Endoxan Asta 1gm Injection

About

Endoxan Asta 1gm Injection contains Cyclophosphamide, a potent alkylating agent used extensively in the treatment of various cancers and severe autoimmune diseases. It works by interfering with DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cells. Cyclophosphamide is a prodrug that requires metabolic activation in the liver to its active cytotoxic metabolites. The 'Asta' in Endoxan Asta often implies the co-formulation or co-administration with Mesna (2-mercaptoethane sulfonate sodium), a uroprotectant agent.

Mesna is crucial in preventing hemorrhagic cystitis, a common and severe side effect caused by acrolein, a metabolite of cyclophosphamide, which irritates the bladder lining. By detoxifying acrolein in the urinary tract, Mesna significantly reduces the risk of bladder toxicity, allowing for safer administration of higher doses of cyclophosphamide. This combination therapy enhances the therapeutic index of cyclophosphamide, making it a more manageable option for patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy regimens while still requiring close monitoring for other systemic toxicities.

Uses

• Treatment of various lymphomas and leukemias
• Management of breast and ovarian cancers
• Suppression of the immune system in severe autoimmune diseases
• Conditioning regimen for bone marrow transplantation

Directions For Use

Administered intravenously by a healthcare professional. Dosage and frequency are determined by the patient's condition and treatment protocol.

Benefits

• Effective against a wide range of cancers
• Potent immunosuppressive properties
• Reduced risk of hemorrhagic cystitis (with Mesna)
• Established efficacy in severe autoimmune disorders
• Can be used in combination chemotherapy regimens
• Crucial component in some transplant conditioning regimens

Side Effects

• Bone marrow suppression (low blood counts)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Increased risk of infection
• Oral mucositis
• Infertility
• Cardiotoxicity (rare)
• Secondary malignancies (long-term risk)
• Skin and nail changes
• Anorexia
• Diarrhea

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate side effects and interfere with liver metabolism of the drug.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to severe teratogenic and embryotoxic effects. Effective contraception is essential.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding as the drug is excreted in breast milk and can cause serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary. Liver function should be closely monitored.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary. Renal function should be regularly assessed.
• Lung - Rare cases of pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis and fibrosis, have been reported. Monitor for respiratory symptoms.

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