DAUNORUBICIN

It is a cell cycle nonspecific agent, but its cytotoxic effects are most marked on cells in the S-phase.

Indications

Acute non-lymphocytic leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, HIV related Kaposi's sarcoma.

Dosage

Non lymphocytic leukemia: 30-40 mg/sq-m/day on days 1,2 & 3 of first course and on days 1,2 of subsequent courses. Acute lymphocytic leukemia: Adult: 45 mg/sq-m/day IV on days 1,2 & 3. Children: 25 mg/sq-m/day on day 1 every week IV. HIV related Kaposi's sarcoma: 40 mg/sq-m every two weeks.

Contra-Indications

Heart failure.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy, lactation, elderly, liver dysfunction.

Side Effects

Bone marrow suppression, cardiac toxicity, cardiomyopathy and CCF.

Drug Interactions

Immunization with live vaccines not recommended as daunorubicin is immunosuppressant. Concurrent radiation leads to enhanced radiation reaction.