(doks oh ROO bi sin lye po SO mal)
US labeling:
AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma: Treatment of AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma (after failure of or intolerance to prior systemic therapy)
Multiple myeloma: Treatment of multiple myeloma (in combination with bortezomib) in patients who are bortezomib- na ƒ ¯ve and have received at least 1 prior therapy
Ovarian cancer, advanced: Treatment of progressive or recurrent ovarian cancer (after platinum-based treatment)
Canadian labeling: Treatment of metastatic breast cancer (as monotherapy [Caelyx] or in combination with cyclophosphamide [Myocet]); advanced ovarian cancer (after failure of first-line treatment [Caelyx]); AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma (after failure of or intolerance to prior systemic therapy [Caelyx])
Severe hypersensitivity (including anaphylaxis) to doxorubicin liposomal, conventional doxorubicin, or any component of the formulation
Canadian labeling (Caelyx): Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Breast-feeding
Doxorubicin (liposomal) may cause myocardial damage (including congestive heart failure) as the total cumulative dose of doxorubicin approaches 550 mg/m2. In a clinical study of 250 patients with advanced cancer who were treated with doxorubicin (liposomal), the risk of cardiotoxicity was 11% when the cumulative anthracycline dose was between 450 and 550 mg/m2. Prior use of other anthracyclines or anthracenediones should be included in calculations of total cumulative dosage. The risk of cardiomyopathy may be increased at lower cumulative doses in patients with prior mediastinal irradiation
Infusion reactions:Acute infusion-related reactions consisting of, but not limited to, flushing, shortness of breath, facial swelling, headache, chills, back pain, tightness in the chest or throat, and/or hypotension occurred in 11% of patients with solid tumors treated with doxorubicin (liposomal). Serious, life-threatening and fatal infusion reactions have been reported.
Liposomal formulations of doxorubicin should NOT be substituted for conventional doxorubicin hydrochloride on a mg-per-mg basis.
US labeling:
AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma: IV: 20 mg/m2 once every 21 days until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
Multiple myeloma: IV: 30 mg/m2 on day 4 every 21 days (in combination with bortezomib) for 8 cycles or until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (Orlowski 2007)
Multiple myeloma, newly diagnosed (off-label dosing): IV: 40 mg/m2 on day 1 every 4 weeks (in combination with vincristine and dexamethasone) for at least 4 cycles (Rifkin, 2006).
Ovarian cancer, advanced: IV: 50 mg/m2 once every 28 days until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
Ovarian cancer, advanced, recurrent (off- label dosing): IV: 40 mg/m2 once every 28 days (as a single agent) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (Ferrandina, 2008; Rose, 2001) or 30 mg/m2 once every 28 days (in combination with carboplatin) for at least 6 cycles (Pujade-Lauraine, 2010) or 40 mg/m2 once every 28 days (in combination with bevacizumab) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (Pujade-Lauraine, 2014).
Canadian labeling:
AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma (Caelyx): IV: 20 mg/m2 once every 2 to 3 weeks; continue as long as responding and tolerating
Breast cancer, metastatic: IV:
Caelyx: 50 mg/m2 once every 4 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
Myocet: 60 to 75 mg/m2 once every 3 weeks (in combination with cyclophosphamide)
Ovarian cancer, advanced (Caelyx): IV: 50 mg/m2 once every 4 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity
Off-label uses/doses:
Breast cancer, metastatic (off-label use in US): IV: 50 mg/m2 every 4 weeks (Keller, 2004)
Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (off-label use): IV: 20 mg/m2 days 1 and 15 every 4 weeks for 6 cycles (Dummer, 2012) or 20 mg/m2 every 4 weeks (Wollina, 2003)
Hodgkin lymphoma, salvage treatment (off-label use): IV: GVD regimen: 10 mg/m2 (post-transplant patients) or 15 mg/m2 (transplant-naive patients) days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks (in combination with gemcitabine and vinorelbine) for 2 to 6 cycles (Bartlett, 2007)
Soft tissue sarcoma, advanced (off-label use): IV: 50 mg/m2 every 4 weeks for 6 cycles (Judson, 2001)
Uterine sarcoma, advanced or recurrent (off-label use): IV: 50 mg/m2 every 4 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity (Sutton, 2005)
Refer to adult dosing.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer 's labeling (has not been studied).
US labeling: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer 's labeling. However, doxorubicin is predominantly hepatically eliminated and reduced doxorubicin liposomal doses are recommended in patients with serum bilirubin ≥1.2 mg/dL.
Canadian labeling:
Caelyx: AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma:
Bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of normal dose
Bilirubin >3 mg/dL: Administer 25% of normal dose
Caelyx: Breast cancer and ovarian cancer:
Bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Initial dose: Administer 75% of normal dose; if tolerated and no change in bilirubin/hepatic enzymes, may increase to full dose with cycle 2
Bilirubin >3 mg/dL: Initial dose: Administer 50% of normal dose; if tolerated and no change in bilirubin/hepatic enzymes, may increase dose to 75% of normal dose for cycle 2; if cycle 2 dose tolerated, may increase to full dose for subsequent cycles.
Myocet: Breast cancer:
Bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of normal dose
Bilirubin >3 mg/dL: Administer 25% of normal dose
Hazardous agent; use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [group 1]).
Doxil, Caelyx: Dilute doses ≤90 in D5W 250 mL prior to administration. Dilute doses >90 mg in D5W 500 mL. Solution is not clear, but has a red, translucent appearance due to the liposomal dispersion. Dilute only in D5W; do not use bacteriostatic agents; do not mix with other medications.
Myocet: Refer to product labeling for detailed reconstitution and preparation information.
Monitor for infusion reaction. For IV infusion only; do not administer IV push.
Doxil, Caelyx: Administer IVPB over 60 minutes; the manufacturer recommends infusing the first dose at initial rate of 1 mg/minute to minimize risk of infusion reactions; if no infusion-related reactions are observed, then increase the infusion rate for completion over 1 hour. Do NOT administer undiluted. Do NOT infuse with in-line filters. Do not mix with other medications. Monitor for local erythematous streaking along vein and/or facial flushing (may indicate rapid infusion rate).
For multiple myeloma, administer doxorubicin liposomal after bortezomib on day 4 of each cycle.
Myocet: Infuse over 1 hour.
Irritant (Perez Fidalgo, 2012); monitor infusion site; avoid extravasation. Assure proper needle or catheter position prior to administration.
Extravasation management: If extravasation, infiltration, or burning/stinging sensation occurs, stop infusion immediately and disconnect (leave cannula/needle in place); gently aspirate extravasated solution (do NOT flush the line); remove needle/cannula; elevate extremity (Perez Fidalgo, 2012; Polovich, 2009). Do not apply pressure to the site. Apply ice to the site for 15 minutes 4 times a day for 3 days.
Hazardous agent; use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [group 1]). If contact with skin/mucosa occurs, wash immediately with soap and water.
Store intact vials refrigerated at 2 ‚ °C to 8 ‚ °C (36 ‚ °F to 46 ‚ °F); avoid freezing.
Doxil, Caelyx: Solutions diluted for infusion in D5W should be refrigerated at 2 ‚ °C to 8 ‚ °C (36 ‚ °F to 46 ‚ °F); administer within 24 hours.
Myocet: Refer to product labeling for detailed reconstitution and preparation information. Following reconstitution, may be stored up to 8 hours at room temperature or up to 72 hours refrigerated at 2 ‚ °C to 8 ‚ °C (36 ‚ °F to 46 ‚ °F); do not freeze.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Injectable, Intravenous, as hydrochloride:
Doxil: 2 mg/mL (10 mL, 25 mL)
Lipodox: 2 mg/mL (10 mL [DSC])
Lipodox 50: 2 mg/mL (25 mL)
Generic: 2 mg/mL (10 mL, 25 mL)
Stable in D5W.
Y-site administration: Incompatible with amphotericin B, amphotericin B cholesteryl sulfate complex, buprenorphine, ceftazidime, gallium nitrate, hydroxyzine, mannitol, meperidine, metoclopramide, mitoxantrone, morphine, paclitaxel, piperacillin/tazobactam, promethazine, sodium bicarbonate.
Abiraterone Acetate: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Management: Avoid concurrent use of abiraterone with CYP2D6 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index whenever possible. When concurrent use is not avoidable, monitor patients closely for signs/symptoms of toxicity. Consider therapy modification
Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Management: When possible, patients treated with ado-trastuzumab emtansine should avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping ado-trastuzumab emtansine. Monitor closely for cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving this combination. Consider therapy modification
Ajmaline: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Aprepitant: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Asunaprevir: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Consider therapy modification
BCG (Intravesical): Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG (Intravesical). Avoid combination
BCG (Intravesical): Myelosuppressive Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG (Intravesical). Avoid combination
Bevacizumab: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Monitor therapy
Bosentan: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Cardiac Glycosides: May diminish the cardiotoxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic) may decrease the serum concentration of Cardiac Glycosides. The effects of liposomal formulations may be unique from those of the free drug, as liposomal formulation have unique drug disposition and toxicity profiles, and liposomes themselves may alter digoxin absorption/distribution. Monitor therapy
CloZAPine: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CloZAPine. Specifically, the risk for neutropenia may be increased. Monitor therapy
Coccidioides immitis Skin Test: Immunosuppressants may diminish the diagnostic effect of Coccidioides immitis Skin Test. Monitor therapy
Conivaptan: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Avoid combination
Cyclophosphamide: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Consider therapy modification
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May increase the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Consider therapy modification
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Consider therapy modification
Dabrafenib: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Seek alternatives to the CYP3A4 substrate when possible. If concomitant therapy cannot be avoided, monitor clinical effects of the substrate closely (particularly therapeutic effects). Consider therapy modification
Dasatinib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Deferasirox: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Deferiprone: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the neutropenic effect of Deferiprone. Avoid combination
Denosumab: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Specifically, the risk for serious infections may be increased. Monitor therapy
Dipyrone: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Myelosuppressive Agents. Specifically, the risk for agranulocytosis and pancytopenia may be increased Avoid combination
Echinacea: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Immunosuppressants. Consider therapy modification
Enzalutamide: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Concurrent use of enzalutamide with CYP3A4 substrates that have a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided. Use of enzalutamide and any other CYP3A4 substrate should be performed with caution and close monitoring. Consider therapy modification
Fingolimod: Immunosuppressants may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Fingolimod. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of fingolimod and other immunosuppressants when possible. If combined, monitor patients closely for additive immunosuppressant effects (eg, infections). Consider therapy modification
Fosaprepitant: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Avoid combination
Idelalisib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Avoid combination
Ivacaftor: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Leflunomide: Immunosuppressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Leflunomide. Specifically, the risk for hematologic toxicity such as pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, and/or thrombocytopenia may be increased. Management: Consider not using a leflunomide loading dose in patients receiving other immunosuppressants. Patients receiving both leflunomide and another immunosuppressant should be monitored for bone marrow suppression at least monthly. Consider therapy modification
Lenograstim: Antineoplastic Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Lenograstim. Consider therapy modification
Luliconazole: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
MiFEPRIStone: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Minimize doses of CYP3A4 substrates, and monitor for increased concentrations/toxicity, during and 2 weeks following treatment with mifepristone. Avoid cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, fentanyl, pimozide, quinidine, sirolimus, and tacrolimus. Consider therapy modification
Mitotane: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Doses of CYP3A4 substrates may need to be adjusted substantially when used in patients being treated with mitotane. Consider therapy modification
Natalizumab: Immunosuppressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Natalizumab. Specifically, the risk of concurrent infection may be increased. Avoid combination
Netupitant: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Nivolumab: Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Nivolumab. Consider therapy modification
Osimertinib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Osimertinib may decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Palbociclib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Panobinostat: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Management: Avoid concurrent use of sensitive CYP2D6 substrates when possible, particularly those substrates with a narrow therapeutic index. Consider therapy modification
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Peginterferon Alfa-2b may increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Pimecrolimus: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Avoid combination
Roflumilast: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants. Consider therapy modification
Siltuximab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Simeprevir: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Sipuleucel-T: Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sipuleucel-T. Monitor therapy
St Johns Wort: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Consider therapy modification
Stavudine: DOXOrubicin (Liposomal) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Stavudine. Consider therapy modification
Stiripentol: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Management: Use of stiripentol with CYP3A4 substrates that are considered to have a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided due to the increased risk for adverse effects and toxicity. Any CYP3A4 substrate used with stiripentol requires closer monitoring. Consider therapy modification
Tacrolimus (Topical): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants. Avoid combination
Taxane Derivatives: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Taxane Derivatives may increase the serum concentration of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Taxane Derivatives may also increase the formation of toxic anthracycline metabolites in heart tissue. Consider therapy modification
Tocilizumab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates. Monitor therapy
Tofacitinib: Immunosuppressants may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Tofacitinib. Management: Concurrent use with antirheumatic doses of methotrexate or nonbiologic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is permitted, and this warning seems particularly focused on more potent immunosuppressants. Avoid combination
Trastuzumab: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents (Anthracycline, Systemic). Management: When possible, patients treated with trastuzumab should avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping trastuzumab. Monitor closely for cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving anthracyclines with trastuzumab. Consider therapy modification
Vaccines (Inactivated): Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Vaccines (Inactivated). Management: Vaccine efficacy may be reduced. Complete all age-appropriate vaccinations at least 2 weeks prior to starting an immunosuppressant. If vaccinated during immunosuppressant therapy, revaccinate at least 3 months after immunosuppressant discontinuation. Consider therapy modification
Vaccines (Live): Immunosuppressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Vaccines (Live). Immunosuppressants may diminish the therapeutic effect of Vaccines (Live). Management: Avoid use of live organism vaccines with immunosuppressants; live-attenuated vaccines should not be given for at least 3 months after immunosuppressants. Avoid combination
Vinflunine: DOXOrubicin (Liposomal) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Vinflunine. Specifically, the risk for hematologic toxicities may be increased. DOXOrubicin (Liposomal) may increase the serum concentration of Vinflunine. Vinflunine may decrease the serum concentration of DOXOrubicin (Liposomal). Monitor therapy
Zidovudine: DOXOrubicin (Liposomal) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Zidovudine. DOXOrubicin (Liposomal) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Zidovudine. Consider therapy modification
CBC with differential and platelet count, liver function tests (ALT/AST, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase); monitor infusion site, monitor for infusion reactions, hand-foot syndrome, stomatitis, and oral ulceration/discomfort suggestive of secondary oral malignancy
Cardiac function (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF]; baseline and periodic); echocardiography, or MUGA scan may be used.
Frequency not always defined.
>10%:
Cardiovascular: Cardiomyopathy (dose related: 11%; Kaposi sarcoma: <1%), cardiotoxicity (11%), chest tightness (11%), flushing (11%), hypotension (1% to 11%)
Central nervous system: Fatigue (>20%), headache ( ≤11%)
Dermatologic: Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (ovarian cancer: ≤51%; grades 3/4: 24%), skin rash (grades 3/4: 29%, Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 5%), alopecia (9% to 19%), facial swelling (11%)
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (ovarian cancer: 46%; Kaposi sarcoma: 17% to 18%; grades 3/4: 5%), stomatitis (grades 3/4: 41%, Kaposi sarcoma: 5% to 8%), vomiting (grades 3/4: 33%; Kaposi sarcoma: 8%), constipation (>20%), diarrhea (grades 3/4: 21%; Kaposi sarcoma: 3% to 8%), anorexia (20%; Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 5%), mucous membrane disease (14%; grades 3/4: 4%), dyspepsia 12%; grades 3/4: <1%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Thrombocytopenia (dose related, Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 61%), neutropenia (dose related: 4% to 49%), leukopenia (37%), anemia (16% to 58%; dose related <1% to 5%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Weakness (grades 3/4: 40%; Kaposi sarcoma: 7% to 10%), back pain (grades 3/4: 11% to 12%; Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 5%)
Respiratory: Pharyngitis (16%; Kaposi sarcoma <1%), dyspnea (1% to 15%)
Miscellaneous: Fever (21%; Kaposi sarcoma: 8% to 9%; grades 3/4: <1%), infusion related reaction (7% to 11%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Cardiac arrest ( ≤10%), chest pain (Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 5%), deep thrombophlebitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), tachycardia (1% to 10%), vasodilation (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%)
Central nervous system: Depression (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), dizziness (1% to 10%), drowsiness (1% to 10%), chills (Kaposi sarcoma: 1% to 5%)
Dermatologic: Acne vulgaris (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), ecchymoses (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), exfoliative dermatitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), fungal dermatitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), furunculosis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), herpes simplex dermatitis (1% to 10%), pruritus (1% to 10%), skin discoloration (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), vesiculobullous dermatitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), xeroderma (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), maculopapular rash ( ≤10%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Hypercalcemia (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), hypokalemia (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), hyponatremia (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), weight loss (1% to 10%), dehydration ( ≤10%), hyperglycemia (1% to 5%)
Gastrointestinal: Dysphagia (1% to 10%), esophagitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), intestinal obstruction (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), oral candidiasis (1% to 10%), oral mucosa ulcer (1% to 10%), dysgeusia (1% to ≤10%), abdomen enlarged (ovarian cancer 1% to 5%), glossitis (1% to 5%), increased serum alanine aminotransferase (Kaposi sarcoma 1% to 5%), cachexia
Genitourinary: Hematuria (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), hemorrhagic cystitis, urinary tract infection (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), vulvovaginal candidiasis (ovarian cancer 1% to 10%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Rectal hemorrhage (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), hemolysis (1% to 5%), prolonged prothrombin time (1% to 5%), bone marrow depression (Kaposi sarcoma), progression of cancer (Kaposi sarcoma)
Hepatic: Hyperbilirubinemia (1% to 10%), increased serum alkaline phosphatase (Kaposi sarcoma 1% to 8%)
Hypersensitivity: Hypersensitivity reaction (Kaposi sarcoma 1% to 5%)
Infection: Infection (1% to 12%), herpes zoster ( ≤10%), paresthesia (5%), myalgia (ovarian cancer: 1% to 5%), neuropathy (ovarian cancer 1% to 5%), toxoplasmosis (Kaposi sarcoma)
Ocular: Dry eye syndrome (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), conjunctivitis ( ≤10%), retinitis (Kaposi sarcoma 1% to 5%) optic neuritis (Kaposi sarcoma)
Respiratory: Epistaxis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), pneumonia (1% to 10%), rhinitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), sinusitis (ovarian cancer: 1% to 10%), increased cough ( ≤10%), cough (Kaposi sarcoma)
<1% (Limited to important or life-threatening): Abnormal vision albuminuria, abscess, acute brain syndrome, alkaline phosphatase increased, anaphylactic reaction, anxiety, arthralgia, asthma, balanitis, blindness, bone pain, bronchitis, bundle branch block (Kaposi sarcoma), BUN increased, cardiomegaly, cardiomyopathy, cellulitis, CHF, colitis, creatinine increased, cryptococcosis, candidiasis (Kaposi sarcoma), congestive heart failure (Kaposi sarcoma), confusion, cryptococcosis (Kaposi sarcoma), diabetes mellitus,dysuria,edema, emotional lability, erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, eosinophilia, fecal impaction, flatulence, hemorrhage, hepatic failure, hepatitis (Kaposi sarcoma, hepatosplenomegaly, hyperkalemia, hypernatremia, hyperuricemia, hyperventilation, hypoglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hypomagnesemia, hypophosphatemia, hypoproteinemia, hypothermia, injection site hemorrhage, insomnia, jaundice, ketosis, lactic dehydrogenase increased, lymphadenopathy, lymphangitis, migraine, myositis, muscle spasm, optic neuritis, pain, pallor, palpitations (Kaposi sarcoma), pancreatitis, pericardial effusion, petechia, pneumothorax, peripheral edema, pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, radiation injury, sclerosing cholangitis, seizure, secondary acute myelocytic leukemia, sepsis (Kaposi sarcoma), skin necrosis, syncope, squamous cell carcinoma, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, tenesmus, thrombophlebitis (Kaposi sarcoma), thromboplastin decreased, thrombosis (Kaposi sarcoma), tinnitus, toxic epidermal necrolysis, urticaria, ventricular arrhythmia (Kaposi sarcoma)
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- Bone marrow suppression: Neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia may occur. Monitor blood counts. Treatment delay, dosage modification, or discontinuation may be required. Hematologic toxicity may occur at a higher frequency and severity with combination chemotherapy.
- Infusion reactions: [US Boxed Warning]: Acute infusion-related reactions consisting of, but not limited to, flushing, shortness of breath, facial swelling, headache, chills, back pain, tightness in the chest or throat, and/or hypotension occurred in 11% of patients with solid tumors treated with doxorubicin (liposomal). Serious, life-threatening and fatal infusion reactions have been reported. Infusion reactions have also included chest pain, pruritus, rash, cyanosis, syncope, tachycardia, bronchospasm, asthma, and apnea. Most reactions occurred during the first infusion. Some reactions have resulted in dose interruption. Medication and equipment to manage infusion reactions should be immediately available during infusion. Initiate infusion at a rate of 1 mg/minute, with the rate increased (to complete infusion over 60 minutes) as tolerated. If an infusion reaction occurs, temporarily interrupt infusion until resolved and resume at a reduced rate. Discontinue for serious or life-threatening infusion reactions.
- Myocardial toxicity: [US Boxed Warning]: Doxorubicin liposomal may cause myocardial damage (including congestive heart failure) as the total cumulative dose of doxorubicin approaches 550 mg/m2. In a clinical study of 250 patients with advanced cancer who were treated with doxorubicin liposomal, the risk of cardiotoxicity was 11% when the cumulative anthracycline dose was between 450 to 550 mg/m2. Prior use of other anthracyclines or anthracenediones should be included in calculations of total cumulative dosage. The risk of cardiomyopathy may be increased at lower cumulative doses in patients with prior mediastinal irradiation. Myocardial damage may manifest as acute left ventricular failure; cardiotoxicity is defined as a >20% decrease in resting left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from baseline (if LVEF remained in the normal range) or a >10% decrease from baseline (where LVEF was less than the institutional lower limit of normal). Some patients developed signs/symptoms of heart failure without documented evidence of cardiotoxicity. The risk of cardiomyopathy with doxorubicin is generally proportional to the cumulative exposure, although the relationship between cumulative doxorubicin liposomal dose and the risk of cardiotoxicity is not known. For Myocet [Canadian product], cardiotoxicity may occur as the cumulative (lifetime) dose approaches 750 mg/m2. Anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity may be delayed (after discontinuation of anthracycline treatment). Assess left ventricular function with echocardiogram or MUGA prior to and during treatment to detect acute changes; monitor after treatment to detect delayed cardiotoxicity. Use in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease only if potential benefits outweigh cardiovascular risk.
- Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (hand-foot syndrome): Hand-foot syndrome has been reported in patients receiving doxorubicin liposomal. It is usually seen after 2 to 3 treatment cycles, although may also occur earlier. Dosage modification may be required; in severe or debilitating cases, treatment discontinuation may be required.
- Secondary malignancy: Cases of secondary oral cancers (primarily squamous cell carcinoma) have been reported with long-term (>1 year) doxorubicin liposomal exposure; these secondary oral malignancies have occurred during treatment and up to 6 years after treatment. The development of oral ulceration or discomfort should be monitored and further evaluated in patients with past or present use of doxorubicin liposomal. Tissue distribution of the liposomal doxorubicin compared to free doxorubicin may play a role in the development of oral secondary malignancies associated with long-term use.
Disease-related concerns:
- Hepatic impairment: Pharmacokinetics in patients with hepatic impairment have not been adequately studied. Doxorubicin is predominantly eliminated hepatically; reduce doxorubicin liposomal dose in patients with serum bilirubin ≥1.2 mg/dL.
Special populations:
- Splenectomized patients: Use of Caelyx [Canadian product] in splenectomized patients with AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma is not recommended (has not been studied).
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
- Drug-drug interactions: Potentially significant interactions may exist, requiring dose or frequency adjustment, additional monitoring, and/or selection of alternative therapy. Consult drug interactions database for more detailed information.
Dosage form specific issues:
- Liposomal vs conventional formulation dosing: Liposomal formulations of doxorubicin should NOT be substituted for conventional doxorubicin hydrochloride on a mg-per-mg basis.
Special handling:
- Hazardous agent: Use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [group 1]).
Adverse events were observed in animal reproduction studies. May cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy. Women and men of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during therapy and for 6 months after treatment. Doxorubicin liposomal may damage spermatozoa and testicular tissue in males and may result in oligospermia, azoospermia, and permanent loss of fertility. May cause amenorrhea, infertility, and premature menopause in females.
Doxorubicin inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis by intercalating between DNA base pairs causing steric obstruction and inhibits topoisomerase-II at the point of DNA cleavage. Doxorubicin is also a powerful iron chelator. The iron-doxorubicin complex can bind DNA and cell membranes, producing free hydroxyl (OH) radicals that cleave DNA and cell membranes. Active throughout entire cell cycle. Doxorubicin liposomal is a pegylated formulation which protects the liposomes, and thereby increases blood circulation time.
Vdss: ~2.7 to 2.8 L/m2; largely confined to vascular fluid
Hepatic and in plasma to doxorubicinol and the sulfate and glucuronide conjugates of 4-demethyl,7-deoxyaglycones
Terminal: Distribution: ~4.7 to 5.2 hours, Elimination: ~52 to 55 hours
Unknown; nonliposomal (conventional) doxorubicin: ~70%
- Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
- Patient may experience constipation, diarrhea, lack of appetite, back pain, headache, hair loss, pharyngitis, or urine or body fluid discoloration. Have patient report immediately to prescriber signs of infection, signs of heart problems (cough or shortness of breath that is new or worse, swelling of the ankles or legs, abnormal heartbeat, weight gain of more than five pounds in 24 hours, dizziness, or passing out), signs of infusion reaction (flushing, shortness of breath, wheezing, angioedema, headache, chills, angina, back pain, chest or throat tightness, tachycardia, severe dizziness, passing out, or blue/gray skin discoloration), signs of bleeding (vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; coughing up blood; hematuria; black, red, or tarry stools; bleeding from the gums; abnormal vaginal bleeding; bruises without a reason or that get bigger; or any severe or persistent bleeding), angina, severe nausea, vomiting, excessive weight loss, bone pain, mouth sores, night sweats, burning or numbness feeling, redness or irritation of palms or soles of feet, severe loss of strength and energy, hematuria, or severe injection site pain, burning, edema, or redness (HCAHPS).
- Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for healthcare professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience and judgment in diagnosing, treating and advising patients.