Trabectedin

Products

Trabectedin is commercially available as a powder for the preparation of an infusion solution concentrate (Yondelis). It has been approved in many countries since 2009.

Structure and properties

Trabectedin (C39H43N3O11S, Mr = 761.8 g/mol) is a tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid from sea squirt , a marine animal belonging to the tunicates. The active ingredient is produced synthetically.

Effects

Trabectedin (ATC L01CX01) has cytostatic and antiproliferative properties. The effects are due to binding to DNA and cell cycle disruption. Trabectedin has a long half-life of up to 180 hours.

Indications

For the treatment of patients with liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma after failure or intolerance of anthracyclines and ifosfamide.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intravenous infusion.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Infections
  • Pregnancy and lactation
  • Combination with yellow fever vaccines
  • Renal insufficiency
  • Hepatic insufficiency

Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

Trabectedin is a substrate of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein. Corresponding drug-drug interactions are possible.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, headache, blood formation disorders, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.