Pixantrone

Pixantrone is a antineoplastic agent used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is an anthracenedione derivative, structurally related to the anthracyclines and anthraquinones. Pixantrone was developed by Cell Therapeutics and was approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2012.

Mechanism of Action

Pixantrone is a DNA intercalating agent that inhibits topoisomerase II, leading to DNA double strand breaks and cell death. It also generates reactive oxygen species, contributing to its cytotoxic effects. Unlike other anthracyclines, pixantrone is less likely to cause cardiotoxicity, a common side effect of this class of drugs.

Clinical Use

Pixantrone is used in the treatment of multiply relapsed or refractory aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). It is often used in patients who have previously received two or more lines of therapy. The drug is administered intravenously.

Side Effects

Common side effects of pixantrone include neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and febrile neutropenia. Other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. As with other anthracyclines, there is a risk of cardiotoxicity, but this risk is lower with pixantrone.

Regulatory Status

Pixantrone was approved by the EMA in 2012 for the treatment of multiply relapsed or refractory aggressive NHL. It is marketed under the brand name Pixuvri. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved pixantrone.

See Also

• Anthracycline
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Topoisomerase inhibitor
• Cell Therapeutics