Amifostine Injection – Onco India International

Introduction

Amifostine Injection, manufactured by Onco India International, is a cytoprotective agent used in cancer treatment. It helps reduce the risk of certain side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy, without diminishing their effectiveness against tumors.

What is Amifostine?

Amifostine is a prodrug that is converted in the body into an active free thiol metabolite. This metabolite:

• Scavenges harmful free radicals

• Detoxifies reactive metabolites of chemotherapy agents like cisplatin

• Provides selective protection to normal tissues while preserving the antitumor activity of chemotherapy

Indications

Amifostine Injection is indicated for:

• Renal protection – Reducing cumulative kidney toxicity associated with repeated cisplatin therapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer

• Radiation protection – Lowering the incidence of moderate to severe xerostomia (dry mouth) in patients receiving postoperative radiation treatment for head and neck cancer

Dosage and Administration

Recommended Dosage:

• For renal protection (cisplatin use): 910 mg/m², administered as a 15-minute IV infusion, starting 30 minutes before chemotherapy

• For radiation protection: 200 mg/m², administered as a 3-minute IV infusion, starting 15–30 minutes before radiation therapy

Administration Guidelines:

• Should be given only under medical supervision by healthcare professionals experienced in cancer treatment

• Patients should be well-hydrated before infusion

• Patients are advised to remain lying down during infusion to reduce the risk of hypotension

How Amifostine Works

Once administered, Amifostine is activated by alkaline phosphatase in normal tissues. Its metabolite:

• Neutralizes free radicals

• Detoxifies harmful chemotherapy byproducts

• Selectively protects healthy cells, while leaving the cancer-killing effects of chemotherapy intact

Side Effects and Precautions

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)

• Rash

• Fever and chills

Serious Adverse Reactions:

• Severe allergic reactions

• Sudden or severe hypotension

• Loss of consciousness

Precautions:

• Inform your doctor about existing heart conditions, blood pressure issues, or allergies

• Blood pressure should be closely monitored before and during infusion

• Patients should stay hydrated and remain lying down during administration

Drug Interactions

Amifostine may interact with:

• Antihypertensive medications

• Diuretics

Patients should provide a complete list of medications to their healthcare provider to avoid complications.

Patient Information – Key Guidelines

• Take Amifostine exactly as prescribed

• Report severe side effects immediately (e.g., chest pain, breathing difficulty, or severe fatigue)

• Maintain good hydration before and after treatment

• Remain lying down during infusion to reduce the risk of low blood pressure

Clinical Evidence

Extensive clinical studies have confirmed that Amifostine:

• Reduces cisplatin-induced kidney toxicity

• Lowers the risk of xerostomia in patients receiving head and neck radiation therapy

Storage and Handling

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture

• Keep vials tightly closed when not in use

• Handling and disposal should be performed by trained healthcare professionals

FAQs

1. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Contact your doctor immediately. Do not take a double dose.

2. Can I take Amifostine with other medicines?
Consult your doctor before taking any additional medications to avoid harmful interactions.

3. What are the warning signs of serious side effects?
Severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or signs of infection require immediate medical attention.

Conclusion

Amifostine Injection by Onco India International is an important supportive therapy in cancer care. By protecting normal tissues from chemotherapy and radiation side effects, it helps patients tolerate treatment better while maintaining its effectiveness against cancer. Safe use under medical guidance ensures maximum benefit with minimal risks.