Amifostine
Information about Amifostine
Amifostine uses
Amifostine is used to prevent dryness in the mouth after radio therapy of head and neck cancer. It is also used to reduce the harmful effect of chemotherapy on the kidneys during treatment with cisplatin.
How amifostine works
Amifostine works by removing free radical, harmful elements produced by cisplatin (a medicine used to treat cancer) or radiation therapy in tissues.
Common side effects of amifostine
Nausea, Vomiting, Decreased blood pressure, Hiccup, Sleepiness, Dizziness, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Fever, Chills
Available Medicine for Amifostine
Expert advice for Amifostine
- Amifostine is given as an infusion into the vein ( IV infusion) under the supervision of a doctor only.
- It is advisable to stay hydrated or drink plenty of fluids before taking medicine.
- You will be monitored for blood pressure before and after every 5 minutes of infusion.
- Women who could get pregnant should use a reliable method of contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine.
- It may cause a decrease in calcium levels. Your doctor may monitor your calcium levels regularly and prescribe supplements if needed.
Frequently asked questions for Amifostine
Amifostine
Q. Is Amifostine FDA approved?
Yes, it is FDA an approved drug
Q. What is Amifostine used for?
Amifostine is used to reduce toxicity to kidneys associated with cisplatin therapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer, and in prevention of dry mouth (xerostomia) during radiotherapy for head and neck cancer
Q. How does Amifostine work?
It protects the normal cells against the harmful effects of chemotherapy medications and radiation treatment by producing a chemical ‘thiol' that binds to and detoxifies the harmful compounds produced by cisplatin. Amifostine does not interfere with the action of cisplatin.