Product Description
1. Technical Specifications
| Attribute |
Details |
| Brand Name |
Cytosar-U |
| Generic Name |
Cytarabine |
| Strength |
1000mg in 10 ml |
| Dosage Form |
Injection (IV, SC, or Intrathecal, depending on regimen) |
| Packaging Size |
Single-use vial |
| Packaging Type |
Glass vial with rubber stopper & flip-off seal |
| Medicine Type |
Anticancer Chemotherapy (Antimetabolite) |
| Manufacturer |
Pfizer (original brand: Cytosar-U) |
| Distributed By |
Pfizer Oncology distributors / authorized hospitals |
2. Product Description
Cytosar-U contains Cytarabine, an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug belonging to the pyrimidine analog class.
It interferes with DNA synthesis by incorporating into DNA and inhibiting DNA polymerase, leading to impaired DNA replication and apoptosis of rapidly dividing cells.
It is a key component of induction and consolidation chemotherapy in acute leukemias and lymphomas.
3. Product Highlights
| Attribute |
Details |
| Therapeutic Category |
Anticancer Cytotoxic Chemotherapy (Antimetabolite) |
| Application Area |
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL), Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (blast crisis), CNS leukemia (intrathecal use) |
| Mechanism of Action |
Cytidine analog phosphorylated intracellularly inhibits DNA polymerase & incorporates into DNA blocks DNA synthesis apoptosis |
| Administration |
IV infusion, Subcutaneous injection, or Intrathecal injection (as per protocol) |
| Storage Conditions |
Store below 25 C; protect from light; reconstituted solution stable under refrigeration for limited time |
4. Therapeutic Uses
-
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Used in induction (e.g., 7+3 regimen with daunorubicin) and consolidation therapy.
-
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): In certain regimens, especially in CNS prophylaxis.
-
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): As part of salvage chemotherapy regimens.
-
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Used in blast crisis.
-
Intrathecal Use: For CNS leukemia prophylaxis and treatment.
5. Side Effects
Common:
-
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
-
Stomatitis, mouth ulcers
-
Fever, malaise
-
Rash, local irritation at injection site
Serious / Severe:
-
Myelosuppression: severe neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia
-
Neurotoxicity: cerebellar toxicity (ataxia, slurred speech), especially with high doses
-
Hepatotoxicity and elevated liver enzymes
-
Pulmonary toxicity: pneumonitis, ARDS (high-dose regimens)
-
Ocular toxicity: conjunctivitis, keratitis (prophylaxis with corticosteroid eye drops recommended in high-dose regimens)
-
Tumor lysis syndrome in high-burden leukemia
6. Precautions
-
Bone marrow monitoring: CBC required frequently; dose modifications as needed.
-
Neurologic monitoring: Assess coordination and mental status in high-dose regimens.
-
Liver & Kidney function: Dose adjustment may be necessary in impairment.
-
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Contraindicated; cytarabine is teratogenic.
-
Eye protection: Corticosteroid eye drops recommended with high-dose therapy.
-
Drug Interactions: May interact with other myelosuppressive or hepatotoxic agents.
-
Intrathecal Administration: Must be preservative-free; given only in specialized centers.
Precision Medicine for Cancer CareCytarabine injection is pivotal in the treatment protocols for certain leukemias, offering targeted action against abnormal cells. As a trusted choice among healthcare professionals, this injectable chemotherapy agent ensures high standards of efficacy and patient safety when administered under clinical supervision.
Usage and Safety GuidelinesCytarabine injection must only be used as per a doctors instructions. The correct dosage and administration schedule are critical for treatment effectiveness and minimizing side effects. Professionals handling this product should be well-versed in oncological protocols to ensure proper patient care.
Supply and Storage InformationDistributed and supplied across India, Cytarabine injection is available for medical institutions, clinics, and specialist wholesalers. To ensure product integrity, it must be stored in a cool, dry place according to manufacturer guidelines. Proper storage preserves its potency and extends shelf life.
FAQs of Cytarabine injection:
Q: How should Cytarabine injection be administered for effective results?
A: Cytarabine injection should be given by a healthcare professional, typically through intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous routes, following the doctors prescribed dosage and schedule for best therapeutic outcomes.
Q: What types of cancer is Cytarabine injection used to treat?
A: Cytarabine injection is mainly used in the treatment of certain leukemias, such as acute myeloid leukemia, where it targets rapidly dividing abnormal blood cells.
Q: When should Cytarabine injection be stored to maintain its efficacy?
A: Cytarabine injection must be stored in a cool and dry place at all times to ensure that the medication remains potent and uncontaminated until usage.
Q: Where can I source Cytarabine injection for clinical use in India?
A: Medical institutions and professionals in India can procure Cytarabine injection from certified distributors, exporters, suppliers, traders, and wholesalers.
Q: What is the process for using Cytarabine injection in a clinical setting?
A: Before administration, medical staff should verify patient suitability, reconstitute the injection if necessary, and follow strict aseptic techniques as per oncology standards and the prescribers instructions.
Q: How does Cytarabine injection benefit adult patients undergoing chemotherapy?
A: Cytarabine injection helps inhibit the growth of cancer cells, improving chances for remission in conditions like leukemia when administered as part of a comprehensive chemotherapy protocol.