Daunorubicin

What it is used for

Daunorubicin hydrochloride in combination with other approved anticancer drugs is indicated for remission induction in acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (myelogenous, monocytic, erythroid) of adults and for remission induction in acute lymphocytic leukemia of children and adults.

How to take it

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

Side effects, and when to stop

Dose-limiting toxicity includes myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity (see WARNINGS section). Other reactions include:

Who should not take it

Daunorubicin hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients who have shown a hypersensitivity to it.

Other medicines and interactions

Use of daunorubicin in a patient who has previously received doxorubicin increases the risk of cardiotoxicity. Daunorubicin hydrochloride should not be used in patients who have previously received the recommended maximum cumulative doses of doxorubicin or daunorubicin hydrochloride. Cyclophosphamide used concurrently with daunorubicin hydrochloride may also result in increased cardiotoxicity.

Dosage reduction of daunorubicin hydrochloride may be required when used concurrently with other myelosuppressive agents.

Hepatotoxic medications, such as high-dose methotrexate, may impair liver function and increase the risk of toxicity.