Azacitidine

Azacitidine is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, including myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Azacitidine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor that works by helping to prevent the growth of cancer cells.

Indications

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) of subtypes subtypes: refractory anemia or refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (if accompanied by neutropenia or thrombocytopenia or requiring transfusions), refractory anemia with excess blasts, refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation; may be used to treat acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) or chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML). It is used when treatment with a stem cell transplant is not suitable.

Dosage

S.C. or IV; 75 -100 mg/m2 depending on the stage of cycle.

Contra-Indications

known hypersensitivity to azacitidine or mannitol, advanced malignant hepatic tumors.

Special Precautions

Paediatric: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Pregnancy: Category D. Lactation: It should not be used. Elderly: monitor renal function.

Side Effects

nausea, anemia, thrombocytopenia, vomiting, pyrexia, leukopenia, diarrhea, fatigue, injection site erythema, constipation, neutropenia, ecchymosis, petechiae, rigors, weakness and hypokalemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated serum creatinine, renal failure, renal tubular acidosis, hypokalemia, hepatic coma.

Drug Interactions

Azacitidine may interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.