Mitoxantrone
Cytostatic · DNA-reactive cytotoxic
Indications
Treatment of advanced breast cancer and of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, alone or in combination with other agents. Treatment of adult acute non-lymphoblastic leukaemias, especially in relapse and in patients with ovarian and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Dosage
Adults: 12 mg/m² every 3 mth.
Administration
Mitoxantrone HCl is administered by slow IV inf after dilution to at least 50 mL in D5W or NS. It is usually administered over 15 to 30 min through the tubing of a freely running IV solution or by continuous IV inf over 24 hours. It should not be given over less than three min. Compatibility: Stable in D5NS, D5W, NS. Incompatible with amphotericin B cholesteryl sulphate complex, aztreonam, cefepime, doxorubicin liposome, paclitaxel, piperacillin/tazobactam, propofol. Y-site administration: Incompatible with heparin when admixed. Stability: Store intact vials at 15°C-25°C (59°F-77°F). Do not freeze. Opened vials may be stored under refrigeration for up to 7 days or at room temperature for 14 days. Solutions diluted for administration are stable for 7 days at room temperature or under refrigeration.
Adverse Effects
Bone marrow depression, nausea, vomiting, alopecia, transient ECG alteration, acute arrhythmia, reduced left ventricular output, cardiac insufficiency, blue-green urine colouration, myelosuppression, secondary leukaemia, GI upset, CHF.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Positive evidence of risk: Use only when no safer alternative exists for a serious problem. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Apply with caution to patients with pancytopenia or severe infections, severe hepatic and/or renal insufficiency, severe heart disease and those previously treated with anthracyclines and/or irradiated on mediastinum. Precautions: Monitor hematological blood parameters before each application as well as atleast once during each treatment cycle. Monitor heart function after cumulative dose of >160 mg/m² in risky patients. Pancytopenia, septicaemia. Hepatic or renal impairment.
Interactions
Anti-neoplastic drugs.
Advice to Patient
This medication is administered by infusion. Report immediately if there is redness/swelling/pain/burning at infusion site. Contact prescriber if there is fever, chills, sore throat, fatigue, pain or burning on urination, dark coloured stools, blood in stools, difficulty in breathing, easy bruising or bleeding, chest pain, palpitations, fast heartbeat, constant cough, sudden weight gain, swelling of extremities. Take sufficient amount of fluids (2-3 litres per day) to maintain hydration, unless restricted by the prescriber. Avoid highly crowded places to prevent infection. Do not get vaccinated without consulting prescriber. Using soft toothbrush, cotton swabs, waxed dental floss, regular mouth care, frequent rinses may help to prevent mouth sores. Avoid sharp knives, scissors, fingernail clippers to prevent excessive bleeding or infection. After 24 hours of infusion…
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: IV: Rapid. Oral: Poor. Metabolism: Hepatic. Half-life elimination: Alpha: 6-12 mins. Beta: 1.1-3.1 hrs. Terminal: 5-18 days. Excretion: Urine (6%-11%). Faeces (13%-25%).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.