Description
Istodax is a prescription medication designed to treat specific types of cancer, including cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) in adults who have undergone at least one prior systemic therapy. CTCL is a cancer affecting immune system cells.
The active component, romidepsin, is a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDAC inhibitor). It functions by modifying gene expression, which kills cancer cells.
Fact Table
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Formula
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C24H36N4O6S2
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License
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US FDA
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Bioavailability
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Not applicable (administered intravenously)
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Legal status
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Prescription only (Rx)
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Chemical Name
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(1R,4E,7S,10S,16E,21R)-7-ethylidene-4,21-diisopropyl-3,11,18-trioxo-2-oxa-13,20-dithia-3,10,17,19-tetraazabicyclo[17.3.1]tricosa-4,16-diene-8,9,22-trione
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Elimination half-life
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3 hours
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Dosage (Strength)
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10 mg (lyophilized powder for injection)
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Pregnancy
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Contraindicated
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Brands
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Istodax
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Protein binding
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92-94%
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PubChem CID
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5352062
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MedlinePlus
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a610014
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ChEBI
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CHEBI:63915
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ATC code
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L01XX42
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DrugBank
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DB06830
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KEGG
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D06427
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Routes of administration
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Intravenous
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Directions
Administer Istodax intravenously under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Istodax is only administered in a controlled healthcare setting.
The typical regimen includes infusions on days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day treatment cycle.
This cycle can be repeated depending on the patient's response and tolerance to the medication.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Istodax is romidepsin.
Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of the following:
- Apalutamide
- Atazanavir
- Boceprevir
- Carbamazepine
- Clarithromycin
- Cobicistat
- Conivaptan
- Enzalutamide
- Fosphenytoin
- Idelalisib
- Indinavir
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Lopinavir
- Lumacaftor
- Mitotane
- Nefazodone
- Nelfinavir
- Phenytoin
- Posaconazole
- Rifampin
- Ritonavir
- Saquinavir
- St John's Wort
- Telaprevir
- Telithromycin
- Tipranavir
- Voriconazole
Cautions
Note that Istodax can bind to estrogen receptors, potentially reducing the effectiveness of some birth control methods.
Be aware that Istodax may lower blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infections, bleeding, or anemia.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Istodax due to potential harm to the baby. Use reliable contraception during treatment.
Before using Istodax, disclose any history of heart issues, liver problems, or electrolyte imbalances to your doctor.
Side Effects
Tell your doctor or healthcare team if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Anemia
- Asthenia
- EKG ST segment changes
- Epstein-Barr virus disease, Reactivation
- Fatigue
- Infectious disease
- Lymphocytopenia
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Neutropenia
- Reactivation of hepatitis B viral hepatitis
- Sepsis
- Supraventricular arrhythmia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Tumor lysis syndrome
- Ventricular arrhythmia
- Vomiting
References
Istodax [package insert]. Cambridge, MA: Gloucester; 2009.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 14617