Decitabine
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Myelodysplastic syndrome, Acute myeloid leukaemia |
| Therapy | Anti-Neoplastic |
| Side Effects | Anaemia, fatigue, fever, nausea, and cough |
Medicines
available
19k pincodes
Molecule Description
Decitabine belongs to the class of anticancer medicine. It is used for the treatment of blood cancer called Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and Myelodysplastic syndrome (a group of conditions in which the bone marrow produces blood cells that are misshapen and not healthy). To ensure the safety of women of reproductive potential, it is strongly advised that they avoid pregnancy and utilise reliable contraception while receiving Decitabine. This precautionary measure should be maintained for a period of 6 months following the completion of treatment. Similarly, men with female partners of reproductive potential should also practice effective contraception during the course of treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.
Uses
- Myelodysplastic syndrome (a group of conditions in which the bone marrow produces blood cells that are misshapen and not healthy)
- Blood cancer called Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)
Contraindications
When should one not use Decitabine
- If you are allergic to decitabine or any other ingredient of Decitabine
- If you are pregnant
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Neutropenia (reduced neutrophil count)
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
- Anaemia
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Nausea
- Cough
- Petechiae (red round spots on the skin)
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Risk of Bleed and bruising due to low platelets
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You are taking any other medications, including herbal supplements
- You have any allergies
- You have liver or kidney-related problems
- You are diabetic
- You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, Decitabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
- You have any infection, fever or chills
- You have a habit of smoking or drinking alcohol
- Myelosuppression (anaemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia) can occur during the treatment with Decitabine, and frequent blood test monitoring (complete blood counts and platelet counts) is advised.
- Both males and females need to use effective contraception methods during treatment. Post-treatment, consult a doctor before planning a child.
- During the treatment, If you experience any side effects or develop any infection, fever, or chills, let your doctor know.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Decitabine interferes with the growth of DNA in cancerous cells. It works by modifying the DNA in cells. Specifically, it inhibits an enzyme called DNA methyltransferase, which normally adds chemical tags to the DNA. By blocking this enzyme, decitabine reduces the amount of these tags, leading to a process called hypomethylation. This inhibits the growth and multiplication of cancer cells.
Dosage
Overdose
Overdose may lead to serious consequences. In the event of an overdose, report to the doctor or emergency department immediately for close monitoring.
Missed a Dose
It is unlikely that the dose of Decitabine will be missed if you are monitored in a healthcare setup. However, if you think you have missed a dose of this medicine, inform your doctor or nurse immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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