ACCORD EPIRUBICIN 50
EPIRUBICNIN HYDROCHLORIDE
What it does
Epirubicin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer.
Commonly used for: breast cancer, bladder cancer, stomach cancer
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-15 21:11:33 · updated 2026-10-21 04:00:08
About this medicine
Epirubicin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer.
What it treats
- breast cancer
- bladder cancer
- stomach cancer
How it works
Epirubicin works by stopping the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Who it's for
Epirubicin is prescribed for patients diagnosed with specific cancers as part of their treatment plan.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: epirubicnin
Epirubicin is an anthracycline antibiotic used primarily in the treatment of various cancers, including breast cancer and other solid tumors. It functions by inhibiting DNA synthesis and interfering with the replication of cancer cells, thereby exerting cytotoxic effects. Epirubicin is a semisynthetic derivative of doxorubicin, designed to enhance the therapeutic index and reduce the risk of certain side effects.
Indications
- Breast cancer
- Gastric cancer
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Soft tissue sarcomas
- Bladder cancer
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for pediatric dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing based on cancer type and treatment regimen.
Mechanism of action
Epirubicin intercalates into DNA, disrupting the structure and function of the DNA molecule. This action inhibits the enzyme topoisomerase II, which is crucial for DNA replication. By preventing the proper unwinding of DNA, epirubicin induces double-strand breaks and ultimately leads to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of epirubicin involve its ability to induce apoptosis in malignant cells. The drug's action is concentration-dependent, and its effectiveness can be influenced by the cell cycle phase, with the most significant effects occurring during the S and G2 phases. Epirubicin also has immunosuppressive properties, which can affect the response to cancer therapy and the patient’s overall immune status.
Pharmacokinetics
Epirubicin is administered intravenously and has a volume of distribution of approximately 50 L/m². It is metabolized primarily in the liver, undergoing extensive hepatic metabolism, with its active metabolites contributing to its overall antitumor activity. The elimination half-life is approximately 30 to 36 hours, and it is primarily excreted in urine as metabolites. Renal impairment may affect the clearance of the drug, necessitating dose adjustments in patients with compromised renal function.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to epirubicin or any of its components
- Severe myelosuppression
- Active infections
- Pregnancy
- Severe liver impairment
Adverse effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Myelosuppression
- Cardiotoxicity
- Alopecia
- Mucositis
- Extravasation reactions
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers may affect epirubicin metabolism
- Other cardiotoxic agents may increase the risk of cardiac side effects
- Live vaccines can pose a risk in patients receiving immunosuppressive chemotherapy
Precautions
- Monitor cardiac function due to potential cardiotoxicity
- Use caution in patients with pre-existing liver disease
- Regular blood counts are necessary to monitor for myelosuppression
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment
Pregnancy
Epirubicin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects.
Breast-feeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with epirubicin due to potential excretion in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Protect from freezing.
Formulations
- Injection solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.