Products
Dacarbazine is commercially available as a lyophilizate in lancing ampoules (Dacin). It has been approved in many countries since 2004.
Structure and properties
Dacarbazine (C6H10N6O, Mr = 182.2 g/mol) is present as a colorless to ivory colored substance. It is an imidazole carboxamide derivative. Dacarbazine is a prodrug that is biotransformed in the body to the active metabolite MTIC.
Effects
Dacarbazine (ATC L01AX04) has alkylating, cytostatic, and antineoplastic properties. The effects are due to cell cycle-independent inhibition of DNA synthesis.
Indications
- Metastatic malignant melanoma
- Soft tissue sarcoma and Hodgkin’s disease
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion or injection.
Contraindications
Dacarbazine is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, severe renal or hepatic insufficiency, leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, and during pregnancy and lactation. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with alcohol, other cytostatic drugs, and drugs toxic to the liver.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
