Information about Dacogen (Decitabine)
Dacogen (Decitabine) is a medication used primarily in the treatment of certain types of blood cancers, particularly myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is a type of chemotherapy drug that belongs to a class of medications called hypomethylating agents. Dacogen works by interfering with the DNA in cancer cells, leading to cell death and inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells.
Product Highlights
- Primarily used for treating myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
- Works by inhibiting DNA methylation, which helps reverse abnormal cell growth patterns and promotes cancer cell death.
- Proven to improve overall survival rates and quality of life in patients with MDS and AML.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Decitabine targets and helps to reverse the abnormal DNA methylation patterns seen in cancer cells, which can help to restore normal cell function and promote cancer cell death.
- For certain types of MDS and AML, Decitabine can help improve overall survival rates and quality of life.
- It may help reduce symptoms related to these blood cancers and improve blood cell counts.
Direction of Use
- Dacogen is administered through an intravenous infusion. The dosage and schedule depend on the specific condition being treated and the patient's overall health.
- For MDS, it is usually given over a period of days in a repeated cycle, typically every 4 to 6 weeks. For AML, the treatment schedule may vary and is determined by the treating oncologist.
Safety Concerns
- Include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and risk of infection due to low white blood cell counts.
- Can include severe infections, bleeding complications, liver problems, and severe allergic reactions.
- Regular blood tests are required to monitor blood cell counts and liver function.
Avoid Dacogen (Decitabine) If
- You have a known allergy to decitabine or any of the other components of Dacogen.
- It should not be used during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception should be used during treatment.
- Patients with severe liver impairment may need to avoid Dacogen or use it with caution, as it can further impact liver function.
