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Doxorubicin Hydrochloride

Prescription ANDA TE AP Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Doxorubicin Hydrochloride
Generic name
Doxorubicin Hydrochloride
Dosage form
Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution
Route
Intravenous
Marketing category
ANDA · ANDA
Labeler
Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
1
NDC product codes
5
Packages
5
Data completeness
82% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Doxorubicin Hydrochloride 2 mg/mL 1790115 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution
Route of administration
Intravenous
Presentations
10

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Anthracycline Topoisomerase Inhibitor [EPC] EPC All 11 members
Anthracyclines [CS] CS All 11 members
Topoisomerase Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 22 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
062921
Application type
ANDA · Abbreviated New Drug Application
Approval date
March 17, 1989
Sponsor
HIKMA
Products on application
3
Submissions recorded
20
Products approved under application 062921.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
062921-001 DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTABLE DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE Prescription — RS
062921-002 DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTABLE DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE Prescription AP RS
062921-003 DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTABLE DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE Prescription AP RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AP
Reference Listed Drug
No
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 062921.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 26 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 19, 2018 —
Supplement 22 Labeling Approved July 25, 2012 Standard
Supplement 20 Labeling Approved November 18, 2010 —
Supplement 18 Labeling Approved February 15, 2007 —
Supplement 15 Labeling Approved July 28, 2003 —
Supplement 14 Labeling Approved September 19, 2000 —
Supplement 13 Labeling Approved August 24, 1999 —
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved December 1, 1998 —
Supplement 11 Labeling Approved April 30, 1997 —
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 31, 1996 —
Supplement 10 Labeling Approved July 29, 1996 —
Supplement 9 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 24, 1995 —
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved February 24, 1995 —
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 16, 1993 —
Supplement 6 Labeling Approved July 28, 1993 —
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 27, 1993 —
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 8, 1992 —
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 3, 1992 —
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 5, 1989 —
Original application 1 Approved March 17, 1989 —

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · December 12, 2012

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20240529). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20240529 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20240426 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20220701

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: CARDIOMYOPATHY, SECONDARY MALIGNANCIES, EXTRAVASATION AND TISSUE NECROSIS, and SEVERE MYELOSUPPRESSION Cardiomyopathy: Myocardial damage, including acute left ventricular failure, can occur with doxorubicin hydrochloride. The risk of cardiomyopathy is proportional to the cumulative exposure with incidence rates from 1% to 20% for cumulative doses ranging from 300 mg/m 2 to 500 mg/m 2 when doxorubicin hydrochloride is administered every 3 weeks. The risk of cardiomyopathy is further increased with concomitant cardiotoxic therapy. Assess left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before and regularly during and after treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Secondary Malignancies: Secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) occur at a higher incidence in patients treated with anthracyclines, including doxorubicin hydrochloride [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis: Extravasation of doxorubicin hydrochloride can result in severe local tissue injury and necrosis requiring wide excision of the affected area and skin grafting. Immediately terminate the drug and apply ice to the affected area [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Severe myelosuppression resulting in serious infection, septic shock, requirement for transfusions, hospitalization, and death may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . WARNING: CARDIOMYOPATHY, SECONDARY MALIGNANCIES, EXTRAVASATION AND TISSUE NECROSIS, and SEVERE MYELOSUPPRESSION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Cardiomyopathy: Myocardial damage can occur with doxorubicin hydrochloride with incidences from 1% to 20% for cumulative doses from 300 mg/m 2 to 500 mg/m 2 when doxorubicin hydrochloride is administered every 3 weeks. The risk of cardiomyopathy is further increased with concomitant cardiotoxic therapy. Assess left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before and regularly during and after treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride. ( 5.1 ) Secondary Malignancies: Secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) occur at a higher incidence in patients treated with anthracyclines, including doxorubicin hydrochloride. ( 5.2 ) Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis: Extravasation of doxorubicin hydrochloride can result in severe local tissue injury and necrosis requiring wide excision and skin grafting. Immediately terminate the drug, and apply ice to the affected area. ( 5.3 ) Severe myelosuppression resulting in serious infection, septic shock, requirement for transfusions, hospitalization, and death may occur. ( 5.4 )

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP is an anthracycline topoisomerase II inhibitor indicated: • as a component of multiagent adjuvant chemotherapy for treatment of women with axillary lymph node involvement following resection of primary breast cancer ( 1.1 ). • for the treatment of: acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloblastic leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, metastatic breast cancer, metastatic Wilms' tumor, metastatic neuroblastoma, metastatic soft tissue sarcoma, metastatic bone sarcomas, metastatic ovarian carcinoma, metastatic transitional cell bladder carcinoma, metastatic thyroid carcinoma, metastatic gastric carcinoma, metastatic bronchogenic carcinoma ( 1.2 ). 1.1 Adjuvant Breast Cancer Doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP is indicated as a component of multi-agent adjuvant chemotherapy for treatment of women with axillary lymph node involvement following resection of primary breast cancer [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . 1.2 Other Cancers Doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP is indicated for the treatment of • acute lymphoblastic leukemia • acute myeloblastic leukemia • Hodgkin lymphoma • non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) • metastatic breast cancer • metastatic Wilms' tumor • metastatic neuroblastoma • metastatic soft tissue sarcoma • metastatic bone sarcoma • metastatic ovarian carcinoma • metastatic transitional cell bladder carcinoma • metastatic thyroid carcinoma • metastatic gastric carcinoma • metastatic bronchogenic carcinoma

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Single agent: 60 to 75 mg/m 2 given intravenously every 21 days ( 2.1 ). • In combination therapy: 40 to 75 mg/m 2 given intravenously every 21 to 28 days ( 2.1 ). • Discontinue doxorubicin hydrochloride in patients who develop signs or symptoms of cardiomyopathy ( 2.2 ). • Reduce dose in patients with hepatic impairment ( 2.2 ). 2.1 Recommended Dose Adjuvant Breast Cancer The recommended dose of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP is 60 mg/m 2 administered as an intravenous bolus on day 1 of each 21-day treatment cycle, in combination with cyclophosphamide, for a total of four cycles [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. Metastatic Disease, Leukemia, or Lymphoma • The recommended dose of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP when used as a single agent is 60 to 75 mg/m 2 intravenously every 21 days. • The recommended dose of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP, when administered in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, is 40 to 75 mg/m 2 intravenously every 21 to 28 days. • Consider use of the lower doxorubicin dose in the recommended dose range or longer intervals between cycles for heavily pretreated patients, elderly patients, or obese patients. • Cumulative doses above 550 mg/m 2 are associated with an increased risk of cardiomyopathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. 2.2 Dose Modifications Cardiac Impairment Discontinue doxorubicin in patients who develop signs or symptoms of cardiomyopathy. Hepatic Impairment Doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C or serum bilirubin >5.0 mg/dL) [see Contraindications (4) ]. Decrease the dose of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP in patients with elevated serum total bilirubin concentrations as follows: Serum bilirubin concentration Doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP Dose reduction 1.2 to 3 mg/dL 50 % 3.1 to 5 mg/dL 75 % greater than 5 mg/dL Do not initiate doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP Discontinue doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ] 2.3 Preparation and Administration Preparation of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for injection, USP Reconstitute doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection, USP with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to obtain a final concentration of 2 mg per mL as follows: • 5 mL 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to reconstitute 10 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP vial. • 25 mL 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to reconstitute 50 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP vial. Gently shake vial until the contents have dissolved. Protect reconstituted solution from light. Administration Visually inspect parenteral drug products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Discard if the solution is discolored, cloudy, or contains particulate matter. Storage of vials of Doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection, USP following reconstitution under refrigerated conditions can result in the formation of a gelled product. Place gelled product at room temperature [15 0 to 30 0 C (59 0 to 86 0 F)] for 2 to 4 hours to return the product to a slightly viscous, mobile solution. Administration by Intravenous Injection: • Administer doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP as an intravenous injection through a central intravenous line or a secure and free-flowing peripheral venous line containing 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. • Administer doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP intravenously over 3 to 10 minutes. Decrease the rate of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP administration if erythematous streaking along the vein proximal to the site of infusion or facial flushing occur. Administration by Continuous Intravenous Infusion: Infuse only through a central catheter. Decrease the rate of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP administration if erythematous streaking along the vein proximal to the site of infusion or facial flushing occur. …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP: Vials contain 20 mg/vial and 50 mg/vial of doxorubicin hydrochloride, USP as a red to orange-red lyophilized cake or powder in single-dose vials for reconstitution. For Injection: 20 mg/vial and 50 mg/vial as a lyophilized powder in single-dose vials for reconstitution ( 3 ).

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection is contraindicated in patients with: Severe myocardial insufficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Recent (occurring within the past 4 to 6 weeks) myocardial infarction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Severe persistent drug-induced myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Severe hepatic impairment (defined as Child Pugh Class C or serum bilirubin level greater than 5 mg/dL) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Severe hypersensitivity reaction to doxorubicin hydrochloride, including anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] Severe myocardial insufficiency ( 4 ). Recent myocardial infarction ( 4 ). Severe persistent drug-induced myelosuppression ( 4 ). Severe hepatic impairment ( 4 ). Severe hypersensitivity to doxorubicin hydrochloride ( 4 ).

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Radiation-Induced Toxicity: Can be increased by the administration of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection. Radiation recall can occur in patients who receive doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection after prior radiation therapy ( 5.7 ). Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and on the use of effective contraception. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception. Advise males with pregnant partners to use condoms ( 5.8 , 8.1 , 8.3 ). 5.1 Cardiomyopathy and Arrhythmias Cardiomyopathy Doxorubicin hydrochloride can result in myocardial damage, including acute left ventricular failure. The risk of cardiomyopathy is generally proportional to the cumulative exposure. Include prior doses of other anthracyclines or anthracenediones in calculations of total cumulative dosage for doxorubicin hydrochloride. Cardiomyopathy may develop during treatment or up to several years after completion of treatment and can include decrease in LVEF and signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF). The probability of developing cardiomyopathy is estimated to be 1% to 2% at a total cumulative dose of 300 mg/m 2 of doxorubicin hydrochloride, 3% to 5% at a dose of 400 mg/m 2 , 5% to 8% at a dose of 450 mg/m 2 , and 6% to 20% at a dose of 500 mg/m 2 , when doxorubicin hydrochloride is administered every 3 weeks. There is an additive or potentially synergistic increase in the risk of cardiomyopathy in patients who have received radiotherapy to the mediastinum or concomitant therapy with other known cardiotoxic agents, such as cyclophosphamide and trastuzumab. Pericarditis and myocarditis have also been reported during or following doxorubicin hydrochloride treatment. Assess left ventricular cardiac function (e.g., MUGA or echocardiogram) prior to initiation of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection, during treatment to detect acute changes, and after treatment to detect delayed cardiotoxicity. Increase the frequency of assessments as the cumulative dose exceeds 300 mg/m 2 . Use the same method of assessment of LVEF at all time points [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . Discontinue doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection in patients who develop signs or symptoms of cardiomyopathy [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] . Consider the use of dexrazoxane to reduce the incidence and severity of cardiomyopathy due to doxorubicin hydrochloride administration in patients who have received a cumulative doxorubicin hydrochloride dose of 300 mg/m 2 and who will continue to receive doxorubicin hydrochloride. Arrhythmias Doxorubicin hydrochloride can result in arrhythmias, including life-threatening arrhythmias, during or within a few hours after doxorubicin hydrochloride administration and at any time point during treatment. Tachyarrhythmias, including sinus tachycardia, premature ventricular contractions, and ventricular tachycardia, as well as bradycardia, can occur. Electrocardiographic changes, including non-specific ST-T wave changes, atrioventricular and bundle-branch block can also occur. These electrocardiographic changes may be transient and self-limited and may not require a dosage modification of doxorubicin hydrochloride. 5.2 Secondary Malignancies The risk of developing secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is increased following treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride. Cumulative incidences ranged from 0.2% at five years to 1.5% at 10 years in two separate trials involving the adjuvant treatment of women with breast cancer. These leukemias generally occur within 1 to 3 years of treatment. 5.3 Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis Extravasation of doxorubicin hydrochloride can cause severe local tissue injury manifesting as blistering, ulceration, and necrosis requiring wide excision of the affected area and skin grafting. Extravasation should be cons …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling. Cardiomyopathy and Arrhythmias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Secondary Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Severe Myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Tumor Lysis Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Radiation Sensitization and Radiation Recall [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] The most common (> 10%) adverse reactions are alopecia, nausea and vomiting ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Amneal Pharmaceuticals at 1-877-835-5472 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Breast Cancer The safety data below were collected from 1,492 women who received doxorubicin hydrochloride at a dose of 60 mg/m 2 and cyclophosphamide at a dose of 600 mg/m 2 (AC) every 3 weeks for 4 cycles for the adjuvant treatment of axillary lymph node positive breast cancer. The median number of cycles received was 4. Selected adverse reactions reported in this study are provided in Table 2. No treatment-related deaths were reported in patients on either arm of the study. Table 2. Selected Adverse Reactions in Patients with Early Breast Cancer Involving Axillary Lymph Nodes Adverse Reactions AC* N=1,492 Conventional CMF N=739 % % Alopecia 92 71 Vomiting Vomiting ≤ 12 hours Vomiting > 12 hours Intractable 34 37 5 25 12 2 Leukopenia Grade 3 (1,000 to 1,999 /mm 3 ) Grade 4 (< 1,000 /mm 3 ) 3.4 0.3 9.4 0.3 Shock, sepsis 2 1 Systemic infection 2 1 Cardiac dysfunction Asymptomatic Transient Symptomatic 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0 0 Thrombocytopenia Grade 3 (25,000 to 49,999 /mm 3 ) Grade 4 (< 25,000 /mm 3 ) 0 0.1 0.3 0 AC = doxorubicin hydrochloride, cyclophosphamide; CMF = cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, fluorouracil * Includes pooled data from patients who received either AC for 4 cycles or AC for 4 cycles followed by CMF for 3 cycles 6.2 Post-marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiac – Cardiogenic shock Cutaneous – Skin and nail hyperpigmentation, oncolysis, rash, itching, photosensitivity, urticaria, acral erythema, palmar plantar erythrodysesthesia Gastrointestinal – Nausea, mucositis, stomatitis, necrotizing colitis, typhlitis, gastric erosions, gastrointestinal tract bleeding, hematochezia, esophagitis, anorexia, abdominal pain, dehydration, diarrhea, hyperpigmentation of the oral mucosa Hypersensitivity – Anaphylaxis Laboratory Abnormalities – Increased ALT, increased AST Neurological – Peripheral sensory and motor neuropathy, seizures, coma Ocular – Conjunctivitis, keratitis, lacrimation Vascular – Phlebosclerosis, phlebitis/thrombophlebitis, hot flashes, thromboembolism Other – Malaise/asthenia, fever, chills, weight gain

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Avoid concomitant use of doxorubicin hydrochloride with inhibitors and inducers of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, and/or P-gp ( 7.1 ). Do not administer doxorubicin hydrochloride in combination with trastuzumab due to increased risk of cardiac dysfunction ( 5.1 , 7.2 ). 7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for Injection Inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, and P-gp Concomitant use of doxorubicin hydrochloride with inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or P-glycoprotein (P-gp), increased concentrations of doxorubicin, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions of doxorubicin hydrochloride. Avoid concomitant use of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection with inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or P-gp. Inducers of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or P-gp Concomitant use of doxorubicin hydrochloride with inducers of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or P-gp may decrease the concentration of doxorubicin. Avoid concomitant use of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection with inducers of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, or P-gp. Paclitaxel Paclitaxel, when given prior to doxorubicin hydrochloride, increases the plasma-concentrations of doxorubicin and its metabolites. Administer doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection prior to paclitaxel if used concomitantly. 7.2 Concomitant Use of Trastuzumab Concomitant use of trastuzumab and doxorubicin hydrochloride results in an increased risk of cardiac dysfunction. Avoid concomitant administration of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection and trastuzumab [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Patients receiving doxorubicin after stopping treatment with trastuzumab may also be at an increased risk of developing cardiotoxicity. Trastuzumab may persist in the circulation for up to 7 months. Therefore, avoid anthracycline-based therapy for up to 7 months after stopping trastuzumab when possible. If anthracyclines are used before this time, carefully monitor cardiac function. 7.3 Concomitant Use of Dexrazoxane Do not administer dexrazoxane as a cardioprotectant at the initiation of doxorubicin hydrochloride-containing chemotherapy regimens. In a randomized trial in women with metastatic breast cancer, initiation of dexrazoxane with doxorubicin hydrochloride-based chemotherapy resulted in a significantly lower tumor response rate (48% vs. 63%; p = 0.007) and shorter time to progression compared to doxorubicin hydrochloride-based chemotherapy alone. 7.4 Concomitant Use of 6-Mercaptopurine Doxorubicin hydrochloride may potentiate 6-mercaptopurine-induced hepatotoxicity. In 11 patients with refractory leukemia treated with 6-mercaptopurine (500 mg/m 2 intravenously daily for 5 days per cycle every 2 to 3 weeks) and doxorubicin hydrochloride (50 mg/m 2 intravenous once per cycle every 2 to 3 weeks) alone or with vincristine and prednisone, all developed hepatic dysfunction manifested by increased total serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Advise not to breastfeed ( 8.2 ). Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: May impair fertility ( 8.3 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on findings in animals and its mechanism of action, doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman; avoid the use of doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection during the 1 st trimester. Available human data do not establish the presence or absence of major birth defects and miscarriage related to the use of doxorubicin hydrochloride during the 2 nd and 3 rd trimesters. Doxorubicin hydrochloride was teratogenic and embryotoxic in rats and embryotoxic in rabbits when administered during organogenesis at doses approximately 0.07 times (based on body surface area) the recommended human dose of 60 mg/m 2 (see Data) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Doxorubicin hydrochloride was teratogenic and embryotoxic at doses of 0.8 mg/kg/day (about 0.07 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) when administered during the period of organogenesis in rats. Teratogenicity and embryotoxicity were also seen using discrete periods of treatment. The most susceptible was the 6- to 9-day gestation period at doses of 1.25 mg/kg/day and greater. Characteristic malformations included esophageal and intestinal atresia, tracheo-esophageal fistula, hypoplasia of the urinary bladder, and cardiovascular anomalies. Doxorubicin hydrochloride was embryotoxic (increase in embryofetal deaths) and abortifacient at 0.4 mg/kg/day (about 0.07 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) in rabbits when administered during the period of organogenesis. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Doxorubicin was measured in the milk of one lactating patient after therapy with 70 mg/m 2 of doxorubicin hydrochloride given as a 15-minute intravenous infusion. The peak milk concentration at 24 hours after treatment was 4.4-fold greater than the corresponding plasma concentration. Doxorubicin was detectable in the milk up to 72 hours. There are no data on the effects of doxorubicin hydrochloride on the breastfed child or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection and for 10 days after the final dose. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Pregnancy Testing Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection. Contraception Females Doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Advise female patients of reproductive potential to use highly effective contraception during treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection and for 6 months after treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Males Doxorubicin hydrochloride may damage spermatozoa and testicular tissue, resulting in possible genetic fetal abnormalities. Due to the potential for genotoxicity, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with doxorubicin hydrochloride for injection and for 3 months after treatment [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ] . Males with pregnant partners should use condoms during treatment and for at least 10 days after the final dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Infertility Females In females of reproductive potential, doxorubicin hydrochloride may cause infertility and result in amenorrhea. Premature menopause can occur. Recovery of menses and ovulation is related to age at treat …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action The cytotoxic effect of doxorubicin hydrochloride on malignant cells and its toxic effects on various organs are thought to be related to nucleotide base intercalation and cell membrane lipid binding activities of doxorubicin. Intercalation inhibits nucleotide replication and action of DNA and RNA polymerases. The interaction of doxorubicin with topoisomerase II to form DNA-cleavable complexes appears to be an important mechanism of doxorubicin hydrochloride cytocidal activity.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION Doxorubicin is a cytotoxic anthracycline antibiotic isolated from cultures of Streptomyces peucetius var. caesius . Doxorubicin consists of a naphthacenequinone nucleus linked through a glycosidic bond at ring atom 7 to an amino sugar, daunosamine. Chemically, doxorubicin hydrochloride is (8S,10S)-10-[(3-Amino-2,3,6-trideoxy-a-L-lyxo-hexopyranosyl)-oxy]-8-glycoloyl-7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-6,8,11-trihydroxy-1-methoxy-5,12-naphthacenedione hydrochloride. The structural formula is as follows: Doxorubicin binds to nucleic acids, presumably by specific intercalation of the planar anthracycline nucleus with the DNA double helix. The anthracycline ring is lipophilic, but the saturated end of the ring system contains abundant hydroxyl groups adjacent to the amino sugar, producing a hydrophilic center. The molecule is amphoteric, containing acidic functions in the ring phenolic groups and a basic function in the sugar amino group. It binds to cell membranes as well as plasma proteins. It is supplied in the hydrochloride form as a sterile red-orange lyophilized powder containing lactose for intravenous use only. DOXOrubicin HCl for Injection, USP: Each 10 mg lyophilized vial contains 10 mg of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride, USP and 50 mg of Lactose Monohydrate, NF. Each 50 mg lyophilized vial contains 50 mg of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride, USP and 250 mg of Lactose Monohydrate, NF. structure

10 OVERDOSAGE Few cases of overdose have been described. A 58-year-old man with acute lymphoblastic leukemia received 10-fold overdose of doxorubicin hydrochloride (300 mg/m 2 ) in one day. He was treated with charcoal filtration, hemopoietic growth factor (G-CSF), proton pump inhibitor and antimicrobial prophylaxis. The patient suffered sinus tachycardia, grade 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia for 11 days, severe mucositis and sepsis. The patient recovered completely 26 days after the overdose. A 17-year-old girl with osteogenic sarcoma received 150 mg of doxorubicin hydrochloride daily for 2 days (intended dose was 50 mg per day for 3 days). The patient developed severe mucositis on days 4 to 7 after the overdose and chills and pyrexia on day 7. The patient was treated with antibiotics and platelets and recovered 18 days after overdose.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16. HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP is supplied as a sterile red-orange lyophilized powder for intravenous use only, is available in single dose flip-top vials in the following package strengths: NDC 67457-478-10: 10 mg vial; individually boxed. NDC 67457-436-50: 50 mg vial; individually boxed. Store unreconstituted vial at controlled room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). [See USP.] Protect vials from light. Retain in carton until time of use. Discard unused portion. Reconstituted Solution Stability After adding the diluent, the vial should be shaken and the contents allowed to dissolve. The reconstituted solution is stable for 7 days at room temperature and under normal room light (100 foot-candles) and 15 days under refrigeration (2° to 8°C). It should be protected from exposure to sunlight. Discard any unused solution from the 10 mg and 50 mg single dose vials. Handling and Disposal Handle and dispose of Doxorubicin Hydrochloride for Injection, USP consistent with recommendations for the handling and disposal of hazardous drugs. 1

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
32,465
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DOXORUBICIN HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
70121-1218-7 70121-1218 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC 10 CARTON in 1 CARTON (70121-1218-7) / 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70121-1218-1) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL February 17, 2017
70121-1219-1 70121-1219 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70121-1219-1) / 25 mL in 1 VIAL February 17, 2017
0143-9092-01 0143-9092 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 1 VIAL in 1 BOX (0143-9092-01) / 5 mL in 1 VIAL January 19, 2018
0143-9093-01 0143-9093 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. 1 VIAL in 1 BOX (0143-9093-01) / 25 mL in 1 VIAL January 19, 2018
67457-436-50 67457-436 Mylan Institutional LLC 1 VIAL in 1 CARTON (67457-436-50) / 25 mL in 1 VIAL February 27, 2014
70121-1218 70121-1218 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC — February 17, 2017
70121-1219 70121-1219 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC — February 17, 2017
0143-9092 0143-9092 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — January 19, 2018
0143-9093 0143-9093 Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. — January 19, 2018
67457-436 67457-436 Mylan Institutional LLC — February 27, 2014

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Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.