Dacsted 200mg Injection

About

Dacarbazine is an antineoplastic agent classified as an alkylating agent, though it requires metabolic activation in the liver to form its active metabolite, 5-(3-methyl-1-triazeno)imidazole-4-carboxamide (MTIC). MTIC then acts as an alkylating agent, interfering with DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Its mechanism involves the methylation of guanine residues in DNA, which ultimately disrupts DNA synthesis and function.

This medication is primarily used in the treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma and as a component of multi-drug regimens for Hodgkin's lymphoma. Due to its cytotoxic nature and potential for significant side effects, dacarbazine is administered intravenously under the supervision of an oncologist. Careful monitoring of hematologic parameters, liver function, and renal function is essential throughout the course of treatment to manage toxicity and ensure patient safety.

Uses

• Treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma.
• As a component of combination chemotherapy for Hodgkin's lymphoma.
• Treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (off-label use in some protocols).
• Treatment of neuroendocrine tumors (off-label use in some protocols).

Directions For Use

This medication is administered as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional. It must be reconstituted and diluted before use, and care should be taken to avoid extravasation.

Benefits

• Effective in treating metastatic melanoma.
• Key component in Hodgkin's lymphoma regimens.
• Induces DNA damage in cancer cells.
• Can lead to tumor regression.
• Established efficacy in specific cancers.
• Part of standard chemotherapy protocols.

Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting (often severe)
• Myelosuppression (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia)
• Flu-like syndrome (fever, myalgia, malaise)
• Anorexia
• Diarrhea
• Alopecia
• Photosensitivity
• Facial flushing
• Paresthesia
• Hepatotoxicity
• Renal dysfunction
• Extravasation leading to tissue damage

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects and potentially increase liver toxicity.
• Pregnancy - Dacarbazine is teratogenic and embryotoxic. It is contraindicated in pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during and for a period after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is contraindicated during dacarbazine therapy due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the infant.
• Liver - Use with extreme caution in patients with hepatic impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be closely monitored due to its metabolic activation in the liver.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustments may be required, and kidney function should be monitored due to renal excretion of the drug and its metabolites.
• Lung - While not a primary concern, monitor for any signs of pulmonary toxicity, though it is rare with dacarbazine.

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