Teniposide
Class: Antineoplastic Agents
VA Class: AN900
Molecular Formula: C32H32O13S
CAS Number: 29767-20-2
Brands: Vumon
Warning
Administer only under supervision of qualified clinicians experienced in the use of cytotoxic therapy.
Possible severe myelosuppression with resulting infection and bleeding. (See Myelosuppression under Cautions.)
Possible serious and potentially fatal hypersensitivity reactions. Epinephrine, with or without corticosteroids and antihistamines, has been used to alleviate signs and symptoms. (See Sensitivity Reactions under Cautions.)
Introduction
Antineoplastic agent; a semisynthetic podophyllotoxin-derivative that is structurally and pharmacologically related to etoposide.
Uses for Teniposide
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
Induction therapy (as a component of multiple-drug antineoplastic regimens) in childhood acute lymphocytic (lymphoblastic) leukemia (ALL) that is refractory to induction with other therapy or has relapsed despite such therapy (designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use).
May prolong remission; however, experience is limited, and only a minority of patients achieve long-term survival.
Teniposide Dosage and Administration
General
Consult specialized references for procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastics. (See IV Administration under Dosage and Administration.)
Administration
IV Administration
For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.
Administer diluted solution by slow IV infusion. Do not administer by rapid IV injection. (See Cardiovascular Effects under Cautions.)
To prevent leaching of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) plasticizer, use IV administration sets that do not contain DEHP (e.g., lipid sets, low DEHP-containing nitroglycerin sets).
Ensure that IV catheter or needle is in proper position and functional prior to infusion to avoid extravasation. (See Local Effects under Cautions.)
Flush IV access site thoroughly with 5% dextrose or 0.9% sodium chloride injection prior to and following administration. Heparin should not be used due to potential for drug precipitation.
Observe carefully for possible occlusion of the IV access site, including central venous catheters, particularly during prolonged (e.g., 24-hour) infusions. (See Compatibility under Stability.)
Observe closely for possible hypotensive or hypersensitivity reactions during administration (i.e., for ≥60 minutes after initiation of infusion) and frequently thereafter. (See Cardiovascular Effects and also see Sensitivity Reactions under Cautions.)
Handle cautiously. Skin reactions may occur following accidental exposure; use protective equipment (e.g., gloves). If accidental contact occurs, wash skin thoroughly with soap and water or flush mucosa thoroughly with water.
Dilution
Must be diluted before IV infusion.
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