Information about Amifostine

Generic Name : Amifostine
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Amifostine are provided here.

Pronunciation : A-mi-FOS-teen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Amifostine, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

Trade Names/Brand Names of Amifostine

India :

More info >>>

International :

Ethyol

Why is Amifostine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a cytoprotective agent, prescribed for preventing kidney damage due to chemotherapy and reducing the mouth dryness due to radiation therapy.

When should Amifostine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with low BP, dehydration, patients with kidney or liver disease, children and elderly >70 years, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Amifostine?

As a cell protective agent in chemotherapy and radiation.
Adult: Initially, 910 mg/m² BSA once daily, as an infusion given over 15 minutes, 30 minutes before start of chemotherapy. May reduce to 740 mg/m² if patient is unable to tolerate the full dose.
For patients receiving cisplatin- <100 mg/m², a dose of 740 mg/m² may be given to reduce renal toxicity.
Prophylaxis of dry mouth in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer- Adult: 200 mg/m² BSA once daily, as an infusion given over 3 minutes, beginning 15-30 minutes before radiotherapy.

How should Amifostine be taken?

This medication available in the form of injection, administered by the healthcare providers.

What are the warnings and precautions for Amifostine?

•Caution needed for pregnant women and breast feeding.

Patients should drink water adequately to avoid dehydration.

Prolonged infusion causes greater side effects.

Stop antihypertensive drugs one day before infusion.

Take antiemetics (drug against vomiting and vomiting sensation) before infusion especially if the treatment causes vomiting.

What are the side effects of Amifostine?

Heart-Low blood pressure during infusion, fall in pulse pressure.
Central Nervous System- Transient and reversible loss of consciousness rarely, dizziness, drowsiness.
Gastrointestinal-Nausea, vomiting.
Miscellaneous- Flushing, feeling of warmth, chills, sneezing, cough and skin rashes.

What are the other precautions for Amifostine?

Monitor blood pressure regularly, at least before and immediately after infusion.

What are the storage conditions for Amifostine?

Intravenous: Vials containing lyophilized powder: Store at 20-25°C. Reconstituted solution (500 mg/10 mL): Chemically stable for up to 5 hr at room temperature (about 25°C) or up to 24 hr under refrigeration (2-8°C).