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Idarubicin (Idamycin)

Idarubicin is one of the older chemotherapy drugs, which has been around and in use for decades. It is an active medicine against certain cancers. Idarubicin is given by intravenous route only, being most commonly used in treatment of the following cancers:

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

• Acute Lymphoid Leukemia

The type and extent of a cancer will determine the method and schedule of administration of this drug. This decision is made by the medical oncologist. Idarubicin may be given as a continuous intravenous infusion over four to five days, or given on a scheduled basis, (i.e., once a week, or once every three to four weeks, etc.)

Side effects:

The degree and severity of the side effects depend on the amount and schedule of the administration of Idarubicin. Following are some of the most common and important ill effects:

• Low white blood counts

• Low platelet counts

• Anemia

• Hair loss

• Soreness of the mouth; difficulty swallowing

• Diarrhea

It is imperative that patients relay any side effects or problems to their medical oncologists.