Uses of undefined

Arsenic trioxide is an intravenously administered antineoplastic drug. It is used to treat newly diagnosed low to intermediate-risk acute promyelocytic leukemia (a type of bone cancer where too many immature blood cells accumulate in bone marrow) combined with other medication (tretinoin). It is also indicated in patients whose acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) has not responded to other therapies or whose condition has worsened following treatment with other medications.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

The drug should be administered only by physicians or nurses experienced with cancer chemotherapy. Your physician will determine the dose, frequency of administration, and duration of therapy based on the type of cancer and severity of the disease. Arsenic trioxide is available as an injectable solution. It is given as a drip (infusion) into the veins over 1 - 2 hours. You will be monitored for unwanted side effects during the infusion.  

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

The drug is intended to cause liver toxicity. Monitor liver function tests regularly, and dosing adjustments may be necessary if you have liver diseases. Arsenic trioxide is not recommended in pregnancy and breastfeeding because this may cause harm to your fetus. Arsenic trioxide itself is a human carcinogen, so monitoring for secondary cancers is recommended.  Notify your physician if you have any symptoms of fever, sudden weight gain, dizziness/lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and any symptoms of accumulation of fluids in the lungs, heart, and chest. 

Precautions

Inform your physician if you have heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, and vitamin deficiency. Inform your physician if you are allergic to the arsenic trioxide or its ingredients. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning for pregnancy, it is advisable to discuss it with your physician. Use effective contraceptives during the treatment to prevent pregnancy. Female patients with reproductive potential should use effective contraception during the therapy and for at least 6 months after completing the therapy. Male patients with female partners of reproductive potential should use the effective contraception method for at least 3 months after completing the therapy.

Your healthcare professional may advise you to take certain blood tests to monitor the effectiveness and side effects of the therapy. Inform your physician about all the medicines that your taking or have taken before, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. 

Side Effects

The common side effects include swelling in the face and body, reduced blood pressure, itchy skin, increased blood sugar levels, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, bone pain, muscle pain, dizziness, headache, insomnia, pain in the throat, loss of appetite, bleeding from the nose, cough, difficulty breathing, fever and tiredness.  Other serious side effects are anemia, changes in heart rate, liver toxicity, hypersensitivity reactions, infections and sepsis, kidney problems, and pneumonia. 

Word Of Advice

Store this medicine at 2– 8ºC. Do not freeze. Keep the medicine out of sight and reach from children and pets. If you forgot to take the injection on the scheduled day, inform your physician or healthcare professional immediately and reschedule the dose. Arsenic trioxide is not recommended in children and young people below 18 years of age.

Frequently Asked Question

• Can I become pregnant while taking arsenic trioxide?
• Arsenic trioxide is unsafe to use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid pregnancy during the treatment. Use effective contraceptives during the treatment for at at least 6 months (females) or 3 months (males) after receiving the final dose. 

• How long should I have to take arsenic trioxide injection?
• The dose and duration of the treatment will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition, severity, and other factors. Do not stop receiving the treatment without consulting your physician. 

• What should I inform the doctor before taking the arsenic trioxide?
• Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, allergies, and other medications that you take, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamin supplements, and herbal products. 

•  Does consuming alcohol affects the treatment with arsenic trioxide?
• Yes, consuming alcohol regularly during the treatment with arsenic trioxide can make you more prone to vitamin B12 deficiency. Inform your doctor if you are consuming alcohol daily. 

• Can treatment with arsenic trioxide cause weight gain?
• Arsenic trioxide does not cause weight gain. If you see any sudden changes in your weight, inform your physician immediately.