Dexrazoxane
Also known as: Zinecard, Cardioxane, Eucardion, Totect
* **Purpose**: Your pet is receiving this medication to protect their heart from the side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs (like doxorubicin) or to treat severe tissue damage if chemotherapy accidentally leaks outside the vein. * **Cost & Expectations**: This is a highly specialized and expensive medication. While it significantly reduces the risk of heart damage or tissue injury, it may not be fully effective in all cases. * **Side Effects**: It may lower your pet's white blood cell count, making them more susceptible to infections. We will monitor their bloodwork closely. * **Safety**: Because this drug is given alongside chemotherapy, follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding handling your pet's waste safely at home.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Treatment of anthracycline (doxorubicin, epirubicin, etc.) extravasation
- Treatment of anthracycline extravasation
- Prevention of doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy
- Prevention of doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Additive myelosuppression
- Potential reduction in efficacy of anthracycline antitumor agents
- Testicular atrophy (observed in dogs)
- Myelosuppression (documented in humans)
- Decreased clinical efficacy of anthracycline antineoplastic agents
Cautions & contraindications
- Should not be used unless an anthracycline antineoplastic agent is being used
- Unknown based on monograph, but generally avoid in patients not receiving anthracyclines
- > **Important**: Dexrazoxane should not be used unless an anthracycline antineoplastic agent is being administered. * **Species Limitations**: Efficacy and safety for use in cats is not known. * **Reproductive Safety**: Causes testicular atrophy in dogs when administered at usual doses for 13 weeks. Teratogenic in rats and rabbits at doses lower than human doses (FDA Category C). Nursing mothers should discontinue nursing. * **Handling Warnings**: Wear gloves when handling. Use normal procedures for handling and disposal of anti-cancer medications. If unreconstituted powder contacts skin or mucous membranes, wash off thoroughly with soap and water.
Drug interactions
- Myelosuppressive agents: Additive myelosuppression may occur when used concurrently.
- Anthracycline antineoplastic agents: May decrease the clinical efficacy of the chemotherapy
Frequently asked questions
What is Dexrazoxane used for in pets?
* **Purpose**: Your pet is receiving this medication to protect their heart from the side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs (like doxorubicin) or to treat severe tissue damage if chemotherapy accidentally leaks outside the vein. * **Cost & Expectations**: This is a highly specialized and expensive medication. While it significantly reduces the risk of heart damage or tissue injury, it may not be fully effective in all cases. * **Side Effects**: It may lower your pet's white blood cell count, making them more susceptible to infections. We will monitor their bloodwork closely. * **Safety**: Because this drug is given alongside chemotherapy, follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding handling your pet's waste safely at home.
Is Dexrazoxane safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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