Epirubicin

Drug #902

Epirubicin is anthracycline antibiotic.It is an anticancerous agent. and has antineoplastic actions similar to doxorubicin. Epirubicin (HCl) is effective in the treatment of different cancers to slow or stop the growth of abnormal cells. Epirubicin (HCl) is used in combination with different anticancerous drugs to obtain most excellent therapeutic effects and reduce toxicity or unwanted effects.

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Primary Characteristics

Epirubicin is also known as Epirubicin (HCl).

It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Naphthacene.

It is classified in Antineoplastic Agent, Anthracycline Antibiotic pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 580 · pK_a: 8.1 · Solubility in Water: high · Solubility in Alcohol: low · Non-proprietary name: Epirubicin .

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Epirubicin has an oral bioavailability is 30% (±30%).

Distribution: Epirubicin has a volume of distribution is 31.8 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 77%.

Elimination: it is metabolised via hepatic, plasma half-life is 10.6-69 hr, renal excretion is 10%.

Indications

Epirubicin is primarily indicated in conditions like Bladder carcinoma, Breast cancer, Gastric cancer, Lung cancer, Lymphoma, Ovarian cancer.

Contraindications

Epirubicin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.

Dosage

Epirubicin's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
75 mg/ sq.meter	75 mg/ sq.meter	—	IV	Every 3 weeks.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
No data.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Epirubicin in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypersensitivity, Vomiting , Dehydration , Hives.

Epirubicin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Cardiotoxicity , Neutropenic sepsis. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Epirubicin are Myelotoxicity, Cardiotoxicity , Nausea, Vomiting.

Epirubicin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Diarrhea, Fatigue, Hair loss, Hot flushes, Lassitude , Local venous flare, Mucositis, Nausea, Urticaria, Vomiting .

Warnings / Precautions

Epirubicin should be used with caution in elderly, toxic effects are more marked because the clearance is reduced. In hepatic disease, dose reduction according to degree of hepatic failure is advised to avoid serious toxicity. It should be administered only under the supervision of a physician experienced in the use of the chemotherapy. The FDA currently recommends that procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastic agents be considered. Epirubicin may cause increase in skin sensitivity towards sunlight. Donot have any vaccinations during its use. Cautions should be taken in allergic patients.

Interference in Pathology

Epirubicin may interfere in the diagnosis of Liver Function Test (LFT) , Complete blood cell count, Evaluation of AST levels.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Inj

10 mg 50 mg

Inj CS

10 mg 50 mg

Storage Conditions

Epirubicin should be stored Inj (reconstituted soln). Vial.

Drug Classification

1.8.2 — Cytotoxic (anti-neoplastic) drugs

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Epirubicin in Pakistan:

Atco Bio Pharma Pfizer Pharmedic