How it Works

Mitoxantrone is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat a variety of cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Mitoxantrone is classified as an anthracenedione, which is a type of DNA-reactive agent that can interact with and damage cancerous cells’ DNA.

Mitoxantrone works by attacking cancer cells and preventing them from growing and dividing. It does this by interfering with the production of DNA and RNA, which are substances that are needed for cells to grow and divide. In addition, mitoxantrone also targets an enzyme called topoisomerase II, which helps repair damaged DNA. By targeting these substances and enzymes, mitoxantrone can help slow the growth and spread of cancer cells.

How it’s Administered

It is typically administered intravenously (through a vein) as an injection or infusion. The specific dose and frequency of mitoxantrone treatment depend on the condition being treated and the patient's individual circumstances.

Who Should Take Mitoxantrone

Patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, prostate cancer, or peripheral T-cell lymphoma.

Who Shouldn’t Take Mitoxantrone

Patients that have a severe allergy to mitoxantrone or any of its components
Patients with heart disease

The Most Common Side Effects of Taking Mitoxantrone Include:

Nausea, fever, infection, diarrhea, inflamed and sore mouth, constipation
Absence of menstruation
Hair loss or hair thinning
Myelosuppression, which is a condition in which bone marrow activity is decreased, resulting in fewer red blood cells (which carry oxygen to the body's tissues), white blood cells (which help the body fight infections), and platelets (which help the blood to clot). Low levels of these blood cells can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, a higher risk of infection, and bleeding.

Commonly Used in Acute Myeloid Leukemia With

Cytarabine
Etoposide

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Date last updated: 12/22/22

mitoxantrone

Common brand names

Administration method