Dactinomycin (Dacilon)

Storage/Handling:

Store at a temperature below 25˚C in a cool and dry place away from sunlight

Uses of Dactinomycin (Dacilon):

Used in the treatment of -
- Wilms' tumor (kidney cancer)
- rhabdomyosarcoma (muscle cancer)
- Ewing's sarcoma (bone cancer)
- melanoma (skin cancer)
- testicular cancer and gestational trophoblastic tumors (cancer of the uterus).

Product Introduction:

Dacilon 0.5mg Injection, an antibiotic and antineoplastic medicine containing Dactinomycin, tackles various cancers like Wilms' tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, melanoma, and uterine and testicular cancers. However, it's crucial to avoid this medication if you're allergic to Dactinomycin or its components, have chickenpox or shingles, or have underlying kidney, liver, or bone marrow issues. Inform your doctor if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as effective contraception is necessary during and after treatment (6 months for women, 3 months for men). Additionally, inform your doctor about radiotherapy, X-rays, or prior antibacterial treatment, as they might interact with Dacilon.

While Dacilon helps fight cancer, it can also cause side effects like sudden hair loss, acne, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. In rare cases, allergic reactions, swollen red skin, liver problems, and unusual bruising or bleeding may occur. If you experience any of these side effects, consult your doctor immediately. Remember, Dacilon is a powerful medication, so it's vital to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and report any changes in your health.

Benefits of Dactinomycin (Dacilon):

Dacilon 0.5 mg Injection, a powerful antibiotic, targets a variety of cancers, including Wilms' tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, melanoma, testicular cancer, and even certain pregnancy-related tumors. The key ingredient, Dactinomycin, works by halting the uncontrolled division of cancer cells. By preventing these abnormal cells from reproducing, Dacilon helps to shrink tumors and control cancer growth, offering a valuable weapon in the fight against these challenging diseases.

Side Effects of Dactinomycin (Dacilon):

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all medicines cause side effects, not everyone gets them.

Serious side effects of Dacilon 0.5 -
Bacterial infection in the bloodstream (shivering, diarrhea, sudden chill)
Severe bleeding, inflammation of the vein
Facial or tongue swelling, skin and muscle pain accompanied by fever and chills
Blisters covering a large portion of the body, peeling off the skin, red or purplish rash
Tumor lysis syndrome (muscle spasm, decreased urine flow, irregular heartbeat)
Liver problems (difficulty breathing with thoracic pain, confusion, seizures, sweet breath odor)
Lower blood cells (RBC, WBC, platelet)

Common side effects of Dacilon 0.5 -
Nausea & vomiting
Inflammation of the rectum
Tiredness, feeling unwell
Fertility problems
Inflammation of the lungs, chest pain
Difficulty swallowing, mouth ulcers, sore throat, cracked lips
Tingling in hands and feet
Difficulty in breathing with thoracic pain
Stomach pain, ulcers, Loss of appetite
Blood clot
Diarrhea
Constipation
Skin rashes, acne, increased darkness in the skin
Hair loss
Soft tissue damage
Blurry vision

Drug Interactions:

Drug-Drug Interactions: It is crucial to disclose to your doctor if you are currently using antibacterial medications, anti-cancer drugs (such as imatinib), or colony-stimulating factors (like pegfilgrastim and filgrastim). Additionally, provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are on, encompassing prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, nutritional and vitamin supplements, vaccines, and herbal products. Some medications may interact with Dacilon 0.5mg, potentially diminishing its effectiveness and leading to undesired side effects.

Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions with food have been identified.

Drug-Disease Interactions: Ensure you inform your doctor if you have conditions such as chickenpox, infections, bone marrow suppression, or hepatic or renal toxicity. This information is vital for the proper evaluation of potential interactions and for ensuring the safe use of Dacilon 0.5mg.

How Dactinomycin (Dacilon) Works:

Belonging to the chemotherapy medication class, Dacilon 0.5 mg Injection is employed in the treatment of various cancer types. Enriched with Dactinomycin, it operates by impeding the growth of cancer cells, effectively slowing or halting their progression. By hindering the reproduction of abnormal cells linked to cancer, this medication plays a pivotal role in the treatment of cancer.

Safety Instructions For Dactinomycin (Dacilon):

ALCOHOL Consult Your Doctor The interaction between Dacilon 0.5mg and alcohol is unknown. Always consult your doctor before consuming alcohol while taking this medication. PREGNANCY Unsafe Dacilon 0.5mg is unsafe for pregnant women due to potential harm to the developing baby. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or suspect you might be pregnant. BREAST FEEDING Unsafe Dacilon 0.5mg is unsafe for breastfeeding mothers. Your doctor may recommend stopping breastfeeding while taking this medication. LIVER Consult Your Doctor If you have existing liver problems, use Dacilon 0.5mg with caution. Inform your doctor before starting this medication. KIDNEY Consult Your Doctor If you have a history of kidney problems, tell your doctor before receiving Dacilon 0.5mg. DRIVING Consult Your Doctor The effect of Dacilon 0.5mg on driving ability is unknown. Avoid driving if you experience any side effects that may impair your judgment or coordination. CHILDREN Consult Your Doctor Dacilon 0.5mg can be prescribed to children under doctor's supervision. Keep the medication out of reach of children. LUNGS Consult Your Doctor Dacilon 0.5mg can be prescribed to children under doctor's supervision. Keep the medication out of reach of children.

Habit Forming

No

Remember:

1. Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions and medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions or side effects with Dacilon 0.5mg.
2. If any side effects occur, especially persistent or worsening ones, talk to your doctor promptly. They can adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments.
3. Dacilon 0.5mg is administered directly through injection. Your doctor or qualified healthcare professional will administer it.
4. Dacilon 0.5mg should be used with extra care in children, elderly patients, or individuals with specific health conditions. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance.
5. Avoid Dacilon 0.5mg if you have allergies to any of its ingredients. Always inform your doctor about any known allergies beforehand.
6. Keep Dacilon 0.5mg vials at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures. Do not refrigerate or freeze the medication.

FAQs:

1. How does Dacilon 0.5mg Injection work?

Dacilon 0.5mg Injection belongs to a group of medications called antineoplastics, which means they fight cancer. It works by interfering with the ability of cancer cells to grow and divide, essentially stopping them in their tracks

2. How is Dacilon 0.5mg dosage determined?

Your Dacilon 0.5mg dosage is tailored to your specific needs. Several factors like your type and stage of cancer, overall health, and response to the medication play a role. Your doctor will carefully calculate the precise dosage to maximize effectiveness while minimizing risks.

3. What is the precaution for Dacilon 0.5mg?

Open communication with your doctor is crucial. Tell them about any existing kidney, liver, or bone marrow issues. Also, inform them if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as Dacilon 0.5mg requires special care in these situations.

4. Does Dacilon 0.5 mg Injection cause infections?

Yes, Dacilon 0.5mg can affect your blood cell count, making you more susceptible to infections. Practicing good hygiene like frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with sick people is key. Report any fever, chills, or other infection symptoms to your doctor promptly.

5. Does Dacilon 0.5 mg Injection affect fertility?

Dacilon 0.5mg may potentially harm fertility as a side effect. If you have concerns about this or are planning a family, discuss them with your doctor openly. They can address your worries and suggest alternative treatment options if necessary.

6. What if I missed the dose of Dacilon 0.5 mg Injection?

Contact your doctor as soon as you remember the missed dose. They will advise you on the best course of action, perhaps adjusting your schedule or providing specific instructions.