbrush and gentle mouthwash to prevent mouth sores.
  • Stay well-hydrated.
  • Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
  • Be aware that hair loss (alopecia) is common and usually reversible after treatment.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Varies significantly by indication and regimen. Common regimens include: 60-75 mg/m² IV every 21 days (single agent) or 40-60 mg/m² IV every 21-28 days (combination therapy).
Dose Range: 20 - 75 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Breast Cancer (adjuvant): 60 mg/m² IV every 21 days for 4 cycles (e.g., AC regimen)
Lymphoma (Hodgkin/Non-Hodgkin): 25 mg/m² IV on days 1 and 8 every 28 days (e.g., ABVD regimen) or 50 mg/m² IV every 21 days (e.g., CHOP regimen)
Sarcoma: 60-75 mg/m² IV every 21 days
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): 45-60 mg/m² IV daily for 3 days (e.g., 7+3 regimen)
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Dosing varies by protocol; generally lower cumulative doses than adults due to higher risk of cardiotoxicity.
Child: Dosing varies by protocol and indication (e.g., 35-75 mg/m² IV every 21 days for solid tumors, or 25-50 mg/m² IV for leukemia/lymphoma). Cumulative lifetime dose limits are critical.
Adolescent: Similar to child dosing, with careful consideration of cumulative lifetime dose.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment needed for CrCl > 50 mL/min.
Moderate: Consider dose reduction (e.g., 75% of dose) for CrCl 30-50 mL/min, but not routinely recommended as renal excretion is minor.
Severe: Consider dose reduction (e.g., 50% of dose) for CrCl < 30 mL/min, but not routinely recommended as renal excretion is minor.
Dialysis: Not significantly removed by dialysis. No specific dose adjustment based on dialysis, but monitor for increased toxicity.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: Bilirubin 1.2-3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of standard dose.
Moderate: Bilirubin 3.1-5 mg/dL: Administer 25% of standard dose.
Severe: Bilirubin > 5 mg/dL: Do not administer doxorubicin.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Doxorubicin is an anthracycline cytotoxic antibiotic. Its primary mechanisms of action include: 1) DNA intercalation, leading to inhibition of DNA and RNA synthesis; 2) Inhibition of topoisomerase II, which is crucial for DNA replication and repair, causing DNA strand breaks; 3) Generation of free radicals (e.g., superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals) that damage DNA, cell membranes, and proteins, contributing to its cytotoxic and cardiotoxic effects.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Not applicable (IV administration)
Tmax: Not applicable (IV administration)
FoodEffect: Not applicable (IV administration)

Distribution:

Vd: 25-35 L/m² (large volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue binding)
ProteinBinding: 74-76%
CnssPenetration: Limited (does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier)

Elimination:

HalfLife: Biphasic: Initial phase 0.4-1.2 hours; Terminal phase 20-48 hours (doxorubicin) and 28-72 hours (doxorubicinol)
Clearance: 0.4-1.2 L/min/m²
ExcretionRoute: Primarily biliary/fecal (40-50%), minor renal (5-12%)
Unchanged: < 5%
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Rapid (cytotoxic effects begin shortly after administration)
PeakEffect: Not directly applicable for cytotoxic effect; peak plasma concentrations occur at end of infusion.
DurationOfAction: Cellular effects persist for several days due to DNA binding and slow elimination from tissues.
Confidence: High

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

Cardiotoxicity: Myocardial toxicity, manifested as potentially fatal congestive heart failure (CHF), may occur either during therapy or months to years after termination of therapy. The risk of CHF increases with increasing cumulative lifetime doses. Acute arrhythmias and other ECG abnormalities may also occur. Myelosuppression: Severe myelosuppression, including leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia, is expected and may lead to serious infection or hemorrhage. Secondary Malignancies: Doxorubicin can cause secondary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Extravasation: Extravasation of doxorubicin can result in severe local tissue necrosis and vesication. Administer doxorubicin via a free-flowing intravenous infusion.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of infection, including:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Severe sore throat
+ Ear or sinus pain
+ Cough
+ Increased or changed sputum production
+ Pain while urinating
+ Mouth sores
+ Wounds that won't heal
Signs of bleeding, such as:
+ Vomiting or coughing up blood
+ Vomit that resembles coffee grounds
+ Blood in the urine
+ Black, red, or tarry stools
+ Bleeding gums
+ Abnormal vaginal bleeding
+ Unexplained bruises or bruises that enlarge
+ Uncontrollable bleeding
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Patients with cancer taking this medication may be at increased risk of developing a severe condition called tumor lysis syndrome (TLS), which can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
+ Rapid or irregular heartbeat
+ Fainting
+ Difficulty urinating
+ Muscle weakness or cramps
+ Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
+ Feeling lethargic

Other Possible Side Effects

Most medications can cause side effects, but many people experience none or only mild symptoms. If you're concerned about any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor:

Hair loss
Diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Mouth irritation or sores
Changes in nail color or texture
* Urine that turns orange or red for 1-2 days after receiving this medication

This is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in ankles/feet (signs of heart problems)
  • Fever (100.4°F or 38°C or higher), chills, sore throat (signs of infection)
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising (e.g., nosebleeds, blood in urine/stools)
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that doesn't improve
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Severe mouth sores that make eating difficult
  • Extreme fatigue or weakness
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Existing health conditions, such as anemia, heart problems, liver disease, low platelet count, or low white blood cell count.
A recent heart attack.
Previous treatment with daunorubicin, doxorubicin, epirubicin, idarubicin, or mitoxantrone. Discuss your medical history with your doctor.
Any medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as some may interact with this medication. Certain medications used to treat HIV, infections, seizures, and other conditions should not be taken with this drug.
Pregnancy or potential pregnancy. Do not take this medication during the first trimester of pregnancy.
* Breastfeeding. Avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication, and consult your doctor to determine if you need to avoid breastfeeding for a period after your last dose.

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe treatment. Do not start, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

While on this medication, you may be more susceptible to infections. To minimize this risk, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoid close contact with individuals who have infections, colds, or flu.

Be cautious, as this medication may increase your risk of bleeding easily. To reduce this risk, avoid injuries, use a soft toothbrush, and consider using an electric razor. If you experience gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite, consult your doctor, as there may be ways to mitigate these effects.

If side effects like stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or mouth sores interfere with your ability to eat or drink normally, contact your doctor promptly.

To prevent exposure to body fluids, take precautions to avoid contact with family members or caregivers. Immediately wash any soiled clothing and wear gloves when handling body fluids for at least 5 days following each treatment.

Before receiving any vaccinations, consult your doctor, as certain vaccines may not be effective or may increase the risk of infection when taken with this medication.

Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor. Discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.

If you have a history of or are scheduled to undergo radiation treatment, inform your doctor, as this medication may exacerbate the side effects of radiation.

When administering this medication to children, exercise caution, as they may be at a higher risk of developing low blood sugar.

This medication may affect fertility, potentially leading to difficulties in becoming pregnant or fathering a child. Although fertility may return to normal, it is essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Women may experience cessation of menstrual periods during treatment, which may or may not resume after treatment concludes. Additionally, treatment with this medication may lead to premature menopause. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor.

This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. A pregnancy test will be conducted before initiating treatment to confirm that you are not pregnant. If you or your partner may become pregnant, it is crucial to use birth control during treatment and for a specified period after the final dose, as advised by your doctor. If pregnancy occurs, notify your doctor immediately.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Severe myelosuppression (very low blood counts)
  • Severe mucositis
  • Acute cardiac toxicity

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote for doxorubicin overdose. Management is supportive, including hospitalization, aggressive treatment of myelosuppression (e.g., transfusions, G-CSF), and management of cardiac complications. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) or seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Trastuzumab (increased cardiotoxicity)
  • Cyclophosphamide (increased cardiotoxicity)
  • Paclitaxel (altered doxorubicin pharmacokinetics, increased myelosuppression)
  • Live vaccines (risk of severe infection in immunosuppressed patients)
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir) - may increase doxorubicin levels
  • Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin, St. John's Wort) - may decrease doxorubicin levels
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Moderate Interactions

  • Other cardiotoxic agents (e.g., 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin, mitomycin C) - additive cardiotoxicity risk
  • Myelosuppressive agents (e.g., other chemotherapy, radiation therapy) - additive myelosuppression
  • Warfarin (potential for increased INR/bleeding)
  • Phenobarbital (may increase doxorubicin clearance)
  • Verapamil (may increase doxorubicin levels and toxicity)
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Minor Interactions

  • Not specifically documented for minor interactions with significant clinical impact.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF)

Rationale: To establish baseline cardiac function due to dose-dependent cardiotoxicity.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential

Rationale: To assess baseline bone marrow function due to myelosuppression.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs) - Bilirubin, AST, ALT, Alkaline Phosphatase

Rationale: Doxorubicin is primarily metabolized and excreted by the liver; hepatic impairment requires dose adjustment.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Renal Function Tests (Creatinine, BUN)

Rationale: To assess baseline renal function, though renal excretion is minor.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

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Routine Monitoring

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential

Frequency: Prior to each cycle and periodically during therapy.

Target: WBC > 3,000-4,000/mm³, ANC > 1,500/mm³, Platelets > 100,000/mm³

Action Threshold: Hold or reduce dose if counts are below threshold; administer G-CSF as appropriate.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Frequency: Prior to each cycle.

Target: Within normal limits or acceptable for patient's condition.

Action Threshold: Adjust dose based on bilirubin levels as per guidelines.

Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF)

Frequency: Periodically during therapy (e.g., every 2-3 cycles or after cumulative dose thresholds are reached, such as 300 mg/m²), and at cumulative lifetime dose limits.

Target: Maintain LVEF > 50% or within acceptable limits.

Action Threshold: Discontinue doxorubicin if LVEF drops significantly (e.g., >10-15% from baseline or below 50%) or if signs of congestive heart failure develop.

Cumulative Lifetime Dose

Frequency: Calculated and tracked with each dose.

Target: < 450-550 mg/m² (conventional doxorubicin); lower for patients with prior mediastinal radiation, pre-existing heart disease, or concurrent cardiotoxic agents.

Action Threshold: Discontinue doxorubicin upon reaching cumulative dose limit to minimize cardiotoxicity risk.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs/symptoms of congestive heart failure (e.g., dyspnea, edema, fatigue, cough)
  • Signs/symptoms of infection (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat)
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Oral mucositis/stomatitis
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at injection site (extravasation)
  • Hair loss
  • Reddish discoloration of urine (expected for 1-2 days after dose)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Doxorubicin is classified as Pregnancy Category D. It can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. It is embryotoxic and teratogenic in animals. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during doxorubicin therapy.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Highest risk of major congenital malformations and fetal death.
Second Trimester: Risk of fetal growth restriction, myelosuppression, and other adverse effects.
Third Trimester: Risk of myelosuppression, growth restriction, and potential for premature birth.
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Lactation

Doxorubicin is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, breastfeeding is contraindicated during doxorubicin therapy and for a period after the last dose (e.g., at least 10 days).

Infant Risk: L5 (Contraindicated - significant risk of serious adverse effects, including myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity, in the infant).
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Pediatric Use

Children are at increased risk of cardiotoxicity, especially at younger ages and with higher cumulative doses. Long-term monitoring for cardiac function is crucial. Growth and development should also be monitored. Dosing is typically based on body surface area, with careful attention to cumulative lifetime dose limits.

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Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may have reduced hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, which could increase the risk of toxicity. Careful monitoring of cardiac function, blood counts, and liver function is essential. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient status and comorbidities.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always verify cumulative lifetime doxorubicin dose before administration to prevent irreversible cardiotoxicity.
  • Administer doxorubicin via a free-flowing IV infusion into a large vein to minimize extravasation risk. Have extravasation kits readily available.
  • Red urine is an expected, harmless side effect for 1-2 days post-infusion due to drug excretion.
  • Consider prophylactic antiemetics due to high emetogenic potential.
  • Dexrazoxane can be used as a cardioprotectant in patients receiving high cumulative doses or those at high risk of cardiotoxicity.
  • Monitor for 'radiation recall' phenomenon in patients who have previously received radiation therapy.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other cytotoxic agents (e.g., taxanes, cyclophosphamide, platinum compounds, vinca alkaloids) depending on cancer type and stage.
  • Targeted therapies (e.g., trastuzumab for HER2+ breast cancer)
  • Immunotherapy (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors)
  • Radiation therapy
  • Surgery
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies widely, typically $50 - $500+ per 50 mg vial
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 4 (Specialty Drug) or Tier 5 (Specialty Drug) - requires prior authorization and is typically covered under medical benefit for oncology.
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

To ensure safe use, do not share your medication with others, and never take someone else's medication. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist for guidance. Many communities have drug take-back programs that provide a safe and environmentally friendly way to dispose of unwanted medications.

Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide critical information, including the name of the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken, to ensure prompt and effective treatment.