Daunorubicin must be given into a rapidly flowing intravenous infusion. It must never be given by the intramuscular or subcutaneous route. Severe local tissue necrosis will occur if there is extravasation during administration.
It is recommended that daunorubicin be administered only by physicians who are experienced in leukemia chemotherapy and in facilities with laboratory and supportive resources adequate to monitor drug tolerance and protect and maintain a patient compromised by drug toxicity. The physician and institution must be capable of responding rapidly and completely to severe hemorrhagic conditions and/or overwhelming infection.
Severe myelosuppression occurs when used in therapeutic doses; this may lead to infection or hemorrhage.
Myocardial toxicity manifested in its most severe form by potentially fatal congestive heart failure may occur either during therapy or months to years after termination of therapy. The incidence of myocardial toxicity increases after a total cumulative dose exceeding 400 to 550 mg/m2 in adults, 300 mg/m2 in children older than 2 years of age, or 10 mg/kg in children younger than 2 years of age.
Dosage should be reduced in patients with impaired hepatic function.
Dosage should be reduced in patients with impaired renal function.
Note: Dose, frequency, number of doses, and start date may vary by protocol and treatment phase; refer to individual protocols. In pediatric patients, dosing may be based on either BSA (mg/m2) or weight (mg/kg); use extra caution to verify dosing parameters during calculations.
Daunorubicin is associated with a moderate emetic potential; antiemetics are recommended to prevent nausea and vomiting (Ref).
Monitor cumulative anthracycline dose (combined); the risk for cardiomyopathy increases as the cumulative anthracycline dose increases (>250 mg/m2 of doxorubicin isotoxic equivalent dose in pediatric patients <18 years and 550 mg/m2 of doxorubicin isotoxic equivalent dose in patients ≥18 years); also dependent on other/additional risk factors (eg, chest irradiation); interpatient variability exists (eg, some patients may experience left ventricular dysfunction at lower doses). To calculate doxorubicin equivalent dose of daunorubicin, multiply total daunorubicin dose by 0.5 (Ref).
Acute lymphocytic leukemia, B-cell (B-ALL):
AALL0232 (Ref): High risk, newly diagnosed:
Children and Adolescents:
Induction: IV: 25 mg/m2/dose once weekly for 4 weeks (in combination with intrathecal cytarabine, vincristine, prednisone/dexamethasone [age-dependent], pegaspargase, and intrathecal methotrexate).
Extended induction: IV: 25 mg/m2/dose once on day 1 (in combination with vincristine, prednisone/dexamethasone [age-dependent], and pegaspargase).
Memorial Sloan Kettering-New York IIB Protocol (Ref): High risk, newly diagnosed:
Children and Adolescents:
Induction: IV: 60 mg/m2/day as a continuous infusion over 24 hours on days 0 and 1 for a total dose of 120 mg/m2 (in combination with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone, pegaspargase, and intrathecal methotrexate).
Maintenance I: IV: 20 mg/m2/day as a continuous infusion over 24 hours on days 40 and 41 for a total dose of 40 mg/m2 (in combination with prednisone, mercaptopurine, cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, vincristine, cytarabine, thioguanine, and intrathecal methotrexate). Repeat for a total of 5 cycles.
GRAALL-2003 (Ref):
Adolescents ≥15 years:
Induction: IV: 50 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 2, and 3 and 30 mg/m2 on days 15 and 16 (in combination with prednisone, vincristine, asparaginase, cyclophosphamide, and G-CSF support).
Late intensification: IV: 30 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 2, and 3 (in combination with prednisone, vincristine, asparaginase, cyclophosphamide, and G-CSF support).
MRC UKALLXII/ECOG E2993 (Ref):
Adolescents ≥15 years: Induction (Phase I): IV: 60 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (in combination with vincristine, asparaginase, and prednisone).
PETHEMA ALL-96 (Ref):
Adolescents ≥15 years:
Induction: IV: 30 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (in combination with vincristine, prednisone, asparaginase, and cyclophosphamide).
Consolidation-2/Reinduction: IV: 30 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 2, 8, and 9 (in combination with vincristine, dexamethasone, asparaginase, and cyclophosphamide).
Manufacturer's labeling: Remission induction:
Infants and Children <2 years or BSA <0.5 m2: IV: 1 mg/kg/dose on day 1 every week for up to 4 to 6 cycles (in combination with vincristine and prednisone).
Children and Adolescents ≥2 years and BSA ≥0.5 m2: IV: 25 mg/m2/dose on day 1 every week for up to 4 to 6 cycles (in combination with vincristine and prednisone).
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, T-cell (T-ALL):
AALL0434 (Ref): Newly diagnosed: Children and Adolescents: Induction: IV: 25 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 8, 15, 22 (in combination with vincristine, prednisone, pegaspargase, intrathecal methotrexate, and cytarabine).
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML):
AAML0531 (Ref): Newly diagnosed:
Note: Some aspects of protocol dosing based on previous reports (Ref).
Infants and Children with BSA <0.6 m2: Induction I and Induction II: IV: 1.67 mg/kg/dose on days 1, 3, 5 (in combination with cytarabine and etoposide).
Children and Adolescents with BSA ≥0.6 m2: Induction I and Induction II: IV: 50 mg/m2/dose on days 1, 3, and 5 (in combination with cytarabine and etoposide).
AAML0431 (Ref): Patients with Down syndrome <4 years of age at time of AML diagnosis:
Infants and Children ≤3 years: Induction I, III, and IV: IV: 0.67 mg/kg/day as a continuous infusion on days 1 to 4 (96 hours total) (in combination with cytarabine and thioguanine).
Children >3 to <4 years: Induction I, III, and IV: IV: 20 mg/m2/day as a continuous infusion on days 1 to 4 (96 hours total) (in combination with cytarabine and thioguanine).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
The manufacturer's labeling recommends the following adjustment: All patients: SCr >3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of normal dose.
The following adjustments have also been recommended (Ref):
Infants, Children, and Adolescents:
CrCl <30 mL/minute: Administer 50% of dose.
Hemodialysis/continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD): Administer 50% of dose.
The manufacturer's labeling recommends the following adjustments: All patients:
Serum bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Administer 75% of dose.
Serum bilirubin >3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of dose.
The following adjustments have also been recommended based on experience from adult patients (Ref): All patients:
Serum bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Administer 75% of dose.
Serum bilirubin 3.1 to 5 mg/dL: Administer 50% of dose.
Serum bilirubin >5 mg/dL: Avoid use.
(For additional information see "Daunorubicin: Drug information")
Note: Cumulative doses above 550 mg/m2 in adults without risk factors for cardiotoxicity and above 400 mg/m2 in adults receiving chest irradiation are associated with an increased risk of cardiomyopathy (Ref). Actively manage modifiable cardiac risk factors (smoking, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity) before initiating treatment (Ref).
Premedication/prophylaxis: Daunorubicin is associated with a moderate emetic potential; antiemetics are recommended to prevent nausea and vomiting (Ref). Ensure adequate hydration and consider use of antihyperuricemic prophylaxis in patients at risk for tumor lysis syndrome.
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (off-label dosing):
CALGB 8811 regimen: Induction: IV: 45 mg/m2 (in patients <60 years of age) or 30 mg/m2 (in patients ≥60 years of age) on days 1, 2, and 3 (Course I; 4 week cycle), in combination with cyclophosphamide, prednisone, vincristine, and an asparaginase product (Ref).
CCG 1961: Adults ≤21 years of age: IV: Induction: 25 mg/m2 once weekly for 4 weeks (in combination with vincristine, prednisone, and asparaginase) (Ref).
GRAALL-2005: Adults ≤60 years of age: Note: Rituximab is included if CD20-positive (Ref).
Induction: IV: 50 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 and 30 mg/m2 on days 15 and 16 (in combination with prednisone, vincristine, asparaginase, cyclophosphamide, and G-CSF support) (Ref).
Late intensification: IV: 30 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 and on days 15 and 16 (in combination with prednisone, vincristine, asparaginase, cyclophosphamide, and G-CSF support) (Ref).
MRC UKALLXII/ECOG E2993: Adults <60 years of age:
Induction (Phase I): IV: 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (in combination with vincristine, asparaginase, and prednisone) (Ref).
Consolidation (Cycle 3): IV: 25 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (in combination with cyclophosphamide, cytarabine, and thioguanine) (Ref).
PETHEMA ALL-96: Adults ≤30 years of age:
Induction: IV: 30 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 (in combination with vincristine, prednisone, asparaginase, and cyclophosphamide) (Ref).
Consolidation-2/Reinduction: IV: 30 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, 8, and 9 (in combination with vincristine, dexamethasone, asparaginase, and cyclophosphamide) (Ref).
Protocol 8707: Adults ≤60 years of age: IV: Induction and Consolidation 2A cycles: 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 (in combination with vincristine, prednisone, and an asparaginase product). An additional 60 mg/m2 daunorubicin dose may be administered on day 15 of induction if bone marrow biopsy on day 14 shows residual disease (Ref).
Acute myeloid leukemia (off-label dosing):
CCG 2891: Adults <21 years of age:
Induction: IV: 20 mg/m2/day continuous infusion on days 0 to 4 and 10 to 14 (in combination with dexamethasone, cytarabine, thioguanine, and etoposide) (Ref).
Consolidation: IV: 20 mg/m2/day continuous infusion on days 0 to 4 and 10 to 14 (in combination with dexamethasone, cytarabine, thioguanine, and etoposide) (Ref).
Cytarabine/daunorubicin (7 + 3): Induction: IV: 60 to 90 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 (in combination with cytarabine); if residual disease was observed on day 12 to day 14 bone marrow biopsy, 45 mg/m2 for 3 days as a second induction course was administered (in combination with cytarabine) (Ref).
Cytarabine/daunorubicin (5 + 2): Consolidation/re-induction (postremission): IV: 45 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 (in combination with cytarabine) for 2 courses (Ref).
Gemtuzumab ozogamicin/cytarabine/daunorubicin (CD33-positive AML): Adults 50 to 70 years of age:
Induction: IV: 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 (in combination with cytarabine and gemtuzumab ozogamicin); if >10% persistent leukemic blasts observed at day 15 bone marrow biopsy, a second induction course of 60 mg/m2/day for 2 days (in combination with cytarabine and G-CSF support) was administered (Ref).
Consolidation: IV: 60 mg/m2 on day 1 of consolidation course 1 and 60 mg/m2 on days 1 and 2 of consolidation course 2 (in combination with cytarabine and gemtuzumab ozogamicin) (Ref). Refer to protocol for dosage modification details.
Midostaurin/cytarabine/daunorubicin (FLT3 mutated AML): Adults <60 years of age: Induction: IV: 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 (in combination with cytarabine and midostaurin) for 1 or 2 cycles (Ref). Refer to protocol for dosage modification details.
Acute promyelocytic leukemia (off-label dosing):
Induction: Adults: IV: 50 mg/m2 on days 3, 4, 5, and 6 (in combination with ATRA [tretinoin] and cytarabine) (Ref) or 60 mg/m2 on days 3, 4, and 5 (in combination with ATRA and cytarabine) (Ref).
Consolidation: Adults: IV: 50 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 for 2 cycles (in combination with ATRA; arsenic trioxide was administered for 2 cycles prior to daunorubicin and ATRA) (Ref) or 60 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 during cycle 1 of consolidation (in combination with cytarabine), followed by 45 mg/m2 on days 1, 2, and 3 during cycle 2 of consolidation (in combination with cytarabine) (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Note: Significant kidney function impairment may result in increased toxicities.
Scr >3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of normal dose (Ref).
CrCl 30 to 50 mL/minute: Administer 75% of original dose (Ref).
CrCl <30 mL/minute: Administer 50% of original dose (Ref).
Hemodialysis: Administer 50% of original dose (Ref).
Note: Significant hepatic function impairment may result in increased toxicities.
Serum bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL: Administer 75% of dose (Ref).
Serum bilirubin >3 mg/dL: Administer 50% of dose (Ref), although some sources recommend avoiding daunorubicin use with serum bilirubin >5 mg/dL (Ref).
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
Frequency not defined.
>10%:
Cardiovascular: Cardiac failure (dose-related, may be delayed for 7 to 8 years after treatment), ECG abnormality (transient, generally asymptomatic and self-limiting; includes atrial premature contractions, ST segment changes on ECG, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular premature contractions)
Dermatologic: Alopecia (reversible)
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (mild), stomatitis, vomiting (mild)
Genitourinary: Red urine discoloration
Hematologic & oncologic: Bone marrow depression (onset: 7 days; nadir: 10 to 14 days; recovery: 21 to 28 days; primarily leukopenia; anemia, thrombocytopenia)
Miscellaneous: Radiation recall phenomenon
1% to 10%:
Dermatologic: Discoloration of sweat
Endocrine & metabolic: Hyperuricemia
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, discoloration of saliva, gastrointestinal ulcer
Local: Post-injection flare
Ophthalmic: Discoloration of tears
<1%, postmarketing, and/or case reports: Anaphylactoid reaction, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, hepatitis, hypersensitivity reaction (systemic; includes angioedema, dysphagia, dyspnea, pruritus, urticaria), increased serum bilirubin, increased serum transaminases, infertility, injection site reaction (includes injection site cellulitis, local thrombophlebitis, pain at injection site), leukemia (secondary), myocardial infarction, myocarditis, nail bed changes (pigmentation), nail disease (banding), onycholysis, pericarditis, skin rash, sterility, typhlitis (neutropenic)
Hypersensitivity to daunorubicin or any component of the formulation.
Canadian labeling: Patients who exhibit myocardial lesions or those ≥75 years of age.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Bone marrow suppression: Daunorubicin may cause severe bone marrow suppression at therapeutic doses; may lead to infection or hemorrhage. Use with caution in patients with drug-induced bone marrow suppression (preexisting), unless the therapy benefit outweighs the toxicity risk.
• Cardiomyopathy: Daunorubicin may cause cumulative, dose-related myocardial toxicity; may lead to heart failure. May occur either during treatment or may be delayed (months to years after cessation of treatment). According to the manufacturer's labeling, the incidence of myocardial toxicity increases as the total cumulative (lifetime) doses approach 550 mg/m2 in adults, 400 mg/m2 in adults receiving chest radiation, 300 mg/m2 in children >2 years of age, or 10 mg/kg in children <2 years of age. Total cumulative dose should take into account prior treatment with other anthracyclines or anthracenediones, previous or concomitant treatment with other cardiotoxic agents or irradiation of chest. Although the risk increases with cumulative dose, irreversible cardiotoxicity may occur at any dose level. Patients with preexisting heart disease, hypertension, concurrent administration of other antineoplastic agents, prior or concurrent chest irradiation, advanced age; and infants and children are at increased risk.
- According to American Society of Clinical Oncology guidelines (ASCO [Armenian 2017]), the risk of cardiac dysfunction is increased with high-dose anthracycline therapy (eg, equivalent to doxorubicin ≥250 mg/m2); high-dose radiotherapy (≥30 Gy) with the heart in the treatment field; lower-dose anthracyclines (eg, equivalent to doxorubicin <250 mg/m2) in combination with lower-dose radiotherapy (<30 Gy) with the heart in the treatment field; lower-dose anthracyclines AND any of the following risk factors: ≥2 cardiovascular risk factors (including smoking, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity) during or after completion of therapy or age ≥60 years at cancer treatment, or compromised cardiac function (eg, borderline low LVEF [50% to 55%], history of myocardial infarction, moderate or higher valvular heart disease) before or during treatment; treatment with lower-dose anthracycline followed by trastuzumab (sequential therapy); other risk factors for anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity include age ≥60 years at time of treatment and 2 or more cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, or obesity) during or after treatment.
• Extravasation: Vesicant; if extravasation occurs, severe local tissue damage leading to ulceration and necrosis, and pain may occur. For IV administration only. Daunorubicin is NOT for IM or SUBQ administration. Administer through a rapidly flowing IV line. Ensure proper needle or catheter placement prior to and during infusion. Avoid extravasation.
• Secondary malignancy: Secondary leukemias may occur when used with combination chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Tumor lysis syndrome: May cause tumor lysis syndrome and hyperuricemia.
Special populations:
• Older adult: Cardiotoxicity may occur more frequently in older adults. Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function and/or poor marrow reserve due to advanced age; dosage adjustment may be necessary.
• Pediatric: Infants and children are at increased risk for developing delayed cardiotoxicity; long-term periodic cardiac function monitoring is recommended. A panel from the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) and International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) recommends in favor of an anthracycline infusion duration of at least 1 hour in pediatric patients to reduce the potential for cardiotoxicity (ASPHO/SIOP [Loeffen 2018]). However, extravasation risks should also be minimized and the protocol infusion duration specified in a protocol should be followed, particularly if the patient is receiving dexrazoxane as a cardioprotectant.
• Radiation recipients: Use with caution in patients who have received radiation therapy; reduce dosage in patients who are receiving radiation therapy simultaneously.
Pediatric patients are at increased risk for developing delayed cardiac toxicity and congestive heart failure during early adulthood due to an increasing census of long-term survivors; risk factors include: Young treatment age (<5 years), cumulative exposure, and concomitant cardiotoxic therapy. Up to 40% of pediatric patients may have subclinical cardiac dysfunction and 5% to 10% may develop heart failure. Long-term monitoring is recommended for all pediatric patients (COG 2018).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Solution, Intravenous, as hydrochloride:
Generic: 20 mg/4 mL (4 mL [DSC])
Solution, Intravenous, as hydrochloride [preservative free]:
Generic: 20 mg/4 mL (4 mL)
Yes
Solution (DAUNOrubicin HCl Intravenous)
20 mg/4 mL (per mL): $39.34 - $40.24
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Solution, Intravenous, as hydrochloride:
Generic: 20 mg/4 mL (4 mL)
Solution Reconstituted, Intravenous:
Cerubidine: 20 mg (1 ea)
Daunorubicin is associated with a moderate emetic potential; antiemetics are recommended to prevent nausea and vomiting (Ref).
Parenteral: Administration rate/technique may vary by protocol. May administer IV push over 1 to 15 minutes into the tubing of a rapidly infusing IV solution of D5W or NS. Some pediatric protocols use a continuous infusion of the daily dose over 24 hours. Drug is very irritating, do not inject IM or SUBQ. Refer to individual protocol for details, particularly if the patient is receiving dexrazoxane as a cardioprotectant (including timing with respect to dexrazoxane administration); take precautions to minimize extravasation risks.
Vesicant; ensure proper needle or catheter placement prior to and during infusion; avoid extravasation. If extravasation occurs, stop infusion immediately and disconnect (leave cannula/needle in place); gently aspirate extravasated solution (do NOT flush the line); remove needle/cannula; elevate extremity. Initiate antidote (dimethyl sulfate [DMSO] or dexrazoxane [adult]) (see Management of Drug Extravasations for more details). Apply dry cold compresses for 20 minutes 4 times daily for 1 to 2 days (Ref); withhold cooling beginning 15 minutes before dexrazoxane infusion; continue withholding cooling until 15 minutes after infusion is completed. Topical DMSO should not be administered in combination with dexrazoxane; may lessen dexrazoxane efficacy.
Daunorubicin is associated with a moderate emetic potential; antiemetics are recommended to prevent nausea and vomiting (Ref).
IV: For IV administration only. Do not administer IM or SubQ. Administer as slow IV push over 1 to 5 minutes into the tubing of a rapidly infusing IV solution of D5W or NS or may dilute further and infuse over 15 to 30 minutes.
Vesicant; ensure proper needle or catheter placement prior to and during infusion; avoid extravasation.
Extravasation management: If extravasation occurs, stop infusion immediately and disconnect (leave cannula/needle in place); gently aspirate extravasated solution (do NOT flush the line); remove needle/cannula; elevate extremity. Initiate antidote (dexrazoxane or dimethyl sulfate [DMSO]). Apply dry cold compresses for 20 minutes 4 times daily for 1 to 2 days (Ref); withhold cooling beginning 15 minutes before dexrazoxane infusion; continue withholding cooling until 15 minutes after infusion is completed. Topical DMSO should not be administered in combination with dexrazoxane; may lessen dexrazoxane efficacy.
Dexrazoxane: 1,000 mg/m2 (maximum dose: 2,000 mg) IV (administer in a large vein remote from site of extravasation) over 1 to 2 hours days 1 and 2, then 500 mg/m2 (maximum dose: 1,000 mg) IV over 1 to 2 hours day 3; begin within 6 hours of extravasation. Day 2 and day 3 doses should be administered at approximately the same time (± 3 hours) as the dose on day 1 (Ref). Note: Reduce dexrazoxane dose by 50% in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment (CrCl <40 mL/minute).
DMSO: Apply topically to a region covering twice the affected area every 8 hours for 7 days; begin within 10 minutes of extravasation; do not cover with a dressing (Ref).
Hazardous agent (NIOSH 2016 [group 1]).
Use appropriate precautions for receiving, handling, storage, preparation, dispensing, transporting, administration, and disposal. Follow NIOSH and USP 800 recommendations and institution-specific policies/procedures for appropriate containment strategy (NIOSH 2016; USP-NF 2020).
Solution: Store intact vials at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light. Retain in carton until time of use. Solution prepared for infusion in D5W or NS may be stored at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) for up to 24 hours. Discard unused portion.
Lyophilized powder [Canadian product]: Store intact vials of powder at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light. Retain in carton until time of use. Reconstituted daunorubicin is stable for 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours when refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect reconstituted solution from light.
Treatment (remission induction) of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in combination with other chemotherapy (FDA approved in pediatric patients [age not specified] and adults).
Treatment (remission induction) of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in combination with other chemotherapy (FDA approved in adults).
DAUNOrubicin may be confused with DACTINomycin, DAUNOrubicin liposomal, DOXOrubicin, DOXOrubicin liposomal, epiRUBicin, IDArubicin, valrubicin
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes (chemotherapeutic agent, parenteral and oral) which have a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error (High-Alert Medications in Acute Care, Community/Ambulatory Care, and Long-Term Care Settings).
Substrate of P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 (minor); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program
5-Aminosalicylic Acid Derivatives: May enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Abrocitinib: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Anthracyclines. Management: When possible, patients treated with ado-trastuzumab emtansine should avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping ado-trastuzumab emtansine. Monitor closely for cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving this combination. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, these effects may be unmasked if the dose of cytotoxic chemotherapy is reduced. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Antithymocyte Globulin (Equine). Specifically, infections may occur with greater severity and/or atypical presentations. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antithyroid Agents: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the neutropenic effect of Antithyroid Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Baricitinib: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Baricitinib. Risk X: Avoid combination
BCG Products: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of BCG Products. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG Products. Risk X: Avoid combination
Bevacizumab: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Anthracyclines. Risk X: Avoid combination
Brincidofovir: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Brincidofovir. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Brivudine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Chikungunya Vaccine (Live): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Chikungunya Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid combination
Chloramphenicol (Ophthalmic): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Chloramphenicol (Systemic): Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Chloramphenicol (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid combination
Cladribine: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Cladribine. Risk X: Avoid combination
CloZAPine: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CloZAPine. Specifically, the risk for neutropenia may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Coccidioides immitis Skin Test: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the diagnostic effect of Coccidioides immitis Skin Test. Management: Consider discontinuing cytotoxic chemotherapy several weeks prior to coccidioides immitis skin antigen testing to increase the likelihood of accurate diagnostic results. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Adenovirus Vector): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of COVID-19 Vaccine (Adenovirus Vector). Management: Administer a 2nd dose using an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (at least 4 weeks after the primary vaccine dose) and a bivalent booster dose (at least 2 months after the additional mRNA dose or any other boosters). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of COVID-19 Vaccine (Inactivated Virus). Risk C: Monitor therapy
COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA). Management: Give a 3-dose primary series for all patients aged 6 months and older taking immunosuppressive medications or therapies. Booster doses are recommended for certain age groups. See CDC guidance for details. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of COVID-19 Vaccine (Subunit). Risk C: Monitor therapy
COVID-19 Vaccine (Virus-like Particles): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of COVID-19 Vaccine (Virus-like Particles). Risk C: Monitor therapy
CycloPHOSphamide: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Anthracyclines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Deferiprone: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the neutropenic effect of Deferiprone. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents whenever possible. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor the absolute neutrophil count more closely. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine (Live). Risk X: Avoid combination
Denosumab: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Management: Consider the risk of serious infections versus the potential benefits of coadministration of denosumab and cytotoxic chemotherapy. If combined, monitor patients for signs/symptoms of serious infections. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Deucravacitinib: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Etrasimod: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Fam-Trastuzumab Deruxtecan: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Anthracyclines. Management: When possible, patients treated with fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan should avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan. Monitor closely for cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving this combination. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Fexinidazole: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Fexinidazole. Risk X: Avoid combination
Filgotinib: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Inebilizumab: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Inebilizumab. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Influenza Virus Vaccines: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Influenza Virus Vaccines. Management: Administer influenza vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to initiating chemotherapy if possible. If vaccination occurs less than 2 weeks prior to or during chemotherapy, revaccinate at least 3 months after therapy discontinued if immune competence restored. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Leflunomide: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Leflunomide. Management: Increase the frequency of chronic monitoring of platelet, white blood cell count, and hemoglobin or hematocrit to monthly, instead of every 6 to 8 weeks, if leflunomide is coadministered with immunosuppressive agents, such as cytotoxic chemotherapy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Lenograstim: Antineoplastic Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Lenograstim. Management: Avoid the use of lenograstim 24 hours before until 24 hours after the completion of myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Linezolid: May enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lipegfilgrastim: Antineoplastic Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Lipegfilgrastim. Management: Avoid concomitant use of lipegfilgrastim and myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy. Lipegfilgrastim should be administered at least 24 hours after the completion of myelosuppressive cytotoxic chemotherapy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Margetuximab: Anthracyclines may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Margetuximab. Specifically, the risk of cardiac dysfunction may be increased. Management: Avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 4 months after discontinuing margetuximab due to an increased risk of cardiac dysfunction. If anthracyclines must be used with margetuximab monitor cardiac function closely. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Mumps- Rubella- or Varicella-Containing Live Vaccines. Risk X: Avoid combination
Nadofaragene Firadenovec: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Nadofaragene Firadenovec. Specifically, the risk of disseminated adenovirus infection may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
Natalizumab: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Natalizumab. Risk X: Avoid combination
Ocrelizumab: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Ocrelizumab. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ofatumumab: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Ofatumumab. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Olaparib: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Olaparib. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Palifermin: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Antineoplastic Agents. Specifically, the duration and severity of oral mucositis may be increased. Management: Do not administer palifermin within 24 hours before, during infusion of, or within 24 hours after administration of myelotoxic chemotherapy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Pidotimod: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Pidotimod. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pimecrolimus: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Pneumococcal Vaccines: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Pneumococcal Vaccines. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Poliovirus Vaccine (Live/Trivalent/Oral). Risk X: Avoid combination
Polymethylmethacrylate: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the potential for allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to Polymethylmethacrylate. Management: Use caution when considering use of bovine collagen-containing implants such as the polymethylmethacrylate-based Bellafill brand implant in patients who are receiving immunosuppressants. Consider use of additional skin tests prior to administration. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Promazine: May enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Myelosuppressive Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rabies Vaccine: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Rabies Vaccine. Management: Complete rabies vaccination at least 2 weeks before initiation of immunosuppressant therapy if possible. If combined, check for rabies antibody titers, and if vaccination is for post exposure prophylaxis, administer a 5th dose of the vaccine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Ritlecitinib: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Ritlecitinib. Risk X: Avoid combination
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: Myelosuppressive Agents may enhance the myelosuppressive effect of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other myelosuppressive agents. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for excessive myelosuppressive effects. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Ruxolitinib (Topical): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Ruxolitinib (Topical). Risk X: Avoid combination
Sipuleucel-T: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sipuleucel-T. Management: Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing the use of immunosuppressants, such as cytotoxic chemotherapy, prior to initiating sipuleucel-T therapy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate (S1P) Receptor Modulator: May enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Tacrolimus (Topical): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Tacrolimus (Topical). Risk X: Avoid combination
Talimogene Laherparepvec: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Talimogene Laherparepvec. Specifically, the risk of infection from the live, attenuated herpes simplex virus contained in talimogene laherparepvec may be increased. Risk X: Avoid combination
Taxane Derivatives: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Anthracyclines. Taxane Derivatives may increase the serum concentration of Anthracyclines. Taxane Derivatives may also increase the formation of toxic anthracycline metabolites in heart tissue. Management: Consider separating doxorubicin and paclitaxel administration by as much time as possible, using liposomal doxorubicin or epirubicin instead of doxorubicin, or using docetaxel instead of paclitaxel. Monitor closely for cardiovascular and other toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tertomotide: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Tertomotide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tofacitinib: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Tofacitinib. Risk X: Avoid combination
Trastuzumab: May enhance the cardiotoxic effect of Anthracyclines. Management: When possible, patients treated with trastuzumab should avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping trastuzumab. Monitor closely for cardiac dysfunction in patients receiving anthracyclines with trastuzumab. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Typhoid Vaccine: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Typhoid Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Typhoid Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Ublituximab: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Ublituximab. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Upadacitinib: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the immunosuppressive effect of Upadacitinib. Risk X: Avoid combination
Vaccines (Live): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Vaccines (Live). Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Vaccines (Live) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy). Risk X: Avoid combination
Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating): Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Vaccines (Non-Live/Inactivated/Non-Replicating). Management: Give non-live/inactivated/non-replicating vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to starting chemotherapy when possible. Patients vaccinated less than 14 days before or during chemotherapy should be revaccinated at least 3 months after therapy is complete. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Yellow Fever Vaccine: Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Specifically, the risk of vaccine-associated infection may be increased. Immunosuppressants (Cytotoxic Chemotherapy) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Yellow Fever Vaccine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Patients should avoid becoming pregnant during therapy. In general, patients who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during systemic anticancer therapy and for 3 to 6 months after the last dose. Patients with partners who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 to 6 months after the last dose of systemic anticancer therapy (ESMO [Peccatori 2013]).
Daunorubicin is associated with an intermediate risk of azoospermia and infertility in males (ESMO [Lambertini 2020]). Recommendations are available for fertility preservation of male and female patients to be treated with anticancer agents (ASCO [Oktay 2018]; Klipstein 2020).
Daunorubicin crosses the placenta.
Based on data from animal reproduction studies, in utero exposure to daunorubicin may cause fetal harm. Outcome data following maternal use of daunorubicin during pregnancy are available (Fracchiolla 2017; NTP 2013).
The European Society for Medical Oncology has published guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of cancer during pregnancy. The guidelines recommend referral to a facility with expertise in cancer during pregnancy and encourage a multidisciplinary team (obstetrician, neonatologist, oncology team) approach (ESMO [Peccatori 2013]). Guidance is available for the management of acute myeloid leukemia during pregnancy. If daunorubicin is indicated, it should not be administered in the first trimester, but may begin in the second trimester; use between 24 and 32 weeks gestation should consider benefits and risks of therapy (BSH [Ali 2015]).
A long-term observational research study is collecting information about the diagnosis and treatment of cancer during pregnancy. For additional information about the pregnancy and cancer registry or to become a participant, contact Cooper Health (877-635-4499).
CBC with differential and platelet count, serum bilirubin, serum uric acid, LFT, ECG, ventricular ejection fraction (echocardiography [ECHO] or multigated radionuclide angiography [MUGA] scan), renal function test; signs/symptoms of extravasation.
Cardiovascular monitoring (ASCO [Armenian 2017]): Adults: Comprehensive assessment prior to treatment including a history and physical examination, screening for cardiovascular disease risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, and smoking. Echocardiogram (prior to treatment). In patients who develop signs/symptoms of cardiac dysfunction during therapy, an echocardiogram is recommended for diagnostic workup; if echocardiogram is not available or feasible, a cardiac MRI (preferred) or MUGA scan may be utilized; obtain serum cardiac biomarkers.
Daunorubicin inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis by intercalation between DNA base pairs and by steric obstruction. Daunomycin intercalates at points of local uncoiling of the double helix. Although the exact mechanism is unclear, it appears that direct binding to DNA (intercalation) and inhibition of DNA repair (topoisomerase II inhibition) result in blockade of DNA and RNA synthesis and fragmentation of DNA.
Distribution: Distributes widely into tissues, particularly the liver, kidneys, lung, spleen, and heart; does not distribute into the CNS
Metabolism: Primarily hepatic to daunorubicinol (active), then to inactive aglycones, conjugated sulfates, and glucuronides
Half-life elimination: Initial: 45 minutes; Terminal: 18.5 hours; Daunorubicinol plasma half-life: ~27 hours
Excretion: Feces (40%); urine (~25% as unchanged drug and metabolites)
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