Arsenic Trioxide

Generic Name: arsenic trioxide

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Arsenic Trioxide

Sterile injectable solution of arsenic trioxide. Available in 10 mL single-dose vials containing 10 mg arsenic trioxide at 1.0 mg/mL concentration in water for injection.

Overview

Sterile injectable solution of arsenic trioxide. Available in 10 mL single-dose vials containing 10 mg arsenic trioxide at 1.0 mg/mL concentration in water for injection.

Uses

Indicated for induction of remission and consolidation in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) who are refractory to, or have relapsed from, retinoid and anthracycline chemotherapy, characterized by t(15;17) translocation or PML/RAR-alpha gene expression.

Dosage

Induction: 0.15 mg/kg/day IV daily until bone marrow remission, maximum 60 days. Consolidation: 0.15 mg/kg/day IV daily for 25 doses over up to 5 weeks. Begin consolidation 3-6 weeks after induction completion.

Side Effects

Most common (over 30%): nausea, cough, fatigue, fever, headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, tachycardia, diarrhea, dyspnea, hypokalemia, leukocytosis, hyperglycemia, hypomagnesemia, insomnia, dermatitis, edema, QTc prolongation.

Interactions

Avoid QT-prolonging drugs, electrolyte-altering medications, and hepatotoxic drugs. Monitor ECGs and electrolytes when concurrent use is necessary.

Warnings

BOXED WARNING: Differentiation Syndrome, Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities, and Encephalopathy including Wernicke encephalopathy. Hepatotoxicity monitoring required. Arsenic is a human carcinogen. Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to arsenic.

Pregnancy

Can cause fetal harm. Animal studies show embryolethal and teratogenic effects. Use effective contraception. Do not breastfeed during treatment and 2 weeks after final dose.

Storage

After dilution, store no more than 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours refrigerated. Hazardous drug - follow special handling and disposal procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arsenic Trioxide used for?

Indicated for induction of remission and consolidation in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) who are refractory to, or have relapsed from, retinoid and anthracycline chemotherapy, characterized by t(15;17) translocation or PML/RAR-alpha gene expression.

What are the side effects of Arsenic Trioxide?

Most common (over 30%): nausea, cough, fatigue, fever, headache, abdominal pain, vomiting, tachycardia, diarrhea, dyspnea, hypokalemia, leukocytosis, hyperglycemia, hypomagnesemia, insomnia, dermatitis, edema, QTc prolongation.

Can I take Arsenic Trioxide during pregnancy?

Can cause fetal harm. Animal studies show embryolethal and teratogenic effects. Use effective contraception. Do not breastfeed during treatment and 2 weeks after final dose.

What are the important warnings for Arsenic Trioxide?

BOXED WARNING: Differentiation Syndrome, Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities, and Encephalopathy including Wernicke encephalopathy. Hepatotoxicity monitoring required. Arsenic is a human carcinogen. Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to arsenic.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.