Epirubicin Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Epirubicin Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Epirubicin HCl
Drug Class
- Anthracycline antineoplastic
Chemical Formula
C27H29NO11.ClH
Molecular Weight
579.987 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits DNA synthesis by intercalating DNA strands and inhibiting topoisomerase II enzyme
Indications
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Bladder cancer
Common Dosage Forms
- Solution for injection
- Oral tablet
Typical Dosage
- 70-100 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 weeks
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustments may be required based on individual patient factors
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Myelosuppression
- Cardiotoxicity
- Hair loss
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to anthracyclines
- Severe myelosuppression
Pregnancy Category
- D
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding but may excrete in breast milk
Drug Interactions
- Cyclophosphamide
- Cisplatin
- Paclitaxel
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe myelosuppression
- Cardiotoxicity
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms supportively
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
- Protect from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after intravenous administration
- Distribution: Extensively distributed in body tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in bile
Precautions
- Monitor cardiac function regularly
- Regular blood counts recommended during treatment
Warnings
- Risk of cardiotoxicity increases with cumulative dose
Others
- Premedication with antiemetics recommended before administration