• Breast cancer
• Stomach and bowel cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Lung cancer

Farmorubicin RTU works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It interferes with the DNA inside the cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and multiplying. Over time, this helps shrink the tumour and control the spread of the disease. It targets cancer cells more than healthy cells, but some healthy cells may still be affected, which can cause side effects.

Tell your doctor if you:

• Are receiving or have recently received radiation therapy

• Have a weakened immune system or any active infection

• Have had any vaccinations recently or plan to get one soon

• Are taking other medications, especially for heart rhythm (e.g., Domperidone), as interactions may occur

• Store Farmorubicin RTU injection in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C)
• Do not freeze
• Keep the injection away from the reach of children and pets.
• If you have missed any dosing appointments, inform your doctor and schedule immediately.

This medicine is administered by a doctor or nurse as an intravenous infusion. Do not self-administer. The frequency and number of doses depend on the type of cancer being treated and your response to the medicine.

Most side effects are manageable and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. Let your doctor know if any side effect persists or bother you.

Common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Hair loss (temporary)

• Fatigue or weakness

• Rash or itching

• Eye irritation or infection

• Menstrual irregularities

• Low red and white blood cell counts

• Low platelet count (can cause easy bruising or bleeding)

Serious but less common side effects:

• Heart problems (shortness of breath, chest pain)

• Severe allergic reactions

• Infections (fever, sore throat)

• Lung-related side effects

• Elevated kidney markers (urea or creatinine)

• Stay well hydrated and eat small, frequent meals to manage nausea.

• You may notice your urine turning reddish for a day or two after treatment—this is normal.

• Let your doctor know immediately if you experience fever, unusual bleeding, or shortness of breath.

• Both men and women should use effective birth control during treatment and for several months after stopping.

• Always attend follow-up appointments and blood tests as advised.

1. Epirubicin hydrochloride 2 mg/ml solution for injection - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc). Medicines.org.uk. [revised on 2016] [cited 2023 Mar 31]. Available from: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6361/smpc
2. HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION - Epirubicin. [revised on 2019] [cited 2023 Mar 31]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/050778s024s025lbl.pdf
3. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 867.