Daunorubicin belongs to a class of anti-cancerous drugs known as anthracycline. It works by preventing the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Daunorubicin slows down or blocks the overall growth of tumor cells. 

 

What is Daunorubicin?

Daunorubicin is used in combination with other anti-cancerous drugs to treat certain forms of acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia.

 

How should Daunorubicin be taken?     

Daunorubicin is administered via injection directly into a vein. In case of acute myeloid leukemia, treatment typically involves periods when administration is daily, while in the case of acute lymphocytic leukemia, administration generally occurs on a weekly basis.

The duration of treatment depends on the type of drugs taken, response to the therapy and the type of cancer that is fought against.

 

Side effects associated with Daunorubicin

The possible side effects of Daunorubicin include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sores in the mouth and throat
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach ache
  • Hair loss
  • Red urine

 

It is important to contact a doctor immediately in the cases where the drug triggers:

  • Redness to the point of pain, swelling or burning where the injection is carried out
  • Rash
  • Urticaria
  • Itching
  • Difficulty breathing  or difficulty swallowing

 

Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Daunorubicin

Daunorubicin may increase the risk of developing other cancers and may trigger severe heart problems even years after the treatment has ended. It may also reduce bone marrow cell levels, in turn increasing the risk of bleeding and infection. Therefore, it is important to monitor health and talk to your doctor if you suspect you are having problems.

 

Before treatment with Daunorubicin, it is also important to inform your doctor:

  • If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or other drugs
  • If you are taking any medicinal products, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular:  azathioprine, cyclosporine, methotrexate, tacrolimus, and sirolimus
  • If you suffer (or have suffered) from kidney or liver disease or any other health problem
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding