About epirubicin hydrochloride
Anthracycline chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Treats breast cancer and other cancers, often alongside other chemotherapy medicines.
Usual adult dose
Varies by cancer type, treatment plan, body surface area, and heart function; administered by oncology specialists.
Usual dose in children
No standard dose; specialist-directed use depends on the cancer and treatment protocol.
Common side effects
- Low blood cell counts, raising infection and bleeding risks
- Nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, and hair loss
- Heart damage or heart failure
- Red urine for a short time after treatment
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression and serious infections.
- May cause permanent heart damage; risk increases with cumulative exposure.
- Can damage tissues if it leaks outside the vein.
- Requires specialist monitoring and careful handling as a cytotoxic medicine.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Avoid during pregnancy unless specialist assessment supports treatment; effective contraception is needed.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment because the medicine may harm the infant.
Interactions
- Other medicines that damage the heart can increase heart-related risks.
- Other chemotherapy or radiation may increase toxicity.
- Some medicines affecting liver enzymes can alter epirubicin exposure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.