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AMIFOSTINE INJ(500MG)
This page contains brief details about the drug amifostine, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Amifostine is a chemoprotection drug that belongs to the class of adjunct chemoprotective agents. FDA approved the medicine on 24th June 1999 to protect the kidneys from the harmful effects of chemotherapy medication and to treat dryness in the mouth after head and neck cancer.
Mechanism of Action of Amifostine
The primary metabolite is accountable for the majority of the cytoprotective and radioprotective effects of amifostine. It readily enters cells, binding to and neutralizing reactive platinum and alkylating agent metabolites, while also scavenging free radicals. Additional effects encompass the inhibition of cell death, alteration of gene expression, and modification of enzyme activity.
AVAILABLE BRANDS
AMIFOSTINE INJ(500MG)
Uses of Amifostine
Administered intravenously, Amifostine serves to shield the kidneys from the adverse effects of the chemotherapy drug cisplatin in patients undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. Additionally, it is utilized to alleviate dryness in the mouth resulting from radiation treatment following surgery for head and neck cancer. Its mechanism of action involves protecting against the detrimental effects of both chemotherapy medications and radiation treatment.
Amifostine Drug administaration and Dosage available
Amifostine will be administered by a doctor or another healthcare professional in a hospital setting with expertise in cancer chemotherapy. The dosage, route of administration, and duration of the therapy will be determined by your doctor, considering factors such as your disease status, severity, body weight, other medical conditions, and age. The medication will be delivered intravenously, directly into your vein. It is essential not to self-administer the injection.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Amifostine
Warnings
Individuals who are hypotensive and dehydrated should refrain from receiving this medication. It is designed to potentially induce severe skin reactions. Notify your physician promptly if you experience a red, itchy rash, or hives on the skin following the injection. Amifostine has the potential to cause severe birth defects if administered during pregnancy, so it is imperative to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, suspecting pregnancy, or planning for pregnancy.
Precautions
Before starting the therapy, inform your healthcare professional about any history of low blood pressure, stroke, seizures, or other complications. Do not use Amifostine if you are allergic to it or any of the other ingredients. Notify your physician if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, heart disorders, heart failure, or heart rhythm changes. If you are planning for pregnancy, discuss potential impacts on fertility with your doctor. Your healthcare professional may recommend specific blood tests to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of the therapy.
Side Effects
The common side effects of amifostine include skin rash, nausea, and vomiting. Other serious side effects include decreased blood pressure, severe skin rash, and hypersensitivity reactions.
Word Of Advice
Store the injection at a temperature between 20°C to 25°C. Shield the medication from light and excessive moisture. Ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets. In case of a missed dosing schedule, promptly notify your healthcare professional and arrange for rescheduling. Practice effective contraception during the treatment. Increase fluid intake during the 24 hours before receiving this medicine. Your healthcare provider may recommend calcium supplements and other medications to help prevent nausea and vomiting. Refrain from smoking or consuming alcohol while using this medicine.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Amifostine is probably safe to use in patients with kidney disease. Limited data available suggests that dose adjustment of this injection may not be needed in kidney disease patients. Please consult your doctor for more advice.
Low blood pressure (hypotension) may occur with amifostine. Report to your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of blurred vision, confusion, severe dizziness, faintness, lightheadedness, sweating, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
If you unknowingly overdosed or took two doses of amifostine, immediately inform your healthcare professional and seek medical advice.
Do not miss your dose. Keep all your appointments with the dosing regularly. In case if you forget or missed an appointment, inform your healthcare professional and reschedule the dosing.