Actinomycin D

Actinomycin D is a highly toxic antibiotic with antineoplastic properties. Actinomycin D is isolated from Streptomyces chrysomallus and other species of Streptomyces. It contains two cyclic polypeptide that are linked by a chromophore moiety. Actinomycin D is effective in the treatment of different cancers to slow or stop the growth of cancerous or abnormal cells. Actinomycin D is used in combination owith different anticancerous drugs to obtain best therapeutic results and to reduce toxicity or side effects. It also has immunosuppressant properties.

Brands
DACTINOMYCIN DACTINOFIN DTM
Adult Dose
Dose: 0.5 to 1 mg/m2
Single Dose: 0.75 (0.75)
Frequency: 24 hourly
Route: IV-inf
Instructions: For 1-5 Days
Neonatal
Dose: Not used in this age group
Single Dose:
Frequency:
Route:
Instructions:
Paedriatic
Dose: 0.015 mg/kg
Single Dose: 0.015 (0.015)
Frequency: 24 hourly
Route: Intravenous
Instructions: For 1 to 5 days
Characteristics
Actinomycin D also known as Dactinomycin. . It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Phenoxazone. It belongs to Intercalation (DNA acting) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Chemotherapeutic Regimens and Antineoplastic Agent, Antibiotic pharmacological group.The Molecular Weight of Actinomycin D is 1255.40. Its pKa is 11.90.
Contraindications
Actinomycin D is contraindicated in conditions like Chickenpox infection,Anaphylactic reactions.
Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Actinomycin D, which give rise to further complications include Radiosensitization effect on thorax, Skin inflammation, Esophageal inflammation.Actinomycin D produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bone marrow suppression, Neutropenic fever, Anaphylactic reactions. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Actinomycin D therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Actinomycin D include Severe vomiting, Mucositis, Diarrhea, Severe myelosuppression.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Actinomycin D are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Nausea, Vomiting, Alopecia, Diarrhea, Mucositis, Fever, Myalgia, Abdominal pain, Hypocalcemia, Reaction at injection site.
Indications
'Actinomycin D is primarily indicated in conditions like Choriocarcinoma, Ovarian teratoma, Rhabdomyosarcoma, Testicular teratoma, Wilms tumor, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Ewing''s sarcoma, Neuroblastoma.'
Interactions
Actinomycin D is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementAtracurium (Besylate)Doxorubicin (HCl) These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Interfrence
Bioassay procedures for determination of antibacterial drug levels.
Risks
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Storage
Powder for Inj Store Below 25°C. Do not Freeze.
Warnings
Use with caution in patients with pre-existing blood disorders, gout, dental disease, liver disease or heart disease. This medication is classified as pregnancy category C and should be used during pregnancy or lactation only if clearly needed.
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