WARNING

As hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride is not commonly used as a separate medication and is primarily studied and evaluated in the context of doxorubicin therapy, the risks associated with hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride itself may not be well-established. However, the following information pertains to the risks associated with doxorubicin, the parent compound:

• Cardiac toxicity: Doxorubicin can cause heart-related side effects, including cardiomyopathy (weakening of the heart muscle) and congestive heart failure. These effects may be more likely with higher cumulative doses or in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Bone marrow suppression: Doxorubicin can suppress the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells, leading to low blood cell counts. This can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and anemia.
• Increased risk of infection: Chemotherapy drugs, including doxorubicin, can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Doxorubicin may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, mouth sores, or inflammation of the digestive tract.
• Hair loss: Doxorubicin can cause partial or complete hair loss (alopecia). Hair usually grows back after treatment is completed, but the color or texture may be different.
• Other potential side effects: Additional side effects that may occur with doxorubicin treatment include fatigue, skin reactions at the injection site, changes in taste, and allergic reactions.

It’s important to note that the risks and side effects can vary from person to person, and the severity of these risks depends on factors such as the dosage, duration of treatment, individual health status, and other medications being taken. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you during treatment and take appropriate measures to manage and minimize these risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride, also known as doxorubicin hydrochloride, is prescribed for the treatment of various types of cancer. It is commonly used in the treatment of:

• Breast cancer: Doxorubicin may be used as part of a chemotherapy regimen for both early-stage and advanced breast cancer.
• Lung cancer: It can be used in the treatment of small cell lung cancer and certain types of non-small cell lung cancer.
• Ovarian cancer: Doxorubicin may be included in combination chemotherapy regimens for ovarian cancer.
• Bladder cancer: It can be used in the treatment of advanced bladder cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
• Leukemia: Doxorubicin is used in the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and certain types of lymphomas.
• Sarcomas: It is prescribed for the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas.
• Other cancers: Doxorubicin may also be used in the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other solid tumors.

The dosage and administration of hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride depend on various factors such as the type of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the treatment plan determined by the healthcare provider. It is typically administered intravenously, either as a single injection or as an infusion over a specific period. The frequency and duration of treatment are determined by the specific cancer being treated and the patient’s response to the medication.

How should this medicine be used?

The specific dosage and administration of hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride may vary depending on factors such as the type of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the treatment plan determined by the healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines. Here are some general considerations:

• Administration: Hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride is usually administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional. It can be given as a single injection or as an infusion over a specific period. The administration method and duration may vary depending on the treatment protocol prescribed.
• Hospital or clinic setting: Hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride is typically administered in a hospital or clinic setting equipped to handle chemotherapy treatments. Trained healthcare professionals, such as nurses or oncologists, will administer the medication.
• Dose and schedule: The dosage and schedule of hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride will be determined by the healthcare provider based on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s body weight, and overall health. The medication may be given as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen, and the timing and frequency of administration will be determined by the treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

Hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride, also known as doxorubicinol hydrochloride, is a metabolite of doxorubicin, which is a chemotherapy medication. Hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride itself is not commonly used as a separate medication. Instead, it is primarily studied and evaluated in the context of doxorubicin therapy.

Doxorubicin, and by extension hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride, is primarily used for the treatment of various cancers, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and others. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anthracyclines, which exert their anticancer effects by interfering with DNA synthesis and replication in cancer cells.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride or doxorubicin. Here are some general precautions to consider:

• Medical supervision: Hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride is typically administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional experienced in chemotherapy treatments. They will monitor your condition and adjust the dosage as needed.
• Heart health monitoring: Doxorubicin, and its metabolite hydroxydoxorubicin, can potentially cause heart-related side effects. Regular monitoring of cardiac function, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram, may be necessary during treatment.
• Blood tests: Your healthcare provider may conduct regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts, liver function, and kidney function. Doxorubicin can affect these parameters, so it’s important to monitor them throughout the treatment.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Doxorubicin can be harmful to unborn babies and may pass into breast milk. It is essential to discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding plans with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
• Contraindications: Hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to doxorubicin or anthracycline derivatives. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies or previous adverse reactions to medications.
• Interaction with other medications: Doxorubicin can interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics and antiviral drugs. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for detailed instructions on medication use and any dietary considerations specific to your condition.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a scheduled dose of doxorubicin or any chemotherapy medication, it is important to contact your healthcare provider or oncologist immediately. They will provide guidance on how to proceed based on your specific treatment plan. It is generally not advisable to take a double dose to make up for a missed dose unless explicitly instructed by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride (doxorubicinol hydrochloride) is a metabolite of doxorubicin, which is a chemotherapy medication. The side effects associated with hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride are generally similar to those of doxorubicin. Some potential side effects of doxorubicin and its metabolite may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are common side effects of chemotherapy drugs, including doxorubicin. Medications to prevent or manage nausea and vomiting can be prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Hair loss: Doxorubicin may cause partial or complete hair loss (alopecia). This can affect the scalp, body, or both. Hair usually grows back after treatment is completed, although the color or texture may be different.
• Fatigue: Chemotherapy can cause fatigue, which can range from mild to severe. It is important to get enough rest and conserve energy during treatment.
• Suppression of bone marrow function: Doxorubicin can affect the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to low blood cell counts. This can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and anemia. Regular blood tests will be done to monitor blood cell counts.
• Increased risk of infection: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. It is important to take precautions to avoid exposure to infectious agents and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
• Cardiac toxicity: Doxorubicin and its metabolite can potentially cause heart-related side effects, including cardiomyopathy (weakening of the heart muscle) and congestive heart failure. Regular monitoring of cardiac function will be done during treatment.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Doxorubicin may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, mouth sores, or inflammation of the digestive tract. Your healthcare provider can recommend medications or interventions to manage these symptoms.
• Skin reactions: Some patients may experience skin reactions, such as redness, rash, or discoloration, at the injection site or in sun-exposed areas.

It is important to remember that not all individuals will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor you during treatment and provide strategies to manage side effects. If you experience any side effects, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider, as they can provide appropriate support and interventions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Since hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride is not commonly used as a separate medication and is primarily studied and evaluated in the context of doxorubicin therapy, specific storage and disposal instructions may not be available for hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride itself. However, the following information applies to doxorubicin, the parent compound:

Storage:

• Doxorubicin is typically stored in a hospital or clinic setting under specific conditions determined by the healthcare provider. It is generally kept at room temperature or refrigerated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• The medication should be stored in a secure area, out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Doxorubicin is considered hazardous waste and should not be disposed of in regular household trash.
• Proper disposal methods should be followed as instructed by your healthcare provider or local regulations. It is advisable to return any unused medication to a designated collection site or consult with a pharmacist for appropriate disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, immediately contact emergency services or seek medical attention.
• It is important to provide healthcare professionals with detailed information about the medication taken, including the name (hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride or doxorubicin), strength, dosage, and the time of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with hydroxydoxorubicin hydrochloride or doxorubicin.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and manage any potential side effects.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding laboratory tests, including blood tests and cardiac monitoring, to assess your response to the medication and monitor for any adverse effects.

Please note that the information provided here is general in nature and may not cover all possible storage, disposal, emergency, and overdose situations. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and recommendations based on your individual circumstances and the specific medication you are using.