Temozolomide

Generic Name

Temozolomide

Other Names

• Temodar
• Temcad

Drug Class

• Alkylating Agent
• Antineoplastic Agent

Chemical Formula

C6H6N6O2

Molecular Weight

194.142 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

• Temozolomide is an alkylating agent that works by adding methyl groups to DNA. This leads to DNA damage and ultimately causes cell death.

Indications

• Treatment of certain types of brain tumors like glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma.

Common Dosage Forms

• Capsules

Typical Dosage

• The typical adult dosage is 150-200 mg/m2 once daily for 5 consecutive days every 28 days.

Pediatric Dosage

• Dosage in children may vary based on weight and should be determined by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Dosage

• Dosage adjustments may be needed for elderly patients based on their renal function and overall health status.

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Bone Marrow Suppression

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to temozolomide
• Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category

• D

Lactation Safety

• It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking temozolomide.

Drug Interactions

• Temozolomide may interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes like phenytoin and fluconazole.

Overdose Symptoms

• Severe nausea
• Vomiting
• Convulsions

Antidote for Overdose

• There is no specific antidote for temozolomide overdose. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

Storage Conditions

• Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Temozolomide is well-absorbed orally.
• Distribution: It distributes widely in the body, including the brain.
• Metabolism: It undergoes rapid conversion to the active form, MTIC (3-methyl-(triazen-1-yl)imidazole-4-carboxamide).
• Excretion: Excreted primarily in the urine.

Precautions

• Regular blood tests are required to monitor blood counts during treatment with temozolomide.

Warnings

• Temozolomide can cause severe myelosuppression, which may lead to serious infections or bleeding.